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Apple M2 Review | 78 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£1,340
Avg. price in US: ~$1,000
PassMark benchmark result: 15,644
N. of physical cores: 8
CPU boost clock speed: 3.49 GHz

Apple M2 review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

5.6

Good

5.6

Good

?

6.5
Gaming
Score components:
30.0%
7.4
PassMark single-core benchmark score
25.0%
7.5
Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score
20.0%
3.1
CPU boost clock speed
17.0%
9.0
L3 cache
8.0%
3.5
N. of physical cores
4.7
Video editing
Score components:
45.0%
4.7
Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score
20.0%
3.5
N. of physical cores
20.0%
2.8
CPU threads
15.0%
9.0
L3 cache

No image

No image

Best prices in UK

N/A~ £1,340

Best rankings

#273 in Best Mobile CPUs

Verdict

The Apple M2 is a second-generation system-on-a-chip (SoC) built on an enhanced 5-nanometer process with 20 billion transistors. It features an 8-core CPU (4 performance and 4 efficiency cores) delivering up to 18% faster multithreaded performance than its predecessor, alongside a 10-core GPU that provides a 35% boost in graphics power. Key technical highlights include a 100GB/s memory bandwidth, support for up to 24GB of unified memory, and a 16-core Neural Engine capable of 15.8 trillion operations per second. Main pros include industry-leading power efficiency that enables exceptional battery life, a dedicated media engine for 8K ProRes video acceleration, and the ability to maintain peak performance without a fan in some models. However, notable cons include its limitation to a single external display on base models, thermal throttling under sustained heavy workloads in fanless designs like the MacBook Air, and the relatively high cost of memory and storage upgrades.

Technical Specifications of processor Apple M2

Overall score

5.6

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the processor.

When it matters: When you prefer to choose a processor reviewed and selected by many other buyers.

Platform

6.3

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Brand name

What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.

When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Apple

Processor type

What it is: The kind of system the processor is built for, such as desktop PCs, laptops, workstations, or servers.

When it matters: When you want a processor meant for the kind of machine you are actually building or buying, rather than a chip aimed at a different class of system.

Importance: HIGH

CPU socket

What it is: The physical socket the processor fits into on the motherboard.

When it matters: When you need to make sure the CPU can actually be installed on a specific motherboard.

Importance: HIGH

N/A

Chipset

What it is: The motherboard chipset families officially meant to work with the processor.

When it matters: When you are checking whether a CPU will work with the motherboard features and platform you plan to use.

Importance: HIGH

CPU architecture

What it is: The processor family or design generation behind the chip, such as Zen 4 or Raptor Lake.

When it matters: When you are comparing CPUs across generations and want a clearer sense of their design age, feature level, and expected performance class.

Importance: HIGH

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Performance

4.8

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N. of physical cores

What it is: The number of physical CPU cores on the processor.

When it matters: When you run workloads that benefit from more real cores.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 8+

CPU threads

What it is: The total number of processing threads the CPU can handle at once.

When it matters: When you run heavily threaded workloads or multitask a lot.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 16+

Threads per core

What it is: The number of threads each physical core can handle at once.

When it matters: When you want to understand how much thread-level parallelism each core can provide in multitasking or heavily threaded work.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 2

CPU boost clock speed

What it is: The highest clock speed the processor can reach under boost conditions.

When it matters: When you care about peak speed in short bursts.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >4.7 GHz

CPU base clock speed

What it is: The processor's normal all-core starting frequency before boost behavior raises clocks temporarily.

When it matters: When you care about steadier performance in longer workloads rather than short burst speed alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

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Cache & Architecture

7.0

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Semiconductor size

What it is: The manufacturing process node used to produce the processor, usually expressed in nanometers.

When it matters: When efficiency, heat, and the relative modernity of the chip-making process matter to your comparison.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <10 nm

Foundry

What it is: The semiconductor manufacturer that physically fabricates the processor chip.

When it matters: When process source, manufacturing generation, or foundry differences matter to your comparison more than day-to-day performance alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

L3 cache

What it is: The total amount of L3 cache available on the processor.

When it matters: When you want better performance in cache-sensitive workloads and games.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=16 MB

?

L2 cache

What it is: The total amount of L2 cache available across the processor.

When it matters: When you want to compare CPU design efficiency and how much fast intermediate cache the cores have available.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=6 MB

L1 cache

What it is: The total amount of L1 cache built into the processor, which sits closest to the cores.

When it matters: When you are comparing low-level CPU design details rather than the broader performance picture buyers usually notice first.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=512 KB

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Memory & PCIe

7.1

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DDR memory version

What it is: The RAM generation the processor is designed to support, such as DDR4 or DDR5.

When it matters: When you need the CPU to match the kind of memory platform you want to buy or reuse.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: DDR5

Maximum memory speed

What it is: The highest official memory speed supported by the processor.

When it matters: When you choose RAM and want to know the supported speed ceiling.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=4800 MHz

Max memory speed (JEDEC)

What it is: The highest official RAM speed the processor supports under standard JEDEC settings, before any memory overclocking profiles are applied.

