Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones Review: Next-Level Noise Cancellation and Sound Quality

Q: Is the Sony WH-1000XM5 comfortable for long listening sessions?

Absolutely. The XM5 is designed for extended use, weighing around 250 g. The ear cups use soft memory‑foam earpads with a smooth leather‑like cover that minimizes pressure. The headband has a stepless adjustment with added padding to distribute weight evenly. The clamping force is gentle yet secure. Many users wear the XM5 for 2–3 hours or longer without discomfort, and the earcups swivel to fit different head shapes. Even glasses wearers report a good seal without pressure.

Q: How does the noise cancelling of the WH-1000XM5 compare to Bose headphones?

Sony’s WH-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort models are both top-tier. The XM5 uses eight microphones and dual processors, excelling across low rumbles and higher‑pitch sounds. In head‑to‑head tests, they’re very close on constant noise like airplane engines, with Bose sometimes edging out sudden or variable sounds. However, the XM5 matches or exceeds Bose in many scenarios and offers more adjustable settings and better in‑music clarity. Overall, both deliver elite ANC performance.

Q: Are the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones waterproof or sweat-resistant?

No, the WH-1000XM5 do not have an IPX water or sweat rating. They’re designed for everyday use—commuting, office, travel—but not heavy workouts or rain. Light sweat or occasional light moisture is fine; just wipe the earpads afterwards. Avoid exposing them to rain or excessive moisture to prevent damage.

Q: What comes in the box with the WH-1000XM5?

In the box you get the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones, a carrying case, a 3.5 mm audio cable (~1.2 m) for wired use, and a USB‑A to USB‑C charging cable. There’s also the quick start guide and warranty card. Note: Sony did not include an airplane dual‑prong adapter in this model.

Q: Has the Sony WH-1000XM5 won any awards or recognition?

Yes, it won the What Hi‑Fi? Awards 2024 for best wireless noise‑cancelling headphones and has received 4.5–5 star ratings from TechRadar, T3, and others. Many “best of” lists for 2023–2025 include the XM5, reflecting its industry acclaim.

Introduction

Sony’s WH-1000XM5 wireless headphones have set a high bar in the world of noise-cancelling headphones since their release in mid-2022. As the successors to the much-loved WH-1000XM4, the XM5 come with a redesigned look, upgraded hardware, and promises of even better sound and ANC (Active Noise Cancellation). In this in-depth review, we’ll examine whether the Sony WH-1000XM5 lives up to its reputation as one of the best noise-cancelling headphones on the markettechradar.com. We’ll delve into the design and comfort changes, the audio quality and new driver technology, the improved noise-cancellation capabilities, and all the smart features that Sony packs in. We’ll also compare the WH-1000XM5 to its predecessor and competitors to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of what these premium headphones offer – and whether they’re worth your money in 2025.

Ultra‑realistic professional shot of Sony WH‑1000XM5 wireless noise‑cancelling headphones in matte black, highlighting the cushioned ear cups and sleek headband against a neutral background

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Design and Comfort

Sony’s WH-1000XM5 headphones feature a modern, minimalist design that marks a departure from the previous XM4 model. The earcups have a smooth matte finish with no visible joints or hinges on the surface, part of Sony’s new “noiseless design” approach aimed at reducing wind noisewhathifi.com. In fact, Sony removed the folding hinge mechanism in this redesign – the XM5 earcups swivel flat but do not fold up any furtherwhathifi.comwhathifi.com. This means the included carrying case is a bit larger and less compact than before, so travelers who are used to folding their headphones might need to adjust. On the upside, the build still feels sturdy, and the sleek profile gives these headphones a stylish, premium look.

In hand, the WH-1000XM5 feel lightweight – about 250 g, which is almost the same as the XM4 (254 g)whathifi.com. The materials have changed slightly; Sony uses an ABS plastic that’s partly made from recycled automobile parts, blended with reinforcing fibers for durabilitywhathifi.com. The result doesn’t feel quite as luxuriously metal as the older model, but it’s by no means cheap. In fact, the plastics are smooth to the touch and contribute to the lighter feel on your head. Available in Black or Platinum Silver (and newly introduced Midnight Blue and Smoky Pink color options by 2024whathifi.com), the WH-1000XM5 looks understated and professional – perfect for office, travel, or home use.

Comfort is an area where Sony made notable improvements. The headband has been re-engineered with a seamless slider (no notches) and a bit more padding, distributing weight evenly across the top of your headwhathifi.com. The earpads are made of soft memory foam covered in supple synthetic leather, which gently conforms around your ears. Clamping force is just right – secure enough that the headphones stay in place, but not so tight that they cause pain during long listening sessionswhathifi.com. Users who wear glasses have reported the XM5 to be comfortable as well, since the pads create a good seal without pressing too hard on the frames. Overall, you can easily wear these for a cross-country flight or a full workday. Sony also designed the joints and swivels to operate silently and smoothly when adjusting, adding to the premium feelbhphotovideo.com. The only downside on comfort/design is the lack of folding, which, as mentioned, affects portability. Otherwise, the WH-1000XM5 earns high marks for its ergonomic design and long-term comfort.

