The 2025 Apple iPad Pro (M5) is a powerhouse tablet that blends ultra-thin design, blistering performance, and refined software—but its price and limitations still raise questions for everyday users.
🧠 Overview: A Victory Lap for Apple’s Tablet Line
Apple’s 2025 iPad Pro, powered by the M5 chip, marks a significant leap in performance and design. It’s thinner than ever—just 5.3mm—and lighter than the previous generation, yet it packs more computing power than most laptops. With iPadOS 26, Apple finally begins to bridge the gap between hardware and software, making the iPad Pro more viable for professional workflows.
💻 Design & Display: Sleek, Stunning, and Ultra-Thin
Dimensions: 11.09 x 8.48 x 0.20 inches (13-inch model)
Weight: Just under 1 pound
Display: OLED screen with 2752 x 2064 resolution
The iPad Pro’s design is breathtaking. It’s thinner than the iPhone and feels futuristic in hand. The OLED display offers deep blacks, vibrant colors, and sharp contrast, making it ideal for creatives and media consumption.
⚙️ Performance: M5 Chip Delivers Desktop-Class Power
CPU: Up to 10-core M5 chip
GPU: 35–40% faster than M4
RAM: Up to 16GB
Storage: 256GB to 2TB
The M5 chip is a beast. Compared to the M4, it offers 15–20% faster CPU performance and up to 40% faster GPU speeds, especially noticeable in video editing, 3D rendering, and AI-driven tasks. For users upgrading from M1 or M2 models, the difference is dramatic.
🔋 Battery Life & Charging
Battery Life: ~8 hours 11 minutes (mixed use)
Charging: Faster than previous models
While battery life remains solid, it’s not groundbreaking. The real improvement is in charging speed, which finally feels modern.
📸 Cameras & Connectivity
Rear Camera: 12MP wide + LiDAR
Front Camera: 12MP Ultra Wide (landscape orientation)
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, 5G, Thunderbolt/USB-C
The camera system is capable but not revolutionary. The landscape front camera is a welcome change for video calls. Connectivity is top-tier, supporting fast wireless and wired data transfer.
🖊️ Accessories: Magic Keyboard & Apple Pencil Pro
Apple Pencil Pro: New squeeze gesture, haptic feedback, and gyroscope
Magic Keyboard: Refined design, better trackpad, and improved stability
These accessories elevate the iPad Pro into a productivity machine. The Apple Pencil Pro is especially impressive, offering new gestures and tactile feedback that enhance creative workflows.
🧑💻 Software: iPadOS 26 Finally Catches Up
Multitasking: Improved Stage Manager
AI Features: On-device generative tools
File Management: More desktop-like experience
iPadOS 26 makes strides in closing the gap between iPad and Mac. Multitasking is smoother, and AI tools powered by the M5 chip offer real-time enhancements in photo editing and writing. However, multi-user support is still missing, and some pro apps remain limited compared to their macOS counterparts.
💰 Pricing & Value
Starting Price: $999 (11-inch), $1,299 (13-inch)
Accessories: Apple Pencil Pro ($129), Magic Keyboard ($349)
The iPad Pro is expensive—as much as a MacBook Air—and while it delivers unmatched tablet performance, it’s arguably overkill for casual users. For professionals in design, video, or tech, it’s a worthy investment. For others, the value proposition is less clear.
🏁 Verdict: Who Is It For?
The 2025 iPad Pro is a technical marvel. It’s ideal for:
Creative professionals: Designers, illustrators, video editors
Tech enthusiasts: Those who want cutting-edge performance in a portable form
Business users: Especially with external display and keyboard setups
But it’s not for everyone. Students, casual users, and those seeking a laptop replacement may find better value in the iPad Air or MacBook lineup.
🔄 Should You Upgrade?
From M1/M2: Yes—performance and display improvements are substantial.
From M4: Only if you need the M5’s AI or GPU gains.
New Buyers: Consider your workflow—this is a pro device with a pro price.