When it matters: When officially supported stock RAM speed matters more than XMP, EXPO, or manual memory tuning.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5600 MHz

Max memory speed (XMP / EXPO)

What it is: The highest memory speed supported through XMP or EXPO profiles.

When it matters: When you want faster RAM through memory profiles.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5200 MHz

N/A

Maximum memory capacity

What it is: The largest total amount of memory officially supported by the processor.

When it matters: When you plan a system with very large RAM capacity.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=128 GB

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Integrated Graphics

8.8

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Integrated graphics

What it is: Includes built-in graphics, so the system can output video without a separate graphics card.

When it matters: When you want the PC to work without a dedicated GPU, or you are building an office, media, compact, or troubleshooting-friendly system.

Importance: HIGH

Integrated GPU model

What it is: The model name of the integrated graphics processor, if present.

When it matters: When you plan to use the CPU's built-in graphics.

Importance: MEDIUM

?

Integrated GPU execution units

What it is: The number of execution units available in the integrated graphics part of the processor.

When it matters: When you plan to rely on built-in graphics and want a better sense of its light gaming, display, or media capability.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=24

?

Integrated GPU base frequency

What it is: The base operating frequency of the integrated GPU.

When it matters: When integrated graphics performance matters to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=350 MHz

?

Integrated media encoders/decoders

What it is: The hardware media formats the processor can encode or decode directly.

When it matters: When you stream, edit video, or rely on hardware media acceleration.

Importance: LOW

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Power & Thermal

6.6

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TDP (Thermal design power)

What it is: The rated thermal design power, which gives a general idea of cooling and power needs.

When it matters: When you choose a cooler or build in a tighter case.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <30 W

Base power (PL1)

What it is: The sustained power target used for longer CPU loads.

When it matters: When you choose cooling and power delivery for sustained workloads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <30 W

Boost power (PL2)

What it is: The short-term boost power limit the processor may draw under heavier turbo loads.

When it matters: When you size cooling and power delivery for peak turbo behavior.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <50 W

?

Tau (power duration limit)

What it is: The time limit the CPU can stay at higher boost power before dropping toward sustained power.

When it matters: When you want to understand turbo behavior under longer loads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=28 s

N/A

Configurable TDP

What it is: Allows the processor to run in alternate power modes instead of being fixed to one default TDP target.

When it matters: When you want more control over heat, noise, and power draw in compact systems, quieter builds, or thermally limited machines.

Importance: LOW

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Apple M2 vs the average processor

Why is Apple M2 better than the average processor?

