Sony Wh 1000Xm5 Review

The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones represent a significant evolution in noise-canceling technology and overall audio performance, offering a refined experience over their highly acclaimed predecessors. If you’re looking for an executive summary, these are currently among the best noise-canceling headphones you can buy, excelling in sound quality, call clarity, and advanced features, though they come with a premium price tag and a less compact design. Sony has focused on creating a more seamless and sophisticated listening environment, leveraging two dedicated processors and eight microphones to achieve an unprecedented level of ambient sound cancellation. This iteration isn’t just about blocking out the world. it’s about delivering a more nuanced and immersive audio presentation, making them ideal for frequent travelers, remote workers, or anyone seeking a sanctuary of sound in a noisy world. While previous models were already top-tier, the XM5s push the boundaries further, particularly in their ability to silence mid-to-high frequency noises and provide exceptional voice pick-up during calls.

Here’s a comparative glance at how the Sony WH-1000XM5 stacks up against some notable competitors and related products:

• Sony WH-1000XM5

  

  • Key Features: Industry-leading noise cancellation two processors, eight mics, exceptional call quality, DSEE Extreme audio upscaling, comfortable redesigned earcups, long battery life 30 hours NC on, quick charging.
  • Average Price: $399
  • Pros: Unrivaled noise cancellation, superb sound quality with rich bass and clear highs, excellent call clarity, comfortable for long wear, intuitive controls.
  • Cons: Higher price point than previous models, non-folding design for travel, carrying case is bulkier.

• Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

  • Key Features: World-class noise cancellation, Immersive Audio spatial sound, personalized sound calibration, comfortable fit, robust app features.
  • Average Price: $429
  • Pros: Outstanding noise cancellation, innovative immersive audio, very comfortable, sleek design, strong brand reputation for reliability.
  • Cons: More expensive than XM5, battery life can be slightly less than XM5 with Immersive Audio enabled, call quality good but perhaps not XM5-level.

• Apple AirPods Max

  • Key Features: Adaptive EQ, Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency mode, Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, seamless Apple ecosystem integration, premium build quality.
  • Average Price: $549
  • Pros: Superb build and aesthetics, excellent sound quality, fantastic noise cancellation and transparency, unparalleled integration with Apple devices.
  • Cons: Very high price, heavy, smart case offers minimal protection and no power off, no 3.5mm jack without adapter.

• Sony WH-1000XM4

  • Key Features: Excellent noise cancellation, great sound, multi-device connectivity, Speak-to-Chat, DSEE Extreme, folding design.
  • Average Price: $278
  • Pros: Still top-tier noise cancellation, more compact folding design for travel, solid battery life, often available at a lower price.
  • Cons: Call quality not as good as XM5, slightly less effective noise cancellation in higher frequencies compared to XM5.

• Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless

  • Key Features: Exceptional battery life up to 60 hours, great sound quality, adaptive noise cancellation, customizable sound profiles, comfortable design.
  • Average Price: $349
  • Pros: Phenomenal battery life, superb audio performance, comfortable, strong app customization.
  • Cons: ANC is good but not industry-leading like Sony/Bose, design is less premium than previous Momentum models, not as portable.

• Bose QuietComfort 45

  • Key Features: Excellent noise cancellation, comfortable fit, aware mode, long battery life, classic Bose design.
  • Average Price: $279
  • Pros: Renowned Bose comfort and noise cancellation, simple controls, durable design, good value for the performance.
  • Cons: No customizable EQ fixed sound profile, limited features compared to Sony/Bose Ultra, no true “off” mode for ANC.

• Anker Soundcore Space Q45

  • Key Features: Strong noise cancellation for the price, extended battery life 50 hours NC on, LDAC support, comfortable design, affordable.
  • Average Price: $149
  • Pros: Excellent value, impressive ANC for the price, very long battery life, good sound quality, comfortable.
  • Cons: ANC not quite on par with premium brands, call quality can be inconsistent, build quality is good but not premium.

The Evolution of Silence: A Deep Dive into the WH-1000XM5’s Noise Cancellation

When it comes to noise cancellation, Sony has consistently pushed the envelope, and the WH-1000XM5 is no exception.

This iteration marks a significant leap, moving beyond incremental improvements to redefine what active noise cancellation ANC can achieve.

