Apple Vision Pro M5 Chip Reviews Praise Performance and Comfort Gains

The first wave of reviews for the updated Apple Vision Pro is now public. The headset, featuring the new M5 chip, launches this Wednesday. Journalists from major tech outlets have shared their initial impressions.

Their reports highlight significant improvements in performance and wearability. These changes address key criticisms of the first-generation model.

M5 Chip Delivers Smoother, More Consistent Workflows

Reviewers noted a clear performance boost from the M5 chip. According to 9to5Mac, the new chip provides more consistent power during heavy use. Situations that caused the M2 model to lag now run smoothly.

The fans still activate under load. However, the overall experience is more sustainable. Users can open more windows without performance drops.

The M5 also enhances the headset’s foveated rendering. This technology sharpens content where you are directly looking. Apple says the new chip renders 10% more pixels for a crisper image.

This upgrade pairs with a new 120Hz refresh rate. The result is less motion blur and a smoother view, especially in Mac Virtual Display.

New Dual Knit Band Transforms Comfort and Balance

A major focus of the reviews is the new Dual Knit Band. This band is now included in the box. It features a lower strap and an upper strap for better weight distribution.

Critically, the lower strap contains tungsten inserts. These act as a counterweight to the front-heavy goggles.

TechRadar called the comfort improvement “vast.” They reported being able to wear the headset for two hours without the facial pressure common with the original Solo Knit Band. Tom’s Guide also noted reduced eye pressure and no neck strain after 30 minutes of use.

CNET confirmed the better balance but noted the headset is still heavy. The total weight is now 1.6 pounds without the battery, partly due to the new strap’s counterweights.

Battery Life Sees a Modest but Welcome Boost

Apple promises longer usage per charge with this model. The company claims up to 2.5 hours of general use. Video playback can last up to three hours.

This is an increase of 30 minutes in each category over the first Vision Pro. One reviewer from Tom’s Guide found the battery life “pretty decent,” using 45% of the charge in an hour and a half.

Most reviewers concluded the updates are quality-of-life improvements, not revolutionary changes. The consensus is that current Vision Pro owners have little reason to upgrade. The device remains a premium, niche product.

The new Apple Vision Pro with the M5 chip offers refined performance and crucial comfort upgrades. While not a complete overhaul, these enhancements solidify its position as a high-end spatial computing device for professionals and enthusiasts.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the biggest improvement in the new Vision Pro?

The new Dual Knit Band greatly improves comfort. It balances the headset’s weight across your head. This reduces pressure on your face during long sessions.

How much better is the M5 chip than the M2?

The M5 chip provides more consistent performance under load. It also enables a 10% increase in rendered pixels for a sharper display. The difference is noticeable in complex workflows.

Does the new model have better battery life?

Yes, battery life has improved by about 30 minutes. Apple rates it for up to 2.5 hours of general use. Early testing confirms these gains are achievable.

Is the display quality different?

The display now supports a 120Hz refresh rate. This makes motion appear much smoother. Combined with more rendered pixels, content looks crisper.

Should original Vision Pro owners upgrade?

Most reviewers say no. The improvements are incremental, not game-changing. The new band can be purchased separately for $99 to improve comfort on the old model.