Are the Sony WF-1000XM5 waterproof?

They are not waterproof. The earbuds have an IPX4 rating (sweat and splash resistant) but should not be submerged. The charging case is not water resistant.

What Bluetooth codecs do the Sony WF-1000XM5 support?

For Classic Bluetooth audio (A2DP), the WF-1000XM5 support SBC, AAC, and LDAC. For Bluetooth LE Audio, Sony lists LC3. They do not support aptX or aptX HD.

Do the Sony WF-1000XM5 support multipoint connectivity?

Yes. The WF-1000XM5 support multipoint, allowing the earbuds to be connected to two Bluetooth devices at the same time.

Are the WF-1000XM5 worth upgrading from the WF-1000XM4?

Upgrading can be worth it if you want improved comfort, refined noise canceling and call performance, and newer features. Battery life is broadly similar on paper, so the WF-1000XM4 may still be a strong value if priced lower.

Sony WF‑1000XM5 Review: Flagship Noise‑Cancelling Earbuds Tested and Rated

Sony’s WF‑1000XM5 true‑wireless earbuds are the successor to the lauded WF‑1000XM4. Announced in July 2023, these premium in‑ear headphones promise improved comfort, stronger active noise cancellation (ANC), clearer call quality and richer audio. As the third generation in Sony’s WF‑1000X series, the XM5 sits at the top of the market and competes directly with Apple’s AirPods Pro 2, Bose’s QuietComfort Earbuds II and other flagship models.

This in‑depth review examines how the WF‑1000XM5 performs in real‑world use. We’ll look at release details, packaging, design and comfort improvements, noise‑cancellation technology, audio quality, connectivity, battery life, call performance, extra features and how the buds compare to rivals. Along the way we cite independent testing and expert reviews to assess Sony’s claims. Whether you’re upgrading from the WF‑1000XM4 or shopping for your first pair of noise‑cancelling earbuds, this guide will help you decide if the XM5 is the right choice.

Matte-black true wireless earbuds placed in front of an open charging case on a clean studio background, showcasing a compact premium in-ear design. — *Premium true wireless earbuds with a compact charging case—ideal for commuting and everyday listening.*

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Release Date, Price and What’s in the Box

The WF‑1000XM5 were officially released on 24 July 2023 and carried a launch price of US $299.99soundguys.com. Each earbud measures roughly 26×17×21 mm and weighs about 6 g; the charging case is 65×27×40 mm and weighs 38 gsoundguys.com. Sony offers the earbuds in classic black, silver and later smoky pink finishes. The price has gradually fallen since launch, but as of December 2025 the XM5 still occupy a premium bracket.

Out of the box you get the earbuds, the charging case, a USB‑C cable, documentation and three additional sizes of polyurethane foam ear‑tipssoundguys.com. Sony introduced a new extra‑small (SS) tip to accommodate users with smaller ear canals. The packaging uses recycled paper and has been redesigned to eliminate plastic. This environmentally friendly approach contrasts with many competitors whose packaging still contains polystyrene foam and plastic bags.

Real‑world example: Unboxing and setup

Opening the XM5 box reveals the compact case nested in moulded paper pulp. The lid lifts to expose the earbuds held in place by magnets. Beneath the tray you’ll find the tips and charging cable, and the quick‑start guide instructs you to download the Sony Headphones Connect app. Pairing is straightforward thanks to a dedicated pairing button on the back of the casesoundguys.com. Hold the button while the earbuds are inside to enter pairing mode; the front LED flashes blue indicating they are ready to connect. Within the app you can register the buds, adjust the EQ and ANC levels and access firmware updates.