It’s not just about turning down the volume of the world. it’s about creating a true sonic sanctuary.

Dual Processors and Eight Microphones: The Core of Cancellation

The secret sauce behind the XM5’s superior noise cancellation lies in its upgraded hardware architecture. Unlike previous models that relied on a single noise-canceling processor, the XM5 employs two dedicated processors: the integrated Processor V1 and the HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1. This dual-chip setup allows for much more sophisticated real-time processing of ambient sound.

Furthermore, Sony has doubled the number of noise-sensing microphones from four on the XM4 to eight on the XM5. These microphones are strategically placed both inside and outside the earcups, allowing the headphones to capture an incredibly detailed and broad spectrum of environmental noise. This data is then fed to the dual processors, which generate precise anti-noise sound waves almost instantaneously, effectively neutralizing the incoming sound.

Targeting Mid-to-High Frequencies: Where the XM5 Shines

While previous Sony models were already exceptional at canceling out low-frequency hums – think airplane engines or bus rumble – the XM5 makes its most noticeable gains in the mid-to-high frequency range. This is where many common irritants reside:

• Human voices: Chatter in an office or café.
• Keyboard clicks: In an open-plan workspace.
• General street noise: Distant sirens, car horns.
• Air conditioning hums: Persistent background noise.

Adaptive Noise Cancellation and Auto NC Optimizer

One of the most user-friendly features of the XM5 is its Adaptive Sound Control. This intelligent system learns your frequently visited locations and adjusts the noise cancellation or ambient sound settings based on your activity and environment. For example:

• Walking: It might allow more ambient sound in for safety.
• Sitting in a quiet office: It might maximize noise cancellation.
• Commuting: It will automatically dial up the ANC to block out engine noise.

Complementing this is the Auto NC Optimizer. This feature automatically calibrates the noise cancellation performance based on factors like:

• Atmospheric pressure: Crucial for air travel.
• Wearing conditions: Whether you have glasses on, or if your hair is interfering with the seal.

This means you get optimal noise cancellation performance without needing to manually adjust settings, providing a truly hands-off premium experience.

This level of environmental awareness is a hallmark of Sony’s commitment to user convenience and peak performance. Sandisk Professional Pro Dock 4 Review

Audiophile Appeal: Sound Quality and Immersion

Beyond silencing the world, the Sony WH-1000XM5 delivers an audio experience that can satisfy even discerning listeners.

Sony has refined its sound signature, aiming for a balance of clarity, detail, and impactful bass that makes listening a pleasure.

The Newly Developed 30mm Driver Unit

At the heart of the XM5’s sound reproduction is a newly designed 30mm driver unit. While previous models used a larger 40mm driver, Sony’s engineering prowess allowed them to achieve superior sound quality with a smaller, lighter driver in the XM5. This driver features a carbon fiber composite material for the dome, which contributes to its rigidity and lightweight properties.

This innovative design enables the driver to:

• Produce a more natural, airy sound: Especially in the high-frequency range, leading to better detail retrieval.
• Maintain excellent low-frequency response: Delivering deep, controlled bass without muddiness.
• Improve speech clarity: Making podcasts and vocal-heavy tracks sound exceptionally clear.

The result is a sound profile that is balanced and dynamic. Bass is present and impactful but doesn’t overpower the mids or highs. Vocals are front and center, and instruments are well-separated, creating a spacious soundstage that belies the closed-back design.

DSEE Extreme and LDAC: High-Resolution Audio Support

Sony has been a strong proponent of high-resolution audio, and the XM5 fully embraces this philosophy.

• DSEE Extreme Digital Sound Enhancement Engine Extreme: This proprietary technology uses Edge-AI to upscale compressed digital podcast files in real-time. It intelligently recognizes instrumentation, podcastal genres, and individual elements of songs, then restores high-range sound lost in compression. This means even your Spotify or YouTube Podcast streams can sound closer to high-resolution audio. It effectively breathes new life into your existing podcast library.
• LDAC: For true high-resolution wireless audio, the XM5 supports Sony’s LDAC codec. When paired with a compatible source device like many Android phones or Sony’s Walkman players, LDAC can transmit approximately three times more data than conventional Bluetooth audio up to 990 kbps at 96 kHz/24-bit. This allows for a much richer, more detailed, and expansive sound experience, approaching wired quality. It’s a significant advantage for audiophiles who prioritize wireless fidelity.

