M2
Apple
PassMark
14,933
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 M2 is manufactured by Apple. It was released in 10 June 2022 (3 years ago). It features 8 cores and 8 threads. Base frequency is 2.424 GHz, with boost up to 3.48 GHz. L2 cache: 20 MB. Built on 5 nm process technology. Socket: none. Thermal design power (TDP): 20 Watt. Memory support: LPDDR5. Passmark benchmark score: 14,933 points. Launch price was $149.
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 M2
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for M2 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 M2 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The M2 is a 8-core / 8-thread processor, manufactured on a 5 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.48 GHz from a base frequency of 2.424 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 14,933, placing it in the Budget performance tier as a Aging generation product.
| Specification | M2 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 8C / 8T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 3.48 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 2.424 GHz |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 5 nm |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 20 MB |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 2 MB |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 20000 Million |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 14,933 |
Memory & Platform
The M2 fits into the none socket and supports PCIe 4.0. It supports LPDDR5 memory.
| Specification | M2 |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | Laptop |
| SeriesProduct family | Apple Apple M-Series |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | none |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 4.0 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | LPDDR5 |
Power & Cooling
The M2 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 20 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.
| Specification | M2 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 20 Watt |
Value Analysis
Performance ranking position: #1016 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | M2 |
|---|---|
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $149 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #1016 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 10 June 2022 (3 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2022 |
| 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 M2
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
Popular Comparisons
Compare M2 with other popular CPUs
Compare M2
See how this CPU stacks up against similar alternatives
Better Alternatives (8)
Similar or Lower Performance (8)
