CPU Comparison
Apple M2 Ultra vs Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Apple M2 Ultra is a system-on-a-chip (SoC) designed by Apple, representing the pinnacle of the M2 family. Built using TSMC's 5nm process, it combines two M2 Max dies using Apple's custom UltraFusion architecture to deliver unprecedented processing power for professional workflows.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Class-leading multi-core performance in native ARM applications, significantly outperforming typical desktop CPUs in heavily threaded tasks.
Crushes multi-threaded productivity apps like Blender and Premiere Pro.
Gaming
Top-tier gaming performance, especially when paired with high-end discrete GPUs.
Virtualization
Excellent for local VMs, though dual-channel memory is a slight bottleneck vs HEDT.
Efficiency
Delivers workstation-level performance at a fraction of the power consumption of comparable x86 workstations.
Extremely power-hungry under load, requiring constant AC power.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- The 32-core Neural Engine provides massive throughput for on-device ML.
- Ideal for training large Core ML models locally.
- PyTorch and TensorFlow are well-optimized for this architecture via MPS.
- Includes 13 TOPS NPU for basic AI tasks
- Primary AI compute relies on CPU and dGPU
- Combined Int8 TOPS up to 36
Content Creation
Gaming
- While the GPU is powerful, macOS gaming library is limited.
- Lack of dedicated ray tracing hardware compared to modern NVIDIA/AMD GPUs.
- Excellent performance for Apple Arcade and optimized titles.
- Not designed for high-refresh-rate competitive gaming.
- High single-core boost ensures high framerates
- Won't bottleneck RTX 4090 mobile GPUs
- Requires robust cooling to maintain boost clocks
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Massive unified memory capacity (up to 192GB)
- Incredible power efficiency relative to performance
- Industry-leading media engine for video professionals
- Silent operation in Mac Studio chassis
- Seamless integration with macOS ecosystem
Cons
- Cannot upgrade RAM or storage after purchase
- High cost of entry for professional configurations
- Software compatibility issues with some legacy x86 plugins
- Gaming performance trails dedicated high-end PCs
- Repairability is extremely limited
Pros
- Massive 24-core, 24-thread processing power
- Unlocked multiplier for enthusiast overclocking
- 20 PCIe Gen 5 lanes for maximum expandability
- 5.5 GHz max turbo delivers elite single-thread performance
- Supports ECC memory for workstation reliability
Cons
- Extreme power consumption (up to 160W)
- Requires massive, heavy laptop chassis for cooling
- Inefficient for battery-powered use
- Integrated graphics (64EU) are weak compared to the CPU's potential
Competitors & Alternatives
Apple M2 Ultra
- AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7995WXRival
Workstation
- Intel Xeon w9-3495XRival
Workstation
- NVIDIA RTX 6000 Ada GenerationRival
GPU Compute
- AMD Ryzen 9 7950XRival
High-End Desktop
- Compare head-to-headApple M3 MaxRival
Mobile Workstation
- Custom PC (Threadripper + RTX 4090)Alt
Better for users who need Windows-specific software, maximum upgradeability, or raw gaming FPS.
- Alt
Significantly cheaper while still offering excellent performance for most creative tasks.
Compare head-to-head - Mac Studio M1 UltraAlt
Viable used option for those who need raw power but have a tighter budget.
- Intel Core i9-14900K BuildAlt
Higher peak clock speeds for specific gaming and lightly-threaded workloads.
Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus
- AMD Ryzen 9 8945HXRival
Mobile (DTR)
- AMD Ryzen 9 7945HX3DRival
Mobile (DTR)
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i9-14900HXRival
Mobile (DTR)
- Compare head-to-headApple M2 UltraRival
Workstation
- AMD Ryzen Threadripper 7945HXRival
Mobile (DTR)
Nearly identical performance, often available at a lower price point.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 8845HSAlt
If portability is more important than raw power.
Slightly lower clocks but same core count for less money.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
The M2 Ultra is a technological marvel that effectively renders high-end Intel Xeon and AMD Threadripper workstations obsolete for the vast majority of creative professionals by offering massive memory bandwidth and core counts in a relatively power-efficient package.
Best for: Professional video editing, 3D animation, or developers requiring massive memory datasets.
Read the full reviewA brute-force mobile CPU that ignores power constraints to deliver true desktop performance, ideal for thick DTR laptops.
Best for: Investing in a laptop powered by the Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus is exclusively recommended for buyers looking at premium, thick-and-heavy gaming laptops or mobile workstations. If you are investing in a machine to replace a desktop for tasks like 3D animation, heavy code compilation, or competitive 4K gaming, this processor will deliver exceptional, tunable performance. Because it is unlocked, it offers a degree of future-proofing for enthusiasts willing to tweak power limits. However, you must ensure the laptop has a robust vapor chamber or multiple fans, as the 160W turbo draw generates substantial heat. Avoid this processor if you prioritize battery life or portability; it is inefficient for light tasks and will drain a battery rapidly. Furthermore, ensure the laptop pairs this CPU with a high-end discrete GPU (RTX 4080/4090 or equivalent) to avoid bottlenecks, as the 64EU integrated graphics are insufficient for the workloads this CPU is designed for.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Apple M2 Ultra or Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Apple M2 Ultra comes out ahead with a score of 9.5/10. 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 M2 Ultra or Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus?
For gaming, the Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus leads with a gaming performance score of 99/100 among Apple M2 Ultra and Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus (55 W).
Do Apple M2 Ultra and Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Apple M2 Ultra: BGA (Integrated), Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus: Intel BGA 2114), so each needs a compatible motherboard.