Apple’s iPad Pro lineup has always pushed the limits of portable performance — but with the arrival of the new M5 iPad Pro, users are wondering if it’s worth upgrading from the M4 model. This in-depth buyer’s guide highlights the 20 biggest differences between the two, covering display, performance, design, battery life, camera, and AI integration.
Key Differences Between iPad Pro M4 and M5
| Feature | iPad Pro (M4) | iPad Pro (M5) |
|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Apple M4 | Apple M5 (3nm+ AI Neural Engine) |
| Performance | Excellent multitasking | Up to 25% faster CPU, 30% faster GPU |
| Display | Ultra Retina XDR (Mini-LED) | Tandem OLED Ultra Display |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz ProMotion | 120Hz ProMotion with Dynamic Color Boost |
| Design | Aluminum, slightly thicker | Slimmer titanium edges |
| Thickness | 5.3 mm | 5.1 mm |
| Weight | 579g | 565g |
| Battery Life | 10 hours | 11 hours |
| Charging | USB-C Thunderbolt 4 | USB-C Thunderbolt 5 (faster transfer) |
| Storage Options | Up to 2TB | Up to 4TB |
| RAM Options | 8GB / 16GB | 16GB / 24GB |
| AI Integration | Basic on-device ML | Full Apple Intelligence support |
| Camera | 12MP rear + LiDAR | 14MP rear + improved LiDAR |
| Front Camera | 12MP Center Stage | 14MP landscape orientation |
| Operating System | iPadOS 18 | iPadOS 19 (AI-ready) |
| Keyboard Support | Magic Keyboard Gen 2 | Magic Keyboard Gen 3 (larger trackpad) |
| Pencil Support | Apple Pencil Pro | Apple Pencil Pro 2 with haptics |
| Speakers | Quad stereo | Enhanced spatial sound |
| Connectivity | 5G + Wi-Fi 6E | 5G + Wi-Fi 7 |
| Price (USD) | From $999 | From $1,199 |
Verdict
If you’re a content creator, digital artist, or power user, the M5 iPad Pro offers incredible gains — especially in AI tools, speed, and OLED display quality. However, the M4 iPad Pro remains an excellent and cost-effective choice for most users who don’t need Apple Intelligence or extreme performance.
Official Source: Visit Apple Official Website
Pros and Cons
✅ M5 iPad Pro (2025)
- Blazing-fast M5 chip
- AI-enhanced iPadOS 19
- Stunning Tandem OLED display
- Larger storage and RAM options
- Better battery optimization
⚠️ M4 iPad Pro (2024)
- Still powerful but less future-proof
- No full Apple Intelligence support
- Slightly thicker and heavier
FAQ
What’s the main difference between M4 and M5 iPad Pro?
The M5 iPad Pro introduces a faster 3nm+ chip with built-in Apple Intelligence, an OLED display, and upgraded camera features.
Is it worth upgrading from the M4 iPad Pro to the M5?
Yes, if you use AI-powered apps, video editing, or design tools. Otherwise, the M4 still performs excellently for everyday tasks.
Does the M5 iPad Pro support older accessories?
Yes, it supports most M4 accessories, though the Magic Keyboard Gen 3 and Apple Pencil Pro 2 are designed specifically for the M5.
When was the M5 iPad Pro released?
The M5 iPad Pro was released in October 2025, globally.