Apple iPad Pro (2025) review: fast, faster, fastest

Apple's latest iPad Pro (2025) introduces an M5 chip, delivering 11% higher CPU and 34% higher GPU performance over its predecessor, alongside new proprietary networking chips and a faster charger. While these hardware enhancements provide notable speed improvements for demanding professional workflows, the review characterizes the update as a 'chip bump,' suggesting the M4 Pro remains adequate for most users. The more impactful development is iPadOS 26, which significantly enhances the iPad's 'Mac-like' functionality, though this software is also available on older models, potentially moderating upgrade demand for the new, premium-priced hardware.

Analysis

Apple's latest iPad Pro (2025) features an M5 chip, delivering an 11% CPU and 34% GPU performance increase over the M4, alongside new proprietary C1X and N1 networking chips and a 40W charger capable of 60W bursts, achieving 50% charge in 30 minutes. Despite these enhancements, the update is largely characterized as a "chip bump," with the M4 remaining sufficient for most users. The M5's performance gains are primarily noticeable in demanding professional workflows like heavy video editing or 3D rendering.

A more significant development is iPadOS 26, which introduces "Mac-like" functionalities, though this software is also available on previous models. The iPad Pro maintains its premium pricing, starting at $999 for the 11-inch and $1,299 for the 13-inch, often exceeding $1,500 with essential accessories, positioning it as a niche device for power users rather than a mainstream computer replacement.

The incremental hardware improvements and the availability of key software features on older iPads suggest potential moderation in upgrade demand for Apple (AAPL), despite a positive per-ticker sentiment of 0.6. Conversely, Apple's shift to in-house networking chips (C1X, N1) signals a negative implication for third-party suppliers like Broadcom (AVGO), reflected in its -0.5 per-ticker sentiment.

Key Decisions for Investors

• Investors should monitor Apple's iPad Pro sales trajectory and average selling prices, considering the incremental hardware updates and the availability of significant software enhancements (iPadOS 26) on prior-generation devices.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of Apple's continued vertical integration, specifically the transition to proprietary networking chips, on component suppliers such as Broadcom (AVGO).
• Assess the iPad Pro's strategic market positioning as a high-end, specialized device, distinct from the Mac, and its contribution to Apple's broader ecosystem and service revenue growth.