CPU Comparison
Apple M3 vs Intel Core 7 240H
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. Apple M3 is an 8-core, 10-core GPU SoC built on TSMC’s 3 nm process, delivering improved performance and efficiency for MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and iMac, with hardware-accelerated ray tracing and AV1 decode.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Snappy everyday performance with fast app launches and responsive multitasking.
10 cores and 16 threads handle multi-threaded workloads efficiently, though it trails behind higher core-count HX series chips.
Gaming
When paired with a dedicated GPU, the 5.2 GHz boost clock ensures minimal CPU bottlenecks in most modern titles.
Virtualization
Adequate for running a few light virtual machines, but limited by 45W base power and 10 cores compared to desktop replacements.
Efficiency
Strong battery life in MacBook Air and Pro implementations; 3 nm helps reduce active power relative to workload.
The 10nm process and 115W PL2 limit mean it requires significant cooling, reducing battery life under load.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- 16-core Neural Engine accelerates on-device ML workloads
- Media engine includes AV1 decode for efficient video streaming
- Lacks dedicated NPU hardware found in Core Ultra chips.
- Relies on CPU instructions for AI workloads.
- Suitable for basic background blur or noise cancellation, not heavy local LLM inference.
Content Creation
Gaming
- Ray tracing support enables better visuals in supported titles
- Dynamic Caching improves GPU utilization for more consistent frame times
- Single external display limit constrains multi-monitor gaming setups
- High 5.2 GHz boost clock benefits CPU-limited games.
- Hybrid architecture requires Windows 11 Thread Director for optimal scheduling.
- Sufficient for high-refresh-rate 1080p gaming with a mid-range dGPU.
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- 3 nm process for improved efficiency
- Hardware-accelerated ray tracing and mesh shading
- Dynamic Caching optimizes GPU memory usage
- Strong single-core performance
- Excellent battery life in supported systems
Cons
- Single external display limit in most configurations
- Memory not user-upgradable
- Does not support Thunderbolt 4 on some models
- No Wi-Fi 7 support on current implementations
Pros
- High 5.2 GHz maximum boost clock
- Strong single-core performance for gaming
- Versatile memory support (DDR4 to LPDDR5)
- Capable Iris Xe 64EU iGPU
- PCIe 5.0 support for fast storage
Cons
- No integrated NPU for AI tasks
- 10nm process is less efficient than newer competitors
- 115W PL2 power draw requires substantial laptop cooling
- Locked multiplier restricts manual CPU overclocking
Competitors & Alternatives
Apple M3
- Intel Core Ultra 7 155HRival
Thin-and-Light
- AMD Ryzen 7 8840URival
Thin-and-Light
- Compare head-to-headApple M2Rival
Previous-gen SoC
- Qualcomm Snapdragon X EliteRival
Windows on ARM SoC
- Alt
More CPU/GPU cores and increased memory bandwidth for heavier workloads.
Compare head-to-head - Alt
Maximum core counts and memory support for professional creator workflows.
Compare head-to-head
Intel Core 7 240H
- AMD Ryzen 7 8845HSRival
Mobile Premium
- AMD Ryzen 9 7940HSRival
Mobile Performance
- Compare head-to-headApple M3 ProRival
Mobile Creator
- AMD Ryzen 7 7840HSRival
Mobile Gaming
- Qualcomm Snapdragon X EliteRival
Mobile Efficiency
- Intel Core Ultra 7 155HAlt
Offers better efficiency and a dedicated NPU for AI tasks.
- Intel Core 7 240HXAlt
If available, offers more cores and higher power limits for heavier workloads.
- Alt
Better overall efficiency for non-gaming, ARM-based workflows.
Compare head-to-head - Intel Core 5 220HAlt
A lower-cost option if extreme single-core speed is not strictly necessary.
Our Verdict on Each
A balanced step forward that brings 3 nm efficiency, meaningful GPU features, and strong single-threaded performance to thin-and-light Macs.
Best for: Portable Mac for everyday productivity, light content creation, and student use
Read the full reviewA capable 10-core mobile chip that balances multi-threaded productivity with high single-core speeds for gaming, though it faces fierce competition from AMD's Ryzen 8000 series and Intel's own Core Ultra lineup.
Best for: The Intel Core 7 240H is highly recommended for users purchasing a premium thin-and-light or mid-range gaming laptop in 2025 who prioritize raw CPU frequency and legacy software compatibility. Its 5.2 GHz boost clock makes it particularly well-suited for high-refresh-rate 1080p gaming when paired with a dedicated mid-range GPU like an RTX 4060. It is also an excellent choice for students and content creators who need snappy performance in Adobe Creative Cloud applications. However, you should avoid this chip if your workflow relies heavily on local AI generation, as it lacks a dedicated NPU. Additionally, if maximum battery life is your primary concern, the newer Core Ultra chips built on the Intel 4 process will serve you much better.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is faster for gaming, Apple M3 or Intel Core 7 240H?
For gaming, the Intel Core 7 240H leads with a gaming performance score of 85/100 among Apple M3 and Intel Core 7 240H.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core 7 240H has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core 7 240H (45 W).
Do Apple M3 and Intel Core 7 240H use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Apple M3: Apple Silicon, Intel Core 7 240H: BGA 1744), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which has more cores?
The Intel Core 7 240H has the most cores. Core counts: Apple M3 (8 cores), Intel Core 7 240H (10 cores).