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MacBook Pro jumps to M5 Pro and Max silicon, faster storage, and higher prices

Apple's latest MacBook Pro refresh brings next-gen M5 Pro and M5 Max chips, quicker SSD speeds, upgraded connectivity, and a noticeable bump in pricing across configurations.

By Pranob Mehrotra Published March 3, 2026

MacBook Pro. — Apple

Apple’s product blitz shows no signs of slowing down. After unveiling the iPhone 17e and a refreshed iPad Air, the company has now lifted the covers off new MacBook Pro models powered by its M5 Pro and M5 Max chips.

The latest 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro variants are built to raise the ceiling for performance, particularly in AI-heavy and graphics-intensive workflows. Apple says the M5 Pro and M5 Max feature its fastest CPU cores to date, paired with a redesigned GPU architecture focused on higher throughput and better efficiency.

Each GPU core now includes enhanced neural acceleration, allowing complex tasks such as large language model processing, 3D rendering, and high-resolution video editing to run more fluidly on-device. Unified memory bandwidth has been increased to better support demanding creative apps and large-scale projects, while SSD speeds have also been boosted for faster file transfers and app launches.

Like with the iPhone 17e, Apple has raised base storage configurations across the lineup, giving professionals more room to work without relying on external storage. All models with the M5 Pro now come with 1TB of base storage, while the M5 Max variants get 2TB of storage as standard.

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Connectivity is updated as well, with support for Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6, alongside Thunderbolt 5 ports that enable faster data transfer and broader external display support. The Liquid Retina XDR display remains a standout feature, now available with an optional nano texture finish to reduce glare in bright workspaces.

Big upgrades, higher prices

Apple is promising up to 24 hours of battery life, along with a 12MP Center Stage camera, studio-quality microphones, and a six-speaker sound system. The new MacBook Pro models will be offered in space black and silver, with pre-orders opening March 4 and availability beginning March 11.

As for pricing, the 14-inch MacBook Pro with M5 Pro starts at $2,199, while the configuration with M5 Max begins at $3,599. The larger 16-inch model starts at $2,699 with M5 Pro and $3,899 with M5 Max.

Pranob Mehrotra

News Writer

Pranob is a seasoned tech journalist with over eight years of experience covering consumer technology. His work has been…

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