Intel yesterday introduced new 12th generation Core processors for laptops, claiming that the new Core i9 is not only faster than Apple's M1 Max chip in the 16-inch MacBook Pro but is also the fastest mobile processor ever.
The new Intel Core i9 has a 14-core CPU with six performance cores and eight efficiency cores while the 10-core M1 Max chip has eight performance cores and two efficiency cores. Intel's high-end chip has a maximum Turbo Boost frequency of 5.0 GHz. But the power consumption can be up to 115 watts. That's significantly more power than the M1 Max chip consumes and not ideal for the thermal envelope of devices like the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro. In fine print It is noted that performance was measured by compiling binaries using the SPEC CPU 2017 benchmark suite. Interestingly, the chart claims that the new Core i9 achieves faster performance per watt than the M1 Max chip. But overall, the M1 Max can still run at much lower wattages than Intel's mobile flagship.
New Intel Core i9 processor will leave Apple cold
Of course, it remains to be seen how the 12th generation Core processors perform in real-world tests in order to make a real comparison with the M1 Max chip. Intel's new chips are certainly not bad and are impressive. But Apple is certainly not likely to care, as the chips from Cupertino are very power-efficient and deliver impressive performance in thin and light systems like the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro without running hot. Apart from that, Apple is expected to unveil its next-generation M2 chip later this year, which should make another leap forward in performance per watt. Whatever. Intel's 12th generation mobile Core processors include 28 chips, including Core i7 and Core i5 variants for the mid- and lower-performance segment. The chips are in final production, which is why the first devices are expected later this year. (Image: Intel)