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56.5% better single-core performance
Apple M2 has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (3885 vs 2483). The average processor scores 2483 in PassMark single-core.
What it is: A benchmark score that reflects single-core CPU performance.
When it matters: When you care about responsiveness in lighter or older software.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >3200
Apple M2 has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (3885 vs 2483). The average processor scores 2483 in PassMark single-core.3,885 vs 2,483
75.9% higher single-core score
Apple M2 has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (2587 vs 1471). The average processor scores 1471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
What it is: A Geekbench 6 score that reflects single-core CPU performance in mixed modern workloads.
When it matters: When you care about snappy everyday performance in lighter apps, browsing, office work, or tasks that do not scale well across many cores.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >2000
Apple M2 has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (2587 vs 1471). The average processor scores 1471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.2,587 vs 1,471
8x larger L2 cache
Apple M2 has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (20 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
What it is: The total amount of L2 cache available across the processor.
When it matters: When you want to compare CPU design efficiency and how much fast intermediate cache the cores have available.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=6 MB
Apple M2 has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (20 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.20 MB vs 2.5 MB
2.03x higher multi-core score
Apple M2 has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (9709 vs 4793). The average processor scores 4793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
What it is: A Geekbench 6 score that reflects multi-core CPU performance in mixed modern workloads.
When it matters: When you want a quick picture of multi-core speed in everyday mixed workloads, multitasking, and broadly optimized software.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >8500
Apple M2 has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (9709 vs 4793). The average processor scores 4793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.9,709 vs 4,793
2.18x higher memory bandwidth
Apple M2 has a higher memory bandwidth than the average processor (100 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
What it is: The maximum theoretical memory bandwidth the processor can support.
When it matters: When memory-heavy workloads matter to you.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >75 GB/s
Apple M2 has a higher memory bandwidth than the average processor (100 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.100 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s
2.18x higher memory speed
Apple M2 has a higher maximum memory speed than the average processor (6400 MHz vs 2933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2933 MHz.
What it is: The highest official memory speed supported by the processor.
When it matters: When you choose RAM and want to know the supported speed ceiling.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >=4800 MHz
Apple M2 has a higher maximum memory speed than the average processor (6400 MHz vs 2933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2933 MHz.6400 MHz vs 2933 MHz
Newer DDR support
Apple M2 supports a newer DDR generation than the average processor (LPDDR5 vs DDR4).
What it is: The RAM generation the processor is designed to support, such as DDR4 or DDR5.
When it matters: When you need the CPU to match the kind of memory platform you want to buy or reuse.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: DDR5
Apple M2 supports a newer DDR generation than the average processor (LPDDR5 vs DDR4).LPDDR5 vs DDR4
Uses big.LITTLE design
Apple M2 uses a big.LITTLE design, the average processor does not.
performance + efficiency cores
What it is: Combines high-performance cores with lower-power efficiency cores instead of relying on just one core type.
When it matters: When you want strong burst performance in demanding tasks without wasting as much power during lighter background work.
Importance: MEDIUM
Apple M2 uses a big.LITTLE design, the average processor does not.
Supports HMP
Apple M2 supports HMP, the average processor does not.
Advanced security extensions
Apple M2 provides more advanced security extensions than the average processor (Secure Enclave, PAC, BTI, APRR, KTRR, SPTM vs AES-NI, NX bit, Secure Processor).
56.5% better single-core performance
Apple M2 has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (3885 vs 2483). The average processor scores 2483 in PassMark single-core.
75.9% higher single-core score
Apple M2 has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (2587 vs 1471). The average processor scores 1471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
2.03x higher multi-core score
Apple M2 has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (9709 vs 4793). The average processor scores 4793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
2 more CPU cores
Apple M2 has more CPU cores than the average processor (8 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
48.5% higher PassMark score
Apple M2 has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (15644 vs 10532.5). The average processor scores 10532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
4 wider front-end design
Apple M2 has a higher front-end width than the average processor (8 vs 4). The average processor uses front-end width of 4.
8x larger L2 cache
Apple M2 has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (20 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
58.3% smaller process node
Apple M2 has a lower process node than the average processor (5 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
Uses big.LITTLE design
Apple M2 uses a big.LITTLE design, the average processor does not.
5.33x larger L1 cache
Apple M2 has a higher L1 cache than the average processor (2048 KB vs 384 KB). The average processor has L1 cache of 384 KB.
More advanced foundry
Apple M2 uses a more advanced foundry process than the average processor (TSMC 5 nm vs Intel 14 nm).
4.04x more transistors
Apple M2 has more transistors than the average processor (20 billion vs 4.95 billion). The average processor has 4.95 billion transistors.
12.9% smaller die size
Apple M2 has a lower die size than the average processor (155 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
2.18x higher memory bandwidth
Apple M2 has a higher memory bandwidth than the average processor (100 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
2.18x higher memory speed
Apple M2 has a higher maximum memory speed than the average processor (6400 MHz vs 2933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2933 MHz.
Newer DDR support
Apple M2 supports a newer DDR generation than the average processor (LPDDR5 vs DDR4).
Higher JEDEC memory speed
Apple M2 has a higher JEDEC memory speed than the average processor (LPDDR5-6400 MHz vs DDR4-3200 MHz). The average processor supports JEDEC memory speed of DDR4-3200 MHz.
55.6% lower base power
Apple M2 has a lower base power draw than the average processor (20 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
55.6% lower TDP
Apple M2 has a lower TDP than the average processor (20 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.

Cache & Architecture

Power & Thermal

Why is Apple M2 worse than the average processor?

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Less advanced architecture
Apple M2 uses a less advanced architecture than the average processor (ARM64 vs x86-64).
Apple silicon
Narrower instruction support
Apple M2 supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (NEON, AES, SHA1, SHA2, BF16, I8MM, AMX vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
18.8% lower boost clock
Apple M2 has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.5 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
No multithreading support
Apple M2 does not support multithreading, the average processor does.
16.5% weaker multi-core performance
Apple M2 has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (2325 vs 2783). The average processor scores 2783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
1 fewer threads per core
Apple M2 has fewer threads per core than the average processor (1 vs 2). The average processor offers 2 threads per core.
Less advanced microarchitecture
Apple M2 uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Avalanche / Blizzard vs Kaby Lake).
62.5% less memory capacity
Apple M2 has fewer maximum memory capacity than the average processor (24 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.
No configurable TDP
Apple M2 does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
18.8% lower boost clock
Apple M2 has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.5 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
What it is: The highest clock speed the processor can reach under boost conditions.
When it matters: When you care about peak speed in short bursts.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >4.7 GHz
Apple M2 has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.5 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.3.49 GHz vs 4.3 GHz
Less advanced microarchitecture
Apple M2 uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Avalanche / Blizzard vs Kaby Lake).
What it is: The internal core-design codename used for this processor generation.
When it matters: When you are comparing CPUs at a deeper design level and want to identify the exact architecture behind marketing names.
Importance: LOW
Apple M2 uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Avalanche / Blizzard vs Kaby Lake).Avalanche / Blizzard vs Kaby Lake
No multithreading support
Apple M2 does not support multithreading, the average processor does.
What it is: Lets each physical core run more than one thread at the same time, such as with Hyper-Threading or SMT.
When it matters: When multitasking, rendering, compiling, virtualization, or other thread-heavy work benefits from more total processing threads.
Importance: HIGH
Apple M2 does not support multithreading, the average processor does.
Less advanced architecture
Apple M2 uses a less advanced architecture than the average processor (ARM64 vs x86-64).
Apple silicon
What it is: The processor family or design generation behind the chip, such as Zen 4 or Raptor Lake.
When it matters: When you are comparing CPUs across generations and want a clearer sense of their design age, feature level, and expected performance class.
Importance: HIGH
Apple M2 uses a less advanced architecture than the average processor (ARM64 vs x86-64).ARM64 vs x86-64
Narrower instruction support
Apple M2 supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (NEON, AES, SHA1, SHA2, BF16, I8MM, AMX vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
What it is: The supported CPU instruction sets and extensions.
When it matters: When you run software that depends on specific CPU instructions.
Importance: MEDIUM
Apple M2 supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (NEON, AES, SHA1, SHA2, BF16, I8MM, AMX vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).NEON, AES, SHA1, SHA2, BF16, I8MM, AMX vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA
No configurable TDP
Apple M2 does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
What it is: Allows the processor to run in alternate power modes instead of being fixed to one default TDP target.
When it matters: When you want more control over heat, noise, and power draw in compact systems, quieter builds, or thermally limited machines.
Importance: LOW
Apple M2 does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
5.36x more expensive
Apple M2 is more expensive than the average processor (£1340 vs £250).
Apple M2 is more expensive than the average processor (£1340 vs £250).£1,340 vs £250
62.5% less memory capacity
Apple M2 has fewer maximum memory capacity than the average processor (24 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.
What it is: The largest total amount of memory officially supported by the processor.
When it matters: When you plan a system with very large RAM capacity.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >=128 GB
Apple M2 has fewer maximum memory capacity than the average processor (24 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.24 GB vs 64 GB

