Apple just released the new M5 iPad Pro, and if you think the only change is the M5 chip — think again. This is Apple’s most powerful and advanced tablet ever, combining next-level performance, AI upgrades, and smarter connectivity. Let’s go through how it compares to M4, M2, and M1 iPad Pro models to see if you should upgrade.
M5 iPad Pro Design and Display
On the outside, not much has changed — and that’s okay. The M5 iPad Pro keeps the same ultra-thin, lightweight design we saw last generation, along with the stunning display that remains among the best in any tablet.
Apple also refined the Magic Keyboard, making it more stable and responsive, though it’s still pricey. The only physical difference is the removal of the tiny “iPad Pro” logo text.
Everything else about the hardware feels refined — sleek, solid, and ready to last for years.
M5 Chip — The Biggest Leap in Performance Yet
Inside, everything changes. The M5 chip delivers massive performance gains. Compared to the M4, single-core improvements are smaller, but overall responsiveness is exceptional.
- Geekbench 6 single-core: fastest chip ever in an iPad.
- Multi-core score: 15,437 vs 13,300 on M4 — about 15% faster.
When compared to M2 or M1, the jump is enormous. The M5 matches or exceeds even the latest MacBook chips in many tasks.
Apple’s biggest focus this year is graphics and AI performance. GPU performance is up to 35% faster, while the new Neural Engine delivers 4× faster AI speeds versus M1. Real-world effects include smoother gaming, faster rendering, and much more efficient AI-driven tasks.
Graphics, Ray Tracing, and AI Power
The M5 iPad Pro’s GPU achieves around 75,000 in Geekbench Metal, making it one of the most powerful mobile devices ever. With new ray tracing support and upgraded AI cores, Apple promises:
- 6.7× faster pro rendering than M1
- 6× faster video transcoding
- 3.7× faster AI video upscaling
Even compared to M4, the boost is significant — real-time effects, smoother editing, and higher-quality rendering in creative apps.
This M5 iPad Pro review proves Apple’s chip strategy is working — performance has officially outpaced what most laptops offer.
Memory, Storage, and Connectivity Upgrades
The M5 iPad Pro also includes a big under-the-hood improvement — 12GB of unified RAM on the base model (up from 8GB on M4). That means better multitasking and smoother large file handling without upgrading to the 1TB model.
Storage is now twice as fast, delivering noticeable improvements in app loading and video rendering.
Connectivity takes a leap too — with the N1 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth system, the iPad finally gets Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6, matching the latest iPhones. Even better, cellular versions include Apple’s new C1X modem, improving signal strength and power efficiency by 30%.
Battery and Charging Efficiency
Although Apple lists the same 10-hour battery life, real-world use should improve thanks to the M5’s efficiency. Everyday apps drain less power, and cellular users benefit from reduced modem consumption.
For the first time, fast charging has been significantly upgraded — the M5 supports 50% charge in 30–35 minutes when paired with Apple’s new 40W charger. That’s a real-world improvement creatives will notice daily.
External Display Support
The M5 iPad Pro now supports 120Hz external displays, a huge upgrade from the 60Hz limit on previous models. This enables smoother extended desktop setups and paves the way for Apple’s next-gen 120Hz external monitor.
If you use your iPad for editing or design, this change alone is worth considering.
Should You Upgrade From M4, M2, or M1?
So, should you upgrade to the M5 iPad Pro?
- If you own the M4, upgrades like faster storage, Wi-Fi 7, and GPU power are nice — but not essential unless you’re a pro user.
- From M2 or M1, however, the jump is huge: faster AI, 35%+ better graphics, and double-speed storage make this a major leap forward.
- Apple’s improvements to charging, networking, and memory bandwidth (now 30% higher) future-proof the M5 for years to come.
The iPad lineup likely won’t change much next year — leaks suggest minor updates, maybe dual cameras or slight chip tweaks — meaning the M5 iPad Pro represents the true “peak iPad.”
Final Verdict — M5 iPad Pro Review Summary
The M5 iPad Pro is the best tablet Apple has ever made — ultra-thin, incredibly powerful, and surprisingly efficient. With Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, 12GB RAM, double storage speed, and 120Hz external display support, it’s a massive generational leap.
If you have an M1 or M2, now is the perfect time to upgrade. If you already own an M4 and don’t need the extra speed, you can safely wait another year.
For specs, pricing, and accessories, visit Apple’s official iPad Pro page.
Pravin is a tech enthusiast and Salesforce developer with deep expertise in AI, mobile gadgets, coding, and automotive technology. At Thoughtsverser, he shares practical insights and research-driven content on the latest tech and innovations shaping our world.
