The tech world is constantly buzzing with comparisons, especially when it comes to processors powering our laptops and desktops. Two names that frequently surface in these discussions are the Intel Processor N100 and the Apple M1. While both are designed for laptops, they represent fundamentally different approaches to chip design and target different user needs. This article dives deep into a detailed comparison of the N100 and M1, analyzing their specifications, performance benchmarks, and ultimately, helping you understand which processor reigns supreme for your specific requirements.
M1 vs. Processor N100: A Detailed Head-to-Head
To truly understand the disparity between these two processors, let’s delve into a side-by-side comparison of their key features and specifications.
| Feature | Apple M1 | Intel Processor N100 |
|---|---|---|
| Ranking | 1242 | 1824 |
| Popularity | Not in top-100 | Not in top-100 |
| Market Segment | Laptop | Laptop |
| Series | Apple M-Series | Intel Alder Lake-N |
| Power Efficiency | No Data | 38.16 |
| Architecture Codename | No Data | Alder Lake-N (2023) |
| Release Date | November 10, 2020 (4 years ago) | January 3, 2023 (2 years ago) |
| Launch Price (MSRP) | No Data | $128 |
| Physical Cores | 8 (Octa-Core) | 4 (Quad-Core) |
| Threads | 8 | 4 |
| Base Clock Speed | 2.064 GHz | 0.1 GHz |
| Boost Clock Speed | 3.2 GHz | 3.4 GHz |
| L1 Cache | 2 MB | 96 KB (per core) |
| L2 Cache | 16 MB | 2 MB (shared) |
| L3 Cache | 16 MB | 6 MB (shared) |
| Chip Lithography | 5 nm | 10 nm |
| Max Core Temperature | No Data | 105 °C |
| Transistors | 16 Billion | No Data |
| 64-bit Support | Yes | Yes |
| Windows 11 Support | No (natively, via emulation) | Yes |
| CPUs in Configuration | No Data | 1 |
| Socket | No Data (SoC) | Intel BGA 1264 |
| TDP | No Data | 6 Watt |
| AES-NI | No | Yes |
| FMA | No | Yes |
| AVX | No | Yes |
| Enhanced SpeedStep | No Data | Yes |
| TXT | No Data | Yes |
| VT-d | No Data | Yes |
| VT-x | No Data | Yes |
| Supported Memory | No Data (LPDDR4X/LPDDR5 integrated) | DDR4, DDR5 |
| Integrated Graphics | Apple M1 8-Core GPU | Intel UHD Graphics 24EUs (Alder Lake-N) |
| PCIe Version | No Data | 3.0 |
| PCIe Lanes | No Data | 9 |
Architecture and Core Configuration
The Apple M1 is a System on a Chip (SoC) based on ARM architecture. It boasts an 8-core CPU, with 4 high-performance cores and 4 efficiency cores. This design allows the M1 to deliver impressive performance when needed while efficiently managing power for everyday tasks.
In contrast, the Intel Processor N100 is based on the x86 architecture (Alder Lake-N) and features 4 cores without hyperthreading, meaning it handles 4 threads simultaneously. It’s designed for efficiency, evident in its incredibly low 6W TDP (Thermal Design Power).
Clock Speeds and Cache
While clock speed isn’t the sole determinant of performance, it provides insight. The M1 has a base clock of 2.064 GHz and boosts up to 3.2 GHz. The N100 has a wider range, from a very low base clock of 0.1 GHz to a boost of 3.4 GHz. However, the architecture difference makes direct clock speed comparisons less meaningful.
Cache memory plays a crucial role in CPU performance. The M1 boasts a significant 16MB of L2 cache and 16MB of L3 cache, whereas the N100 has 2MB of shared L2 cache and 6MB of shared L3 cache. The larger cache on the M1 allows it to keep more frequently accessed data readily available, contributing to faster processing.
Manufacturing Process and Power Efficiency
Apple’s M1 is built on a cutting-edge 5nm process, while the N100 uses a 10nm process. The smaller process node of the M1 generally leads to higher transistor density, improved performance, and better power efficiency. However, the N100 is explicitly designed for ultra-low power consumption, making it suitable for fanless designs and extended battery life in very portable laptops.
Integrated Graphics
Both processors feature integrated graphics. The Apple M1 integrates an 8-core GPU, known for its impressive performance in its class. The Intel Processor N100 includes Intel UHD Graphics 24EUs (Alder Lake-N), which is a more entry-level integrated graphics solution.
