Apple M2 Max (30-GPU) vs Apple M3 Ultra (28-CPU 60-GPU)

The Apple M2 Max (30-GPU), based on the M2 architecture, was developed for demanding professional users who require very high graphics performance.

It is manufactured using the 5 nm process and features 30 GPU cores. The Apple M3 Ultra (28-CPU 60-GPU), with the newer M3 architecture, targets the most extreme workloads and high-end workstations.

This processor is produced using the more advanced 3 nm process and integrates 28 CPU cores as well as an impressive 60 GPU cores. In terms of performance, the Apple M3 Ultra surpasses the Apple M2 Max in single-core performance by over 10 percent and shows significantly higher performance in multi-core applications.

The integrated graphics solution of the Apple M3 Ultra (60 Core) benefits from twice the number of GPU cores and a higher memory bandwidth of 819 GB/s compared to the 410 GB/s of the Apple M2 Max (30 Core). This results in significantly better graphics performance and superior support for AI applications in both models, with the M3 Ultra leading the way.

For gaming scenarios, the Apple M3 Ultra offers superior performance thanks to its significantly higher number of GPU cores and more modern architecture. Regarding energy efficiency and thermal design power (TDP), the 3 nm process of the Apple M3 Ultra enables improved performance per watt compared to the 5 nm process of the Apple M2 Max.

In terms of price-performance ratio, the Apple M2 Max represents a very powerful option for high-end workflows, while the Apple M3 Ultra, as the top model, offers absolute peak performance for uncompromising professional requirements and is accordingly priced higher.