At its launch, Apple told us that the new fifth-generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro (M1, 2021) was fast but the latest benchmark scores show just how fast. Over five tests, the new iPad Pro was more than 50% faster than the fourth-generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro. In fact, its scores are so fast that it even beats a top-spec 16-inch MacBook Pro with Intel i9 processor.
According to MacRumors, the tests logged on Geekbench show an average single core score of 1,718 and a multi-core score of 7,284 (1,712 and 7,207, if you average all nine scores). Comparing this to the fourth-gen 12.9-inch iPad Pro scores of 1,121 and 4,656, the M1 model comes in at 53% and 56% faster for single and multi-core respectively.
Apple’s release does state that the M1 model offers a 50% faster CPU performance, so the numbers should be no surprise. What is impressive though is when you put it against Apple’s fastest Intel MacBook Pro, which has average scores of 1,091 single and 6,845 multi-core. In multi-core alone, that makes it 6% faster.
- 5 things to expect at Google I/O 2021: Android 12, Pixel 5a and more
- A lost iPhone in the car to be a thing of the past thanks to an Apple Car invention
- Where to buy PS5 in the next 24 hours: latest PS5 restock news
Graphics also gets an impressive boost. Scores from the new iPad Pro M1 come in around 71% faster than the fourth generation using Geekbench’s Metal API. That’s considerably better than the 40% Apple promised.
Right now, this seems a lot of power for an iPad and with the current crop of apps and OS, the new processor isn’t fulfilling its potential. This, however, could change with the upcoming iPadOS 15 and hopefully some more extensive video editing tools.
Upgrade to smarter living
Get the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products straight to your inbox.
As T3's Editor-in-Chief, Mat Gallagher has his finger on the pulse for the latest advances in technology. He has written about technology since 2003 and after stints in Beijing, Hong Kong and Chicago is now based in the UK. He’s a true lover of gadgets, but especially anything that involves cameras, Apple, electric cars, musical instruments or travel.
-
Pilates teacher shares a 10-minute bodyweight workout that will improve full-body strength and boost energy
Move your body, feel better
By Bryony Firth-Bernard Published
-
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra dummy unit proves it's what's inside that really counts
It looks like the Galaxy S25 Ultra isn’t going to change all that much – or is it?
By Chris Hall Published
-
Apple leak reveals a new iPad mini could be coming at last
It's been three years since its last refresh but the iPad mini 7 could finally be on its way
By Britta O'Boyle Published
-
Apple iPad event 2024 recap – new iPad Pro, iPad Air and Pencil Pro
Apple announced new iPad Pro models, a giant iPad Air, and more – here’s the recap of our live blog
By Rik Henderson Last updated
-
Apple confirms new iPad Pro launch date as Special Event invites arrive
You'll be able to watch it all online
By Rik Henderson Published
-
You won't have long to wait for new iPads, Apple plans a bumper launch soon
An Apple expert expects new iPad Pro and iPad Air models within weeks
By Rik Henderson Published
-
OLED iPad Pro reportedly in production for April delivery
Apple’s new Pros could bring the best screens you’ve ever seen on an iPad
By Carrie Marshall Published
-
The M2 MacBook Pro may finally have a worthy opponent
Apple Silicon's M1 and M2 chips have raised the game for computer processing
By Sam Cross Published
-
iPad Pro M2 vs iPad Pro M1: what's new in 2022
Should you rush out and get the M2, or skip this one and wait for the next generation?
By Carrie Marshall Last updated
-
Apple iPad Pro M2 launches with 11 and 12.9 inch models
The new faster iPad Pro models feature hover-over Apple Pencil control, Wi-Fi 6E and ProRes video capture
By Mat Gallagher Last updated