Personalization via the Sony Headphones Connect App

While the out-of-the-box sound is excellent, Sony understands that audio preferences are personal. The Sony Headphones Connect app provides a comprehensive suite of tools for tailoring the sound to your liking:

• Equalizer: A robust equalizer with presets and a customizable option allows you to fine-tune the bass, mids, and treble. Want more punch? Dial up the bass. Prefer clearer vocals? Boost the mid-range.
• Clear Bass: A dedicated slider for bass emphasis, allowing you to add warmth or impact without affecting other frequencies.
• DSEE Extreme toggle: You can enable or disable this feature based on your preference and content.
• 360 Reality Audio Setup: A personalized experience that optimizes spatial audio based on your ear shape requires compatible streaming services.

This level of customization ensures that whether you’re a bass-head, a vocal enthusiast, or a stickler for neutrality, the XM5 can be tuned to deliver your ideal listening experience.

Communication Clarity: Best-in-Class Call Quality

In an era of remote work and ubiquitous video calls, call quality on headphones has become as critical as sound quality.

The Sony WH-1000XM5 sets a new benchmark in this regard, offering clarity that rivals dedicated headsets. Oneplus Nord N20 Review

Precise Voice Pickup Technology

Sony’s “Precise Voice Pickup Technology” is the cornerstone of the XM5’s exceptional call performance. This system leverages four beamforming microphones strategically positioned on the headphones. These microphones are designed to focus specifically on your voice, isolating it from surrounding ambient noise.

The technology works by:

• Analyzing voice frequencies: Distinguishing human speech from background sounds.
• Using spatial processing: Pinpointing the direction of your voice to reduce interference from other directions.

This means that even in noisy environments, your voice comes through loud and clear to the person on the other end of the call, minimizing distractions like wind noise, traffic, or office chatter.

AI-Based Noise Reduction Engine

Complementing the Precise Voice Pickup Technology is an AI-based noise reduction engine. This intelligent algorithm has been trained on millions of voice samples to identify and suppress a wide range of background noises.

• Wind noise: A notorious culprit for distorting calls, significantly reduced.
• Traffic sounds: Muffled or eliminated, making outdoor calls viable.
• Café chatter: Background conversations are suppressed, keeping your voice prominent.

This AI-driven processing works in real-time, adapting to your environment and ensuring that only your voice is transmitted effectively.

Users frequently report being able to take calls in places where they previously couldn’t, a testament to the system’s efficacy.

Enhanced Usability for Professional Calls

The XM5 isn’t just about technical prowess.

It’s also designed for practical use in professional settings.

• Speak-to-Chat: While primarily an audio feature, Speak-to-Chat automatically pauses your podcast and lets in ambient sound when it detects you speaking, allowing for quick conversations without removing your headphones. This is incredibly useful for brief interactions during a call or when someone approaches you.
• Sidetone Feature: The ability to hear your own voice naturally through the headphones during a call prevents you from unconsciously raising your voice. This “sidetone” or “monitor” feature makes conversations feel more natural and less like you’re talking into a void.
• Seamless Switching: With multi-point connection, the XM5 can be paired with two Bluetooth devices simultaneously e.g., your laptop for a video conference and your phone for incoming calls. If a call comes in on your phone while you’re on a video call on your laptop, the headphones can intelligently switch, ensuring you never miss an important conversation. This feature alone is a must for many professionals.

The combination of sophisticated microphone technology, AI-driven noise reduction, and smart usability features makes the WH-1000XM5 an outstanding choice for anyone who relies on clear communication, whether for personal calls or critical business meetings.

Design and Comfort: A New Aesthetic and Ergonomics

Sony took a bold step with the WH-1000XM5, completely redesigning its flagship headphones. Lenovo Legion 5I Pro Gen 7 Review

Gone is the somewhat industrial look of previous models, replaced by a sleeker, more minimalist aesthetic focused on comfort and a seamless user experience.

Slimmer Headband and Stepless Slider

The most noticeable change is the newly developed “noiseless design” and the thinner, more streamlined headband. Compared to the XM4’s more robust and articulated headband, the XM5’s is significantly slimmer, giving it a more elegant and less obtrusive profile. This lighter headband contributes to a more balanced feel on the head, reducing pressure points.

