Intel Core i5-7200U vs Apple M4

The Intel Core i5-7200U (early 2017, Kaby Lake U) is a mobile 14nm processor with 2 cores and 4 threads.

Its Intel HD Graphics 620 and 34 GB/s memory bandwidth were aimed at basic tasks in thin laptops. It offered a cost-effective solution for everyday use. The Apple M4 (2024) is a 3nm system-on-a-chip (SoC) with a 10-core CPU (performance and efficiency cores), an Apple M4 (10 Core) graphics unit, and 20 MB of Level 2 cache.

With 120 GB/s memory bandwidth, it is exclusively designed for Apple devices, delivering maximum performance and high energy efficiency for demanding applications. In terms of computing and graphics performance, the Apple M4 significantly outperforms the Intel Core i5-7200U.

For both single-core and multi-core applications, the M4 offers vastly superior performance thanks to its modern architecture and core count. For gaming, the M4 with its integrated graphics is far superior to the Intel chip; the latter is only suitable for very simple games. The Intel Core i5-7200U is designed for mobile efficiency with a 15 Watt TDP.

Despite its higher peak performance, the Apple M4 delivers outstanding performance per watt for excellent battery life. The Intel processor is found in older, inexpensive devices. The Apple M4 is part of premium devices that offer a superior price-performance ratio to demanding users.