Apple Vision Pro M5 Review — Faster Chip, Better Fit, Same Price

Apple has quietly released an upgraded version of its Vision Pro headset, now powered by the M5 chip, delivering a significant performance boost while retaining the original $3,499 price point. The refresh focuses on internal improvements, including faster processing, smoother visuals, and enhanced comfort via a redesigned Dual Knit Band. The update arrives less than two years after the original M2-powered Vision Pro debuted, signaling Apple’s commitment to refining its spatial computing platform. The new model is available now through Apple’s online store and select retail outlets.

Apple Vision Pro M5 Review highlights the release of Apple’s upgraded headset on October 15, 2025, featuring the M5 chip and a Dual Knit Band for improved comfort. The device is available in 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB configurations, priced at $3,499. The update was launched quietly, without a major event, and focuses on performance gains and wearability. Apple did not change the display hardware but improved rendering and refresh rates through the new chip. The release aligns with Apple’s strategy to iterate quickly in the emerging spatial computing market.

Specs and Feature Enhancements

• Processor:
  • M5 chip with 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU
  • 16-core Neural Engine
  • 153GB/s memory bandwidth
  • Hardware-accelerated ray tracing
• Display:
  • Micro-OLED, 23 million pixels
  • 120Hz refresh rate
  • 10% more pixel rendering via M5 chip
• Comfort:
  • New Dual Knit Band with top and back straps
  • Internal weights for counterbalance
  • Updated Fit Dial for adjustability
• Audio & Visual:
  • Personalized Spatial Audio
  • Mac Virtual Display: dual 5K virtual screens
  • Faster Persona generation and spatial photo creation

Apple confirmed the new band will be sold separately for M2 Vision Pro owners.

Quotes and Reactions

MacRumors review:

“The M5 chip makes multitasking smoother and Persona generation snappier. Comfort is noticeably improved.”

Apple spokesperson (via press release):

“Vision Pro with M5 delivers a leap forward in performance and immersive experience.”

Tech analyst at Gadgets360:

“This isn’t Vision Pro 2, but it’s a meaningful refinement that matters to users.”

Market Position and User Experience

The M5 Vision Pro strengthens Apple’s foothold in the spatial computing space. While the external design remains unchanged, the internal upgrades make the headset more viable for extended use and professional workflows. The improved performance supports more fluid multitasking and sharper visuals, enhancing productivity and entertainment applications. The comfort upgrade addresses one of the most common user complaints from the M2 model.

Apple’s decision to retain the price point makes the M5 model a more compelling value proposition.

What’s Next: Future Updates and Developer Implications

• visionOS 26: Unlocks new spatial apps and immersive content
• Developer Tools: Optimized for M5 chip performance
• Accessory Expansion: Dual Knit Band available separately in November
• Vision Pro 2 Rumors: Expected in late 2026 with further hardware redesign

Apple is expected to showcase new Vision Pro features at WWDC 2026.