lipflip – Apple’s new M5 processor brings impressive speed and efficiency improvements over its predecessor, the M4 chip. The M5 is part of Apple’s continuing effort to dominate the custom silicon market. Powering both the latest iPad Pro models and the MacBook Pro 14 base model. In our recent reviews of the iPad Pro 11 and the MacBook Pro 14. We compared the new M5 against competing chips from AMD, Intel, and Qualcomm, focusing on both performance and efficiency.
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As expected, the performance of the M5 processor is outstanding, continuing the trend set by the M4. The M5’s increased clock speeds allow it to deliver enhanced single-core and multi-core performance. Making it one of the fastest chips available in consumer devices. Apple’s investment in its own silicon shows clear results, with excellent performance in both everyday tasks and demanding applications.
However, one notable side effect of the M5’s increased power is a reduction in battery life during typical usage. In our Wi-Fi runtime tests, both the new iPad Pro and the MacBook Pro showed shorter battery life compared to devices using the older M4 chip. While the decrease is not drastic, it is noticeable in extended use. The increased power consumption, especially during short periods of peak load, results in quicker battery drain over time.
Efficiency and Power Consumption Challenges
The introduction of the M5 marks Apple’s transition to the third generation of the 3nm manufacturing process. Which allows for higher clock speeds but also demands more power. This increase in power consumption is particularly evident in real-world scenarios. Where devices regularly experience brief but intense spikes in usage. Even though the M5 chip is more powerful than the M4. The extra power needed to sustain higher clock speeds affects battery performance.
This issue becomes more pronounced in passively cooled devices like the iPad Pro and the upcoming MacBook Air. These devices, which rely on passive cooling to manage heat, may experience more significant performance gaps compared to actively cooled devices like the MacBook Pro. The M5’s power demands are likely to result in greater thermal throttling and a bigger difference in performance between passively and actively cooled models than seen with the M4.
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Despite these challenges, Apple’s decision to push for higher clock speeds with the M5 chip is understandable, as it offers clear benefits in terms of raw performance. However, users should be prepared for a slight trade-off in battery life when using these devices for extended periods.
Looking forward, we’re excited to see how Apple’s upcoming M6 generation, which will likely be based on a 2nm process, will address these efficiency concerns while maintaining the high levels of performance users have come to expect from Apple’s custom silicon. With the M6 chips, Apple may find a better balance between performance, power consumption, and battery life, further enhancing the user experience.