MacBook Pro with M5 chip: Here’s what to expect from Apple’s next ‘most powerful laptop’

MacBook Pro

Apple’s next refresh of the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models will reportedly arrive in early 2026, marking a shift from its typical year-end update cycle. These models will introduce the M5, M5 Pro and M5 Max chips, bringing incremental performance and efficiency improvements, alongside Wi-Fi 7 connectivity.

The M5 chip family is expected to be built on TSMC’s advanced 3nm process, with Apple continuing its tight control over silicon and hardware optimisation. While the upgrade is expected to deliver improved CPU and GPU performance, the MacBook Pro’s overall design will remain unchanged for now.

If you're waiting for a major visual overhaul, you'll likely have to wait until late 2026. Apple is said to be working on slimmer MacBook Pro designs with OLED displays, but that revamp is being pushed to coincide with the M6 chip generation. Until then, users can expect only internal spec updates on the existing chassis.

What to expect from the M5 MacBook Pro:

• M5, M5 Pro and M5 Max chips based on third-gen 3nm process
• Improved power efficiency and thermal management
• Faster Wi-Fi 7 wireless connectivity
• No chassis redesign or screen upgrade
• macOS optimisations geared toward AI workflows and on-device tasks

Should you wait to upgrade?

If you're using an M1 or early M2 MacBook Pro, the M5 could be a worthwhile step up in early 2026—especially for creative workloads and future AI tools. However, if you’re on the M3 or M4 and design is a priority, it may be smarter to wait until late 2026 when Apple introduces OLED displays and a new look.

Apple’s M5 MacBook Pro won’t bring a dramatic shift in design, but it will deliver meaningful improvements for users seeking better wireless performance and sustained speeds. If you can hold out until the end of 2026, the redesigned OLED version may be the real upgrade to watch for.