Cache & Architecture

Power & Thermal

Graphic comparison of Apple M2 and other processors

Attribute category

Attribute

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Apple M2?

Improved multi-core CPU performance, roughly 18% faster than the M1
Significant gains in graphics performance with up to 10 GPU cores
Extreme power efficiency leading to industry-leading battery life
Dedicated media engine for hardware-accelerated ProRes and ProRes RAW
Silent operation in fanless designs like the MacBook Air
Increased unified memory ceiling of up to 24GB
Faster Neural Engine for enhanced machine learning tasks
Superior single-core speed that occasionally rivals higher-tier M1 Pro chips

What customers dislike about Apple M2?

Base 256GB models use a single-chip SSD, resulting in significantly slower read/write speeds than M1
Incremental performance jump from M1 can feel 'unexciting' for average users
Prone to thermal throttling under sustained heavy workloads in fanless models
Limited to supporting only one external display natively
Higher power draw and heat generation compared to M1 under peak load
Incremental gains may not justify the higher price tag for current M1 owners
Base configurations with 8GB of RAM can still experience stutters during heavy multitasking

Expert reviews

theverge.com

10/10/2022

Summary of the review

Apple MacBook Air M2 (2022) review: all-new Air

The 2022 MacBook Air (M2) features a modern, uniform design with a 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display, MagSafe charging, and an improved 1080p webcam, though the new Midnight color shows fingerprints easily. While performance sees notable gains, the fanless design can experience thermal throttling under heavy loads, and the display notch may interfere with menu bar apps. Starting at $1,199, it offers excellent performance and battery life, but it faces stiff competition from the lower-priced M1 model.

computerworld.com

23/07/2022

Summary of the review

Review: Apple’s M2 MacBook Air

The Computerworld review describes the M2 MacBook Air as a highly productive "road warrior’s dream" featuring a redesigned chassis, a silent fanless design, and impressive performance per watt. Key pros include a brighter 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display, the return of MagSafe 3 charging, and a superior 1080p camera, with performance that handles intense multitasking while providing all-day battery life. Cons include a higher starting price, potential fingerprinting on darker finishes, support for only one external display, and slower storage speeds on the 256GB base model, which the review advises upgrading. Computerworld

cnn.com

20/07/2022

Summary of the review

The MacBook Air M2 is the Apple laptop I've been waiting for

The CNN Underscored review highlights the Apple MacBook Air M2 as a near-perfect, redesigned ultraportable featuring a thinner 11.3mm chassis and a brighter, 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display. Performance is driven by the M2 chip, offering significant boosts in graphics and multi-core tasks over the M1 model while remaining fanless and silent, bolstered by the return of the MagSafe 3 charging port and an upgraded 1080p webcam. However, the machine features a higher $1,199 starting price, a Midnight color option prone to fingerprints, and slower base-model storage speeds compared to the M1, alongside potential thermal throttling under heavy, sustained workloads.

appleinsider.com

16/07/2022

Summary of the review

Apple M2 MacBook Air Review | Hands-on Testing, Benchmarks

The AppleInsider review praises the 2022 M2 MacBook Air for its comprehensive design overhaul, featuring a 2.7-pound flat chassis, a vibrant 13.6-inch display, and the return of MagSafe 3 charging. Powered by the M2 chip, the laptop offers significant CPU and GPU gains over the M1 model, positioning it as an ideal, high-performance, and portable device for typical users. However, the review notes drawbacks including the lack of active cooling resulting in thermal throttling, limited support for only one external monitor, and slower SSD speeds on the base 256GB model. Despite a higher price point, the M2 MacBook Air is deemed the "sweet spot" for most consumers in 2022.