Benchmark Performance: M1 Dominates
Synthetic benchmarks offer a standardized way to compare CPU performance. Let’s examine how the N100 and M1 stack up in various benchmarks.
Aggregate Performance Score
According to our aggregate benchmark results, the Apple M1 outperforms the Processor N100 by a substantial 112%. This significant difference highlights the M1’s superior processing capabilities.
Cinebench R15 Benchmarks
Cinebench is a widely used benchmark that measures CPU performance in rendering tasks.
Cinebench R15 Multi-Core
In the multi-core Cinebench R15 test, the Apple M1 scores 1072 points, a staggering 167% lead over the Processor N100’s 402 points. This benchmark clearly demonstrates the M1’s dominance in multi-threaded workloads, where all cores are utilized.
Cinebench R15 Single-Core
Even in single-core performance, the Apple M1 prevails with 208 points, a 40.6% advantage over the Processor N100’s 148 points. This indicates that the M1 also offers better performance in tasks that rely on a single core, such as general application responsiveness.
Gaming Performance
The original article lacks specific gaming benchmarks for these processors. However, given the significant performance difference indicated by synthetic benchmarks and the integrated GPU capabilities, the Apple M1 is expected to offer a considerably better gaming experience compared to the Processor N100. The M1’s 8-core GPU is capable of handling many modern games at reasonable settings, while the N100’s integrated graphics are more suited for very light gaming or older titles.
Pros and Cons Summary
| Feature | Apple M1 | Processor N100 | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aggregate Performance | 5.12 | 2.41 | M1 Wins (112% higher) |
| Integrated Graphics | 13.71 | 2.33 | M1 Wins (488.4% faster) |
| Recency | November 2020 | January 2023 | N100 Wins (2 years newer) |
| Physical Cores | 8 | 4 | M1 Wins (100% more cores) |
| Threads | 8 | 4 | M1 Wins (100% more threads) |
| Chip Lithography | 5 nm | 10 nm | M1 Wins (More advanced process) |
| Power Consumption (TDP) | No Data | 6W | N100 Wins (Significantly lower TDP) |
| Windows Compatibility | Limited (via emulation, not native) | Native | N100 Wins (Native Windows Support) |
| Price | Higher (typically found in premium laptops) | Lower (typically found in budget laptops) | N100 Wins (More affordable systems) |
Apple M1 Advantages:
- Significantly higher overall performance: Outperforms the N100 by a large margin in both multi-core and single-core tasks.
- Superior integrated graphics: Offers much better graphics performance for creative tasks and gaming.
- More physical cores and threads: Enables better multitasking and handling of demanding applications.
- More advanced lithography: Contributes to performance and efficiency.
Processor N100 Advantages:
- More recent release: Newer architecture, potentially benefiting from recent advancements (though performance doesn’t reflect this in this comparison).
- Extremely low power consumption: Ideal for fanless laptops and extended battery life.
- Native Windows compatibility: Runs Windows operating system natively.
- Lower cost: Found in more affordable laptops.
Final Verdict: Performance vs. Efficiency and Budget
The Apple M1 is undeniably the superior performer in this comparison. It delivers significantly higher processing power and graphics capabilities, making it the clear choice for users who prioritize performance for demanding tasks like video editing, content creation, and even moderate gaming.
However, the Intel Processor N100 carves out a niche for users with different priorities. Its ultra-low power consumption and affordability make it attractive for basic productivity tasks, web browsing, and users who value portability and long battery life above raw performance. Laptops with N100 processors are typically more budget-friendly, making them accessible to a wider range of consumers.
Choose the Apple M1 if:
- Performance is your primary concern.
- You need strong integrated graphics.
- You are comfortable with the macOS ecosystem (or are willing to use Windows via emulation with potential limitations).
Choose the Intel Processor N100 if:
- Budget is a major constraint.
- You prioritize battery life and portability.
- Your tasks are primarily basic productivity and web browsing.
- Native Windows compatibility is essential.
Ultimately, the best choice between the N100 and M1 depends entirely on your individual needs and priorities. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each processor will empower you to make an informed decision.
Vote for Your Favorite
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Community Ratings
See how other users are rating these processors and share your own opinion!
M1 3.5/5 (2297 votes)
Rate M1: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Processor N100 3.8/5 (1443 votes)
Rate Processor N100: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Questions & Comments
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