The M5 iPad Pro has officially arrived—and it’s a powerhouse. Apple’s latest flagship tablet introduces the all-new M5 chip, Wi-Fi 7 connectivity powered by the N1 chip, and the C1X modem for blazing-fast cellular models. Prices start at $999 for the 11-inch version.
The iPad Pro is among the first Apple devices to feature the M5, launching alongside other 2025 M5-powered hardware.
A Big Leap With the M5 Chip
While the 2025 iPad Pro lineup—available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes—retains Apple’s familiar sleek design, the upgrade under the hood is far from minor. The new M5 chip brings a 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU, delivering up to 3.5 times faster performance in Apple Intelligence tasks compared to the M4 model.
Borrowing neural accelerator technology from the A19 chip, the M5 dramatically improves graphics and machine learning capabilities. Tasks like ray tracing, AI image generation, and video upscaling are now faster and more efficient than ever.
Apple’s performance claims include:
- Up to 6.7× faster 3D rendering in Octane X (vs. M1)
- Up to 6× faster video transcoding in Final Cut Pro (vs. M1)
- Up to 4× faster AI image generation in Draw Things (vs. M1)
- Up to 3.7× faster AI video upscaling in DaVinci Resolve (vs. M1)
Even compared to last year’s M4 model, the M5 delivers between 1.2× and 2.3× performance gains depending on the task.
Faster Storage, More Memory
Apple also doubled storage read/write speeds across the line. The 256GB and 512GB models now come with 12GB of unified memory by default—a first for the iPad Pro.
Bright and Bold Displays
The new models stick with the stunning Ultra Retina XDR tandem OLED displays at 11 and 13 inches. Brightness remains impressive, hitting 1,000 nits for standard content and peaking at 1,600 nits for HDR.
Resolutions remain 2,240×1,668 for the 11-inch and 2,752×2,064 for the 13-inch. Apple’s display tech favorites—ProMotion, Wide Color (P3), Apple Pencil Hover, and anti-reflective coating—are all back. The Nano-texture glass option also returns for the 1TB and 2TB configurations.
Smarter Connectivity
For the Wi-Fi models, Apple’s new N1 connectivity chip brings Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread support for smart home integration. Cellular models feature the new C1X modem, promising up to 50% faster data speeds and 30% lower power usage than the M4 version.
Cameras and Audio
The rear 12MP wide camera (f/1.8) captures 4K 60fps video and supports 1080p 240fps slo-mo. ProRes format and external recording are supported as well. Apple retains the four-speaker setup, studio-quality mics, Thunderbolt/USB 4 port, and Smart Connector for accessories.
Launch Details and Pricing
Preorders for the M5 iPad Pro open Wednesday, with deliveries starting October 22.
- 11-inch iPad Pro: $999 (Wi-Fi), $1,199 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- 13-inch iPad Pro: $1,299 (Wi-Fi), $1,499 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- Education pricing: $899 (11-inch), $1,199 (13-inch)
The M5 iPad Pro sets a new benchmark for tablets—combining raw power, smarter performance, and next-generation connectivity for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