techspot.com

12/07/2022

Summary of the review

Apple M2 Review - TechSpot

The TechSpot review of the Apple M2 identifies it as a refined, efficiency-focused successor to the M1, offering roughly 11-18% performance gains via a 5nm, 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU. Key strengths include exceptional media engines, specifically for ProRes video, and industry-leading performance-per-watt that keeps it competitive with x86 rivals while running on battery. However, the M2 faces criticism for high RAM/storage upgrade costs, a significantly slower 256GB base SSD, and limited external display support.

mdpi.com

27/11/2025

Summary of the review

Reverse Engineering the Branch Target Buffer Organizations on Apple Silicon (M2 SoC)

"Reverse Engineering the Branch Target Buffer Organizations on Apple Silicon" maps the internal BTB structures of Apple M2 chips, revealing a hierarchical organization with distinct differences between high-performance and energy-efficient cores. Utilizing the m1n1 bare-metal environment, the study identifies specific indexing mechanisms and branch misprediction behaviors to aid software optimization on proprietary hardware. While the research provides highly precise, novel insights, it is technically complex and limited specifically to the M2, requiring further investigation for other architectures. For the full study, read more at MDPI. MDPI Copy

t-science.org

28/02/2025

Summary of the review

Performance testing of virtual machines using VMware Fusion and Oracle VirtualBox on Apple MacBook Air M2 platform

a little longerThinking a little longer Ivakin and Sergeev (2025) evaluate VMware Fusion and Oracle VirtualBox on an Apple M2 MacBook Air, analyzing CPU, memory, and disk I/O performance to guide users transitioning to ARM architecture. VMware Fusion is highlighted for superior optimization, providing a near-native experience with consistent frame rates and lower latency. Conversely, Oracle VirtualBox shows limitations, including higher resource overhead, slower disk speeds, and occasional graphical issues, making it less suitable for performance-critical applications. «Theoretical & Applied Science» Copy

technalsquared.wordpress.com

05/08/2022

Summary of the review

M2 MacBook Air Review - Nathan Talks

The M2 MacBook Air review from TechnalSquared outlines a significant design overhaul adopting a flat, 11.3mm chassis with a 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display, MagSafe 3 charging, and a 1080p webcam. Performance sees a 18-20% boost from the M2 chip, offering silent, fanless operation with a 15-18 hour battery life. Key drawbacks noted are the higher starting price, the display notch, slower base 256GB SSD speeds, and fingerprint-prone Midnight finish.

theverge.com

26/06/2022

Summary of the review

My journey to drain the M2 MacBook Pro's battery

Monica Chin’s "drain diary" for The Verge puts the 13-inch M2 MacBook Pro through a rigorous, real-world battery test, featuring extensive, continuous usage with heavy multitasking, browser tabs, and Adobe software. The primary finding is the machine's exceptional endurance, with the laptop lasting over 16.5 hours, heavily validating Apple's efficiency claims and enabling full-day use without charging. While performance and battery life are major pros, the review highlights the outdated chassis, thick bezels, and the inclusion of the Touch Bar as significant cons, noting the superior, modern design of the newer MacBook Air. Copy

theverge.com

15/07/2022

Summary of the review

Apple MacBook Air M2 storage speed testing: yup, it’s slow

Testing by The Verge shows the base 256GB M2 MacBook Air has significantly slower SSD read/write speeds than the 512GB model and the previous M1 version, caused by using a single NAND flash chip instead of two. While daily use for average users may not be impacted, the slower speeds can create bottlenecks when the 8GB RAM fills up and the system relies on swap memory. Despite these speed limitations, the machine is praised for its modern design, improved 1080p webcam, and better display, though the entry-level model carries a higher $1,199 starting price. To avoid performance issues with large file transfers or professional creative work, upgrading to at least 512GB of storage is recommended.

heise.de

22/06/2022

Summary of the review

Apple MacBook Pro 2022 with M2 chip: First review

The Heise review of the 2022 13-inch MacBook Pro characterizes it as a solid, iterative update, pairing the new M2 chip with an aging 2016-era design. Benchmarks demonstrate a notable performance boost, with a 12.7% increase in multi-core tasks and an 18.4% gain in Geekbench 5 over the M1, driven by higher clock speeds. The active cooling ensures sustained performance, though the overall package feels like a "relic" compared to modern alternatives. Key pros highlighted by Heise include excellent battery life (reaching nearly 20 hours in testing) and the active cooling system, which prevents thermal throttling during intensive tasks. The MacBook Pro retains industry-leading input devices, including the keyboard, trackpad, and the continued presence of the Touch Bar. Cons are centered on the outdated design, featuring large screen bezels and limited connectivity, notably only two USB-C ports on a single side. The 720p webcam is deemed outdated for a 2022 machine. Despite its processing power, the outdated form factor makes it a tough recommendation over the redesigned M2 MacBook Air. Copy

computerwoche.de

25/07/2022

Summary of the review

MacBook Air M2 Review: How Good Is Apple's New Lightweight Laptop?

