Apple has unveiled the latest iteration of the iPad Pro, and while it may not boast a revolutionary redesign, it continues to impress with solid performance enhancements and user-friendly software updates. The 2023 iPad Pro maintains the sleek design and stunning display that made last year’s model a standout. Available in both 11-inch and 13-inch configurations, the new models are priced at $999 and $1,299, respectively.
One notable change is the introduction of the M5 chip, which offers significant performance upgrades over its predecessor, the M4 chip. In benchmark testing, the M5 scores approximately 11 percent higher on CPU tasks and an impressive 34 percent on GPU tasks. This translates to noticeably quicker processing, particularly for demanding activities like gaming, video editing, and rendering graphics. Users transitioning from previous models, such as those powered by the M1 chip, will experience an immediate boost in speed and responsiveness.
With the new iPad Pro, Apple has also made strides in connectivity by introducing their custom networking chips—namely, the C1X for cellular and the N1 for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities. Initial tests indicate that users are likely to enjoy faster internet speeds with the M5 model compared to the M4.
However, the most significant improvement might not stem from hardware but rather from the latest software, iPadOS 26. This update enhances iPad functionality with features akin to those found on Mac computers, making multitasking smoother and offering a more intuitive user experience. Although challenges remain in terms of software limitations, the advancements signify Apple’s commitment to positioning the iPad as a more capable computing device.
One of the highlights of this year’s model is the new 40-watt charger, which can temporarily ramp up power output to 60 watts for faster charging. Users reported consistent and impressive results, with the M5 Pro reaching 50 percent charge in just 30 minutes— a notable difference compared to the previous generation.
While the M5 Pro is indeed a powerful device, potential buyers should weigh the benefits against the existing M4 models, which already offer remarkable performance and value. For those seeking the best iPad experience, however, the M5 Pro stands out as the premier choice.
Its sleek design combined with improved functionality reinforces the notion that Apple is blurring the lines between tablets and laptops. As iPadOS continues to evolve, users can expect an increasingly seamless transition between these devices, making the M5 Pro not only an exemplary tablet but a compelling computing alternative. With such advancements, the future of the iPad looks bright, suggesting a near-endless potential for Apple’s flagship tablet.