The traditional click-stop adjustment mechanism has been replaced with a stepless slider. This allows for incredibly precise and smooth adjustments to the headband length, ensuring a perfect fit for a wider range of head sizes. While it lacks the tactile feedback of clicks, the fluidity of adjustment makes it very easy to find your comfort zone. This change also contributes to the “noiseless” aspect, as there are no creaks or sounds from adjusting the headband.

Soft-Fit Leather and Larger Earcup Cavity

Comfort is paramount for headphones designed for long listening sessions, and Sony has paid close attention to this. The earcups are now covered in a “soft-fit leather” material. This synthetic leather is exceptionally supple and smooth to the touch, providing a luxurious feel against the skin. More importantly, it contributes to a better seal around the ears, which is crucial for effective noise cancellation.

The earcup cavity has also been subtly enlarged and reshaped. While not dramatically bigger, the subtle increase in internal volume and the more ergonomic curvature of the padding ensure that the headphones accommodate a wider variety of ear shapes and sizes without putting undue pressure on the outer ear. This results in:

• Reduced fatigue: Even after hours of continuous wear.
• Better passive noise isolation: Due to the improved seal.
• Enhanced breathability: Though still an over-ear headphone, the materials and design aim to minimize heat build-up.

The Trade-off: Non-Folding Design

Perhaps the most contentious design decision for the XM5 is the move from a folding design to a swivel-only mechanism. Previous 1000X models were renowned for their compact, foldable form factor, making them incredibly portable and easy to stow in a backpack or carry-on.

The XM5, while sleeker and more streamlined when worn, only allows the earcups to swivel flat. This means:

• A bulkier carrying case: The included case is larger to accommodate the non-folding design. While it offers excellent protection, it takes up more space in your bag.
• Less compact for travel: For frequent travelers, this is a genuine drawback. While they’ll still fit in most bags, they won’t disappear into a small pouch like the XM4s could.

This design choice highlights Sony’s focus on a more seamless and aesthetically refined on-head experience, prioritizing comfort and sleekness over ultimate portability.

For some users, this will be a non-issue, but for others who prioritize extreme portability, it’s a factor to consider.

Battery Life and Charging: Powering Your Peace

For high-performance wireless headphones, battery life is a critical specification. Firewalla Review

The Sony WH-1000XM5 continues Sony’s tradition of offering excellent endurance, ensuring your podcast and calls last through long commutes, workdays, or flights.

30 Hours with ANC On, 40 Hours with ANC Off

The XM5 provides up to 30 hours of continuous playback with Active Noise Cancellation ANC enabled. This figure is highly competitive and aligns with industry leaders like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra. For most users, 30 hours translates to:

• Multiple long-haul flights: Easily covers transatlantic or transpacific journeys.
• Several days of commuting: Eliminating the need for daily charging.
• An entire work week: If used for a few hours each day.

If you opt to disable ANC – perhaps in a quiet environment where you only need the headphones for audio playback – the battery life extends even further to an impressive 40 hours. This flexibility allows users to conserve power when noise cancellation isn’t required, maximizing uptime.

Rapid Charging Capabilities

Beyond raw endurance, the speed at which you can recharge your headphones is equally important, especially when you’re in a rush. The XM5 features robust rapid charging capabilities via USB-C.

• 3 minutes of charge provides 3 hours of playback: This is an incredibly convenient feature for those moments when you realize your headphones are dead just before heading out the door. A quick plug-in while you get ready can give you enough juice for a significant portion of your journey.
• Full charge in approximately 3.5 hours: From empty to full, the XM5 charges relatively quickly, ensuring minimal downtime between uses.

These rapid charging metrics put the XM5 among the best in its class, providing peace of mind that a dead battery is rarely a long-term problem.

It means less time tethered to an outlet and more time enjoying your audio.

Power Management Features

Sony has also integrated several smart power management features into the XM5 to optimize battery longevity and user convenience:

• Automatic power off: The headphones can be set to automatically power off after a customizable period of inactivity, saving battery if you forget to turn them off.
• Wear detection: Sensors inside the earcups detect when you take the headphones off. This can be configured to automatically pause your podcast and power off the headphones after a set duration, further conserving battery. This also means your podcast resumes seamlessly when you put them back on.
• Battery level indicator: The Sony Headphones Connect app provides a precise battery percentage, allowing you to monitor your charge status accurately. Additionally, a voice prompt on the headphones will announce the battery level when you power them on.

