iPad Pro M5 vs M4: Tablet Comparison and Protective Cases Analysis from Fommy.com

Apple's iPad Pro lineup continues to set the standard for premium tablets, with the M5 model (launched October 2025) offering targeted improvements over the M4 (May 2024). Both are available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, targeting professionals, creators, and power users who need laptop-level performance in a portable package. Below, we'll compare the two tablets across key categories, then shift to analyzing protective cases from Fommy.com based on their collections for the 11-inch M5, 13-inch (primarily M4-compatible), and 5th Gen (which aligns with older models but includes M4 compatibility in listings). This dual focus helps you understand not just the hardware evolution but also how to safeguard your investment.

iPad Pro M5 vs M4: Hardware and Performance Comparison

The M5 refines the M4's foundation without a complete overhaul, focusing on efficiency, speed, and future-proofing. Here's a breakdown:

Design and Build

Both models share an identical ultra-slim aluminum chassis with flat edges, available in Space Black and Silver. The 11-inch versions measure 249.7 x 177.5 x 5.3mm (444g Wi-Fi/446g cellular), while the 13-inch are 281.6 x 215.5 x 5.1mm (579g Wi-Fi/582g cellular). The M5 includes subtle thermal enhancements for better heat dissipation during prolonged use, but visually and structurally, they're indistinguishable. Compatibility with accessories like the Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard remains the same. Verdict: Tie—the M5's minor tweaks improve sustainability, but no major redesign.

Display

No changes here: Both feature tandem OLED Ultra Retina XDR panels with 120Hz ProMotion, P3 wide color, True Tone, and up to 1600 nits peak brightness (1000 nits sustained). Resolutions are 2420x1668 (11-inch) and 2752x2064 (13-inch), both at 264 ppi. The M5 does offer a slightly lower minimum brightness (1 nit vs. 2-4 nits on M4) for better dark-room viewing. Nano-texture glass is optional on higher storage tiers for both. For HDR content, photo editing, or streaming, performance is identical. Verdict: Tie, with the M5's minor adjustment being negligible for most users.

Performance and Chip

This is where the M5 shines. The M5 chip uses a 3nm (N3P) process vs. the M4's 3nm (N3E), delivering up to 15% faster multithreaded CPU, 30% faster GPU, and 45% faster ray tracing. Memory bandwidth increases 27.5% to 153GB/s, and base RAM jumps to 12GB (256/512GB models) vs. 8GB on M4, with 16GB on 1TB/2TB for both. Storage is up to 2x faster on M5.

Benchmarks reflect this: Geekbench 6 shows M5 leading in single/multi-core scores. In real-world tests, the M5 handles AI tasks (e.g., in Premiere Pro) 2.9x faster and Blender rendering 1.7x quicker. For video editing, 3D modeling, or gaming, the M5 pulls ahead, though the M4 remains capable for most. Verdict: M5 wins for demanding workflows.

Battery and Charging

Capacities are identical (38.99Wh 11-inch, 50.04Wh 13-inch), offering 10 hours Wi-Fi/9 hours cellular use. The M5's efficient chip provides slight gains in mixed scenarios, and it supports faster charging (50% in 30-35 minutes with 60W+ adapters), absent on M4. Verdict: M5 edges out for quicker recharges.

Connectivity

The M5 upgrades to Wi-Fi 7 (vs. 6E), Bluetooth 6 (vs. 5.3), and a new C1X 5G modem (up to 7.5Gbps). External display support now includes 120Hz with Adaptive Sync (vs. 60Hz on M4). Verdict: M5 for better future-proofing.

Cameras, Audio, and Software

Cameras (12MP rear with LiDAR, 12MP front), audio (four-speaker spatial), and sensors are unchanged. Both run iPadOS 19 with Apple Intelligence, but M5's Metal 4 APIs enhance AI development. Verdict: Tie.

Pricing

Identical starting prices: $999 (11-inch Wi-Fi), $1,299 (13-inch Wi-Fi), up to $2,599 for maxed configs. The M5's base RAM boost adds value.

Overall, the M5 is a solid upgrade for performance-intensive users, but M4 owners can skip unless needing the extras.

Comparing Fommy.com Cases for iPad Pro M5 and M4

Fommy.com specializes in affordable, durable accessories like AMZER cases. We'll compare collections from the provided URLs: 11-inch M5 (2025), 13-inch (focused on M4 2024), and 5th Gen (which listings show as M4 11-inch compatible, despite the label—likely referring to the 2024 M4 as "5th Gen" in their categorization). Note: The 13-inch collection primarily features non-case accessories (e.g., cables, stands), with limited case options, suggesting fewer dedicated protections for that size. Many cases are cross-compatible between M4 and M5 due to similar dimensions.