The M2 iPad Air functions as a powerful middle ground in Apple's tablet lineup, offering high performance in a slim, lightweight design that bridges the gap between standard and Pro models. Key advantages include the efficient M2 chip, a bright Liquid Retina display, better value via increased 128GB base storage, and support for the Apple Pencil Pro. However, the device lacks a 120Hz ProMotion display and Face ID, with iPadOS limitations and high accessory costs cited as notable drawbacks. Copy

macwelt.de

07/08/2022

Summary of the review

MacBook Air M2 Review: Performance powerhouse meets efficiency

According to Macwelt, the M2 MacBook Air is a high-performance, fanless laptop with a redesigned, lightweight chassis and a brighter 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display. Pros include the convenient return of MagSafe 3, excellent battery life, and superior performance-per-watt for everyday tasks. Cons involve notable thermal throttling under heavy, sustained loads and significant fingerprint smudges on the Midnight finish. The device, which mimics the 14-inch MacBook Pro's design, offers a 1080p webcam housed in a display notch and reliable performance for tasks like 4K video editing. However, the review highlights that sustained high temperatures can reduce performance by over 50% due to the lack of active cooling. Furthermore, the 256GB base model suffers from slower SSD speeds compared to higher-capacity configurations. Ultimately, the M2 MacBook Air is deemed an ideal machine for general users, students, and professionals due to its portability and 15–18 hour battery life. While it excels for most, users requiring consistent, high-intensity processing power might need the active cooling of a MacBook Pro. For more details, visit Macwelt.

digitec.ch

03/08/2022

Summary of the review

Apple MacBook Air M2 Review – Is it Really That Magical?

The Digitec review of the Apple MacBook Air M2 highlights a significant design overhaul with a uniform look, a brighter 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display, the return of MagSafe, and an improved 1080p webcam. While the M2 chip boosts performance for GPU-intensive tasks in a fanless, silent design, the device faces thermal throttling under sustained loads and features a significantly slower 256GB SSD in the base model compared to the M1. Despite positive aesthetics, the Midnight model is noted as a fingerprint magnet, and the higher price point makes the M1 a strong, more cost-effective alternative. Copy

macwelt.de

25/06/2022

Summary of the review

MacBook Pro M2 2022 review by Macworld", "Macworld's 2022 M2 MacBook Pro review

The 2022 13-inch MacBook Pro, featuring the M2 chip, delivers significant performance gains in GPU tasks and video encoding, alongside impressive 20-hour battery life and sustained performance enabled by its active cooling system. Despite these improvements, the device is criticized for utilizing an outdated chassis design, featuring a subpar 720p webcam, and maintaining the largely unpopular Touch Bar. Furthermore, connectivity is limited to two Thunderbolt ports, and the base model suffers from slower SSD speeds compared to the M1 predecessor, making it a niche choice over the redesigned M2 MacBook Air.

computerbild.de

14/07/2022

Summary of the review

Apple MacBook Air 2022: New Entry-Level Laptop Review

The Computer Bild review of the MacBook Air M2 highlights a significant redesign and performance boost, with the M2 chip delivering faster speeds for office tasks and demanding applications compared to the 2020 M1 model. Key improvements include a brighter 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display, the return of MagSafe charging, a high-quality 1080p camera, and a fanless, silent design. Despite these, the review notes reduced battery life in certain scenarios compared to the M1, a slower 256GB SSD in the base model, and potential issues with the screen notch. Copy

capital.fr

15/12/2025

Summary of the review

MacBook Air M2 Review: 3 Years Old and Still Outperforming 2025 Windows PCs at the Same Price

The 13-inch MacBook Air M2 remains a top competitor in 2025, outperforming Windows laptops in the 800€–1000€ range with performance comparable to newer models. Key strengths include its premium build, vivid Liquid Retina display, exceptional battery life, and silent, fanless operation. While highly recommended for portability, it faces limitations with only two USB-C ports, lack of an OLED screen, and restricted repairability. Performance can also suffer from thermal throttling under sustained heavy loads, according to Capital.fr. Copy

phototrend.fr

23/03/2026

Summary of the review

Test: 6 months with the Apple MacBook Air M2, the perfect laptop?

After six months, the MacBook Air M2 is praised for its new flat design, exceptional portability, and vibrant 13.6-inch display, while the return of MagSafe 3 and silent, fanless operation are highlighted as key benefits. Performance of the M2 chip proves strong for photo editing and creative work, though the machine suffers from thermal throttling during sustained, heavy loads like 4K video export. The base 256GB model's slower SSD and the display notch are cited as drawbacks, yet the device remains an elite all-rounder with excellent battery life, concludes Phototrend.

laptopmedia.com

19/08/2022

Summary of the review

Apple MacBook Air (M2, 2022) Review

The Apple MacBook Air (M2, 2022) features a redesigned, boxy, all-aluminum chassis that is highly portable at 1.24 kg, paired with a bright 13.6-inch "Liquid Retina" display covering 99% DCI-P3. The M2 chip offers significant performance gains over the M1, supporting intense workflows with exceptional 17+ hour battery life, convenient MagSafe 3 charging, and a comfortable, quiet keyboard. However, the passive cooling system can lead to high external temperatures (43°C) and performance throttling, limited connectivity requires dongles, and the internal components are completely non-upgradeable.