Design and Comfort

Close-up product image of black Sony true wireless earbuds with copper accent detailing, shown on a clean white background. — *Sony-style premium true wireless earbuds in black with metallic accent for a sleek, minimalist look.*

Smaller, lighter and more comfortable

One of the XM5’s headline changes is the physical size reduction. Sony shrank the buds 25 % and reduced the weight 20 % compared with the WF‑1000XM4forbes.com. Independent testers note that the new design sits deeper in the ear and exerts less pressure, making the earbuds comfortable for long sessions. The nozzles are angled more aggressively to improve fit, and the foam tips are more flexible, which helps create a reliable seal without the need to twist them into positionsoundguys.com.

The housing uses a combination of glossy plastic on the sides and matte finish on the touch surfaces. Some reviewers prefer the XM4’s all‑matte aesthetic, noting that the new gloss looks less premium and can feel slipperysoundguys.com. Users with sweaty fingers might initially struggle to remove the buds from the case because of the smooth surfaces. However, once you learn to push and pull with your thumb rather than pinch, removal becomes easierforbes.com.

Improved charging case

Sony’s case redesign is equally notable. It is 15 % smaller than the WF‑1000XM4’s case and features a speckled matte coating. A LED indicator on the front shows charging status, and the dedicated pairing button on the rear replaces the awkward long‑press on the earbuds used previously. The case charges via USB‑C and supports Qi wireless charging, offering three extra charge cyclessoundguys.com. With the combination of smaller size and multiple charging options, it’s easy to slip the case into a pocket or bag.

Durability and weather resistance

The WF‑1000XM5 are rated IPX4, meaning they can withstand splashes, light rain or sweat during workoutssoundguys.com. They are not waterproof, so avoid submersion or heavy downpours. The charging case lacks any ingress protection, so keep it dry. Overall build quality feels solid; the lid has minimal play and the magnets hold the earbuds securely, preventing them from falling out even when the case is turned upside down.

Controls, Features and User Experience

Responsive touch controls

Each earbud has a capacitive touch surface that responds to taps and holds. Sony overhauled the control scheme so you can assign multiple functions to each side by default. For example, one tap on the right earbud plays or pauses music, while a double‑tap skips to the next track. On the left earbud, a single tap toggles ANC/Ambient mode, and a double‑tap launches Quick Access (a user‑definable function such as Spotify Tap). Holding either earbud activates Quick Attention, which lowers the volume and pipes in external sound so you can briefly talk to someone without removing the buds. Volume control is available via three‑ or four‑tap gestures, and removing a bud automatically pauses playbacksoundguys.com.

Headphones Connect app and customization

The Sony Headphones Connect app unlocks many of the XM5’s advanced features. The app lets you create custom EQ profiles, adjust the level of ambient sound, set the touch‑sensor functions and enable features like Speak‑to‑Chat and DSEE Extremesoundguys.com. Speak‑to‑Chat automatically pauses audio when you speak and resumes after a few seconds of silence. DSEE Extreme uses artificial intelligence to upscale compressed audio and improve perceived sound quality. The app is available on both Android and iOS platforms.

Multipoint connectivity and Bluetooth codecs

The XM5 support Bluetooth 5.3 with a new integrated pairing button, making it easy to connect to multiple devicessoundguys.com. They support standard SBC and AAC codecs as well as LDAC, Sony’s high‑resolution wireless codec, and LE Audio for low‑latency streaming. Notably, there is no aptX or aptX HD support. Multipoint allows you to pair two devices simultaneously – for example, your laptop and smartphone – and the earbuds automatically switch audio sources when you start playback on the other deviceforbes.com. Many users find this seamless; there’s little lag when switching between calls and music.

Additional smart features

Sony packs in several extras that set the XM5 apart. Adaptive Sound Control uses your location and activity to automatically adjust ANC and ambient sound levels (though this requires granting the app location permissions). Dynamic head‑tracking works with services like Netflix and YouTube to create a spatial audio effect that keeps the soundstage centred as you move your headforbes.com. A bone‑conduction sensor combined with six microphones and AI noise reduction enhances call qualityforbes.com. You can even answer or reject calls with head gestures, though reviewers note these gestures aren’t always 100 % reliable.