Sound Quality and Audio Performance

Sony’s reputation for sound quality in the 1000X series continues strong with the WH-1000XM5. In fact, many reviewers note that the XM5 takes a significant leap in audio performance over its predecessorwhathifi.com. Inside, Sony switched from a 40 mm driver (in the XM4) to a newly developed 30 mm dynamic driver with a light, rigid carbon-fiber composite domewhathifi.com, whathifi.com. Despite the smaller size, this new driver design delivers exceptional clarity and detail across the frequency spectrum. According to What Hi-Fi’s tests, the XM5 produces a more open and refined sound, extracting greater detail especially in the mid and high frequencies – to the point that the older XM4 sounds “a little thick” in comparisonwhathifi.com.

Bass on the WH-1000XM5 is tight and punchy. Low frequencies have precision and control, avoiding the bloated or boomy effect that some bass-heavy headphones suffer fromwhathifi.com. There’s plenty of thump for genres like hip-hop or EDM, but it’s delivered with accuracy – you can distinguish individual bass notes and textures more easily. Mids and vocals come through very clearly, which benefits everything from pop vocals to dialogue in movies. Highs are crisp without being harsh, aided by that stiff carbon-fiber driver dome which improves high-frequency claritybhphotovideo.com, bhphotovideo.com. Listening to complex tracks (for example, an orchestral piece or a busy rock song), the XM5 handles dynamic shifts effortlessly – quiet details and loud crescendos both come through with excellent resolution and no muddiness. The soundstage is also a touch more expansive than before, giving a sense of space and separation between instruments. Sony has managed to create an engaging, audiophile-grade tuning that remains fun and musical, but also more balanced than previous generations.

Supporting this great sound is a host of audio technologies. The WH-1000XM5 are Hi-Res Audio certified (for wired and wireless) and support Sony’s LDAC codec for high-bitrate Bluetooth streaming. With LDAC, these headphones can receive up to ~3x the data of a standard Bluetooth stream, enabling near high-res quality wirelesslybhphotovideo.com, bhphotovideo.com (you’ll need a compatible Android device or player to use LDAC). They also support AAC and SBC codecs over Bluetooth, covering iPhone and basic connectivity, though notably no aptX or aptX HD support (Sony prefers their own LDAC)whathifi.com. If you have lossless or high-resolution audio files, LDAC helps get the most out of them. In addition, Sony’s DSEE Extreme upscaling engine is on board, which uses AI to restore some of the lost detail in compressed music files in real-timewhathifi.com. While DSEE Extreme isn’t a substitute for true lossless audio, it can make streamed music (e.g. Spotify, YouTube) sound a bit richer and closer to CD quality.

Real-world listening with the XM5 is a joy across genres. From classical music to bass-heavy electronic tracks, these headphones maintain clarity and balance. For example, orchestral pieces reveal layers of instruments without the headphones breaking a sweat, and modern pop comes through with impactful bass and clear vocals. If you’re a music lover or audio enthusiast, the WH-1000XM5 will likely impress you with their refined yet lively sound. Sony has effectively raised the bar, and as one expert review put it, the jump in sound quality with the XM5, especially in clarity and precision, makes them a top contender you should audition if you’re after the best in wireless headphone audiowhathifi.com.

Industry-Leading Noise Cancellation

One of the marquee features of the Sony WH-1000XM5 is its Active Noise Cancellation, and Sony has doubled down on making it better than ever. Previous 1000X models were already renowned for class-leading ANC, and the XM5 further improves on that with new hardware: an array of eight microphones (up from four on the XM4) and dual processors dedicated to noise cancelingwhathifi.com. Specifically, Sony incorporates their HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1 along with a new Integrated Processor V1 to analyze and hush ambient noise in real timebhphotovideo.com, bhphotovideo.com. This combination allows the WH-1000XM5 to cancel out a wider range of frequencies than before, particularly more mid- and high-frequency sounds (like human voices or street noise) which earlier models struggled withwhathifi.com.

In practice, the WH-1000XM5’s ANC is exceptionally effective. When you put these on and play some music (or even without music), the roar of airplane engines, the rumble of a train, or the hum of an air conditioner fades dramatically. In fact, in head-to-head tests the XM5 ranks among the best noise-cancelling headphones in the industry for silencing constant low-frequency sounds (like the drone of a plane or bus) and significantly reducing the volume of chatter in a busy office or caféwhathifi.com. Sony’s noise-cancelling tech has consistently wowed reviewers, and the XM5 continues that legacy by delivering some of the best-in-class ANC performance you can getwhathifi.com. You can find yourself in a bubble of tranquility even in loud environments, which is fantastic for focus or relaxation.

