The new MacBook Pro lineup arrives with two primary display sizes and significant performance variations based on the M5 Pro and M5 Max chips. Pricing for the 14-inch model starts at $2,899, while the 16-inch version begins at $3,399. Apple has positioned these as the highest-end machines in their portfolio, with the 16-inch model featuring a 16.3-inch display, while the 14-inch model offers a 14.3-inch screen.
Reviewers Reveal High Costs for Upgraded Configurations
Review units have highlighted the premium cost of these upgrades. One 14-inch M5 Pro configuration, featuring an 18-core CPU, 20-core GPU, and 64GB of unified memory, retails for $4,099. Another unit tested by reviewers, equipped with an M5 Max chip, 48GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD, was priced at $3,699. Apple also offers an optional $150 nano-texture coating, though some reviewers suggest that the standard screen performs well enough to skip this addition.
Lab Tests Measure High Peak Brightness Levels
The PROLED XDR display utilizes tandem OLED technology, which Apple states delivers a 10,000,000:1 contrast ratio with peak HDR brightness reaching 2,000 nits and 1,000 nits of sustained brightness. Lab tests by Tom’s Guide measured the 14-inch model at 1980 nits peak HDR brightness and the 16-inch model at 1949 nits.
While the hardware now supports touch, reviewers have expressed varying perspectives on the utility of the feature. David Pierce of The Verge stated that touch input has not meaningfully changed the laptop experience,
while a 9to5Mac reviewer described the touchscreen as a “nice-to-have” rather than a reinvention of Mac usage. Some users have noted that the touch interface acts as a mouse emulator, supporting scrolling and the manipulation of 3D objects. However, others pointed out limitations, such as the lack of Apple Pencil support, meaning inputs are not pressure-sensitive.
Chassis Refinements Accommodate Larger Batteries and Displays
Beyond the display, the MacBook Pro chassis has undergone refinements to accommodate the OLED hardware and battery requirements. Apple increased the 14-inch model’s battery to 72.6Wh, while the 16-inch model maintains its 100Wh capacity. The design also incorporates the Dynamic Island, replacing the previous notch, which users have praised for its ability to manage Live Activities and media playback controls.
Performance metrics remain high. In 3DMark Steel Nomad tests, the M5 Max chip scored 4,355, outperforming previous generations. Graphics benchmarks show the M5 Max performing significantly better than the M5 Pro, with the 16-inch model achieving a high performance score in 3DMark Wild Life Extreme Unlimited.
Professional Users Utilize Advanced Connectivity and Ports
The transition to PROLED technology follows its debut in the 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Pro tablets released in 2024. For professional users, the machine offers Thunderbolt 5 connectivity and an HDMI port. Sidus Link Pro has been highlighted as an app that demonstrates the potential of the touch interface for filmmakers. Despite the debate over touch, the machine’s ability to handle high-end color grading and visual content remains a primary draw for the professional market.
Following the initial availability in Australia and New Zealand on November 6, the rollout continues across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and North America. While Apple retail locations may have limited stock, online orders are scheduled for shipping in late November or early December.
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Of course I had to virtualize one of the new PROLED MacBook Pros. The first thing I wanted to see: how the Dynamic Island responds to the mouse cursor. pic.twitter.com/2WFtYNqr4j
— https://x.com/_inside/status/2117695957865222429
I’ve been testing Apple’s new MacBook Pro with PROLED XDR Display. The OLED screen is gorgeous. But Apple’s first touchscreen Mac has a dirty little secret: fingerprints. Everywhere. 🕵️♀️ So just how bad is the crime scene? I investigated. pic.twitter.com/UxE7IqDUUD
— https://x.com/JoannaStern/status/2118347015088165099
iPad Pro M5 – M4 Pro MacBook Pro – M5 Max 16" MacBook Pro PROLED XDR All nano texture, all max brightness. Hard to convey how much this display beats everything else. It's so bright and colorful. pic.twitter.com/OEpFeiVQwO
— https://x.com/viticci/status/2118674597704785947
The glowing Apple logo on the new MacBook Pro is controllable by software. It has 25kHz PWM and per-device calibration. CoreBrightness controls the relationship between screen and logo brightness. The brightness of the logo is adjusted differently depending on the enclosure color pic.twitter.com/baqBEkzJUo
— https://x.com/_inside/status/2117975024313188462