Apple M5 Pro vs Apple M2 Max

Updated Nov 2026 · Scored by the Let’s Compare Data Engine · How we score

For most buyers the Apple M5 Pro is the better pick — it scores 70/100 to the Apple M2 Max's 41, leading on Core Specifications and Benchmark. Choose the Apple M2 Max instead if you want to spend less.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Apple M5 Pro leads overall

Apple M5 Pro

Apple M2 Max

Why it stands out

Benchmark PassMark CPU Mark: 57,244 (113% more)
Core Specifications Cores: 18
Core Specifications Threads: 18

Winner by category for Apple M5 Pro vs Apple M2 Max
Category	Apple M5 Pro	Apple M2 Max	Winner
Core Specifications	59	26	Apple M5 Pro
Integrated Graphics	41	42	Tie
Benchmark	89	48	Apple M5 Pro

In-depth analysisAI

AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Nov 2026.

Apple M5 Pro

The Apple M5 is a system-on-chip designed for Apple's high-end tablet line, featured in the eighth-generation iPad Pro. It comes in 9-core or 10-core CPU configurations combined with a 10-core GPU, targeting users who require intensive mobile performance for software development, creative tasks, and machine learning.

Best for Graphics-heavy mobile workflows utilizing hardware-accelerated ray tracingBest for On-device machine learning tasks leveraging the integrated 16-core Neural Engine

Pros

Delivers up to 45% faster graphics performance over the previous M4 generation
Enhanced memory bandwidth reaching 153 GB/s alongside fast LPDDR5X RAM
Hardware-accelerated ray tracing support on the 10-core GPU
Updated wireless capabilities including Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread support

Cons

Peak hardware configurations with 10 CPU cores and 16 GB of RAM are reserved for higher 1 TB and 2 TB storage tiers

Apple M2 Max

The Apple M2 Max is a high-performance system-on-a-chip designed by Apple Inc., intended for professional computing tasks. Due to its advanced specifications, it powers applications requiring intensive computational resources, such as video editing and 3D rendering. It is best suited for creative professionals and developers who demand top-tier performance in portable forms.

Best for Video ProductionBest for 3D RenderingBest for Software Development

Pros

Offers substantial processing power through a combined CPU/GPU design.
The integrated graphics capability (up to 76 cores) provides extensive visual compute resources.
Features advanced memory support, capable of high data transfer rates (LPDDR5 up to 192 GB).

Cons

While powerful, the chip is designed for professional workloads rather than routine general computing.
Its high specification level may result in a premium cost point.

Source

Video — reviews used (2)

Generated Jun 28, 2026

Value for Money

Which is the better deal for the price

Enter today's price for each product to see which offers better value. Use the same currency for both.

Apple M5 Pro

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Apple M2 Max

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Apple M5 Pro57,244

Apple M2 Max26,839

See the raw benchmark values →

Benchmark score — a measured indicator of raw performance, not a guarantee of real-world speed.

Review Videos

Hand-picked expert reviews for each product

Detailed Specifications

The full spec sheet, side by side

Core Specifications

Feature	Apple M5 Pro	Apple M2 Max
Cores	18	12
Threads	18	12
Base Frequency	N/A	N/A
Base Power Consumption	N/A	N/A
Maximum Frequency	N/A	N/A
Maximum Power Consumption	N/A	N/A
L1 Cache	N/A	N/A
L2 Cache	N/A	N/A
L3 Cache	N/A	N/A
Lithography Process	3 nm40% less	5 nm
Is unlocked	No	No

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Apple M5 Pro	Apple M2 Max
Model

Benchmark

Feature	Apple M5 Pro	Apple M2 Max
PassMark CPU Mark	57,244113% more	26,839

Specification Note

Specifications are compiled from official manufacturer data and other reliable internet sources. Some features may vary by region or model configuration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Apple M5 Pro vs Apple M2 Max comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Apple M5 Pro rates higher at 79/100 versus 60/100 for Apple M2 Max — a 19-point lead. Apple M5 Pro is the stronger overall pick, though the right choice still depends on which specs matter most to you; the full spec table above breaks down every difference.

Apple M5 Pro and Apple M2 Max are compared side by side above across every spec in the cpus category — including performance, features and design — each scored 0–100 so you can see exactly where one leads the other. Our overall scores are 79/100 for Apple M5 Pro and 60/100 for Apple M2 Max.

If you want the higher-rated cpus option overall, Apple M5 Pro (79/100) edges out Apple M2 Max (60/100). But if Apple M2 Max is cheaper or stronger on the specific specs you care about, it can still be the better buy — use the spec table and strengths profile above to decide.