MacBook Pro (M4 series) vs MacBook Pro (M5 series)
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MacBook Pro (M4 series)
Starting at
£1,388.68£1,758.90 new
MacBook Pro (M5 series)
Starting at
£1,950.44What's the difference between the MacBook Pro (M4 series) and MacBook Pro (M5 series)?
MacBook Pro (M4 series) vs MacBook Pro (M5 series) comes down to the RAM. Refurbished, the MacBook Pro (M4 series) starts at £1388.68, £561.76 less than the MacBook Pro (M5 series). The MacBook Pro (M5 series) is the newer model, released in 2025.
Refurbished from
RAM
- The MacBook Pro (M4 series) has more RAM: 24 GB vs 16 GB.
MacBook Pro (M4 series) vs MacBook Pro (M5 series) specs
The MacBook Pro M4 and M5 series share many features like the same maximum macOS support, 10-core GPU, and screen resolution. The M4 series offers more RAM at 24 GB, suiting users who run multiple demanding apps at once, while the M5 series has 16 GB of RAM but adds a higher resolution webcam and an option for up to 2TB of storage. Screen brightness and audio systems slightly differ, which may matter if you often work in very bright environments or want specific speaker setups. Both models offer the same ports and connectivity, making either a solid choice depending on your needs for memory, storage, and camera quality.
MacBook Pro (M4 series) vs MacBook Pro (M5 series) price
Colour
MacBook Pro (M4 series) vs MacBook Pro (M5 series) battery life and software updates
Durability includes operating system support and release timing, which can affect how long your device stays current and compatible.
Operating System Support
Both the MacBook Pro M4 and M5 series support macOS Tahoe, so either will run the latest supported system and receive the same software updates. This means your device will stay current with Apple's ecosystem for the same period.
Release Year
The MacBook Pro M4 was released in 2024 and the M5 in 2025. The release year gives context but does not imply a difference in durability or software lifespan between the two.
Maximum operating system supported
Year of release
MacBook Pro (M4 series) vs MacBook Pro (M5 series) performance
Performance is shaped by RAM, storage options, and core components, which influence multitasking, file capacity, and overall speed.
Memory Capacity
The MacBook Pro M4 series comes with 24 GB of RAM, which suits users who need to keep many apps or heavy programs open at once. The M5 series has 16 GB of RAM, which supports everyday multitasking well but is better suited to users with lighter workloads or fewer simultaneous apps.
Storage Options
Both models offer 512 GB and 1 TB storage options, with the M5 series also available with 2 TB. The larger 2 TB option on the M5 suits users needing substantial space for large files such as videos or photo libraries, while the other sizes cover typical needs.
Graphic card
Macbook architecture
Processor brand
Processor speed ghz
RAM
Storage type
MacBook Pro (M4 series) vs MacBook Pro (M5 series) screen
Screen quality affects your viewing experience, especially for brightness and clarity in different lighting conditions.
Brightness Levels
The MacBook Pro M4 series supports up to 1000 nits sustained full-screen brightness and peaks at 1600 nits, which can help when working in bright or outdoor environments. The M5 series offers 1000 nits brightness, making it suitable for typical indoor use and consistent viewing quality.
Ips
Resolution
Retina
Screen brightness
Screen size
Screen type
True tone
MacBook Pro (M4 series) vs MacBook Pro (M5 series) camera
Audiovisual features include camera resolution and speaker quality, which impact video calls and media playback.
Webcam Definition
The MacBook Pro M5 series has a 12 MP webcam, offering a higher resolution that captures more detail for video calls and recordings. The M4 series has a 1080p webcam, which provides clear video suitable for everyday video conferencing.
Speaker System
The M4 series features a high-fidelity six-speaker sound system with force-cancelling woofers, designed to deliver rich audio. The M5 series includes six speakers but without mention of force-cancelling woofers, which may suit users focused on balanced sound for media and calls.
Front camera definition
Speakers
Webcam
MacBook Pro (M4 series) vs MacBook Pro (M5 series) size and design
Other features like ports, wireless connectivity, and special display functions can influence compatibility and daily convenience.
Card Slot Type
The MacBook Pro M4 series supports SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards, which covers a wide range of Secure Digital formats. The M5 series supports SDXC cards, suited for users who primarily use this card type for media transfer.
Webcam Resolution
The MacBook Pro M5's 12 MP webcam suits users who prioritise higher camera detail, such as for video calls or content creation. The M4's 1080p webcam still delivers a solid video experience for typical use.
Ports and Connectivity
Both models feature three USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports, MagSafe 3 and USB-C charging, HDMI output, a headphone jack, Bluetooth 5.3, and Wi-Fi 6 802.11ax. These features ensure compatibility with a wide range of accessories and fast wireless connections.
Weight and Screen Features
Both models weigh 1550 g and have 14-inch Liquid Retina XDR displays with True Tone and Promotion technology. This balance of portability and high-quality visuals suits users who want a consistent, vibrant screen in a lightweight laptop.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth version
Card slot
Charger compatibility
Depth
Hdmi output
Height
Jack plug
Keyboard language type
Neural engine
Promotion
Release date
Touch
Touch bar
Usb typec thunderbolt 4 ports
Usbc port
Webcam definition
Weight
Width
Wifi technology
MacBook Pro (M4 series) or MacBook Pro (M5 series): which should you buy?
Buy the MacBook Pro (M4 series) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £1388.68, £561.76 less than the MacBook Pro (M5 series)
- you want more RAM (24 GB vs 16 GB)
Buy the MacBook Pro (M5 series) if
- you want the newer model (2025)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the MacBook Pro M4 series appreciate its fast boot times and smooth performance for everyday use and photo editing. Many mention the screen looks good indoors and the battery life suits a full day of work or study. Some note minor marks on the body but feel these do not affect usability. The 24 GB RAM and 512 GB storage meet the needs of users handling multiple apps or moderate media files. The silver and Space Black finishes are popular, with some users finding the silver a bit more matte than expected.
Buyers of the MacBook Pro M5 series praise its clean condition and smooth performance, especially for work and larger file storage needs. The 2 TB storage option is valued by those working with large photo or video files. The 12 MP webcam is seen as a step up for video calls and content creation. Some users note the device can get warm under heavy use, but it handles typical workloads well. Battery life generally lasts through a workday, with silver and Space Black finishes both popular choices.
Overall, customers looking for higher RAM and slightly brighter screen options tend to favour the MacBook Pro M4 series, while those needing more storage and a higher resolution webcam find the MacBook Pro M5 series well suited to their needs.
MacBook Pro (M4 series) vs MacBook Pro (M5 series) FAQs
MacBook Pro (M4 series) vs MacBook Pro (M5 series) comes down to the RAM. The MacBook Pro (M4 series) has more RAM: 24 GB vs 16 GB.
The MacBook Pro (M4 series) is cheaper refurbished, from £1388.68 compared with £1950.44 for the MacBook Pro (M5 series).
The MacBook Pro (M5 series) is newer, but the main specs we compare are the same. Refurbished, it costs £561.76 more (from £1950.44 vs £1388.68).
Refurbished, the MacBook Pro (M4 series) comes in 512GB and 1TB, and the MacBook Pro (M5 series) in 512GB, 1TB and 2TB.
