The Apple M2 Pro is a System on a Chip (SoC) from Apple that is set to be found in the early 2023 MacBook Pro 14 and 16-inch models. This powerful chip offers a significant increase in performance and efficiency compared to its predecessor, the M1 Pro. In this article, we will take a closer look at the features and specifications of the M2 Pro, and how it compares to previous Apple chips.
Core Configuration
The M2 Pro offers all 12 cores available in the chip divided into eight performance cores (P-cores) and four power-efficiency cores (E-cores). This configuration allows for a balance of performance and efficiency, allowing the chip to handle demanding tasks while also conserving power. The big cores (codenamed Avalanche) offer 192 KB instruction cache, 128 KB data cache, and 36 MB shared L2 cache (up from 24 MB in the M1 Pro). The four efficiency cores (codenamed Blizzard) are smaller and offer only 128 KB instruction cache, 64 KB data cache, and 4 MB shared cache.
Memory and Bandwidth
The M2 Pro also features a unified memory architecture, with 16 or 32 GB LPDDR5-6400 memory next to the chip connected by a 256 Bit memory controller. This allows for a bandwidth of 200 GB/s, which is more than enough for the GPU and CPU to access the memory simultaneously. The chip also features a 24 MB SLC (System Level Cache) which can be used by both the CPU and GPU.
Performance Increase
Apple states that the M2 Pro has a 25% higher performance than the M1 Pro in Xcode compiling. This means that developers and programmers can expect to see a significant increase in performance when using the M2 Pro in their MacBook Pro.
Integrated Graphics
The M2 Pro also features an integrated graphics card, with 19 cores. This is an increase from the M1 Pro, which offered only 18 cores. This means that users can expect to see an improvement in graphics performance, especially when playing games or using applications that rely on a powerful GPU.
Other Features
In addition to its powerful cores and integrated graphics, the M2 Pro also features a fast 16 core neural engine, which is faster than the M1 Pro's neural engine. It also includes a secure enclave for encryption and a Thunderbolt 4 controller. The chip also includes an ISP and media de- and encoders, including support for ProRes.
Manufacturing and Transistor Count
The M2 Pro is manufactured using 5 nm technology at TSMC (second generation), and it integrates 40 billion transistors. This is an increase from the M1 Pro, which integrated 30 billion transistors.
Comparison to Other Apple Chips
When comparing the M2 Pro to other Apple chips, we can see that it offers a significant increase in performance and efficiency. The M2 Pro offers 12 cores and 24 MB L3 cache, while the M1 Pro offers 10 cores and 24 MB L3 cache. The M2 Pro also offers a higher clock rate, with a range of 2.42 - 3.48 GHz, compared to 2.06 - 3.22 GHz for the M1 Pro.
Conclusion
The Apple M2 Pro is a powerful and efficient System on a Chip that offers a significant increase in performance and efficiency compared to its predecessor, the M1 Pro. With 12 cores, a unified memory architecture, and an integrated graphics card, the M2 Pro is designed to handle demanding tasks with ease. Additionally, it features a fast 16 core neural engine, a secure enclave, and a Thunderbolt 4 controller, making it a versatile chip for a wide range of applications.
Overall, the M2 Pro is a significant improvement over the M1 Pro and is set to power the next generation of MacBook Pro models. Its advanced features and capabilities make it a powerful chip for professionals and power users alike, who are looking for a high-performance laptop that can handle demanding tasks with ease. With its 5 nm manufacturing technology and 40 billion transistors, the M2 Pro is one of the most advanced chips on the market and is set to be the standard for high-performance laptops in the near future.
If you're planning to upgrade to a MacBook Pro with the M2 Pro chip, we'd love to hear your thoughts and feedback on how it's performing for you. Share your experience with us by using the hashtag #M2ProReview on social media. Your comments and opinions are valuable to us, and we look forward to hearing from you.
