M5 iPad Pro Review: Is the M4 Upgrade Worth It?
▼ Summary
– The M5 iPad Pro maintains the M4 model’s best features while adding seven key improvements including a more powerful chip, better RAM, and faster cellular modem.
– Most M4 iPad Pro owners shouldn’t upgrade to the M5 model unless they are power users with specific needs that align with the new features.
– The author experienced noticeable performance improvements with the M5 model, particularly smoother window management and eliminated Safari tab reloading issues.
– Battery life and fast charging capabilities showed significant improvements for the author, especially beneficial for heavy cellular users.
– The M5 iPad Pro represents a compelling upgrade for owners of older iPad Pro models (2018, M1, or M2) but offers more incremental benefits for recent M4 owners.
For anyone considering the latest Apple tablet, the new M5 iPad Pro represents a significant evolution from its predecessor, blending familiar design with meaningful internal upgrades. Having spent considerable time with the 13-inch version, it’s clear this device refines an already impressive formula rather than reinventing it entirely.
Moving from last year’s M4 iPad Pro to the M5 model feels more like a thoughtful revision than a complete overhaul. The exterior remains nearly identical, with the only visible change being the removal of the ‘iPad Pro’ text from the back casing. Internally, however, Apple has introduced several enhancements that collectively improve the user experience.
The M5 model builds directly upon the M4’s foundation, retaining its stunning tandem OLED display, ultra-thin profile, and premium build quality. Where it pushes forward is through seven key improvements: a more powerful M5 processor, increased and faster RAM, the new C1X 5G modem, upgraded N1 wireless chip, faster charging capabilities, better battery optimization for cellular-heavy usage, and support for 120Hz external displays.
Whether these changes matter depends entirely on how you use your iPad. For most M4 owners, upgrading probably isn’t necessary. The performance gap isn’t dramatic enough to justify the cost for casual users. That said, certain workflows will benefit noticeably from the upgrades.
During testing, the combination of the M5 chip and enhanced RAM delivered tangible improvements in daily use. Window management felt more responsive, and Safari tabs stopped reloading unexpectedly, a particular relief when working in content management systems where lost progress can be frustrating. These might seem like small quality-of-life improvements, but they significantly enhance productivity.
Battery performance showed marked improvement, especially during cellular use. While it’s difficult to separate the benefits of a fresh battery from the C1X modem’s efficiency gains, the practical result is longer usage between charges. The fast charging capability proved equally valuable for topping up during short breaks in the day.
The option for nano-texture glass, which reduces glare in bright environments, has been a welcome addition for those who frequently work outdoors or near windows. Meanwhile, the 120Hz external display support future-proofs the device for upcoming monitor upgrades, even if few users can currently take advantage of this feature.
Owners of older iPad Pro models from the M1 or M2 generations will find the M5 represents a substantial leap forward. They’ll benefit from the complete package: the sleek redesign introduced with the M4, all the latest internal upgrades, and full compatibility with iPadOS 26’s features.
Current M4 users should carefully consider whether the specific enhancements align with their needs. The performance gains, improved cellular efficiency, and quality-of-life improvements are genuine, but they primarily benefit power users with demanding workflows. For everyone else, the considerable investment might be better saved for a future model unless your current iPad is actively limiting your productivity.
The M5 iPad Pro successfully refines what was already an exceptional device. It doesn’t revolutionize the tablet experience, but it meaningfully advances it in ways that will matter most to professional users pushing their devices to the limit.
(Source: 9to5 Mac)
