Same Same but different, that’s how you’d describe the brand new iPad Pro with Apple’s newest M5 Apple Silicon on board. Announced just last week, this isn’t much different to last year, but if that’s how you’re comparing it – you’re doing it all wrong.
Last year’s iPad Pro was powered by the M4 processor, so this year’s version gets Neural Accelerators, more memory bandwidth and extra RAM. Oh, and WiFi 7 too.
But as someone who hasn’t used iPad Pro for a while and has been using a smaller, chunkier, older iPad – this is a revelation. A real leap forward and an option for people using non-Pro iPad models, or an older iPad.
I was blown away by how thin this is – compared to the iPhone Air (which I’m still using as my primary phone), it’s remarkable, plus it’s so light – just slide it in your bag and you’re off.
I chose to just use the standard sleeve cover, rather than the full keyboard because in reality I’m using it as a device to “look at” or “watch” content on, and most of my normal iPad Keyboard use is for passwords or email addresses. That was the wise move because it felt like it wasn’t even in my backpack.
If you purchased an iPad Pro more than four years ago, you’re in for a real treat. The M1 powered iPad Pro was a solid leap forward in performance and power when it was released in early 2021. When compared to that model, the M5 iPad Pro that goes on sale this week simply smokes it.
Here’s a few key differences; Ultra Retina Display, More processing and graphics cores, ProRes video, Centre Stage on the front camera, Wifi 7, Second Gen Apple Pencil support and it’s about 100 grams lighter.
The screen is brighter, and is using the more recent Mini-LED backlit technology which really does pop – this is a stunning screen to watch content on – no quesiton.
Critically, thanks to the M5 chip, it’s all about it’s capabilities in graphics and neural processing. These are areas often hard to quantify, but for anyone doing work or using apps that rely on this then you start to really kick goals.
In my day to day use of the new iPad Pro with M5 i’ve found the responsiveness outstanding, really snappy app launching and smooth graphic display even just in the basic home screens – it really pops.
But like most people, I doubt I’ve even got the M5 out of warm up mode. The iPad Pro is and always will be for those who need the performance when it matters.
I had a quick go at video editing using Davinci Resolve on iPad and boy can you see how great this can be – having a large screen to get into the full edit in such a PC like way is amazing.
One other thing I tried a bit of was the new windowing system in iPadOS 26 which on a screen like this should have real legs.
Personally, I can’t see me using it – I’m more inclined to switch between apps with a swipe, but there were times when I felt having a browser and notes open was great, though that was possible before in split screen – so it does still feel like a feature for feature sake – but perhaps I’m not the target user – perhaps Apple needs that as the final tick for people to switch to iPad?
Regardless, if its performance and capabilities you want, I don’t think you can go past the iPad Pro with M5.
For those with an iPad purchased before 2021, let me tell you, it’s time.
iPad Pro is the king among iPads. At $1,699 for the 11 inch and $2,199 for the 13 inch it’s not unreasonably priced, though I get that might seem eye watering to some – if that’s you – all good, walk away.
In my view though, this is a great device for someone on-the-go, working remote and travelling a lot because you could, in reality, do everything you need on this. That might be my next big test of iPad Pro.
Web: Apple
Trev is a Technology Commentator, Dad, Speaker and Rev Head.
He produces and hosts two popular podcasts, EFTM and Two Blokes Talking Tech. He also appears on over 50 radio stations across Australia weekly, and is the resident Tech Expert on Channel 9’s Today Show each day and appears regularly on A Current Affair.
Father of three, he is often found down in his Man Cave.
