Core Ultra 9 285K Processor
Arrow Lake · 24C/24T · LGA 1851
MSRP
M4 Pro Processor
Apple Silicon · 12C/12T
MSRP
Our verdict
The Core Ultra 9 285K Processor takes the performance lead with a 7% higher overall score, driven by its 24 shader cores, 36 MB of memory, and 5,700 MHz TFLOPS of compute power. In gaming benchmarks at 1440p, it delivers roughly 40% more frames per second across demanding titles like Counter-Strike 2 1080p and Cyberpunk 2077 1080p.
However, the Core Ultra 9 285K Processor tells a compelling value story. At $589 versus the M4 Pro Processor's $1599 price tag, it costs 171% less while delivering performance that's only 7% behind. Its 36 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 Ultra 9 285K 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
Core Ultra 9 285K Processor
7% faster overall
Best value for money
Core Ultra 9 285K Processor
48% better value per dollar
Core Ultra 9 285K Processor best for
Raw performance
7% faster overall
Memory
Performance
platform
Power
Gaming benchmarks (avg FPS at 1080p)
Synthetic & compute benchmarks
Frequently asked questions
Is the M4 Pro Processor worth $1010 more than the Core Ultra 9 285K Processor?
It depends on your needs. The M4 Pro Processor scores 88 overall vs 82 for the Core Ultra 9 285K Processor. If you need the extra performance for demanding tasks, the premium is justified. For most users gaming at 1440p or below, the Core Ultra 9 285K Processor offers better value.
Which GPU is better for 1440p gaming, the Core Ultra 9 285K Processor or M4 Pro Processor?
The Core Ultra 9 285K Processor delivers higher frame rates at 1440p, but both GPUs handle 1440p gaming well. The Core Ultra 9 285K Processor provides more headroom for ray tracing and future titles, while the M4 Pro Processor still maintains smooth gameplay in current games.
Can the M4 Pro Processor handle 4K gaming?
The M4 Pro 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 Core Ultra 9 285K Processor is the better choice with its higher performance ceiling.
Which should I buy, the Core Ultra 9 285K Processor or M4 Pro Processor?
Choose the Core Ultra 9 285K 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 Ultra 9 285K Processor VS Ryzen 7 7800X3D Processor
Score 88 VS 88
M4 Pro Processor VS Ryzen 7 7800X3D Processor
Score 82 VS 88
Core Ultra 9 285K Processor VS M4 Max Processor
Score 88 VS 88
M4 Pro Processor VS M4 Max Processor
Score 82 VS 88
Core Ultra 9 285K Processor VS Core i9-14900KS Processor
Score 88 VS 87
M4 Pro Processor VS Core i9-14900KS Processor
Score 82 VS 87
Core Ultra 9 285K Processor VS Core i9-14900K Processor
Score 88 VS 86
M4 Pro Processor VS Core i9-14900K Processor
Score 82 VS 86