Person wearing Sony true wireless noise-cancelling earbuds with eyes closed on a train platform, demonstrating immersive listening and ambient noise reduction in a busy commuting environment. — Real-world use of premium noise-cancelling earbuds for calm, focused listening during daily commuting.

Noise Cancellation Performance

Hardware upgrades and microphone array

Sony revamped the ANC system by adding two new chips: the Integrated Processor V2 and the HD Noise Canceling Processor QN2esoundguys.com. Together they process signals from six microphones – three on each earbud – including new dual feedback microphones that better monitor low‑frequency noise. The improved ear‑tip design increases passive isolation, further enhancing the ANC performance. According to measurements, the ear tips reduce noise by up to 15 dB in the low end and 50 dB above 1 kHzsoundguys.com, comparable to high‑quality earplugs.

Real‑world ANC performance

Testing reveals that the XM5 offer some of the best noise‑cancellation available in true wireless earbuds. In SoundGuys’ lab, the earbuds attenuated more than 30 dB of low‑frequency noisesoundguys.com. Reviewers found that the buds “excel in blocking out sounds around you”, making commutes and flights more peaceful. The microphones are also optimised to reduce wind noise, so ANC remains effective when walking outdoors or standing next to a subway entrance. However, some competitors like Bose’s QuietComfort Earbuds II still offer marginally stronger noise cancellation in certain situations. The XM5’s strength lies in combining high isolation with balanced ANC that avoids the “vacuum” effect some listeners dislike.

Switching to Ambient Sound mode is as simple as tapping the left earbud oncesoundguys.com. Through the app you can choose from 20 levels of ambient sound, letting in more or less of the outside world. A wind‑noise reduction toggle helps when riding bikes or walking on windy days. Overall, the ANC system feels more natural and adjustable than that of the XM4, making the XM5 versatile for office work, exercise and travel.

Sound Quality and Audio Performance

Dynamic Driver X and tuning

Inside each XM5 is Sony’s new 8.4 mm Dynamic Driver X, an upgrade over the XM4’s 6.4 mm driver. According to Sony, the larger driver uses a hybrid diaphragm with “super‑soft parts within a rigid frame” that reduces mechanical noise and improves detail reproductionforbes.com. The resulting sound signature remains characteristically Sony – slightly bassy with rich lower frequencies – yet offers clearer mids and more refined treble than its predecessor. Reviewers note that vocals and acoustic instruments sound more open, and the bass is less boomy, though there is still an emphasis on the low end which gym‑goers may appreciateforbes.com.

Multi‑Dimensional Audio Quality Scores (MDAQS)

SoundGuys analysed the XM5 using the Multi‑Dimensional Audio Quality Score (MDAQS) system and found that it performs exceptionally wellsoundguys.com. The timbre score reflects how faithfully the earbuds reproduce the frequency spectrum; the XM5 excel here, indicating accurate representation of lows, mids and highs. The distortion score indicates that non‑linearities and added noise remain low, providing clean playback. Immersiveness measures perceived spatial width; the XM5 achieve one of the highest scores observed, creating a convincing three‑dimensional soundstagesoundguys.com. These results mean most listeners will find the XM5 pleasing without needing EQ adjustments.

Spatial audio and 360 Reality Audio

The XM5 support 360 Reality Audio, Sony’s object‑based spatial audio format. Using the Headphones Connect app you can photograph your ears and link services like Tidal to enable 360‑degree audio playback. When combined with dynamic head‑tracking, the effect is immersive, placing instruments around you rather than inside your head. Not all streaming services support 360 Reality Audio, but for those that do the XM5 deliver an impressive experience. Even with standard stereo tracks, the buds maintain a wide soundstage and clear instrument separation.soundguys.com.

