M5 MacBook Pro Runs Cooler than M4 Despite Higher Performance, But Still Faces Thermal Limits
Cupertino, CA - Apple’s newly released M5 MacBook pro delivers a notable performance boost over its M4 predecessor, notably in graphically intensive tasks like ray tracing in Cyberpunk 2077. However, testing reveals the M5 chip can still reach temperatures as high as 99 degrees Celsius under sustained load, despite running, on average, cooler than the M4. This suggests Apple’s single-fan cooling solution is being pushed too its limits, possibly leading to thermal throttling in demanding workflows.
The findings, reported by Max Tech, show the M5 averages 98.95 degrees Celsius with a maximum core temperature of 99 degrees Celsius during a Cinebench 2024 multi-core test, consuming 21.81W of power. In comparison, the M4 reached an average of 100.9 degrees Celsius with a peak of 114 degrees Celsius while drawing 18.4W during the same test. While the M5 operates at a slightly higher power draw, the lower peak and average temperatures indicate improved thermal efficiency-a crucial factor given the chip’s significant performance gains. The M5 MacBook Pro achieved a 290% framerate increase in Cyberpunk 2077 with ray tracing enabled, according to Wccftech, demonstrating its enhanced capabilities.
For existing M4 macbook Pro owners seeking lower temperatures, a potential solution involves replacing the thermal paste with PTM7950 thermal pads, available for $35.99. However, this requires a degree of technical expertise as it involves disassembling and reassembling the MacBook Pro. The base model of the M5 MacBook Pro is currently listed on Amazon for $1,584 in the Space Black finish.