That said, competition in 2025 is heating up. Bose’s latest QuietComfort series, for example, has inched ahead in certain scenarios – one review notes that the Bose QuietComfort Ultra can cancel a bit more of the highest frequency noises and sudden soundswhathifi.com. But the difference is relatively small; the WH-1000XM5 still neutralizes the vast majority of unwanted noise and does so without introducing much pressure or hiss. There’s no noticeable white noise added – it’s just blissful silence.

Another new addition is the Auto NC Optimizer. In previous models, you had to manually run a calibration (and even press a button combination for air pressure optimization when flying). Now, the WH-1000XM5 can automatically adjust its noise cancelling settings on the fly, based on your environment and even atmospheric pressurebhphotovideo.com, whathifi.com. This means if you go from a quiet room to a noisy street, or you take off in an airplane, the headphones will intelligently tweak the ANC for optimal performance. The feature works in conjunction with Sony’s Headphones Connect app and the Adaptive Sound Control feature, which can learn your frequent locations and activities and adjust ANC/ambient sound levels accordinglywhathifi.com. It’s a seamless system – for most users, you can leave it on auto and trust that you’re getting the best noise cancellation continuously, without manual fiddling.

Of course, you can still control the ANC modes yourself if needed. A button on the left earcup toggles between full Noise Cancelling and Ambient Sound mode (which lets outside sound in). The ambient mode is useful for awareness – for example, walking on a city street or listening for a train announcement. And if you want no processing, you can turn both modes off to save battery. The transition between modes is smooth, and you can customize the level of ambient sound through the app (anywhere from complete isolation to hearing everything around you amplified). Sony gives you a lot of flexibility here, which is great for tailoring the experience.

In summary, Sony has raised the bar with the WH-1000XM5’s noise cancellation. Whether you’re a frequent flyer looking to drown out engine noise, a student wanting quiet in a café, or just sensitive to noise, these headphones will impress you with how much sound they can cancel. They remain at the top tier of ANC performance in 2025, only challenged by a couple of high-end rivalswhathifi.com – and for most people, the XM5’s balanced mix of superb noise cancelling, sound quality, and features makes them a leading choice.

Smart Features and Connectivity

Beyond sound and silence, the WH-1000XM5 are packed with smart features that enhance daily use. Sony has carried over and refined many of the user-friendly features from the XM4:

Speak-to-Chat: This innovative feature pauses your music and turns on ambient sound as soon as you start speaking, allowing you to have a quick conversation without removing the headphones. For instance, if you greet a barista or answer a coworker, the XM5 will detect it and automatically pause playback. After a few seconds of no talking, your music and ANC resume. On the XM5, Speak-to-Chat works reliably and with a slightly shorter delay than beforewhathifi.com. If you don’t need it, you can toggle this in the app, but it’s handy for brief interactions.

Quick Attention Mode: If you need to hear something immediately (like someone asking a quick question or an announcement), simply placing your hand over the right earcup will instantly lower the volume and pipe in outside sound. This classic Sony feature works as expected – it’s great when you want to momentarily listen without fully pausing and unsealing the headphones.

Wearing Detection: The WH-1000XM5 can tell when you take them off or put them on, thanks to a hidden sensor in the earcupwhathifi.com. Remove the headphones, and your music or video pauses automatically; put them back on, and it resumes. Sony improved the responsiveness of this feature in the XM5, and in testing it reacts very quicklywhathifi.com. This saves you from missing parts of your content and helps preserve battery by not playing unnecessarily. The sensor is now invisible (no more little hole on the earcup like the XM4), reducing any chance of dirt ingress and improving reliability.

Touch Controls: Like its predecessors, the outer surface of the right earcup is touch-sensitive. You can tap or swipe to play/pause, skip tracks, adjust volume, or answer calls. The gestures are intuitive (swipe up/down for volume, forward/back for tracks, etc.) and work smoothly. Sony’s touch controls are among the best implementations on headphones – responsive and easy to memorize.

Voice Assistants: The WH-1000XM5 supports hands-free Google Assistant and Alexa. You can just say “OK Google” or “Alexa” (when configured) and access your phone’s assistant for queries, controlling music, or reading notificationsbhphotovideo.com. With Siri (on iOS) you can trigger via a button or the voice command as well. In our use, the voice assistant integration is seamless, turning the XM5 into a true smart headset for those who like issuing voice commands.

