Video: Testing the New M5 Apple Vision Pro

Apple recently refreshed the Apple Vision Pro, adding a new M5 chip for improved performance. There aren't design changes, but Apple did introduce a new Dual Knit Band that's supposed to be more comfortable. MacRumors videographer Dan Barbera picked up one of the new Vision Pro headsets to see how it compares to the prior-generation M2 versions.


Software and hardware are the same if you've been using visionOS 26, but with the M5 chip, performance is noticeably improved. Creating a Persona, generating spatial photos, and using multiple apps at once are all tasks that are quicker.

Apple didn't update the micro-OLED displays in the Vision Pro, but the M5 is able to render 10 percent more pixels and it supports a 120Hz refresh rate, so things look smoother than before. Mac Virtual Display, where the Vision Pro works as a screen for your Mac, looks like two sharp 5K displays side-by-side. Personalized Spatial Audio support adds more accurate directionality for more immersive audio.

To improve the wearing experience, the Vision Pro ships with a Dual Knit Band that replaces the prior Solo Knit Band and Dual Loop that came with the ‌M2‌ model. The Dual Knit Band has a strap that goes over the top of the head and one at the back of the head, which allows for better weight distribution. The back band has weights inside for counterbalance, and it does make a difference in how it feels.

The top and bottom straps can be adjusted using an updated Fit Dial, so each Vision Pro wearer can get an ideal fit. The Dual Knit Band isn't a miracle fix, so while it does make the Vision Pro a little more comfortable to wear, it's still a heavy headset. The M5 Vision Pro continues to be priced at $3,499, and it can be purchased from Apple. ‌M2‌ Vision Pro owners can buy the Dual Knit Band standalone for $99.

Related Roundup: Apple Vision Pro
Buyer's Guide: Vision Pro (Buy Now)
Related Forum: Apple Vision Pro

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Top Rated Comments

vantelimus Avatar
8 weeks ago
I upgraded from M2 to M5. This is a very fair review. I can't disagree with any of the things the reviewer said. His final point was important–most people will find it not worth the price. For me, if it weren't for the Mac Virtual Display, this would be a device I would use once or twice a week to consume immersive video or look at 3D-rendered old photos. If that were the only use, $3500 is too steep. However, as the superior display for my Macs, the ability to isolate myself in an environment while I work, and the freedom to take that experience into any room or on the road, it is worth the price. As I've said in other postings, I won't go back to regular desktop displays unless forced.

On some other things the review covered...

I agree that everything just works a bit smoother. With the M2, I would get an occasional stutter or video tear when using a lot of apps and moving my Mac Virtual Display around. It wasn't a big problem, but it isn't happening now.

I am one of those people who will wear the headset for hours at a time, including all day. I didn't have a problem with the old strap, so I was surprised to find that the new strap does noticeably improve the experience by allowing you to take some of the weight off the front of your face. The dial control is slick.

The persona is better. Unfortunately it accurately captures the fact that I look a year older. The VisionOS 1.0 on the M2 with less detail was better for my ego. I haven't had a chance yet to use FaceTime with it. I'm looking forward to that.
Score: 21 Votes (Like | Disagree)
PBG4 Dude Avatar
8 weeks ago

I wouldn't mind trying this out in the store, but I still don't think I'd buy one.
If nothing else, it’s an amazing tech demo. Apple’s immersive video has to be seen to be believed. It’s far beyond a 3D movie.
Score: 14 Votes (Like | Disagree)
usersince86 Avatar
8 weeks ago
Though I'll probably never own one, I'm grateful for the Vision Pro, knowing that today’s "niche" innovations often shape the future of widely adopted products.
Score: 12 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Apple-achian Avatar
8 weeks ago
Apple paying the price of being the innovator as usual.
Score: 8 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Hogswarts Avatar
8 weeks ago

Are they still demoing in the stores? My local store took down the display about six months after the first model released and never brought it back out.
I've not seen an Apple Store without the AVP on display to demo. (3 out of 3 stores)
Score: 8 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Rychiar Avatar
8 weeks ago
I'm so torn on whether to upgrade. would be a pretty solid tax write off for the year
Score: 6 Votes (Like | Disagree)