CPU Comparison
Apple M1 Pro vs Intel Core i5-12600HE
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. Apple M1 Pro is a 5nm ARM-based SoC with 8 performance and 2 efficiency CPU cores, up to a 16-core GPU, a 16-core Neural Engine, and up to 32GB unified memory with 200GB/s bandwidth, designed for pro laptops.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
In pro workloads like code compilation and light-to-medium multitasking, M1 Pro completes tasks quickly and at low power.
12 cores handle heavy multitasking and compiling easily.
Gaming
Iris Xe graphics allow for light gaming without a discrete GPU.
Virtualization
Good core count for running multiple VMs on a laptop.
Efficiency
High performance per watt enables long battery life and quiet operation under sustained loads.
Excellent performance per watt for embedded systems.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- 16-core Neural Engine accelerates on-device ML tasks in apps and frameworks.
- Apple advertises 11 TOPS INT8 for M1-series Neural Engines.
- CPU and GPU also contribute to ML workloads via optimized libraries.
- Multi-core design speeds up data processing
- Good for local AI inference
Content Creation
Gaming
- Integrated GPU provides playable performance in many games but is not comparable to midrange dedicated GPUs.
- Limited macOS game catalog impacts practical gaming utility.
- Apple Silicon adoption improves performance in supported titles over time.
- Iris Xe 80EU is capable of esports titles
- Good CPU backup for mobile GPUs
- High boost clocks
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Strong multi-core CPU and GPU performance in a power-efficient design.
- Excellent battery life for a pro laptop.
- Up to 32GB unified memory with high bandwidth.
- Integrated media engines with ProRes accelerators for video workflows.
- Thunderbolt 4/USB4 built into the SoC.
Cons
- RAM is not upgradable; unified memory is fixed at purchase.
- Gaming performance lags behind midrange dedicated GPUs.
- No official socket or user-configurable PCIe lanes.
- Apple does not publish TDP or official clock specifications.
- macOS-only for direct use; no boot-to-Windows support on Apple Silicon.
Pros
- 12-core hybrid design
- Iris Xe 80EU graphics
- Supports DDR5 and PCIe 4.0
- Good for embedded systems
- Strong multi-core performance
Cons
- Soldered to motherboard (BGA)
- Locked multiplier
- 45W TDP requires active cooling
- Limited availability in consumer laptops
Competitors & Alternatives
Apple M1 Pro
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-11800HRival
High-performance laptop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-12700HRival
High-performance laptop
- AMD Ryzen 9 5900HXRival
High-performance laptop
- AMD Ryzen 9 6900HXRival
High-performance laptop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i9-11980HKRival
Enthusiast laptop
- Alt
Newer generation with higher performance and improved efficiency in the same MacBook Pro form factors.
Compare head-to-head - Alt
More GPU cores and memory bandwidth for GPU-heavy workloads.
Compare head-to-head x86 compatibility for Windows-centric workflows.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 9 7940HSAlt
Strong x86 efficiency and integrated graphics for Windows laptops.
- Alt
Newer architecture with updated CPU and GPU for non-Pro users.
Compare head-to-head
Intel Core i5-12600HE
- AMD Ryzen 7 6800URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800HRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-12700HRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 6600HRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-12500HRival
Mobile
Slightly higher base clock but otherwise very similar.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
M1 Pro delivers outstanding performance per watt and strong multi-core throughput for pro workloads, with highly efficient operation and excellent battery life, making it a compelling choice for creators who do not need x86.
Best for: Creator or developer needing sustained performance and battery life in a MacBook Pro (14 or 16, 2021) who can work within macOS.
Read the full reviewA highly capable 12-core mobile processor bringing workstation-class multitasking to compact embedded systems.
Best for: The Core i5-12600HE is an excellent processor if you are purchasing a mini PC, an industrial workstation, or a highly portable laptop that requires sustained multi-core performance. Its 12-core design makes it highly capable for multitasking, light rendering, and office work. Because it's an embedded chip, you won't be buying it standalone; rather, look for it in compact systems like Intel NUCs or specialized mini PCs. Ensure the system has adequate cooling, as 45 W in a small chassis can still generate significant heat.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Apple M1 Pro or Intel Core i5-12600HE?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Apple M1 Pro comes out ahead with a score of 9/10. That said, the best choice depends on your workload — check the spec and performance breakdown above for gaming, productivity and efficiency differences.
Which is faster for gaming, Apple M1 Pro or Intel Core i5-12600HE?
For gaming, the Intel Core i5-12600HE leads with a gaming performance score of 78/100 among Apple M1 Pro and Intel Core i5-12600HE.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i5-12600HE has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i5-12600HE (45 W).
Which has more cores?
The Intel Core i5-12600HE has the most cores. Core counts: Apple M1 Pro (10 cores), Intel Core i5-12600HE (12 cores).
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i5-12600HE posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i5-12600HE (18,000). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.