Apple M5 Pro vs Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)

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 68/100 to the Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)'s 58, leading on Integrated Graphics and Benchmark. Choose the Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) instead if core specifications matters most to you, where it comes out ahead.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Apple M5 Pro leads overall

Apple M5 Pro

Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)

Why it stands out

Benchmark PassMark CPU Mark: 57,244 (75% more)
Core Specifications Cores: 18
Core Specifications Threads: 18

Winner by category for Apple M5 Pro vs Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)
Category	Apple M5 Pro	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)	Winner
Core Specifications	45	67	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)
Integrated Graphics	42	39	Apple M5 Pro
Benchmark	88	56	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 M4 Pro (12 Core)

The Apple M4 Pro (12-core) is a powerful system-on-a-chip built on second-generation 3-nanometer technology, designed to handle demanding workflows for researchers, developers, engineers, and creative professionals. It features a robust multi-core CPU configuration, high-bandwidth unified memory support, and advanced hardware acceleration for complex tasks and AI workloads.

Best for building and testing applications across multiple simulatorsBest for complex 3D rendering and visual effects workflowsBest for running demanding on-device AI and machine learning tasks

Pros

Exceptional single-threaded and multi-threaded CPU performance
Significantly increased unified memory bandwidth compared to previous generations
Advanced hardware-accelerated ray-tracing for improved 3D rendering and gaming
Integrated support for Thunderbolt 5 connectivity on compatible Mac devices

Cons

High cost associated with stepping up to pro-tier Apple silicon hardware
Unified memory cannot be upgraded post-purchase

Value for Money

Which is the better deal for the price

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Apple M5 Pro

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Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Apple M5 Pro57,244

Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)32,723

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 M4 Pro (12 Core)
Cores	18	12
Threads	18	12
Base Frequency	N/A	N/A
Base Power Consumption	N/A	N/A
Maximum Frequency	N/A	4.51 GHz
Maximum Power Consumption	N/A	N/A
L1 Cache	N/A	N/A
L2 Cache	N/A	36 MB
L3 Cache	N/A	N/A
Lithography Process	3 nm	3 nm
Is unlocked	No	No

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Apple M5 Pro	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)
Model

Benchmark

Feature	Apple M5 Pro	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)
PassMark CPU Mark	57,24475% more	32,723

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 M4 Pro (12 Core) comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Apple M5 Pro rates higher at 79/100 versus 70/100 for Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) — a 9-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 M4 Pro (12 Core) 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 70/100 for Apple M4 Pro (12 Core).

If you want the higher-rated cpus option overall, Apple M5 Pro (79/100) edges out Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) (70/100). But if Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) 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.