M4 (8 cores)
Apple
PassMark
20,761
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 M4 (8 cores) is manufactured by Apple. It was released in 28 October 2024 (1 year ago). It features 8 cores and 8 threads. Base frequency is 2.89 GHz, with boost up to 4 GHz. Built on 3 nm process technology. Socket: none. Thermal design power (TDP): 4 MB. Memory support: LPDDR5x. Passmark benchmark score: 20,761 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
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for M4 (8 cores) across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.
Baldur's Gate 3
Counter-Strike 2
Cyberpunk 2077
Dead by Daylight
Delta Force
Dota 2
League of Legends
Left 4 Dead 2
Path of Exile 2
Rocket League
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of M4 (8 cores) specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The M4 (8 cores) is a 8-core / 8-thread processor, manufactured on a 3 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 4 GHz from a base frequency of 2.89 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 20,761, placing it in the Mid-Range performance tier as a Recent generation product.
| Specification | M4 (8 cores) |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 8C / 8T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 4 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 2.89 GHz |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 3 nm |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 20,761 |
Memory & Platform
The M4 (8 cores) fits into the none socket and supports PCIe 4.0. It supports LPDDR5x memory.
| Specification | M4 (8 cores) |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | Laptop |
| SeriesProduct family | Apple M4 |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | none |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 4.0 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | LPDDR5x |
Power & Cooling
The M4 (8 cores) has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 4 MB — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.
| Specification | M4 (8 cores) |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 4 MB |
Value Analysis
Performance ranking position: #740 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | M4 (8 cores) |
|---|---|
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $299 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #740 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 28 October 2024 (1 year ago) |
| Release Year | 2024 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Apple |
Specifications Reference
Raw spec sheet for quick lookup. The analysis cards above explain what these fields mean in practice.
4 categories
General Information
6 specs
General Information
6 specs
| Type | Laptop |
| Series | Apple M4 |
| Designer | Apple |
| Launch Price | $299 |
| Release Date | 28 October 2024 (1 year ago) |
| Performance Ranking Position | 740 |
Technical Specifications
6 specs
Technical Specifications
6 specs
| Cores | 8 |
| Threads | 8 |
| Max Frequency | 4 GHz |
| 64-Bit Support | + |
| Base Frequency | 2.89 GHz |
| Process Technology | 3 nm |
Compatibility
3 specs
Compatibility
3 specs
| Socket | none |
| PCIe Generation | PCIe 4.0 |
| Power Consumption (TDP) | 4 MB |
Memory
1 spec
Memory
1 spec
| RAM Types | LPDDR5x |
Similar Performance
Processors with benchmark scores closest to the current hardware, grouped by manufacturer.
Intel (8)
AMD (8)
Our Recommendation for M4 (8 cores)
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
Popular Comparisons
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Compare M4 (8 cores)
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