The Apple M4 (8 cores) arrives as a balanced addition to the M4 family, focusing on providing ample power for everyday tasks while prioritizing efficiency. Launched in October 2024, this new chip aims to deliver a seamless user experience in Apple's latest iMac.
Striking a Balance: Performance and Efficiency
The M4 (8 cores) features a refined configuration compared to its siblings:
- CPU: 8 cores (4x Performance + 4x Efficiency)
- CPU Clock Speed: Up to 4.0 GHz (Performance cores)
- GPU: Apple M4 8-core GPU
- Neural Engine: 16-core
- Memory: 16GB, 24GB, or 32GB LPDDR5X-7500 RAM
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, Thunderbolt 3, USB 4, DisplayPort
- Manufacturing Process: 3nm TSMC
- Power Consumption (Estimated): 7W to 11W (sustained), up to 20W peak
While it has fewer efficiency cores compared to the 10-core M4, it retains the same four powerful performance cores, clocked at an impressive 4.0 GHz.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Apple M4 (8 cores) |
|---|---|
| CPU | 8-core (4x Performance + 4x Efficiency) |
| CPU Clock Speed | Up to 4.0 GHz (Performance cores) |
| GPU | Apple M4 8-core GPU |
| Neural Engine | 16-core |
| Memory | 16GB, 24GB, or 32GB LPDDR5X-7500 RAM |
| Manufacturing Process | 3nm (second generation) TSMC |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, Thunderbolt 3, USB 4, DisplayPort |
| Estimated Power Consumption | 7W-11W (sustained), Up to 20W Peak |
Performance Estimates
Although benchmark data is limited, early estimates suggest:
- Geekbench 6.3 Multi-Core: Around 12,000 points
- Cinebench R24: Approximately 850 points
These figures suggest that the M4 (8 cores) will handle demanding tasks like photo editing, video playback, and software development with ease.
Optimized for Everyday Use
Apple clearly designed the M4 (8 cores) to excel in everyday tasks while maintaining impressive energy efficiency. This makes it an ideal choice for users who prioritize a balance of performance and battery life.
A New Chapter in Apple Silicon
The M4 (8 cores) builds on the success of Apple's M-series chips, further blurring the lines between performance and efficiency. As benchmarks and real-world usage data emerge, we will gain a comprehensive understanding of this impressive chip's capabilities. However, one thing is certain – Apple continues to redefine what's possible with its in-house silicon, setting a new standard for the industry.