Battery Life and Charging

Endurance tests

Sony advertises eight hours of continuous playback from the earbuds and 24 hours total including the charging casesoundguys.com. Independent testing supports these claims: SoundGuys measured 9 hours 32 minutes of playback on a single charge with ANC enabled, which is over an hour longer than the WF‑1000XM4. TechRadar notes that a three‑minute quick charge gives roughly one hour of listening time, and Forbes confirms that the buds last up to eight hours with ANC and the case adds another 24 hoursforbes.com. By comparison, Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 offer six hours of battery life, so the XM5 hold a clear advantage.

Charging options

The earbuds support both USB‑C charging and Qi wireless charging. Placing the case on a wireless charging pad overnight ensures they’re topped up for the day. If you forget to charge, a quick three‑minute plug‑in gives you enough power for a workout or commute. The case’s LED indicator shows green for a full charge, orange for medium and red when battery is low. There is no support for reverse wireless charging from smartphones, but multipoint connectivity means you can charge while listening via a second device.

Call Quality and Microphones

With six microphones and a bone‑conduction sensor, the XM5 aim to deliver crystal‑clear calls. AI‑based noise reduction algorithms isolate your voice and suppress background soundsforbes.com. Reviewers report that voices sound natural and background noise is minimal, even in windy conditions thanks to the mesh covering the microphonessoundguys.com. The improved microphone placement also reduces occlusion, so you don’t feel like you’re speaking inside a tunnel. The ability to use voice assistants (Google Assistant, Siri or Alexa) hands‑free is handy; simply say the wake word and issue commands. Head gestures can answer or reject calls, although their reliability varies.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

Sony has also taken steps to make the WF‑1000XM5 more environmentally friendly. The earbuds ship in zero‑plastic packaging made from sustainable bamboo and recycled paper, reducing waste compared with typical plastic clamshells. This eco‑conscious packaging still protects the product during transit and looks premium when unboxed. By using recyclable materials and minimizing single‑use plastics, Sony demonstrates that high‑end gadgets can be designed with sustainability in mind. While the earbuds and case themselves are still primarily plastic, the effort to reduce environmental impact at the packaging level is a welcome move that sets a positive example for other manufacturers.

Comparisons and Competition

WF‑1000XM5 vs WF‑1000XM4

For owners of the previous generation, the question is whether the XM5 offers enough to justify the upgrade. Both models share the same quoted battery life (eight hours plus 24 hours with the case) and similar feature sets. However, the XM5 are smaller and lighter, include an extra‑small ear tip, have a smaller case with a dedicated pairing button and use new processors with six microphones for better ANCsoundguys.com. Sound quality has been refined with the larger 8.4 mm drivers and improved tuningforbes.com. In short, if you value comfort, slightly better ANC and call quality, the upgrade makes sense. Otherwise the WF‑1000XM4 remain excellent and may be cheaper.

For a deeper dive into Sony’s over‑ear flagship models, check out our Sony WH‑1000XM4 Review and Sony WH‑1000XM5 Wireless Headphones Review on FrediTech. These articles compare the over‑ear versions and highlight differences in design, comfort and noise cancellation between Sony’s headphone series.

WF‑1000XM5 vs AirPods Pro 2 and Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II

Compared with Apple’s AirPods Pro 2, the WF‑1000XM5 offer longer battery life, LDAC support for high‑resolution audio, deeper bass and a more customisable app. AirPods Pro 2 integrate better with iOS devices and have a more natural transparency mode, but their ANC and battery endurance are slightly inferiorforbes.com. Bose’s QuietComfort Earbuds II remain the benchmark for pure noise cancellation; some reviewers found them marginally better at silencing low‑frequency rumble. However, Bose lack LDAC and certain smart features, and their case is bulkier. Ultimately, the XM5 strike a balance between sound quality, features, comfort and ANC that many users prefer.

Pros and Cons

Excellent active noise cancellation and isolation – six microphones, dual processors and improved ear tips attenuate up to 30 dB of low‑frequency noise.

Comfortable, compact design – 25 % smaller and 20 % lighter than the WF‑1000XM4 with an extra‑small tip for better fit.

