Bram Akkermans

MacBook Pro M5 Pro and M5 Max (2026): These Are the Biggest Improvements

Apple has introduced the new generation MacBook Pro with M5 Pro and M5 Max. These laptops are designed for professionals who need maximum performance for AI workflows, software development, video editing, and 3D rendering. The new chips, faster connectivity, and larger memory options make this MacBook Pro more powerful than ever.

Table of contents

• M5 Pro and M5 Max chips
• More storage as standard
• More RAM available
• Faster memory bandwidth
• Bluetooth 6 and Wi-Fi 7
• Who is this MacBook Pro for?

M5 Pro and M5 Max chips

The biggest upgrade of the new MacBook Pro is the introduction of the M5 Pro and M5 Max chips. Apple has further developed the Apple Silicon architecture with a new CPU structure and a more powerful GPU.

The new chips feature a CPU with up to 18 cores, including six so-called supercores. These cores are designed for extremely high single-thread performance, while the remaining cores focus on efficient multitasking.

In professional workloads, this can deliver up to 30% better performance compared to the previous generation M4 Pro and M4 Max.

More storage as standard

With this generation of MacBook Pro, Apple has also increased the standard storage capacity. While previous models often started with 512GB of storage, the new MacBook Pro with M5 Pro now starts with 1TB SSD storage as standard.

The M5 Max variant goes even further and starts with 2TB of storage. For users working with large projects, storage can be expanded up to 8TB.

This is especially useful for professionals working with large media files, extensive photo libraries, or complex software projects.

More RAM available

The amount of memory has also been expanded. With the M5 Pro, memory can now be configured up to 64GB RAM. The more powerful M5 Max models go even further and support up to 128GB of memory.

More RAM means heavy applications such as video editing software, 3D programs, and AI tools can process much more data simultaneously without the system needing to rely on the SSD.

Faster memory bandwidth

One of the biggest advantages of Apple Silicon remains its high memory bandwidth. With the new chips, this has been increased even further.

The M5 Pro offers bandwidth up to 307GB/s, while the M5 Max can reach up to 614GB/s.

This ensures that the CPU, GPU, and memory can exchange data much faster. For workflows such as 4K and 8K video editing, AI models, and complex 3D scenes, this can make a significant difference.

Bluetooth 6 and Wi-Fi 7

The MacBook Pro with M5 Pro and M5 Max also features improved connectivity. Thanks to a new chip, the laptop now supports Bluetooth 6.

This standard provides a more stable connection and lower latency for accessories such as keyboards, mice, controllers, and wireless earbuds/headphones.

In addition, the laptop now supports Wi-Fi 7. This latest Wi-Fi standard enables higher speeds and more stable connections, especially in networks where many devices are active at the same time.

Who is this MacBook Pro for?

The MacBook Pro with M5 Pro and M5 Max is primarily designed for professionals who work daily with demanding software and large datasets.

Examples include developers, video creators, AI researchers, data analysts, and 3D designers. Thanks to the combination of powerful CPU cores, a fast GPU, and enormous memory bandwidth, the laptop can handle even the most demanding workflows.

For users looking for maximum performance in a portable laptop, the MacBook Pro with M5 Pro or M5 Max is one of the most powerful options currently available.

Quick facts: MacBook Pro M5

View quick facts

MacBook Pro M5 models

MacBook Pro 14”

M5 Pro chip with extreme performance for developers and creatives.

MacBook Pro 16”

More GPU power and larger battery for heavy workflows.

MacBook Pro slideshow

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Everything You Need to Know About the New MacBook Neo: Apple’s Newest and Most Affordable MacBook

For many years, Apple has offered two well-known MacBook product lines: the MacBook Air and the MacBook Pro. In the past, there was also an entry-level model simply called the “MacBook,” with the last version being the 12-inch MacBook.

Now Apple is introducing a new member to the MacBook lineup: the MacBook Neo. But what makes this new MacBook different? What features does it offer, and why might this be the right model for you?

Apple’s New Entry-Level MacBook Neo at a Glance

The new MacBook Neo 2026 is Apple’s entry-level model that expands the MacBook lineup alongside the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro. With a starting price of €699, it is the most affordable MacBook Apple has released so far.

The MacBook Neo runs on the powerful A18 Pro chip, which we already know from the latest iPhones. Its aluminum design is available in four light and vibrant colors, and the 13-inch display provides a compact yet comfortable viewing experience.

In addition, the laptop features two USB-C ports and an impressive battery life of up to 16 hours, making it ideal for anyone looking for an affordable yet capable laptop. The MacBook Neo could even be an alternative to the entry-level iPad for users who want more performance and versatility. The model is expected to launch on March 11, 2026, with a starting price of €699.

Why Apple Is Introducing the MacBook Neo

Apple has enjoyed years of success with the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro, but many laptops from other brands are still significantly cheaper. For example, Chromebooks are widely used in education due to their low price.

With the new MacBook Neo, Apple aims to offer a more accessible entry-level MacBook. This allows the company to better compete with lower-priced laptops while still giving users access to the macOS experience and the broader Apple ecosystem.

Design and Colors

The MacBook Neo features an aluminum design and is slightly more compact than the 13-inch MacBook Air. Weighing around 1.23 kilograms, it remains a lightweight and portable laptop that is easy to carry to school, work, or while traveling.

Apple is releasing this model in several eye-catching colors: silver, indigo, blush, and citrus. This makes it one of the first MacBooks available in such a wide range of vibrant colors.

Performance: A MacBook with an iPhone Chip

One of the most notable aspects of the MacBook Neo is that it runs on the A18 Pro chip, a processor also found in the latest iPhones. This chip is powerful enough for everyday tasks such as browsing the web, creating documents, and performing light photo or video editing.

For students, home users, and light business tasks, the MacBook Neo offers more than enough performance. Apple chose this chip to keep the laptop affordable while still delivering solid performance for daily use.

Key Specifications

The MacBook Neo comes with a 13-inch display, 8GB of RAM, and at least 256GB of storage. The laptop includes two USB-C ports, a headphone jack, and a 1080p FaceTime camera.

It also offers a battery life of up to 16 hours of video streaming and about 11 hours of wireless web browsing, allowing you to work throughout the day without needing to recharge.

Price and Release

The MacBook Neo is the most affordable MacBook Apple has released so far. The entry-level model with 256GB of storage costs €699, while the version with 512GB of storage costs €799.

Apple announced the laptop on March 4, 2026, and the official release is scheduled for March 11, 2026. From that moment, the MacBook Neo will be available in the Netherlands and Belgium.

Is the MacBook Neo Worth Buying?

The new MacBook Neo offers an affordable entry into the Apple ecosystem, featuring a lightweight and compact design, vibrant colors, and a battery that easily lasts all day. Thanks to the A18 Pro chip, it is powerful enough for everyday tasks such as browsing the web, creating documents, and light photo or video editing.

If you are looking for a budget-friendly MacBook without too many extras, the MacBook Neo is an attractive alternative to the more expensive MacBook Air. For students, home users, or anyone who wants a compact laptop with Apple quality, it is definitely worth considering.

In short, the MacBook Neo combines a competitive price with the familiar Apple experience, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for an entry-level MacBook.