Apple removes 512GB configuration from MacBook Pro M5 and raises minimum storage

Apple has quietly removed the 512 GB configuration of the MacBook Pro equipped with M5 chip from the official online store. The change came into force on March 2, 2026, shortly after the announcement of new models with M5 Pro and M5 Max processors. As a result, the 14-inch model with M5 chip now offers only 1 TB of SSD as a minimum storage capacity.

The change directly affects the entry point of the MacBook Pro line with M5, originally launched in October 2025. The notebook maintained SSD options starting at 512 GB, combined with 16 GB of factory unified memory. Apple’s decision reflects a strategy in alignment with current demands from professional users, who deal with larger files in areas such as 4K video editing, software development and artificial intelligence applications.

Major configuration changes

• Minimum SSD capacity increased from 512 GB to 1 TB in the base model with M5 chip
• Starting price adjusted to reflect new standard 1TB storage
• Configurations with 24 GB of RAM and 1 TB of SSD are more accessible than before
• M5 chip continues with ten-core CPU and ten-core GPU unchanged
• Finish options maintained in silver and space black

Commercial motivations for the change

The company chose to eliminate the lower capacity variant at a time of high demand for larger internal storage. Custos of NAND memory components have shown recent variations in the global market, which influences portfolio decisions on premium products. The Apple applies similar adjustments to other lines, such as the iPad and iPhone, where minimum capacities have also increased in recent launches.

The movement allows you to deliver consistent performance without compromising the user experience in tasks that require considerable free space. Modelos with more advanced chips, such as M5 Pro and M5 Max, started with 1 TB or 2 TB, creating greater uniformity in the MacBook Pro family.

Price comparison before and after

The 14-inch MacBook Pro with M5 and 1TB SSD now costs less than the previous equivalent configuration with the same storage and 16GB RAM. The effective reduction reaches amounts close to PLN 500 in some regions, depending on conversion and local taxes. Variantes with 24 GB of unified memory also saw comparable price drops.

These adjustments partially offset the mandatory minimum SSD increase. Consumidores who were planning a storage upgrade found a more advantageous proposition when purchasing the updated configuration directly.

Availability and specifications maintained

The product continues to be sold at Apple Store and authorized partners without interruption. Battery life remains up to 24 hours for mixed use, and the M5 chip’s performance remains adequate for editing, programming, and heavy multitasking. The 14-inch Liquid Retina XDR display maintains a maximum brightness of 1600 nits in HDR and a ProMotion refresh rate of up to 120 Hz.

Apple continues to position the MacBook Pro with M5 as a balanced option between portability and power for creators and professionals who do not need the Pro or Max chips.