Overview of Collections

• 11-inch M5 (2025) Collection: 3 products, emphasizing rugged, multi-feature cases. Focus on protection for the latest M5, but compatible with M4.
• 13-inch (M4 2024) Collection: 8 products, but mostly accessories like cables and styli, not cases. Compatibility notes for M4, but lacks dedicated cases—perhaps indicating stock issues or focus on smaller sizes.
• 5th Gen (M4 11-inch 2024) Collection: 9 products, including cases and accessories. Strong on protective options, with compatibility extending to M5 and older gens.

Key Case Comparisons

Focusing on protective cases (excluding styli, cables, etc.), common themes include AMZER branding, multi-layer designs for shock absorption, and features like kickstands. Prices are discounted (up to 72% off), making them budget-friendly vs. official Apple cases.

1. AMZER TUFFEN Multilayer Case with 360° Kickstand, Strap, Grip, Pencil Holder
   • In M5 11-inch Collection: $69.95 → $22.95 (Black). Features: Multi-layer (TPU/PC hybrid assumed), general protection, 360° rotating kickstand, shoulder strap, hand grip, pencil holder. Compat: M4/M5 11-inch.
   • In 5th Gen (M4 11-inch) Collection: Same as above, $69.95 → $22.95 (Black). Identical features and compat (extends to older gens like M2/M1).
   • In 13-inch Collection: Not available—collection skews toward non-cases.
   • Comparison: Identical across M5 and M4 11-inch, offering versatile protection for both. Ideal for users needing hands-free viewing or portability. No 13-inch variant listed, so M4/M5 13-inch owners may need alternatives.
2. Kid Proof Protective Foam Case with Handle and Stand
   • In M5 11-inch Collection: $44.95 → $16.95 (Black). Features: EVA foam material, kid-proof (shock-absorbent), handle, stand. Compat: M5/M4 and older/Air models.
   • In 5th Gen (M4 11-inch) Collection: Same, $44.95 → $16.95 (Black). Identical features and broad compat.
   • In 13-inch Collection: Absent.
   • Comparison: Consistent for 11-inch M5 and M4, with rugged foam for drop protection (up to 4-6 feet inferred from similar AMZER). Great for shared or rough use; no 13-inch option.
3. AMZER ShatterProof Screen Protector (Front Coverage)
   • In M5 11-inch Collection: $79.95 → $21.95. Features: Shatterproof (tempered glass-like), front screen protection. No extras. Compat: M4/M5 11-inch.
   • In 5th Gen (M4 11-inch) Collection: Same, $79.95 → $21.95. Identical.
   • In 13-inch Collection: Not present.
   • Comparison: Matching for M5 and M4 11-inch, adding scratch/impact resistance. Essential complement to cases; lacks 13-inch specific.

Other notable items in the 5th Gen (M4) collection include stands and styli, which could pair with cases, but the 13-inch focuses on charging cables (e.g., 60W USB-C, $24.95 → $6.95) and general holders—not direct cases.

Overall Case Analysis

• Protection Levels: M5/M4 11-inch cases emphasize multi-layer (TUFFEN) and foam (Kid Proof) for shockproofing, while screen protectors add shatter resistance. No MIL-STD ratings listed, but AMZER typically offers drop protection up to 4 feet. 13-inch lacks dedicated cases, suggesting compatibility with universal options or stock shortages.
• Features and Versatility: M5 and M4 11-inch share extras like kickstands, straps, and holders, enhancing productivity (e.g., for note-taking with Pencil). Broad compat means M4 cases work on M5 and vice versa.
• Pricing and Value: Deep discounts (60-70% off) make Fommy affordable ($16.95-$22.95) vs. premium brands like OtterBox ($50+). Promotions like "Buy 2 get 10% off" add appeal for bulk buys.
• Compatibility Notes: M5 11-inch cases explicitly support M4/M5; 5th Gen extends to older gens; 13-inch is M4-focused but accessory-heavy.
• Recommendations: For M5/M4 11-inch owners, TUFFEN offers best all-around protection. 13-inch users may need to check Fommy's general tablet section or alternatives, as the collection is limited.

For a visual of the AMZER TUFFEN case, common across collections: This shows its multi-feature design.

In summary, the M5 edges the M4 in performance and connectivity, ideal for upgrades. Fommy.com's cases provide solid, affordable protection, with strong options for 11-inch models but gaps for 13-inch—cross-compat helps bridge this.