These thoughtful features contribute to a hassle-free experience, ensuring that your XM5s are ready when you are, and that you’re never caught off guard by a depleted battery.

Connectivity and Smart Features: Seamless Integration

Modern headphones are more than just audio devices.

They are hubs for connectivity and intelligent interaction. Anker Nebula Cosmos D2140 Review

The Sony WH-1000XM5 excels in this regard, offering a suite of features that enhance convenience and integration with your digital life.

Bluetooth 5.2 and Multi-Point Connection

The XM5 utilizes Bluetooth 5.2, the latest standard, which offers several advantages:

• Improved power efficiency: Contributing to the excellent battery life.
• More stable connection: Reducing dropouts and latency.
• Better range: Allowing you to move further from your source device without losing connection.

A standout feature is the multi-point connection capability, allowing you to pair the XM5 with two Bluetooth devices simultaneously. This is incredibly useful for seamlessly switching between, for example:

• A laptop for work calls and podcast.
• A smartphone for incoming calls and notifications.

If a call comes in on your phone while you’re listening to podcast on your laptop, the headphones will automatically switch to your phone, and then switch back to your laptop once the call ends.

This eliminates the need to manually disconnect and reconnect, saving time and frustration.

It’s a hallmark of a truly smart headphone experience.

Speak-to-Chat and Quick Attention Mode

Sony’s innovative “Speak-to-Chat” feature, first introduced on the XM4, has been refined on the XM5. When activated, the headphones automatically:

• Pause your podcast: Or other audio content.
• Activate Ambient Sound Mode: Allowing you to hear your surroundings.
• Resume playback: Once you stop speaking for a few seconds.

This is incredibly useful for quick conversations, like ordering a coffee or asking a colleague a question, without needing to remove your headphones.

It’s a fluid, hands-free way to interact with your environment.

Complementing this is Quick Attention Mode. By simply placing your hand over the right earcup, you instantly: Qustodio Review

• Lower the volume of your audio.
• Increase ambient sound passthrough.

This is perfect for hearing announcements at an airport, listening to a quick query from a flight attendant, or being aware of your surroundings temporarily.

It’s a quick, manual override when you need to be immediately aware.

Voice Assistant Integration Google Assistant, Alexa

The XM5 offers seamless integration with popular voice assistants, including Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.

• Hands-free access: You can activate your preferred voice assistant simply by saying a wake word e.g., “Hey Google” or “Alexa” or by pressing a button.
• Convenient control: Once activated, you can:
  • Control podcast playback.
  • Get directions.
  • Make calls.
  • Check the weather.
  • Manage smart home devices.

This hands-free control adds a significant layer of convenience to your daily interactions, allowing you to stay connected and productive without reaching for your phone.

The microphones on the XM5 are also excellent at picking up voice commands, even in moderately noisy environments.

Spotify Tap and Fast Pair/Swift Pair

Sony has added some platform-specific conveniences to the XM5:

• Spotify Tap: For Android users, this feature allows you to instantly resume your Spotify playlist with a double-tap of the touch panel. A subsequent double-tap will shuffle to a new personalized recommendation, offering quick access to your podcast.
• Google Fast Pair: For Android devices, this makes the initial pairing process incredibly swift and easy. A pop-up appears on your phone when the headphones are nearby, allowing for one-tap pairing.
• Microsoft Swift Pair: For Windows 10/11 devices, a similar simplified pairing process is available, making connecting to your PC a breeze.

These features highlight Sony’s commitment to creating a friction-free experience across different operating systems, further cementing the XM5 as a smart, well-connected audio companion.

User Experience and Controls: Intuitive Interaction

A truly great pair of headphones combines cutting-edge technology with intuitive controls.

The Sony WH-1000XM5 aims for this balance, refining its touch controls and button layout for a more seamless user experience. Furrion Aurora 55 Inch Partial Sun Outdoor Tv 2022 Review

Physical Buttons vs. Touch Controls

Sony has opted for a hybrid approach, combining physical buttons with touch-sensitive panels.

