Should you upgrade to M5 MacBook Pro from the M1? Short answer: It's probably time

2026-03-20 · Source: News and Advice on the World's Latest Innovations | ZDNET · Field: Technology & Digital — Emerging Technologies & Innovation, Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning · Depth: Novice, medium

Summary

The base model M5 MacBook Pro, priced at $1,599 (often on sale for $1,399), offers significant performance upgrades over older Apple silicon and Intel-based Macs. Compared to the five-year-old M1 MacBook Pro, the M5 model features a larger display, over six hours more battery life, 3.5 times faster AI performance, 16GB base memory, and a 512GB SSD. Its 10-core GPU delivers up to 3.2 times higher gaming frame rates and 6.8 times faster 3D rendering in Blender than the M1. The M5 also boasts twice as fast SSD read/write speeds, up to 4TB storage, and enhanced I/O with three USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports, HDMI, and an SD card slot. While the M5 offers up to 2 times faster CPU performance than the M1, the most "staggering performance gains" are seen against pre-2020 Intel Macs, with 86 times faster AI performance.

Key takeaway

For professionals using an M1 MacBook Pro with 8GB RAM or an Intel-based Mac for demanding tasks like AI, 3D rendering, or video editing, upgrading to the M5 MacBook Pro is a worthwhile investment due to its significant performance and I/O improvements. If your current Mac handles your daily workflow adequately, consider delaying an upgrade or exploring more affordable options like the M5 MacBook Air or refurbished M-series models for general use.

Key insights

The M5 MacBook Pro offers substantial performance and feature upgrades, especially over M1 and Intel-based Macs.

Principles

• Performance gains are more pronounced with older generations.
• Newer Macs excel in AI, graphics, and creative workflows.
• Older Macs remain competent for everyday tasks.

In practice

• Consider M5 for demanding AI/graphics tasks.
• Refurbished M1/M2/M3 models offer value.
• MacBook Neo is a budget option for basic use.

Topics

• MacBook Pro
• Apple M5 Chip
• Performance Comparison
• Laptop Upgrade Guide
• MacBook Neo

Best for: AI Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer, Computer Vision Engineer, General Interest

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by News and Advice on the World's Latest Innovations | ZDNET.