M1
Apple
PassMark
8,207
Performance Spectrum - CPU
About PassMark
PassMark CPU Mark evaluates processor speed through complex mathematical computations. It provides a reliable metric to compare multi-core performance, where higher scores indicate faster processing for multitasking, gaming, and heavy workloads.
Overview
The M1 is manufactured by Apple. It was released in 10 November 2020 (5 years ago). It features 8 cores and 8 threads. Base frequency is 2.064 GHz, with boost up to 3.2 GHz. L3 cache: 16 MB. L2 cache: 16 MB. Built on 5 nm process technology. Passmark benchmark score: 8,207 points. Launch price was $149.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The M1 is positioned at rank #1004 in our cost-efficiency ranking, representing a Lower cost-benefit for your build. Components placed above yours deliver better value for money.
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.
Performance Per Dollar M1
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for M1 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.
Path of Exile 2
Counter-Strike 2
League of Legends
Valorant
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of M1 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The M1 is a 8-core / 8-thread processor, manufactured on a 5 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.2 GHz from a base frequency of 2.064 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 16 MB of L3 cache, plus 16 MB of L2 cache and 2 MB of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 8,207, placing it in the Budget performance tier as a Aging generation product.
| Specification | M1 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 8C / 8T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 3.2 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 2.064 GHz |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 5 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 16 MB |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 16 MB |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 2 MB |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 16000 Million |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 8,207 |
Value Analysis
It currently holds Rank #1004 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #1434 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | M1 |
|---|---|
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $149 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #1004 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #1434 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 10 November 2020 (5 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2020 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Apple |
Similar Performance
Processors with benchmark scores closest to the current hardware, grouped by manufacturer.
Intel (12)
AMD (12)
Our Recommendation for M1
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
Popular Comparisons
Compare M1 with other popular CPUs
Compare M1
See how this CPU stacks up against similar alternatives
Better Alternatives (8)
Similar or Lower Performance (8)