presse-citron.net

22/06/2022

Summary of the review

MacBook Pro M2 Review: The Pro that's gasping for Air

The Presse-Citron review of the 13-inch MacBook Pro M2 highlights a machine defined by extreme efficiency and sustained performance, primarily due to an active cooling system that allows the M2 chip to handle intensive tasks without thermal throttling. Its key strengths include industry-leading battery life, often lasting over 20 hours, and high-speed operation for video editing. However, the review critiques the laptop's outdated 2016 design, thick bezels, the contentious Touch Bar, and a sub-par 720p webcam, making it feel less modern than the M2 MacBook Air. Additionally, it lacks MagSafe charging and offers only two Thunderbolt ports, requiring potential users to rely on adapters for connectivity. Ultimately, the MacBook Pro 13 M2 is considered a niche device, ideal only for those who require sustained performance from active cooling or prefer the Touch Bar, but cannot upgrade to the 14-inch model. For most consumers, the M2 MacBook Air is recommended as a better value, despite this model's excellent build quality and bright display.

01net.com

04/09/2026

Summary of the review

Apple MacBook Air M2 2022 - Technical Specifications

The 2022 MacBook Air adopts a flatter 1.13 cm design reminiscent of the MacBook Pro, featuring a 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display with a camera notch, MagSafe charging, and a 1080p webcam. Powered by the M2 chip, it offers up to 18% faster CPU and 35% faster GPU performance than the M1, though its fanless design can cause thermal throttling during intense, sustained workloads. While highlighting superior performance and build quality, the review notes the higher starting price, potential for single-chip SSD speed limitations, and fingerprint-prone finish as drawbacks. For more details, visit 01net at 01net. Copy

laptopmedia.com

15/11/2022

Summary of the review

Intel Core i7-1250U vs Apple M2: More powerful, but more expensive

According to LaptopMedia, the Apple M2 generally outperforms the Intel Core i7-1250U, offering 56% higher Geekbench 5 single-core performance and significantly faster GPU performance. The M2's primary pros are its 5nm efficiency and superior 10-core GPU, though its higher cost is a notable con. Conversely, the Intel i7-1250U provides a budget-friendly alternative with strengths in specific legacy 3D rendering tasks, such as outperforming the M2 by up to 30% in Cinebench R20, despite lower overall synthetic performance. Copy

computerhoy.com

24/08/2022

Summary of the review

MacBook Air M2 review: the ultraportable that has almost everything

The MacBook Air M2 features a redesigned, uniformly flat chassis that is highly portable, measuring 11.3mm thin and weighing 1.22kg, while introducing a 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display with 500 nits brightness and a 1080p camera notch. Performance is driven by the M2 chip, offering significant CPU and GPU improvements over the M1, supported by a silent, fanless design, though the machine can experience thermal throttling under heavy, sustained workloads. Key highlights include a "brutal" 18-hour battery life and the return of the MagSafe 3 charging port. However, the review points out drawbacks such as a higher base price and slower SSD speeds in the base 256GB model compared to its predecessor. While praised for its performance and design, the laptop may not be ideal for intensive, long-term creative work compared to the MacBook Pro.

macitynet.it

18/02/2022

Summary of the review

Apple M2: Estimated Performance and Benchmarks via Extrapolation

Based on architectural extrapolations from A-series chips, the Apple M2 is predicted to deliver a significant performance increase over the M1, driven by a higher clock speed of 3.5GHz and refined architecture. Key estimated improvements include roughly 18% to 20% faster single-core performance and a 35% boost in graphics capability with up to 10 GPU cores. While the chip provides superior daily responsiveness and higher memory bandwidth, limitations include potential thermal throttling in fanless designs and slower storage speeds in base-level configurations.

laptopmedia.com

19/08/2022

Summary of the review

Apple MacBook Air (M2, 2022) Review

The Apple MacBook Air (M2, 2022) features a redesigned, portable 1.24 kg aluminum chassis with MagSafe, a 1080p camera notch, and impressive speakers, though it is limited to just two Thunderbolt ports. The 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display delivers over 500 nits of brightness, full DCI-P3 coverage, and no PWM, although professional color accuracy and key travel are slightly limited. Powered by the M2 chip, the device offers significant performance boosts and "record-breaking" 17+ hour battery life, but it suffers from high surface temperatures under load and non-upgradable, soldered components.

spider-mac.com

18/07/2022

Summary of the review

MacBook Air M2: The 13-Inch Pro Many Were Waiting For

The July 2022 Spider-Mac review highlights the MacBook Air M2's significant design overhaul, featuring a uniform 11.3mm chassis and the return of MagSafe 3 charging. The 13.6-inch display, improved 1080p camera, and M2 chip's 12-18% CPU boost make it a capable, silent, fanless machine, though the notch and potential thermal throttling are noted. However, the review highlights drawbacks including a higher base price, slower SSD speeds on the 256GB model, and severe fingerprint issues on the Midnight finish. For the full, original review, visit Spider-Mac.

