More than a year after Apple launched the completely redesigned M4 iPad Pro, the tech giant has refreshed its top tablet with the M5 chip. While this iteration may not appear as alluring as its predecessor at first glance, Apple has incorporated numerous significant enhancements that make upgrading from an M2 iPad Pro or older model worthwhile.
Indeed, all the features that distinguished the M4 iPad Pro are present in the M5 version, including the finest OLED display available, an incredibly slim and lightweight design, four captivating speakers, the newest iPadOS 26, along with Apple’s Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro accessories.
The primary modification in the iPad Pro M5 is the upgraded processor, boasting improved speed and energy efficiency compared to the prior generation. Additionally, Apple has introduced enhancements like quicker storage and increased RAM, transforming this tablet into a professional-grade device for users. Here’s what you should be aware of.
Here are some of the advancements in the M5 iPad Pro:
**M5 chip:** This processor offers performance that is 3.5 times faster than the M4 model for AI tasks. It executes 3D rendering with ray tracing 1.5 times faster and provides 1.2 times faster video transcoding performance in Final Cut Pro for iPad. It is also capable of driving a 120Hz external display.
**Enhanced storage:** The new iPad Pro boasts up to 2 times faster read and write speeds for storage, facilitating smoother file transfers.
**Increased RAM:** The 256GB and 512GB iPad Pro variants now come equipped with 12GB of RAM, representing a 50% boost over the base models from the previous generation.
**Rapid charging support:** The M5 iPad Pro allows for a 50% charge in approximately 30 minutes when using a high-wattage USB-C power adapter.
**N1 chip:** This iPad marks the first to integrate Apple’s custom Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip, supporting Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread.
**C1X cellular:** Apple has also introduced its own C1X modem to provide the 5G capabilities of the M5 iPad Pro. The company claims this chip is 30% more efficient than the one found in the M4 model.
The new iPad Pro is now up for pre-order, starting at $999 for the 11-inch version. It will officially be released next Wednesday, October 22.
