Apple MacBook Pro M5 Max vs Apple MacBook Pro 2023
Verdict
Our overall take, at a glance
Key takeaways
- Apple MacBook Pro M5 Max and Apple MacBook Pro 2023 are closely matched overall (within 2 points).
- Apple MacBook Pro M5 Max stands out on Memory capacity: 128 GB, Storage capacity: 8,192 GB, Display Brightness: 1,600 nits.
- Apple MacBook Pro 2023 counters with Memory Technology: Unified, Display resolution: 3200 × 2000 px, Webcam resolution: 3200 × 2000 px.
- Best value: Apple MacBook Pro 2023 (from $1,999) — the strongest score-per-dollar of the two.
Apple MacBook Pro M5 Max and Apple MacBook Pro 2023 are closely matched
$3,599 at launch
Apple MacBook Pro M5 Max
70
Apple MacBook Pro 2023
68
Best value: Apple MacBook Pro 2023 ($1,999)
Where Apple MacBook Pro M5 Max stands out
- Memory capacity: 128 GB
- Storage capacity: 8,192 GB
- Display Brightness: 1,600 nits
Where Apple MacBook Pro 2023 stands out
- Memory Technology: Unified
- Display resolution: 3200 × 2000 px
- Webcam resolution: 3200 × 2000 px
In-depth analysisAI
AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Jun 2026.
Apple MacBook Pro M5 Max
AI analysis isn't ready yet
We haven't generated an in-depth write-up for Apple MacBook Pro M5 Max yet. The specs, scores and strengths profile above still cover it — check back later for the AI summary.
Apple MacBook Pro 2023
The 2023 Apple MacBook Pro is a premium laptop family offered in 14-inch and 16-inch chassis sizes, designed primarily for resource-heavy computing tasks. Configurable with the Apple M2 Pro, M2 Max, or M3 Max chips, these notebooks feature high-contrast Liquid Retina XDR displays and a robust selection of physical expansion ports. The design focuses on bringing back professional utility alongside highly efficient unified memory architecture.
Best for creative professionals handling high-resolution video production and editingBest for developers or power users needing dense port layouts like HDMI and SD slots withBest for users looking for sustained hardware-accelerated performance and light gaming on
Pros
- High-performance capabilities for resource-intensive professional applications
- Excellent physical connectivity with the reintroduction of HDMI, MagSafe, and an SDXC reader
- Vibrant Liquid Retina XDR screens offering superior brightness and color accuracy
- Enhanced graphical architecture in M3 Max configurations that improves high-end gaming viability
Cons
- Sub-optimal solid-state drive speeds on entry-level 256 GB storage tiers for M2-based configurations
- Limitation to a single native external display on standard base-level chip options
Value for Money
Which is the better deal for the price
Pre-filled with launch prices where known — enter today's price for an up-to-date check. Use the same currency for both.
Apple MacBook Pro M5 Max
Apple MacBook Pro 2023
Battery capacity
Larger cell — a hardware spec, not battery life
Apple MacBook Pro M5 Max72.4 Wh
Apple MacBook Pro 2023100 Wh
Capacity is the raw battery size. Real-world battery life depends just as much on the processor, software and display.
Physical Comparison
Weigh them up, then compare real dimensions in 3D
Apple MacBook Pro M5 MaxApple MacBook Pro 2023
Apple MacBook Pro M5 Max is 0.02 kg (1%) heavier than Apple MacBook Pro 2023.
Review Videos
Hand-picked expert reviews for each product
Detailed Specifications
The full spec sheet, side by side