Apple M4 vs Apple M4 Pro (12-CPU 16-GPU)

The Apple M4 and the Apple M4 Pro (12-CPU 16-GPU) are both advanced processors of the M4 architecture, manufactured using Apple's 3 nm process.

The Apple M4 is aimed at users who are looking for high performance for everyday and more demanding mobile applications. The Apple M4 Pro is designed for professional users who require maximum computing and graphics performance. The Apple M4 integrates 10 CPU cores and a 10-core graphics unit with a memory bandwidth of 120 GB/s and 20 MB L2 cache.

The Apple M4 Pro, on the other hand, features 12 CPU cores and a 16-core graphics unit. Its memory bandwidth is significantly higher at 273 GB/s, complemented by 36 MB of L2 cache. In single-core performance, both processors are comparable. For multi-core applications, the Apple M4 Pro shows significantly higher performance, surpassing the Apple M4 by well over 10 percent, which is crucial for complex tasks.

In gaming scenarios, too, the Apple M4 Pro is clearly superior thanks to its stronger 16-core graphics unit and higher memory bandwidth, enabling smoother frame rates and better visual effects. Both chips are known for high energy efficiency. The Apple M4 Pro will exhibit increased energy consumption under load due to its higher performance levels, but Apple always optimizes the thermal design for efficient operation.

In terms of price, the Apple M4 is positioned in devices that offer strong all-round performance, while the Apple M4 Pro is found in premium products for professional users, where the increased performance justifies the higher price.