Core i3-12100F Processor
Alder Lake · 4C/8T · LGA 1700
MSRP
M4 Pro Processor
Apple Silicon · 12C/12T
MSRP
Our verdict
The M4 Pro Processor takes the performance lead with a 105% higher overall score, driven by its 12 shader cores, 0 MB of memory, and 4,500 MHz TFLOPS of compute power. In gaming benchmarks at 1440p, it delivers roughly 25% more frames per second across demanding titles like Counter-Strike 2 1080p and Cyberpunk 2077 1080p.
However, the Core i3-12100F Processor tells a compelling value story. At $109 versus the M4 Pro Processor's $1599 price tag, it costs 1367% less while delivering performance that's only 105% behind. Its 12 MB of memory is still more than enough for 1440p and even 4K gaming in most titles.
Our recommendation: for the majority of gamers targeting 1440p or even 4K with upscaling enabled, the Core i3-12100F Processor is the smarter purchase. The M4 Pro Processor only makes sense if you need the absolute maximum performance for native 4K ray tracing, professional 3D rendering, or AI workloads where the extra VRAM and compute power provide a tangible advantage.
Performance winner
M4 Pro Processor
105% faster overall
Best value for money
Core i3-12100F Processor
110% better value per dollar
Core i3-12100F Processor best for
Value for money
110% better value per dollar
Memory
Performance
platform
Power
Gaming benchmarks (avg FPS at 1080p)
Synthetic & compute benchmarks
Frequently asked questions
Is the M4 Pro Processor worth $1490 more than the Core i3-12100F Processor?
It depends on your needs. The M4 Pro Processor scores 82 overall vs 40 for the Core i3-12100F Processor. If you need the extra performance for demanding tasks, the premium is justified. For most users gaming at 1440p or below, the Core i3-12100F Processor offers better value.
Which GPU is better for 1440p gaming, the Core i3-12100F Processor or M4 Pro Processor?
The M4 Pro Processor delivers higher frame rates at 1440p, but both GPUs handle 1440p gaming well. The M4 Pro Processor provides more headroom for ray tracing and future titles, while the Core i3-12100F Processor still maintains smooth gameplay in current games.
Can the Core i3-12100F Processor handle 4K gaming?
The Core i3-12100F Processor can handle 4K gaming in less demanding titles and with upscaling technologies like DLSS or FSR. For native 4K at ultra settings in demanding games, the M4 Pro Processor is the better choice with its higher performance ceiling.
Which should I buy, the Core i3-12100F Processor or M4 Pro Processor?
Choose the Core i3-12100F Processor if you want the best value for money and primarily game at 1080p or 1440p. Choose the M4 Pro Processor if you need maximum performance, play at 4K, or do professional workloads like video editing and 3D rendering.
Related comparisons
Core i3-12100F Processor VS Ryzen 5 5500 Processor
Score 40 VS 45
M4 Pro Processor VS Ryzen 5 5500 Processor
Score 82 VS 45
Core i3-12100F Processor VS Ryzen 5 5600 Processor
Score 40 VS 55
M4 Pro Processor VS Ryzen 5 5600 Processor
Score 82 VS 55
Core i3-12100F Processor VS Core i5-13400F Processor
Score 40 VS 58
M4 Pro Processor VS Core i5-13400F Processor
Score 82 VS 58
Core i3-12100F Processor VS Ryzen 5 5600X Processor
Score 40 VS 58
M4 Pro Processor VS Ryzen 5 5600X Processor
Score 82 VS 58