Great sound quality – larger 8.4 mm drivers deliver clear mids, refined highs and punchy bass with high MDAQS scores.

Long battery life with quick charging – over eight hours of playback, 24 hours with case and fast charging that yields an hour of listening after three minutes.

Rich feature set – multipoint connectivity, customisable touch controls, Speak‑to‑Chat, adaptive sound control, 360 Reality Audio and head‑tracking.

Cons:

Premium price – at US $299.99 on release, they’re more expensive than many competitors and remain costly in 2025.

No aptX support – Bluetooth codec options are limited to SBC, AAC and LDAC; aptX users must look elsewhere.

Glossy finish can be slippery – some users find the buds tricky to remove from the case without practice.

ANC not the absolute best – Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II and other rivals slightly outperform the XM5 in certain noise environments.

Feature	Sony WF-1000XM5	Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II	Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)
Noise Cancellation	Industry-Leading	Excellent	Good
Sound Quality	Exceptional	Very Good	Good
Battery Life (per charge)	8 Hours	6 Hours	6 Hours
Multipoint Connection	Yes	No	No
Price	$299	$299	$249

Conclusion: Should You Buy the Sony WF‑1000XM5?

Sony’s WF‑1000XM5 are among the most refined true‑wireless earbuds on the market. They deliver excellent noise cancellation, superb sound quality, long battery life and a comfortable, compact design. The new processors, six microphones and improved ear tips produce ANC that rivals or surpasses most competitors, and the 8.4 mm drivers create dynamic, detailed audio. With comprehensive app customisation, multipoint connectivity and extras like 360 Reality Audio and head‑tracking, the XM5 are packed with useful features.

However, the premium price and lack of aptX support may give some buyers pause, and those seeking absolute best‑in‑class ANC might look to Bose. For users already owning the WF‑1000XM4, the upgrade brings smaller size, better call quality and refined sound but may not be necessary unless comfort is a priority. Overall, if you’re looking for one of the best noise‑cancelling earbuds in 2025 and value a feature‑rich experience, the Sony WF‑1000XM5 are a compelling choice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does the Sony WF-1000XM5 battery last?

Sony rates the WF-1000XM5 for up to 8 hours of playback with noise canceling on, and up to 24 hours total when you include the charging case. Independent testing has measured around 9+ hours of continuous playback in some conditions. A 3-minute quick charge can provide about 1 hour of listening time.

Are the WF-1000XM5 waterproof?

The earbuds have an IPX4 rating, meaning they are water‑resistant against splashes and sweatsoundguys.com. They are not waterproof and should not be submerged. The charging case is not water‑resistant.

What Bluetooth codecs do the WF-1000XM5 support?

The XM5 support SBC, AAC and LDAC for high‑resolution audio, as well as LE Audio. They do not support aptX or aptX HDsoundguys.com.

Do the WF-1000XM5 support multipoint connectivity?

Yes. The earbuds can connect to two devices simultaneously, allowing you to switch between a phone and laptop without re‑pairingforbes.com. A dedicated pairing button on the case simplifies the processsoundguys.com.

Are they worth upgrading from the WF-1000XM4?

It can be worth it if you want a smaller, lighter fit and refinements to noise canceling, calls, and overall usability. Battery life is broadly similar on paper (up to 8 hours ANC-on, 24 hours with case), so the XM4 can still be a great value if you find it cheaper.

Author Credentials

Wiredu Fred is a Ghanaian technology writer and founder of FrediTech & Modern Collective. With years of experience reviewing gadgets, mobile technology and consumer electronics, he focuses on delivering clear, accurate and actionable insights for readers. Wiredu Fred has written numerous articles on noise‑cancelling headphones and earbuds, including Sony WH‑1000XM4 Review and Sony WH‑1000XM5 Wireless Headphones Review, making him well‑positioned to evaluate the WF‑1000XM5.