Is the M5 worth the extra over the M4?

Only if you push heavy apps or want the longest software support. For browsing, notes, and streaming, the M4 feels the same. Check the live price gap at several stores before paying a premium.

Which has the better screen?

They are effectively the same 13-inch OLED panel: 2752 x 2064 at 264 ppi, ProMotion 10-120Hz, 1,000 nits SDR and 1,600 nits HDR peak. The M5 listing does not break out brightness figures.

Does the M5 have more RAM?

Yes. The M5 configuration lists 12 GB. The M4 comes in 8 GB and 16 GB versions, so check which one a store is selling.

Both are rated at 10 hours. The M4 carries a 38.99 Wh battery. Real runtime depends on brightness and workload, and the M5's newer chip may hold efficiency better under load.

Do accessories fit both?

Yes. The 13-inch M4 and M5 iPad Pro share the same size and magnet layout, so Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro accessories carry over.

For documents, streaming, and cloud photos, yes. For 4K video editing or large Procreate files, plan on external storage or a higher capacity.

Apple iPad Pro 13" M5 vs Apple iPad Pro 13-inch (M4)

Buy the M5 iPad Pro 13" if you want the newest chip, 12 GB of RAM, and the longest software support window. Buy the M4 13-inch if you can find it cheaper and don't need the extra memory. The M5's best new price is $1,399 at the Apple Education Store as of November 5, 2026; the M4 listing here gives no price, so compare live prices before deciding.

Ask our shopping agent

It checks today's price at every store, compares the alternatives and answers in about a minute.