Apple M2 Max vs. Intel i9 is always a tough fight between Windows and Apple, It also led to confusion among buyers about which is best for them and how to know which will be future compatible. This article is all about the differences between the M2 Max and Intel i9 and at the end of the article you will find the Best Laptop for your needs.
The tech world has been abuzz with excitement following the release of Apple’s M2 Max MacBook Pros, boasting impressive hardware and performance. In response, MSI has introduced its formidable Raider series, equipped with the latest Intel i9 13980HK processor and the powerful Nvidia 4090 mobile GPU. In this article, we will delve into a detailed comparison between these two powerhouse laptops to see how they stack up against each other in various aspects.
Features Comparison
| Feature | Apple M2 Max | Intel Core i9-13900HX |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing Process | 5nm | 10nm |
| CPU Cores | 8 | 12 |
| Threads | 8 | 24 |
| Base Clock Speed | 3.2 GHz | 2.9 GHz |
| Boost Clock Speed | 4.2 GHz | 4.9 GHz |
| L3 Cache | 12 MB | 16 MB |
| Integrated Graphics | Apple GPU (32 cores) | Intel Xe Graphics |
| TDP (Thermal Design Power) | 30W | 45W |
Design and Portability
The first striking difference between the MSI Raider and the M2 Max MacBook Pro is their physical size. The Raider is an absolute giant, sporting a 17-inch display compared to the MacBook Pro’s 16-inch screen. While the extra-screen real estate on the Raider is undoubtedly beneficial for productivity and gaming, it comes at the cost of portability. The Raider weighs a hefty 6.83 pounds, significantly heavier than the MacBook Pro’s 4.7 pounds. The MacBook Pro, with its slightly smaller footprint, is designed to be a versatile, on-the-go powerhouse, while the Raider leans more toward the high-performance stationary category.
However, the MacBook Pro gains a significant advantage in the display department. Its Mini LED XDR display offers remarkable black levels and vibrant colors, making it a top-tier choice for creative professionals. On the other hand, the Raider’s 17-inch display, while impressive, falls short in color accuracy and vibrance when compared to Apple’s offering.
Performance Showdown
When it comes to performance, both laptops are powerhouses in their own right, but they cater to different use cases. The MSI Raider packs the Intel Core i9 13980HX processor and the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090 laptop GPU, which deliver jaw-dropping performance numbers. In benchmarks like Cinebench R23, the Raider achieved a record-breaking score of 30,000, surpassing even desktop-grade CPUs. This remarkable performance, however, comes at a cost – power consumption. The Raider draws a staggering 329 watts when pushed to its limits.
On the other hand, the M2 Max MacBook Pro, equipped with its custom-designed Apple Silicon, may not match the Raider in sheer power but excels in power efficiency. The M2 Max CPU draws a modest 35 watts, showcasing the efficiency of Apple’s architecture. The MacBook Pro’s strength lies in its ability to deliver commendable performance while sipping power conservatively, making it an ideal choice for tasks that demand both performance and portability.
Gaming and Graphics
For gaming enthusiasts and graphics-intensive tasks, the MSI Raider shines brightly. In 3DMark Wildlife Extreme, the RTX 4090 significantly outperforms the M2 Max, boasting a substantial 20,000-point advantage. Real-world gaming tests, including titles like “Cyberpunk 2077” and “Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2,” demonstrate the Raider’s capability to run games smoothly at high settings and resolutions.
However, it’s essential to note that the MSI Raider’s gaming prowess is coupled with a high power draw, limiting its mobility and requiring it to be plugged in for optimal performance. In contrast, the M2 Max, while not as powerful in gaming, offers a more balanced approach, allowing gamers to enjoy decent gaming performance without being tethered to a power source.
Productivity and Video Editing
For productivity tasks and video editing, both laptops have their own merits. In productivity tests like Blender, the MSI Raider exhibited impressive performance, outpacing the M2 Max in CPU-intensive tasks. However, the M2 Max excels in video editing, thanks to Apple’s custom hardware acceleration. In a video rendering test, the MacBook Pro managed to complete the task faster than the Raider.
The M2 Max’s advantage lies in its optimized hardware and software integration, making it a go-to choice for creative professionals who heavily rely on video editing. On the other hand, the Raider’s raw computing power is better suited for tasks that demand sheer processing muscle.
Battery Life and Portability
One of the most significant advantages of the M2 Max MacBook Pro is its exceptional battery life. During a video rendering test, the MacBook Pro retained 90% of its battery life, while the Raider’s battery dropped to a mere 42%. This stark contrast emphasizes the MacBook Pro’s suitability for on-the-go professionals who need a reliable laptop that can last a full day of work without constant charging.
In terms of portability, the MacBook Pro’s sleek and relatively lightweight design makes it the clear winner for users who value mobility and versatility. It can easily fit into a backpack and accompany users during travel or on-the-spot video editing sessions, making it a practical choice for freelancers and content creators.
M2 Max vs. Intel i9 Final Verdict
In conclusion, both the MSI Raider and the M2 Max MacBook Pro are formidable laptops, each excelling in specific areas. The Raider boasts unparalleled performance, making it a dream machine for gamers and professionals who need raw computing power. However, its substantial size, weight, and power consumption limit its mobility and portability.
On the other hand, the M2 Max MacBook Pro offers an impressive blend of power and efficiency. Its optimized hardware and software integration make it a top choice for creative professionals who prioritize video editing and battery life. Its sleek design and excellent display further enhance its appeal as a versatile workhorse.
Ultimately, the choice between these two titans comes down to your specific needs and priorities. If you value raw power and don’t mind sacrificing portability, the MSI Raider is an excellent choice. If you require a balance of performance and mobility, along with exceptional battery life and video editing capabilities, the M2 Max MacBook Pro is the way to go. Both laptops represent the pinnacle of their respective categories, catering to a wide range of users in the ever-evolving world of technology.
