Is the M5 worth the extra over the M4?

Only if the price gap is small or you keep tablets for many years. The M5 adds a newer chip and 12GB RAM; the M4 already runs iPadOS pro apps smoothly.

Which has the better screen?

Both are 13-inch OLED at 2752 x 2064. The M4 is documented as Tandem OLED with 10Hz–120Hz ProMotion; the M5 listing does not state a refresh rate.

Which is better for drawing and note-taking?

Both support Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard. Pick on price and chip, not stylus support — it is the same across both.

The M5, on paper. A newer chip and 12GB RAM mean more years of smooth performance and iPadOS updates. Both are rated up to 10 hours of battery.

Do either have cellular?

The M5 listing includes 5G. The M4 is listed as Wi-Fi only in the given specs, though Apple sells cellular versions of that model too.

How much is the M5 right now?

$1,399.00 at the Apple Education Store as of November 5, 2026, with 12 stores listing it new. Compare the M4's current price before deciding.

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

Buy the M5 model if you want the newest chip, 12GB of RAM, and the longest software runway; buy the M4 if you can find it cheaper and don't need the extra headroom. The M5 13-inch 256GB is $1,399.00 at the Apple Education Store as of November 5, 2026, and 12 stores list it new. The M4 is the previous generation, so its street price is the deciding factor — check its current price before committing.

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