Apple gave up. The new MacBook with M5 Pro overheats
Recently, Apple presented new systems – M5 Pro and M5 Max. They have been included in the latest MacBook Pros, and they have been in the hands of reviewers for some time now. Therefore, more and more extensive and detailed tests are available online. One of them focused on the differences between the 14″ and 16″ versions of the new laptop. And the conclusions are not optimistic.
Both CPUs reached almost 100°C. Thermal choking has occurred
Specifications are one thing, but there are more and more indications that the 14-inch model of the M5 Pro is not able to maintain its full capabilities under long-term load. The problem is said to be an insufficient cooling system. Apple still relies on a single heatpipe and two low-profile fans. This allows you to maintain a slim body, but not low temperatures.
During rendering tests in Cinebench 2026, the MacBook Pro 14″ (2026) scored 7105, and the MacBook Pro 16″ (2026) scored as many as 9262 points. So we’re talking about 30% worse performance despite only three cores less (15 vs 18). Maintaining clock speeds turned out to be a problem – while the larger laptop maintained 3.65 GHz, the smaller one lowered its clocks to 2.88 GHz.
It is worth emphasizing that both systems reached 100°C – and this despite the maximum operation of the fans (7200 and 5350 RPM respectively). Only that the M5 Pro achieved it with a TDP of only 45 W, while the M5 Max offered as much as 65 W. Additionally, the average temperature of the latter was lower. Of course, this does not apply to lighter loads, but this equipment was not designed for them.
For such thin and strong structures, it seems a logical step to switch to a vapor chamber that could better dissipate heat in a confined space. For now, however, there is no indication that Apple will decide to make such a move with the next generation of MacBook Pro with M6. However, there are rumors that they may be included in new iPads.
