Apple M4 vs Apple M2 Ultra (60-GPU)

The Apple M2 Ultra (60-GPU), based on the M2 architecture, was introduced in mid-2023 and is aimed at professional users in workstations and desktops who require extreme computing and graphics performance.

The Apple M4, based on the M4 architecture, was unveiled in mid-2024 and is primarily designed for high-performance mobile devices, combining outstanding efficiency with high performance.

The Apple M2 Ultra (60-GPU) is manufactured using an advanced 5 nm process and features a high number of CPU cores, typically 24 cores (16 performance, 8 efficiency cores), as well as an integrated graphics unit with up to 60 cores. It also offers PCIe 4.0 connectivity and a maximum memory bandwidth of 819 GB/s.

The Apple M4 is manufactured using the even finer 3 nm process, which enables higher transistor density and efficiency. It integrates up to 10 CPU cores and a graphics unit with 10 cores, with a maximum memory bandwidth of 120 GB/s. In the single-core domain, the Apple M4 demonstrates significantly higher performance than the Apple M2 Ultra (60-GPU), reflected in notably better results in benchmarks like Geekbench 6 and Cinebench 2024.

For multi-core performance, however, the Apple M2 Ultra (60-GPU) substantially outperforms the Apple M4. Its higher core count and larger architecture enable superior performance in computationally intensive tasks, which is evident in all relevant multi-core benchmarks. For gaming scenarios, the Apple M2 Ultra (60-GPU) offers superior performance.

This is due to its significantly more powerful integrated graphics unit with up to 60 cores and the extremely high memory bandwidth of 819 GB/s, which also enables very good AI performance. The Apple M4, although equipped with a newer architecture, has a smaller graphics unit (10 cores) and lower memory bandwidth, which limits its gaming performance compared to the Apple M2 Ultra (60-GPU).

The Apple M2 Ultra (60-GPU) is designed for maximum performance and consequently has higher power consumption, requiring more robust cooling. It is designed for desktop systems. The Apple M4, on the other hand, is characterized by its exceptional energy efficiency, thanks to the 3 nm manufacturing process and the optimized M4 architecture.

It is ideal for mobile devices where battery life and low heat generation are crucial. The Apple M2 Ultra (60-GPU) positions itself in the absolute high-end segment and is found in premium desktop systems such as the Mac Studio or Mac Pro, which comes with a correspondingly high absolute price. Its price-performance ratio is very good for professional workload requirements.

The Apple M4 is also positioned in the premium segment, particularly in devices like the iPad Pro, and offers an excellent balance of performance and efficiency for mobile use. The Apple M2 Ultra (60-GPU) is the ideal choice for users who need the highest multi-core computing power, extreme graphics performance, and maximum memory bandwidth for professional applications such as video editing, 3D rendering, and scientific simulations.

The Apple M4, on the other hand, is the better choice for users who value superior single-core performance, exceptional energy efficiency, and advanced technology in a mobile form factor, perfect for demanding tasks on the go.