Sony's WH-1000XM5 has big shoes to fill. The XM4 model was widely regarded as the best noise-canceling headphones money could buy, dominating the premium headphone market for years. Now, with increased competition from Apple, Bose, and others, can Sony maintain its crown? After extensive testing across multiple environments and use cases, we have definitive answers.
Smart Features
The WH-1000XM5 comes packed with intelligent features that enhance the user experience:
- Speak-to-Chat: Automatically pauses music w
hen you start speaking
- Adaptive Sound Control: Adjusts noise canceling based on your activity
- Quick Attention: Cup your hand over the right ear cup to instantly lower volume
- Multipoint Bluetooth: Connect to two devices simultaneously
- LDAC Support: High-quality wireless audio codec
Comfort and Fit
Comfort has been significantly improved over the XM4. The redesigned headband distributes weight more evenly, and the softer ear cushions create a better seal without excessive clamping pressure.
During our extended 6+ hour listening sessions, we experienced minimal fatigue. The ear cups are spacious enough for most ear sizes, and the improved ventilation reduces heat buildup.
Battery Life and Charging
Sony promises 30 hours of playback with ANC enabled, and our testing confirmed this claim. With ANC disabled, you can expect up to 40 hours of continuous playback.
The fast charging feature is particularly impressive - just 3 minutes of charging provides 3 hours of playback, making these headphones ideal for travelers who forgot to charge overnight.
vs. Competition
| Feature |
Sony XM5 |
Bose QC45 |
AirPods Max |
| ANC Quality |
Excellent |
Very Good |
Very Good |
| Battery Life |
30 hours |
24 hours |
20 hours |
| Sound Quality |
Excellent |
Good |
Outstanding |
| Comfort |
Excellent |
Very Good |
Good |
| Price |
$399 |
$329 |
$549 |
Sony Headphones Connect App
The companion app provides extensive customization options, including a 5-band EQ, surround sound modes, and detailed noise canceling settings. The interface is intuitive and regularly updated with new features.
The app also enables firmware updates, tracks your listening habits, and allows you to customize touch controls and smart features to your preferences.
Pros
- Industry-leading noise cancellation
- Excellent sound quality
- Outstanding comfort
- Impressive battery life
- Fast charging capability
- Comprehensive app support
- Multipoint Bluetooth
Cons
- No folding design
- Touch controls can be finicky
- Case is quite large
- Price premium over alternatives
- Limited wired connectivity options
Call Quality
Sony has significantly improved call quality with the XM5, featuring beamforming microphones and advanced noise reduction algorithms. Calls sound clear even in noisy environments, though they still can't match dedicated headsets.
The microphones effectively isolate your voice from background noise, making these suitable for video conferences and phone calls during commutes.
Connectivity and Codecs
Bluetooth 5.2 provides stable connectivity with minimal dropouts. The headphones support multiple high-quality codecs including LDAC, which provides near-lossless audio quality when paired with compatible devices.
Multipoint connectivity works flawlessly, allowing seamless switching between devices like your phone and laptop without manual reconnection.
The Sony WH-1000XM5 successfully builds upon the legacy of its predecessors while addressing previous shortcomings. The improved comfort, refined sound signature, and class-leading noise cancellation make these headphones an easy recommendation for most users.
While the lack of a folding design and higher price point may deter some buyers, the overall package represents the pinnacle of consumer noise-canceling headphones in 2024. For frequent travelers, remote workers, and audio enthusiasts, the WH-1000XM5 offers an unmatched combination of features and performance.
Sony has once again proven why they remain the leader in active noise cancellation technology, delivering a product that sets the standard for premium wireless headphones.