tech
April 28, 2026
MacBook Pro M5 review: serious power, still long battery life
Apple laptop sets new performance bar with more storage, new chips and plenty of options, but now has two-tier specs depending on processor
TL;DR
- The new MacBook Pro is available with M5, M5 Pro, and M5 Max chips, offering increasing levels of performance.
- The base M5 model offers performance similar to a MacBook Air but with Pro features, while M5 Pro and M5 Max provide significantly more power.
- The laptop retains its 2021 design with a durable aluminum body, excellent keyboard, trackpad, and a bright 120Hz mini LED screen.
- Key improvements include faster Wi-Fi 7 and Thunderbolt 5 ports on M5 Pro/Max models, and improved processing and graphics performance over previous generations.
- Battery life is a strong point, with the M5 Max model lasting up to 16 hours of light use and M5 Pro/M5 models potentially reaching 18 hours.
- The MacBook Pro is constructed with 45% recycled materials and is generally repairable, with battery replacements available.
- Pricing starts at £1,699 for the M5 model, with M5 Pro and M5 Max configurations costing significantly more.
- Pros include potent chips, long battery life, fantastic screen, great camera, ample ports, and excellent speakers/keyboard/trackpad.
- Cons include no Face ID, no USB-A, non-upgradable RAM/SSD, high cost, and the base M5 model's lack of Wi-Fi 7.
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