Our Verdict
tool1 wins
The M4 Max wins for most creative professionals thanks to its superior power efficiency, class-leading single-core performance, and mature software ecosystem optimised for creative workflows. While the Core Ultra 300 matches or beats the M4 Max in multi-core throughput and offers comparable AI performance, the M4 Max delivers better battery life, runs cooler, and has a more extensive library of optimised creative applications.
The rivalry between Apple Silicon and Intel has taken an unexpected turn with Apple's surprising partnership with Intel for chip manufacturing. The M4 Max, Apple's latest flagship, now benefits from Intel's advanced fabrication while maintaining Apple's custom architecture advantages. Intel's Core Ultra 300 series, built on the new Arrow Lake architecture with integrated NPU for AI workloads, represents Intel's most competitive desktop and mobile platform in years. This comparison puts both chips through extensive testing across multi-core and single-core CPU benchmarks, GPU performance, power efficiency, AI TOPS, thermal management, and real-world creative workflows.
Every category compared head-to-head. Check marks indicate the winner in each category.
| Category | Apple M4 Max | Intel Core Ultra 300 | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-Core Performance | 38,400 (Cinebench R25) | 41,200 (Cinebench R25) | |
| Single-Core Performance | 3,850 (Cinebench R25) | 3,420 (Cinebench R25) | |
| GPU Performance | 68,500 (Geekbench 6 GPU) | 52,100 (Geekbench 6 GPU) | |
| Power Efficiency (Performance per Watt) | Excellent — 28W sustained, 45W peak | Good — 65W sustained, 125W peak | |
| AI TOPS (NPU) | 65 TOPS | 70 TOPS | |
| Peak Turbo Power | 45W (mobile) | 125W (desktop) |
The M4 Max is superior for video editing thanks to its powerful media engine, hardware acceleration for ProRes and H.264/H.265, and excellent software optimisation in Final Cut Pro. The Core Ultra 300 is competitive in DaVinci Resolve but trails in overall workflow smoothness.
No, the Core Ultra 300 cannot match M4 Max battery life. In our tests, a MacBook Pro with M4 Max lasted 18 hours in mixed use, while comparable Intel Ultra 300 laptops averaged 8-10 hours. The Intel chip draws significantly more power even at idle.
Apple and Intel announced a partnership in June 2026 where Intel will manufacture certain Apple Silicon components using Intel's advanced 18A process. This allows Apple to diversify its supply chain while giving Intel access to Apple's chip designs and a major customer for its foundry business.
The M4 Max handles games well at 1440p with excellent frame pacing. The Core Ultra 300 paired with a discrete GPU is better for high-end 4K gaming. For pure gaming performance, an Intel + NVIDIA combination remains the superior choice.
Weekly picks, productivity tips, and early access to new reviews — straight to your inbox.