Apple M4 (10-CPU) vs Intel Core i9-9980HK

The Intel Core i9-9980HK, known by the architectural name Coffee Lake H Refresh, was launched in the second quarter of 2019 and targeted the demanding segment of mobile workstations and high-end gaming laptops.

This processor is manufactured using Intel's 14nm process and offers a robust configuration with 8 cores and 16 threads, making it suitable for complex multitasking and professional applications. It features a 16 MB Level 3 cache, while a Level 2 cache is not present. The integrated graphics unit is the Intel UHD Graphics 630, designed for basic graphics requirements.

Its architecture was a powerful solution for Windows- and Linux-based systems at the time. The Apple M4 (10-CPU), based on the modern M4 architecture, was introduced by Apple in 2024 and represents the latest generation of processors for their high-end mobile devices.

Manufacturing takes place using the state-of-the-art 3nm process, enabling outstanding transistor density and energy efficiency. This processor integrates a 10-core CPU, offering an optimized mix of performance cores and efficiency cores for balanced computing power. It is equipped with a 20 MB Level 2 cache and features a powerful integrated Apple M4 (10 Core) graphics unit.

The maximum memory bandwidth of 120 GB/s supports fast data processing for demanding tasks. In terms of performance, the Apple M4 (10-CPU) significantly surpasses the Intel Core i9-9980HK in all common benchmarks. Both in single-core and multi-core performance, the Apple M4 (10-CPU) demonstrates substantially higher computing capacity, attributable to its more advanced architecture and more efficient manufacturing process.

While the Intel Core i9-9980HK delivers solid performance for its generation, it cannot compete with the efficiency and raw computing power of the Apple M4 (10-CPU). For gaming scenarios, the integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 of the Intel Core i9-9980HK is primarily designed for displaying user interfaces and light multimedia tasks, and does not offer sufficient performance for modern games.

Systems with this processor rely on a dedicated graphics card for gaming. The integrated Apple M4 (10 Core) graphics unit of the Apple M4 (10-CPU), however, delivers significantly better graphics performance. Thanks to its architecture and high memory bandwidth, it enables a smoother gaming experience and handles more demanding graphical applications more effectively.

Regarding power consumption and thermal design power (TDP), the Intel Core i9-9980HK typically has a configurable TDP of 35W to 45W, which is common for high-performance mobile processors. The Apple M4 (10-CPU) is known for its outstanding energy efficiency. It offers superior performance with significantly lower power requirements, which translates into longer battery life and the possibility of passive or very quiet cooling systems in the devices it is built into.

When analyzing the price-performance ratio and current market prices, it should be noted that both processors are not sold as individual components. The Intel Core i9-9980HK is part of older premium laptops that may be available on the used market today at significantly lower prices, creating an attractive price-performance ratio for certain application areas.

The Apple M4 (10-CPU) is integrated into Apple's latest, high-priced devices, offering cutting-edge technology with maximum efficiency and performance at a corresponding device price. In summary, the Intel Core i9-9980HK offers a proven platform for x86-based applications and broad software compatibility, often found in systems with dedicated graphics cards.

It is an option for users looking for more affordable older laptops for specific tasks. The Apple M4 (10-CPU), on the other hand, is the choice for users who prioritize highest computing power per watt, excellent single-core and multi-core performance, and powerful integrated graphics within the Apple ecosystem.