Apple iPad Pro (2025) Review: Unmatched Speed and Performance
▼ Summary
– The new iPad Pro is nearly identical to last year’s model with only minor external changes like the removal of “iPad Pro” text on the back.
– It features an upgraded M5 chip and Apple’s own networking chips, offering performance improvements that are noticeable mainly in demanding professional workflows.
– The most significant enhancement comes from iPadOS 26, which adds PC-like features such as improved multitasking and a better Files app.
– A new 40-watt charger included with the device can temporarily boost to 60 watts for faster charging, reaching 50% battery in 30 minutes.
– While the M5 Pro is the best iPad available, the previous M4 model remains sufficient for most users and may offer better value.
Finding the absolute best tablet often leads directly to Apple’s flagship, and the latest iPad Pro continues that tradition with unmatched speed and performance that pushes the boundaries of mobile computing. While its external appearance remains virtually identical to the previous generation, significant internal upgrades and a transformative software update make this device more compelling than a simple spec sheet might suggest.
The most notable hardware improvement comes from the new M5 chip, which delivers measurable performance gains. Benchmark testing reveals an approximate 11 percent increase in CPU tasks and a substantial 34 percent boost in GPU performance compared to the M4. These improvements translate to noticeably faster video exports, smoother 3D rendering, and more responsive gaming experiences. The device maintains excellent thermal management, avoiding overheating even during intensive workloads.
Apple has also transitioned to its proprietary networking chips, with the C1X handling cellular connections and the N1 managing Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Thread compatibility. Real-world testing showed consistently strong, and sometimes significantly faster, internet performance compared to previous models using third-party components. This seamless transition ensures reliable connectivity without compromising performance.
Perhaps the most practical upgrade comes bundled in the box: a new 40-watt charger capable of temporarily boosting to 60 watts for rapid charging. Testing confirmed Apple’s claims, with the tablet reaching 50 percent battery in just 30 minutes from a completely drained state, a notable improvement over previous charging solutions. This compact power adapter represents a genuine quality-of-life enhancement for users constantly on the move.
The most transformative aspect of using the current iPad Pro comes not from its hardware but from iPadOS 26. This software update introduces PC-like functionality that finally leverages the device’s powerful hardware. Enhanced multitasking capabilities, a more intuitive menu system, and a vastly improved Files app make the iPad Pro feel more like a traditional computer than ever before. The combination of these software improvements with the M5’s raw power creates an experience that genuinely rivals laptop performance for many tasks.
Despite these advancements, the upgrade decision depends largely on your current device. Those moving from M1-powered iPads or earlier will experience dramatic performance improvements that justify the investment. However, for M4 Pro owners, the performance gains are more incremental and primarily benefit professionals working with massive video files or complex 3D models. For most users, last year’s model remains exceptionally capable and may represent better value.
The iPad Pro continues to feature the same stunning design with its thin profile and gorgeous display options in both 11-inch and 13-inch configurations. The only physical change is the removal of the “iPad Pro” text and fine print from the back casing, a minimalist tweak that maintains the device’s clean aesthetic while collecting fingerprints just as readily as before.
Ultimately, this iteration represents an evolutionary step rather than a revolutionary leap. The hardware refinements are meaningful but incremental, while the software enhancements through iPadOS 26 provide the most significant user experience improvements. For creative professionals and power users who demand the absolute best tablet performance, the M5 iPad Pro stands alone at the pinnacle of mobile computing. For others, the previous generation offers nearly identical capabilities at potentially more attractive pricing, making both options compelling depending on individual needs and budget considerations.
(Source: The Verge)
