Intel Core Ultra 7 266V vs Apple M4

The Apple M4 (M4 architecture) and the Intel Core Ultra 7 266V (Lunar Lake architecture) are both state-of-the-art processors manufactured using the advanced 3 nm fabrication process.

Apple's M4 is aimed at creative professionals and demanding users in mobile Apple devices, while Intel's Core Ultra 7 266V is designed for premium laptops, focusing on efficiency, integrated graphics, and AI. Both utilize hybrid core architectures with a mix of high-performance and energy-efficient cores for optimal performance and power consumption.

The Apple M4 typically features up to ten cores. In performance tests, the Apple M4 shows significantly higher computing power. It surpasses the Intel Core Ultra 7 266V by more than 10 percent in both single-core and multi-core benchmarks. For gaming, both offer capable integrated graphics units: the internal Apple M4 (10 Core) graphics unit is strong within the Apple ecosystem, while the internal Intel Arc 140V graphics unit of the Intel Core Ultra 7 266V provides a good gaming experience in many PC titles.

Both processors are characterized by high energy efficiency. The Apple M4 is known for its industry-leading performance per watt, which leads to a very long battery life in corresponding devices. The Intel Core Ultra 7 266V is also designed for low power consumption. A direct price evaluation of the CPUs is not possible, as they are sold as an integral part of end devices.

The Apple M4 is recommended for users who need maximum raw performance and efficiency within the Apple ecosystem for creative and demanding tasks. The Intel Core Ultra 7 266V is the better choice for Windows users seeking strong integrated graphics performance for gaming, broad software compatibility, and dedicated AI functions in an efficient laptop.