corriere.it

22/06/2022

Summary of the review

13-inch MacBook Pro (2022) with M2 review: how the new chip performs

The 2022 13-inch MacBook Pro features the new M2 chip, offering up to 18% faster CPU and 35% faster GPU performance than the M1, while utilizing an active cooling fan to sustain high-performance tasks like 4K video editing. While performance is a major pro, the laptop keeps an outdated design, featuring the controversial Touch Bar, thick bezels, a 720p webcam, and limited connectivity with only two Thunderbolt ports and support for a single external display. Despite its older design, it offers the best battery life in the current lineup—up to 20 hours—positioning it as a powerful, albeit traditional, alternative to the redesigned MacBook Air M2.

iphoneitalia.com

06/09/2022

Summary of the review

MacBook Air M2: Our Review", "MacBook Air M2 Review

The iPhoneItalia review highlights the MacBook Air M2's complete design overhaul, featuring a flat 11.3mm chassis, a brighter 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display with a notch, and the return of MagSafe 3, though the Midnight finish is highly prone to fingerprints. Performance gains from the M2 chip are significant, offering up to 35% better graphics, yet the fanless design leads to thermal throttling under heavy, sustained workloads, and the base model suffers from slower SSD speeds. Despite these limitations and a higher starting price, the device excels with superior battery life, a great keyboard/trackpad, and serves as an excellent, portable machine for general users.

saggiamente.com

20/09/2022

Summary of the review

High-end MacBook Air M2 review: More power, but at a steep price

The SaggiaMente review highlights the 2022 MacBook Air M2 as a significant redesign featuring a flatter chassis, a brighter 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display, an improved 1080p webcam, and the return of MagSafe. The M2 chip offers superior, silent, fanless performance, particularly in the 10-core GPU model, though this higher-end configuration positions it as a premium, expensive "top-of-the-range" machine. Pros include excellent portability and a 16GB RAM/512GB SSD "sweet spot" for performance, while cons include a higher price than the M1 model, limited port selection, and a base 256GB SSD that may have slower transfer speeds.

digitec.ch

03/08/2022

Summary of the review

Testing Apple's MacBook Air M2: Is it truly that 'magical'?

The Digitec review highlights the Apple MacBook Air M2 as a refined, silent device featuring a brighter 13.6-inch display, improved 1080p webcam, and the return of MagSafe 3 charging. Performance metrics show a 15–16% boost in multi-core tasks and a 35% improvement in graphics over the M1, though the 256GB base model suffers from slower SSD speeds due to a single NAND chip. Cons include slightly inferior speaker quality compared to the M1, minor display backlight unevenness, and a higher price point that makes the M1 a better value for typical office tasks, while heavier users should opt for a model with active cooling. Copy

laptopmedia.com

19/08/2022

Summary of the review

Apple MacBook Air (M2, 2022) review | LaptopMedia Netherlands

The Apple MacBook Air (M2, 2022) features a redesigned, rigid chassis with a 13.6-inch "Liquid Retina" display boasting high contrast and extensive color coverage. Key advantages include fanless, silent operation, over 17 hours of battery life, and the return of MagSafe 3. While the M2 chip delivers up to 35% better GPU performance than its predecessor, the fanless design leads to thermal throttling under heavy loads. Additional limitations include lower-than-expected out-of-the-box color accuracy and a display notch. Designed for portability, the device features a lightweight 1.24 kg build, though it suffers from limited I/O and non-upgradable soldered RAM and storage.

tweakers.net

22/06/2022

Summary of the review

Apple MacBook Pro M2 Review - A new heart in an old body

The Tweakers review of the 13-inch MacBook Pro M2 highlights a device that pairs a powerful new processor with a dated exterior. While the M2 chip provides a significant performance boost—offering roughly 18% faster CPU and 35% faster GPU performance than the M1—the chassis remains unchanged from previous generations, including the Touch Bar, 720p webcam, and thicker bezels. Key pros include exceptional efficiency and sustained, high-speed performance during intensive tasks thanks to an active cooling fan, along with outstanding battery life exceeding 18 hours. The build quality remains top-tier, featuring the familiar Magic Keyboard and trackpad. However, the review outlines major cons, including the high price tag for dated hardware, the lack of modern features like MagSafe, and the base 256GB SSD being slower than the M1 version. The review ultimately advises that the redesigned MacBook Air or 14-inch Pro are better alternatives for most users.

iculture.nl

10/07/2023

Summary of the review

MacBook Air 2022 with M2 chip review - iCulture

The iCulture review of the 2022 MacBook Air highlights a major redesign, featuring a flat, lightweight, and highly portable aluminum chassis in new colors, including the fingerprint-prone Midnight. Key performance upgrades include the M2 chip—offering faster CPU/GPU speeds—a brighter 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display, and the return of MagSafe 3 charging. However, notable cons include a higher price point, a screen notch for the webcam, and performance throttling under heavy, sustained workloads due to the fanless design.

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