This allows for reliable control while retaining the sleek aesthetic.

• Physical Buttons:
  • NC/Ambient Button: Located on the left earcup, this button cycles through Noise Cancellation, Ambient Sound, and Off modes. It’s tactile and easy to find without looking, providing immediate control over your sound environment.
  • Power/Bluetooth Pairing Button: Also on the left earcup, this button serves a dual purpose for powering on/off and initiating Bluetooth pairing. Its distinct placement prevents accidental presses.
• Touch Panel Right Earcup: The entire surface of the right earcup is a touch-sensitive panel, allowing for a variety of gestures:
  • Swipe up/down: Volume control.
  • Swipe forward/back: Skip tracks next/previous.
  • Double-tap: Play/pause podcast, answer/end calls.
  • Hold: Activate voice assistant configurable.
  • Cover with hand: Activate Quick Attention Mode.

This combination offers the best of both worlds: reliable tactile buttons for essential functions and elegant touch gestures for media control.

Sony Headphones Connect App: Deep Customization

The Sony Headphones Connect app available for iOS and Android is the central hub for customizing your XM5 experience. It’s well-designed, intuitive, and offers a wealth of options:

• Sound Customization: As mentioned, a comprehensive equalizer, Clear Bass control, and DSEE Extreme toggle.
• Noise Control Settings: Adjust the level of ambient sound, manage Adaptive Sound Control, and run the NC Optimizer.
• Speak-to-Chat Toggle and Sensitivity: Turn the feature on/off and adjust how quickly it reacts to your voice.
• Custom Button Assignment: Reassign the NC/Ambient button to control Spotify Tap or Google Assistant, giving you flexibility.
• Firmware Updates: Essential for keeping your headphones up-to-date with the latest features and bug fixes. Sony is known for providing significant feature additions through firmware updates.
• Battery Status: Precise percentage display for both the headphones and the charging case if applicable for other Sony models, though primarily for headphones here.
• Usage Statistics: Track your headphone usage patterns, which can be interesting for data enthusiasts.

The app is crucial for unlocking the full potential of the XM5. It’s a testament to Sony’s commitment to software integration and continuous improvement.

Reliability and Responsiveness

The touch controls on the XM5 are generally responsive and reliable. While touch controls on headphones can sometimes be finicky, Sony has done a good job of making them consistent. The physical buttons offer reassuring tactile feedback, so you always know when a command has been registered.

The overall user experience is geared towards seamless interaction.

From the moment you put them on with wear detection automatically resuming audio to adjusting ANC on the fly, the XM5 feels like a well-thought-out and intuitive device.

The combination of hardware controls and a powerful companion app allows for a highly personalized and efficient user interaction.

Value Proposition and Target Audience

The Sony WH-1000XM5 sits firmly in the premium segment of the headphone market. Msi Radeon Rx 6750 Xt Gaming X Trio 12G Review

Understanding its value proposition requires considering its performance against its price point and identifying who stands to benefit most from its advanced features.

Premium Pricing and Its Justification

At launch, the XM5 carried a higher price tag than its predecessor, the XM4. This premium is largely justified by several factors:

• Enhanced Noise Cancellation: The dual processors and eight-microphone array represent a significant engineering investment, delivering demonstrably superior ANC, especially in the crucial mid-to-high frequency range.
• Best-in-Class Call Quality: The Precise Voice Pickup Technology and AI-based noise reduction are industry-leading, making the XM5 an exceptional tool for communication in any environment.
• Refined Design and Comfort: The new “noiseless design,” slimmer headband, and softer earcups offer a more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing experience, albeit with the trade-off of a non-folding design.
• Continued Audio Excellence: With the new 30mm driver, DSEE Extreme, and LDAC support, the audio quality remains superb and highly customizable.

While the price is substantial, it reflects the XM5’s position at the forefront of noise-canceling headphone technology.

It’s an investment in a top-tier audio and communication device.

