Apple’s latest M5 iPad Pro is already making headlines, and the early AAA gaming benchmarks prove this device is not just for creative professionals—it’s a portable gaming powerhouse.
In a recent series of real-world tests, the M5 iPad Pro handled high-demand titles like Resident Evil 4 Remake, No Man’s Sky, and Assassin’s Creed Mirage with notable improvements in frame stability and thermal performance compared to the M4 iPad Pro.
Performance Leap You Can Feel
The M5 chip, built on Apple’s next-gen 3nm+ architecture, offers up to 30% faster GPU performance. During intensive gameplay, the M5 model maintained a steady 120fps on the ProMotion display, while the M4 model occasionally dipped below 90fps in similar conditions.
Gamers also report significantly less heat buildup—a major win for long sessions. The iPad stays cool, even when playing graphically demanding titles for over an hour, thanks to improved thermal regulation.
Console-Class Experience
Beyond raw performance, Apple’s optimization with Metal 4 and dynamic shading brings console-quality visuals to iPad gaming. Textures are sharper, reflections are richer, and lighting feels more natural than ever before. Paired with OLED Ultra Retina XDR, the visuals are simply breathtaking.
Even controller latency and touch response show better consistency—making the M5 iPad Pro the closest experience to a handheld console Apple has ever delivered.
Is It Worth the Upgrade?
For creators, the M4 iPad Pro is still incredibly powerful. But for mobile gamers or anyone looking to future-proof their device for high-end games coming to iPadOS, the M5 version clearly takes the lead.
With upcoming titles like Death Stranding Director’s Cut and Control Ultimate Edition optimized for Apple Silicon, the M5 iPad Pro might be the ultimate portable gaming device of 2025.