Apple M4 vs Intel Core i5-13400

The Intel Core i5-13400 is a desktop processor (10 nm, Alder Lake S Refresh) with 10 cores (6 P-cores, 4 E-cores) and 16 threads.

It offers 10 MB L2 and 20 MB L3 cache, 77 GB/s memory bandwidth, and PCIe 5.0. Its Intel UHD Graphics 730 and target audience are mainstream users for productivity and gaming. The Apple M4 is an Apple System-on-a-Chip (3 nm, M4 architecture) with up to 10 cores (4 P-cores, 6 E-cores), 20 MB L2 cache, and 120 GB/s memory bandwidth.

The powerful integrated Apple M4 (10 Core) graphics target energy-efficient, high-performance Apple systems. In single-core comparison, the Apple M4 is significantly superior. For multi-core performance, the Intel Core i5-13400 is stronger in Cinebench R23, while the Apple M4 is superior in Geekbench 6; in Cinebench 2024, they are comparable.

Gaming: Intel with dedicated graphics offers broader Windows compatibility. The Apple M4 impresses with integrated graphics for optimized macOS games but has a more specific selection. The Intel Core i5-13400 has a higher TDP (65W base, up to 148W turbo) and requires robust cooling.

The Apple M4 is extremely energy-efficient. In terms of price, the Intel as a standalone CPU is more flexible. The Apple M4 is part of an integrated Apple system, which often means higher overall costs but offers a harmonized ecosystem. The Intel Core i5-13400 is suitable for flexibility, compatibility, and Windows gaming.

The Apple M4 is ideal for maximum energy efficiency, strong single-core performance, and system integration within the Apple ecosystem.