Intel Core Ultra 7 256V vs Apple M1

The Apple M1, introduced in November 2020, is a 5 nm system-on-a-chip from Apple, primarily designed for MacBooks and Mac mini, known for its high energy efficiency.

It integrates an 8-core CPU (four performance cores, four efficiency cores) and an 8-core graphics unit (Apple M1). With 16 MB L2 cache and a memory bandwidth of 68 GB/s, the M1 delivers strong single-core performance and solid multi-core performance, optimized for the Apple ecosystem.

Its outstanding energy efficiency enables long battery life. For gaming, the integrated graphics offer good performance for optimized titles. Pricewise, it is not available separately but is part of the device price, where it offers a good performance-per-watt ratio. The Intel Core Ultra 7 256V, based on Intel's upcoming 3 nm Lunar Lake architecture, targets premium laptops and focuses on AI acceleration and powerful integrated graphics.

It features a hybrid core design with multiple performance cores and efficiency cores and integrates a powerful Intel Arc 140V graphics unit. With 14 MB L2 cache, 12 MB L3 cache, and significantly higher memory bandwidth of 137 GB/s, the Ultra 7 256V offers superior single-core performance and significantly higher multi-core performance, as well as noticeably better gaming capabilities than the M1.

Its advanced manufacturing and design goals also ensure high energy efficiency, ideal for slim mobile devices. The price is set in the premium segment of laptops.