Apple’s 14-inch M5 MacBook Pro Arrives: Bigger Chip Gains, Same Price

Apple has launched a refreshed 14-inch MacBook Pro powered by the new M5 chip, keeping the same $1,599 starting price as the previous M4 model. The release marks a strategic change: Apple led with the entry-level 14-inch model and has not yet released M5 Pro or M5 Max variants — higher-end chips are reportedly several months away.

The new M5 chip uses the same 3-nanometer process as the M4 but boosts performance with a 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU and a 16-core Neural Engine. Apple advertises up to 20% faster multithreaded CPU performance vs. M4, up to 1.6x faster graphics in pro apps and higher frame rates in games, and significantly improved AI workloads.

• Performance highlights: up to 1.8x faster AI video-enhancing in Topaz Video, 1.7x faster 3D rendering in Blender, 1.2x faster Xcode builds, 3.5x faster AI performance vs. M4 and up to 6x vs. M1.
• Storage & memory: base config starts with 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD; configurable up to 32GB RAM and 4TB SSD. Apple also claims SSD throughput is up to twice as fast as the previous generation.
• Display & ports: retains the 14.2″ Liquid Retina XDR display (3,024 x 1,964) with up to 1,600 nits peak HDR, 120Hz adaptive refresh, SDXC slot, HDMI and a 3.5mm headphone jack. It continues to use Thunderbolt 4 (40 Gbps) ports rather than 80 Gbps Thunderbolt 5 found on Pro/Max models.

The M5 MacBook Pro keeps many of the same physical specs as the M4 model — identical dimensions, weight and the same 70W power adapter — with macOS Tahoe out of the box. Connectivity includes Wi‑Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, and Apple kept the six-speaker audio setup with Dolby Atmos and Spatial Audio plus a 12MP Center Stage webcam.

Pre-orders are open now, starting at $1,599 for the 14-inch model with shipments scheduled to begin on October 22. Notably, Apple did not ship M5 Pro/Max versions at launch; those higher-end chips are expected later.

For Apple’s official specs and comparison details, see the MacBook Pro 14 and 16″ specs page.

Why this matters: By releasing an updated entry-level Pro first, Apple can refresh its mainstream pro lineup quickly while finalizing higher-power M5 Pro/Max chips. Buyers who need modest but meaningful CPU/GPU/AI gains — especially for video, 3D and some creative workflows — will find the M5 an attractive, cost-stable upgrade option. Power users waiting for top-tier performance should watch for the Pro/Max releases later this year.

Discussion: Are you planning to preorder the M5 MacBook Pro or wait for the M5 Pro/Max? Share your thoughts below.