Apple M3 vs Intel Core Ultra 7 265K

The Apple M3 is an Apple-designed SoC for Mac desktops, focused on energy efficiency and ecosystem integration.

The Intel Core Ultra 7 265K is an Intel high-performance processor for Windows PCs, delivering maximum computing power.

Both CPUs utilize 3 nm manufacturing. The Apple M3 tightly integrates components with 20 MB L2 cache. The Intel Core Ultra 7 265K uses a hybrid architecture, 36 MB L2 and 30 MB L3 cache. It supports PCIe 5.0, while the Apple M3 supports PCIe 4.0. In single-core performance, both CPUs are very comparable.

In multi-core performance, the Intel Core Ultra 7 265K significantly outperforms the Apple M3. For gaming, the Intel Core Ultra 7 265K often offers advantages with dedicated high-end graphics cards. Its platform with broad GPU compatibility and PCIe 5.0 enables superior performance for demanding games.

The Apple M3 features an Apple M3 (10 Core) graphics unit. The Intel Core Ultra 7 265K has an Intel Xe 4 Core Graphics 64 EUs (Arrow Lake) integrated graphics solution. The Apple M3 is known for high energy efficiency; the Intel Core Ultra 7 265K achieves higher performance with correspondingly higher energy consumption.

A direct price-performance evaluation is difficult because the Apple M3 is sold as part of a complete system, and the Intel Core Ultra 7 265K allows for flexible system configurations as a standalone component. Summary and Recommendation: The Apple M3 is ideal for energy-efficient, integrated Apple experiences and creative workflows.

The Intel Core Ultra 7 265K is better suited for maximum computing power in professional multi-threaded applications and demanding gaming on a customizable PC platform.