Ideal User Profile

So, who are the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones for? They are particularly well-suited for:

• Frequent Travelers: The unparalleled noise cancellation is a must for long flights, noisy train commutes, or bustling airport lounges. The 30-hour battery life ensures they last the entire journey.
• Remote Workers and Office Professionals: The exceptional call quality, combined with powerful noise cancellation, makes them ideal for virtual meetings, focusing in open-plan offices, or working from home with distractions.
• Students: For deep focus during study sessions in noisy dorms, libraries, or cafes.
• Commuters Bus, Train, Subway: Effectively silences the persistent rumble and chatter of public transport.
• Audio Enthusiasts with a practical bent: While not purely audiophile-grade open-back headphones, they offer superb sound quality with the convenience of wireless connectivity and high-res audio support LDAC, DSEE Extreme. They cater to those who want excellent sound but also need active noise cancellation for daily use.
• Anyone Prioritizing Silence and Clarity: If your primary goal is to create a personal quiet zone, whether for relaxation, concentration, or meditation, and you value crystal-clear communication, the XM5 is a top contender.

Who Might Consider Alternatives?

• Budget-Conscious Buyers: While excellent, the XM5 is a premium product. More affordable options like the Anker Soundcore Space Q45 or the Sony WH-CH720N offer good noise cancellation at a significantly lower price point.
• Those Prioritizing Portability: The non-folding design means a bulkier case. If compact portability is your absolute top priority, the older Sony WH-1000XM4 or the Bose QuietComfort 45 might be better choices.
• Apple Ecosystem Users: While the XM5 works perfectly with Apple devices, the Apple AirPods Max offer unparalleled integration within the Apple ecosystem seamless switching, spatial audio with dynamic head tracking if that’s a primary concern and budget isn’t an issue.
• Extreme Battery Life Enthusiasts: While 30 hours is excellent, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless boasts up to 60 hours of ANC-on battery life, making it a marathon runner.

Ultimately, the Sony WH-1000XM5 offers a compelling package for those who demand the absolute best in noise cancellation, call clarity, and overall audio performance, and are willing to invest in a flagship product.

It’s a tool that genuinely enhances the listening and communication experience in a noisy world.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between Sony WH-1000XM5 and WH-1000XM4?

The main differences are enhanced noise cancellation especially in mid-to-high frequencies, significantly improved call quality, a completely redesigned comfort-focused aesthetic non-folding, and a new 30mm driver unit for refined sound on the XM5.

Is the Sony WH-1000XM5 worth the upgrade from XM4?

For most users, if your XM4s are still functioning well, the upgrade isn’t strictly necessary. Sony E 15Mm F14 G Review

However, if call quality and superior noise cancellation especially for voices and city noise are top priorities, then the XM5 offers a noticeable improvement and could be worth the investment.

How good is the noise cancellation on the Sony WH-1000XM5?

The noise cancellation on the Sony WH-1000XM5 is widely considered industry-leading, particularly excelling at suppressing both low-frequency hums like engine noise and challenging mid-to-high frequency sounds like human voices and keyboard clicks, thanks to its dual processors and eight microphones.

Is the Sony WH-1000XM5 comfortable for long wear?

Yes, the Sony WH-1000XM5 is designed for extended comfort with its lighter, more streamlined headband and softer, re-contoured earcups made of “soft-fit leather,” reducing pressure points and fatigue during long listening sessions.

Does the Sony WH-1000XM5 support high-resolution audio?

Yes, the Sony WH-1000XM5 supports high-resolution audio through LDAC codec for wireless transmission and features DSEE Extreme to upscale compressed digital podcast files in real-time, bringing them closer to high-resolution quality.

Can the Sony WH-1000XM5 connect to multiple devices simultaneously?

Yes, the Sony WH-1000XM5 features multi-point connection, allowing it to be paired with two Bluetooth devices simultaneously and seamlessly switch between them.

How long does the battery last on the Sony WH-1000XM5?

The Sony WH-1000XM5 offers up to 30 hours of playback with Active Noise Cancellation ANC on, and up to 40 hours with ANC off.

Does the Sony WH-1000XM5 have a quick charge feature?

Yes, the Sony WH-1000XM5 has a rapid charging feature, providing approximately 3 hours of playback with just 3 minutes of charge via USB-C.

Is the Sony WH-1000XM5 good for phone calls?

Yes, the Sony WH-1000XM5 offers exceptionally clear call quality thanks to its Precise Voice Pickup Technology, which uses four beamforming microphones and an AI-based noise reduction engine to isolate your voice from background noise.

