M1 Max
Apple
PassMark
22,146
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 Max is manufactured by Apple. It was released in 18 October 2021 (4 years ago). It features 10 cores and 10 threads. Base frequency is 2.06 GHz, with boost up to 3.22 GHz. L3 cache: 48 MB. L2 cache: 28 MB. Built on 5 nm process technology. Socket: none. Thermal design power (TDP): 28 MB + 48 MB. Memory support: LPDDR5. Passmark benchmark score: 22,146 points. Launch price was $299.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. 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 Max
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for M1 Max 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 Max specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The M1 Max is a 10-core / 10-thread processor, manufactured on a 5 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.22 GHz from a base frequency of 2.06 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 48 MB of L3 cache, plus 28 MB of L2 cache and 2.9 MB of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 22,146, placing it in the Mid-Range performance tier as a Aging generation product.
| Specification | M1 Max |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 10C / 10T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 3.22 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 2.06 GHz |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 5 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 48 MB |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 28 MB |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 2.9 MB |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 57000 Million |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 22,146 |
Memory & Platform
The M1 Max fits into the none socket and supports PCIe 4.0 with 0 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports LPDDR5 memory at speeds up to LPDDR5-6400 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 64 GB across 8 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: M1 Max GPU — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.
| Specification | M1 Max |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | Laptop |
| SeriesProduct family | Apple M-Series |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | none |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 4.0 |
| PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion | 0 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | LPDDR5 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | LPDDR5-6400 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 64 GB |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 8 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | No |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | M1 Max GPU |
Advanced Features
The M1 Max is primarily designed for Mobile Workstation. Virtualization: ARM-V — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads).
| Specification | M1 Max |
|---|---|
| Primary Use CaseIntended workload category | Mobile Workstation |
| OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased | 🔒 Locked |
| AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads | ❌ Not Supported |
| VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology | ARM-V |
Power & Cooling
The M1 Max has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 28 MB + 48 MB — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.
| Specification | M1 Max |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 28 MB + 48 MB |
Value Analysis
Performance ranking position: #676 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | M1 Max |
|---|---|
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $299 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #676 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 18 October 2021 (4 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2021 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Apple |
Similar Performance
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Our Recommendation for M1 Max
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
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