Apple’s M1-based MacBook Air performs better than Intel Core i9-based MacBook Pro

The new MacBook Air with M1 chipset scored 1687 in single-core and 7433 in multi-core tests. This came as a surprise for many as the higher-end 16-inch MacBook Pro with an Intel Core i9 processor scored 1096 single-core and 6870 multi-core.

Apple MacBook (Unsplash)

Apple touted its ARM-based M1 processor as the first 5nm chipset to power MacBook Air, MacBook Pro and Mac Mini. During the event, it talked a lot about the number of times it is faster and more efficient than Windows PCs and their own previous-gen Intel-based Mac devices. But since the reviews were not out, we had no option but to believe what the iPhone maker had to say. However, now the product has gone through Geekbench again.

The new MacBook Air with M1 chipset scored 1687 in single-core and 7433 in multi-core tests. This came as a surprise for many as the higher-end 16-inch MacBook Pro with an Intel Core i9 processor scored 1096 single-core and 6870 multi-core. Although this is just one benchmark test, it sure seems promising considering the fact that its M1 vs Intel core i9 processor and Air vs Pro (which has better hardware onboard).

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In addition, the benchmark added that M1 8-core chip comes with a base frequency of 3.2GHz while its 8-core Intel Core i9 rival in MacBook Pro was running at 2.3GHz, with Turbo Boost of 4.8GHz. This can be taken as another indication of M1 being more powerful. 

While many are claiming the new MacBook Air, Pro and Mac mini to perform on the same level as they have the same processor, Apple says that a major difference comes in the form of a cooling fan in Pro and Mac Mini that will result in delivering better sustained performance as compared to Air's fanless design.