M5 MacBook Pro Outperforms M4 Air in Speed, Battery, and Display Tests

Apple has launched its new M5 chip in the 14-inch MacBook Pro. This creates a clear performance gap with the M4 MacBook Air. The new Pro model offers significant upgrades for professional users.

The release sets a new benchmark for Apple’s laptop lineup. According to Reuters, the M5 chip delivers substantial gains in AI and graphics tasks. This makes the Pro a powerhouse for demanding workflows.

Key Hardware and Performance Differences

The M5 chip provides up to 30% faster graphics performance. It also offers up to 45% faster ray tracing. Its unified memory bandwidth is 27.5% higher than the M4.

These improvements are most noticeable in professional applications. The MacBook Pro renders complex scenes nearly twice as fast. It also processes AI-driven video enhancements much quicker.

The MacBook Pro features a superior Mini-LED XDR display. It supports a 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate. The screen is also significantly brighter than the Air’s display.

Who Should Choose Which Model?

The M4 MacBook Air remains an excellent choice for most users. Its lightweight design and lower cost are major advantages. It handles everyday tasks like browsing and media consumption with ease.

The M5 MacBook Pro targets professionals with specific needs. Video editors, 3D artists, and developers will benefit most. The active cooling system maintains peak performance during long sessions.

Battery life is another key differentiator. The MacBook Pro lasts up to 24 hours on a single charge. The MacBook Air offers a still-respectable 18 hours.

The new M5 MacBook Pro establishes a clear performance tier above the M4 Air. Professionals needing maximum power and advanced features will find the Pro worth its premium price.

Info at your fingertips

How much faster is the M5 than the M4?

The M5 offers up to 30% faster graphics and 45% faster ray tracing. Its CPU is up to 15% faster in multithreaded tasks. The performance gap is most apparent in professional applications.

Is the MacBook Pro’s display better?

Yes, significantly. The Pro uses a Mini-LED XDR display with ProMotion. It is much brighter and offers smoother motion than the Air’s LCD screen.

What about battery life comparison?

The MacBook Pro provides up to 24 hours of battery life. The MacBook Air offers up to 18 hours. The Pro’s larger battery contributes to this advantage.

Does the MacBook Pro have more ports?

Yes. It includes an extra Thunderbolt port, an HDMI port, and an SDXC card slot. The MacBook Air only has two Thunderbolt ports.

Which is better for video editing?

The M5 MacBook Pro is far superior for video editing. Its sustained performance, better display, and extra ports make it the definitive choice for creatives.