Apple has returned with its latest iteration of the iPad Pro, and similar to the iPad Air released earlier this year, the changes are primarily superficial. However, the most significant upgrade lies in the introduction of the new M5 chip, which also powers the 14-inch MacBook Pro and the Vision Pro. Alongside this, Apple has integrated new networking chips: the N1 chip, which supports Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread, and the C1X chip for enhanced 5G connectivity. This marks their debut in the iPad line, having previously been seen in the iPhone Air last month. Additionally, the iPad Pro now offers fast charging capabilities, allowing users to achieve a 50% charge in about 30 minutes with a 60W power adapter.
In comparison to the redesign that accompanied the M4 iPad Pro in 2024, this release represents a modest upgrade in specifications. It is clear that Apple aims to equip the iPad Pro with its most advanced chips upon release to justify the premium pricing—starting at over $1,000 for the iPad Pro. For example, the 13-inch model I am testing, equipped with 1TB of storage and 5G, retails for $2,099, plus an additional $349 for the Magic Keyboard. As such, the iPad Pro M5 offers a straightforward understanding: if you're in the market for a new iPad Pro, you're essentially getting last week's offering, enhanced with notable performance improvements.
The M5 chip is arguably the standout feature of the new iPad Pro. Users upgrading from an iPad older than the M4 model can expect significant performance improvements, especially when pushing the limits of their device. The most noteworthy update is the inclusion of a “neural accelerator” on each of the M5’s 10 GPU cores, enhancing its capabilities for AI-related tasks. The GPU now boasts up to 30% faster graphics performance, with the third-generation ray-tracing engine achieving a remarkable 45% increase in speed for compatible applications.
While the CPU cores (four performance and six efficiency) also exhibit improvements, these are less dramatic, in line with the typical performance gains seen in successive M-series chips. It's worth noting that the iPad Pro models with 256GB or 512GB of storage come with three performance cores and 12GB of RAM, while those with larger storage options feature 16GB of RAM. Furthermore, the Neural Engine has been upgraded, and memory bandwidth has seen a substantial increase, now reaching 153GB/s, nearly 30% higher than the M4.
Benchmark tests using Geekbench 6 reveal substantial performance gains, particularly in GPU and AI tasks. For instance, single-core and multi-core CPU tests show around a 15% and 10% improvement over the M4, while GPU performance has surged by more than 32%. The Geekbench AI results indicate that the M5 outperforms the M4 significantly in GPU-related tasks, with up to 101% better performance in quantized scores.
For those upgrading from an iPad Pro older than the M4, the iPad Pro M5 is a delightful surprise not just in terms of performance but also in design. While the physical design remains the same, it continues to be one of the most impressive devices Apple has produced. The iPad Pro M5 is about 20% thinner and a quarter-pound lighter than earlier models, enhancing its portability and making it comfortable for extended use.
Despite its sleek profile, the iPad Pro M5 retains the same 10-hour battery life rating for web surfing and video playback that has been standard since the iPad's inception. Apple has prioritized portability over battery size, which some users may find disappointing. However, the fast-charging feature significantly mitigates this concern, allowing users to charge from 23% to 70% within 35 minutes using Apple's new Dynamic Charger.
Durability concerns about the iPad Pro’s thin design have largely been alleviated, as many users, including myself, have not experienced any issues over extended use. Although it’s still early in my testing, initial observations suggest that the battery life holds up well, particularly during video playback.
The display of the iPad Pro is another standout feature, boasting the best screen quality I've encountered on any portable device, including laptops and smartphones. The 13-inch screen retains a resolution of 2,752 x 2,064 pixels (264 ppi) and can achieve standard brightness levels of 1,000 nits, with peaks of up to 1,600 nits for HDR content. The iPad Pro also benefits from ProMotion technology, supporting 120Hz refresh rates, providing a smoother visual experience.
Professionals in fields such as video editing, photography, and graphic design will particularly appreciate the display's capabilities. The combination of a high refresh rate, brightness levels, and excellent contrast makes the iPad Pro an exceptional choice for entertainment as well.
With the introduction of iPadOS 26, Apple has addressed many previous criticisms regarding its software limitations. The update allows for better multitasking capabilities, enabling users to resize and stack multiple windows, reminiscent of macOS functionalities. The improved Files app now supports enhanced sorting options and background processes, allowing applications like Final Cut Pro to render videos without interruption.
These software upgrades make the iPad Pro feel significantly more capable and versatile. While traditional laptops may still be the preferred choice for many, the combination of power, portability, and improved software has made the iPad Pro a more viable computing option than ever.
In conclusion, the iPad Pro M5 remains an impressive device that excels in performance, design, and functionality. It features Apple’s latest chip, a stunning display, and a design that balances portability and power. However, the pricing remains a significant barrier, with the base model starting at $1,299 for 256GB of storage without 5G connectivity or a Magic Keyboard. While the technology justifies the cost, potential buyers should carefully consider whether they will utilize the iPad Pro's capabilities fully.
For those who rely on the iPad Pro as their primary computing device, the investment may be worthwhile. However, for average users, opting for the iPad Air may be a more cost-effective choice without sacrificing essential features.
