Six months after the entry-level iPad and iPad Airs got upgraded this spring, it's now the iPad Pro's turn. Apple just announced its latest M-series chip upgrade, the M5, and the iPad Pro is getting the chip right off the bat. The new iPad Pro arrives October 22, but can be pre-ordered now.
The iPad Pro was also the first Apple product to get the M4 chip in May 2024. This time, the upgrade comes alongside new MacBook Pro models with the M5 onboard too, and an upgraded Vision Pro.
The iPad Pro's price is still high ($999 for the 11-inch, $1,199 for the 13-inch), but the M5 upgrades look impressive. These Pros also have new C1X and N1 modem and wireless chips inside, which allow optional 5G (if you upgrade to the cellular model) and Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6 and Thread support.
CNET's recommendation on iPads is generally to spend as little as possible, and the Pro line has tended to offer luxuries many might not need. That being said, iPadOS 26's improved Mac-like multitasking modes could make better use of the M5 boost, and if you're looking for the absolute fastest iPad regardless of price, this is it.
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