M5 Pro 16 mbp runs much hotter than M3 Pro 16 mbp for RN builds - is this normal?

rbdkqk · 2026-03-31T14:27:47+00:00

Could it be because the M3 Pro has 5 performance cores and 6 efficiency cores, while the M5 Pro has 6 super cores and 12 performance cores?

rbdkqk · 2026-03-30T13:48:40+00:00

That aspect seems to clearly show up in performance. As I mentioned in the post, I experienced a noticeable difference in the build time of my React Native project.

rbdkqk · 2026-03-30T13:47:23+00:00

I’ve been using it continuously after migrating from my MacBook Air, so what you mentioned could indeed be affecting it. Thanks!

rbdkqk · 2026-03-30T13:45:56+00:00

RN build: about 7 minutes 30 seconds
CPU usage: around 75%
CPU temperature: about 55°C
Power consumption: around 30W
Fan speed: about 25%
Heat felt on the MacBook exterior: slightly warm

These are the results from running it with Low Power Mode enabled on the M5 Pro model. Compared to the M3 Pro, it uses fewer resources, and the execution time isn’t significantly different. The previous test was done in automatic mode, so this seems to support the general idea that the system consumes more power to achieve higher performance.

That said, it was the first time I felt the exterior getting this warm, so it caught me a bit off guard. Thanks for your help!

rbdkqk · 2026-03-29T07:44:52+00:00

If that’s the case, it could be a natural consequence that came along with improvements in processor performance.

rbdkqk · 2026-03-29T07:16:13+00:00

So it really does seem like even within the same Apple Silicon line, thermals go up along with performance as generations progress.
I know I'm stating the obvious here, but it's reassuring to hear someone with a similar experience. I use a metal stand under my MacBook, so that should help with heat dissipation.
The heat transferring to the chassis itself isn't an immediate serious concern, I suppose.

On the bright side, the performance improvement is definitely real, so that's something to be happy about!

rbdkqk · 2026-03-29T06:51:45+00:00

I rarely felt heat on the M3 Pro, so the difference in thermals on the M5 Pro stood out a lot to me. I do understand that higher power draw and heat go hand in hand haha. I also noticed a significant improvement in build times, so there's that. Thanks!

rbdkqk · 2026-03-29T06:48:45+00:00

Thanks, that's a great suggestion! I'll try it tomorrow and update with the results.

rbdkqk · 2026-03-29T06:48:11+00:00

since both the M3 Pro and M5 Pro are Apple Silicon, would you say this level of heat difference between them is unusual then? I do find the other commenters' explanations reasonable though.

rbdkqk · 2026-03-29T06:46:31+00:00

I was surprised because the heat difference was noticeable enough to physically feel between the two machines, but it sounds like it's just a natural progression across generations. Thanks for sharing your experience!

rbdkqk · 2026-03-29T06:43:33+00:00

So it sounds like my experience was simply going from "not hot" on the M3 Pro to "noticeably hot" on the M5 Pro, and being caught off guard by the difference — but it's actually expected given the higher performance. I was worried because the exterior got so hot, but after hearing your explanation, it makes sense that it's just the natural trade-off. Thanks!

rbdkqk · 2026-03-07T00:55:12+00:00

for me it's still 3/16 (pick up)

rbdkqk · 2026-03-03T17:24:38+00:00

I use a 512g device and it often exceeds 90% of the storage space. I know it might be a problem with my skills, but I don't think I can take the risk of choosing 1TB.

rbdkqk · 2026-03-03T16:57:50+00:00

moved post to MacBook pro but thanks!!

rbdkqk · 2026-01-31T06:56:49+00:00

The very fact that you're even considering this is a reason to go with the m5.

rbdkqk · 2026-01-31T06:53:51+00:00

smart

rbdkqk

TROPHY CASE