Apple M2 Ultra (76-GPU) vs Apple M4 Max (14-CPU 32-GPU)

The Apple M2 Ultra is a high-end desktop processor based on the M2 architecture, designed for professional workstations like the Mac Studio and Mac Pro. It targets users with the highest demands on computing and graphics performance. The Apple M4 Max is an advanced mobile processor based on the M4 architecture, developed for high-performance laptops like the MacBook Pro, ideal for mobile professionals who need maximum performance on the go.

The Apple M2 Ultra is manufactured using a 5 nm process and features a multitude of CPU cores (typically 24 cores) and a very powerful graphics unit with 76 GPU cores, as well as 72 MB of L2 cache. Its maximum memory bandwidth of 819 GB/s supports excellent AI performance. As a desktop processor, it offers PCIe 4.0.

The Apple M4 Max uses a more modern 3 nm manufacturing process, offering 14 CPU cores and 32 GPU cores with 44 MB of L2 cache. Its memory bandwidth is 410 GB/s, which also enables good AI performance. In terms of single-core performance, the Apple M4 Max significantly outperforms the Apple M2 Ultra.

In multi-core performance, both processors are closely matched, with the M2 Ultra having slight advantages due to its higher core count, which are under 10 percent. For gaming scenarios, the Apple M2 Ultra is the significantly more powerful choice thanks to its superior 76 GPU cores and higher memory bandwidth.

While the M4 Max offers very good graphics performance for a mobile device, it cannot keep up in absolute performance. Regarding energy consumption, the Apple M4 Max, due to the 3 nm process, is significantly more energy-efficient and optimized for mobile use. The M2 Ultra has a higher energy requirement, which is due to its high performance and use in desktop systems.

Both processors are positioned in the premium segment and are not available individually, but as a core component in high-end Apple systems. The M2 Ultra offers absolute peak performance for specific workstation requirements, while the M4 Max provides an excellent balance of performance and portability.

In summary, the Apple M2 Ultra offers superior graphics performance and high multi-core performance for fixed workstations, ideal for extreme professional tasks that benefit from a large GPU and high memory bandwidth, as well as excellent AI performance. The Apple M4 Max shines with excellent single-core performance, more modern manufacturing, and high energy efficiency, making it the better choice for demanding mobile users who need a powerful CPU and good AI performance on the go.