Does the Sony WH-1000XM5 fold for portability?

No, unlike its predecessors, the Sony WH-1000XM5 features a new design that allows the earcups to swivel flat but does not fold into a more compact shape, resulting in a larger carrying case.

What is Speak-to-Chat on the Sony WH-1000XM5?

Speak-to-Chat is a feature that automatically pauses your podcast and activates ambient sound mode when it detects you speaking, allowing for quick conversations without needing to remove the headphones. Sonos Ray Review

Can I customize the sound on the Sony WH-1000XM5?

Yes, you can extensively customize the sound profile using the Sony Headphones Connect app, which offers a comprehensive equalizer, Clear Bass control, and DSEE Extreme toggles.

Are the touch controls on the XM5 reliable?

Yes, the touch controls on the right earcup of the XM5 are generally responsive and reliable for managing playback, volume, and calls, complemented by physical buttons for core functions.

Does the XM5 work with iPhones?

Yes, the Sony WH-1000XM5 works seamlessly with iPhones and other iOS devices via Bluetooth, and you can use the Sony Headphones Connect app on iOS for full customization.

Is the XM5 waterproof?

No, the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are not waterproof or water-resistant. They are designed for indoor use and general outdoor use but should be protected from rain and moisture.

Does the XM5 come with a carrying case?

Yes, the Sony WH-1000XM5 comes with a redesigned, more protective carrying case to accommodate its non-folding form factor.

What voice assistants are supported by the XM5?

The Sony WH-1000XM5 supports Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, allowing for hands-free control and access to your smart assistant’s features.

Can I use the Sony WH-1000XM5 with a wired connection?

Yes, the Sony WH-1000XM5 includes a 3.5mm audio cable, allowing you to use them with a wired connection even if the battery is depleted or for devices without Bluetooth.

Does the XM5 have an “ambient sound” mode?

Yes, the Sony WH-1000XM5 features an “Ambient Sound” mode that allows you to hear your surroundings clearly without removing the headphones, with adjustable levels of ambient sound passthrough.

What is the Auto NC Optimizer on the XM5?

The Auto NC Optimizer on the XM5 automatically calibrates the noise cancellation performance based on atmospheric pressure and your wearing conditions e.g., if you’re wearing glasses, ensuring optimal ANC at all times. Marshall Emberton Ii Review

How heavy are the Sony WH-1000XM5?

The Sony WH-1000XM5 weighs approximately 250 grams 8.82 ounces, making them lighter than some competitors and contributing to their long-wear comfort.

Can I turn off noise cancellation on the XM5?

Yes, you can toggle between Noise Cancellation, Ambient Sound, and completely Off modes using the dedicated NC/Ambient button on the left earcup.

Is the microphone quality better than the XM4?

Yes, the microphone quality for calls on the XM5 is significantly improved over the XM4, offering clearer voice pickup and better noise suppression during conversations.

Do the XM5 headphones have a transparency mode?

Yes, the “Ambient Sound” mode functions as a transparency mode, allowing external sounds to pass through so you can hear your surroundings while wearing the headphones.

What Bluetooth codecs does the XM5 support?

The Sony WH-1000XM5 supports SBC, AAC, and LDAC Bluetooth codecs.

Does the XM5 have multipoint connection?

Yes, the XM5 supports multipoint connection, allowing it to be simultaneously connected to two Bluetooth devices.

Are replacement ear pads available for the XM5?

Typically, Sony does not officially sell replacement ear pads for their headphones directly to consumers, but third-party options may become available.

Check with authorized service centers for official replacements if needed.

Can I track the battery level of the XM5?

Yes, you can track the precise battery level of the XM5 within the Sony Headphones Connect app on your smartphone.

Does the XM5 work well for gaming?

While the XM5 offers great sound and comfort, its primary design is not for low-latency gaming. Sony Bravia Xr 55 Inch Class A95K Oled Tv Review

For competitive gaming, a dedicated gaming headset with lower latency might be preferred, though for casual gaming, the XM5 performs well.

Is the XM5 compatible with older Bluetooth devices?

Yes, the XM5 uses Bluetooth 5.2, which is backward compatible with older Bluetooth standards, allowing it to connect to a wide range of Bluetooth-enabled devices.