M4 Pro (12 cores)
Apple
PassMark
32,853
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 Pro (12 cores) is manufactured by Apple. It was released in 30 October 2024 (1 year ago). It features 12 cores and 12 threads. Base frequency is 2.592 GHz, with boost up to 4.51 GHz. L2 cache: 4 MB. Built on 3 nm process technology. Socket: none. Thermal design power (TDP): 4 MB. Memory support: LPDDR5X. Passmark benchmark score: 32,853 points. Launch price was $499.
Value Upgrade Path
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Performance Per Dollar M4 Pro (12 cores)
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of M4 Pro (12 cores) specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The M4 Pro (12 cores) is a 12-core / 12-thread processor, manufactured on a 3 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 4.51 GHz from a base frequency of 2.592 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 32,853, placing it in the High-End performance tier as a Recent generation product. Geekbench 6 single-core (the most relevant metric for gaming FPS) records 3,812, while multi-core reaches 20,076. Cinebench R23 multi-core (measuring sustained rendering workload performance) scores 18,904.
| Specification | M4 Pro (12 cores) |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 12C / 12T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 4.51 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 2.592 GHz |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 3 nm |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 4 MB |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 32,853 |
| Cinebench R23 MultiSustained multi-core rendering performance | 18,904 |
| Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming | 3,812 |
| Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance | 20,076 |
Memory & Platform
The M4 Pro (12 cores) fits into the none socket and supports PCIe 4.0 with 0 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports LPDDR5X memory at speeds up to LPDDR5x-8000 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 64 GB across 1 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: M4 Pro 16-core GPU — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.
| Specification | M4 Pro (12 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 |
| PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion | 0 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | LPDDR5X |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | LPDDR5x-8000 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 64 GB |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 1 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | No |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | M4 Pro 16-core GPU |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | Apple SoC |
Advanced Features
The M4 Pro (12 cores) is primarily designed for High-end Content Creation. Virtualization: Apple Virtualization — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Ryzen 9 8945HS.
| Specification | M4 Pro (12 cores) |
|---|---|
| Primary Use CaseIntended workload category | High-end Content Creation |
| OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased | 🔒 Locked |
| AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads | ❌ Not Supported |
| VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology | Apple Virtualization |
| Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer | Ryzen 9 8945HS |
Power & Cooling
The M4 Pro (12 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. It ships with the Laptop Integrated stock cooler. Recommended cooling: Active cooling (MacBook/Mac Mini).
| Specification | M4 Pro (12 cores) |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 4 MB |
| Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box | Laptop Integrated |
| Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution | Active cooling (MacBook/Mac Mini) |
Value Analysis
Performance ranking position: #371 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | M4 Pro (12 cores) |
|---|---|
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $499 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #371 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 30 October 2024 (1 year ago) |
| Release Year | 2024 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Apple |
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Our Recommendation for M4 Pro (12 cores)
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