Sony Headphones Connect App: Using Sony’s app (available on iOS and Android) unlocks a lot of customization. You can adjust an EQ to tune the sound to your liking, control the level of ambient sound, customize the button functions, and enable/disable features like Speak-to-Chat, DSEE Extreme, etc. The app also provides firmware updates. It’s a user-friendly app, and it’s worth exploring to get the most out of your XM5.

In terms of connectivity, the WH-1000XM5 uses Bluetooth 5.2 for a strong wireless connection. Pairing is made easier with Google Fast Pair for Android and Microsoft Swift Pair for Windows – a pop-up on your device will quickly guide you to connect, which is very convenientbhphotovideo.com. The XM5 also supports multipoint pairing, allowing you to connect to two devices simultaneouslybhphotovideo.com. For example, you can be connected to your laptop and phone at once – listening to music on the laptop and seamlessly taking a call from your phone when it comes in. This feature works reliably once enabled in the app, and it’s a huge boon for productivity or multi-tasking. (Do note, however, that using multipoint will disable LDAC codec and revert to standard codec, due to Bluetooth bandwidth limitswhathifi.com.)

When it comes to call quality, Sony made improvements with the XM5’s microphone system. There are four beamforming mics focused on voice, aided by AI noise reduction trained on 500 million samplesbhphotovideo.combhphotovideo.com. In real-world use, the XM5 delivers clear call quality even in noisy settings – your voice comes through distinctly and most background noise is filtered out. It’s one of the better headphones for calls in the ANC category, suitable for Zoom meetings or phone calls on the go. Wind noise performance is decent too thanks to Sony’s design and processing tweaks.

Finally, if you ever need or prefer a wired connection, the WH-1000XM5 has you covered. It comes with a 3.5mm audio cable in the box, and you can use the headphones in passive mode with the cable (or active mode with ANC, as long as the battery isn’t empty)bhphotovideo.com. This is useful for in-flight entertainment systems or any device without Bluetooth. There’s no more airplane adapter included (a nod to changing times), but the analog cable ensures compatibility with legacy devices. There’s also a USB-C port, but note that it’s only for charging; unlike a few competitors, the XM5 cannot play audio over USB-C directlytechradar.com.

Battery Life and Charging

Sony didn’t need to fix much in the battery department, and the WH-1000XM5 maintains the excellent stamina of its predecessor. You get up to 30 hours of playback on a full charge with ANC turned on, or around 40 hours with noise cancelling offtechradar.com. This rating holds true in real-world usage – essentially, you can go through several work days or a long-haul flight without needing to recharge. For most people, this means only charging once every few days or once a week, depending on usage, which is very convenient. Even with heavy daily use (say 5-6 hours of listening with ANC), the XM5 will easily last ~5 days. Competing high-end models from Bose and Apple offer similar endurance in the 20-30 hour range, though it’s worth noting some newer models (like the Sennheiser Momentum 4 or certain Audio-Technica models) can last even longer on a charge. Still, 30 hours of ANC playback is more than sufficient for virtually any scenario, and places the XM5 among the leaders for 2022-2024 era headphones.

Charging is done via USB-C, and the WH-1000XM5 supports fast charging if you have an appropriate high-current USB-PD charger. With a 3-minute quick charge, you can get about 3 hours of playbackbhphotovideo.com – a real lifesaver if you’re about to head out the door and realized you forgot to charge your headphones. A full charge takes roughly 3.5 hours from empty to 100% using a standard USB adapter. There’s an LED indicator to show charging status, and you can also check the exact battery percentage in the Sony app or via your connected device’s indicators (both Android and iOS show headphone battery level in their UI when connected).

It’s important to mention that battery life can vary slightly with usage conditions – using LDAC codec or playing music at very high volumes may reduce playtime a bit. But even with LDAC on, users report getting close to the advertised numbers. If you’re ever in a pinch, you can extend life by disabling ANC or extra features. And as noted, you can use the analog cable to listen without any battery usage (though if the battery is completely dead, the headphones may need a tiny charge to power on the drivers; in most cases, however, they will play passively).

Compared to newer rivals in 2025, a few have surpassed the XM5’s battery spec (for example, some models boasting 60+ hours with ANC offtechradar.com). However, Sony’s choice to stick with 30-40 hours is still competitive and strikes a good balance of weight and battery size. Plus, the quick-charge feature mitigates any battery anxiety – grab 10 minutes of charge for a cross-town flight, and you’re set. Overall, the WH-1000XM5 provides reliable, all-day battery life that meets the needs of both casual and power users.

(One more thing to appreciate: Sony’s attention to the environment. The WH-1000XM5 packaging is plastic-free and made mostly from recycled materials, and parts of the headphones use recycled plastic from auto partsbhphotovideo.com. It’s nice to see sustainability efforts in a premium tech product.)

Sony WH-1000XM5 vs. WH-1000XM4: Is It Worth the Upgrade?

If you’re an owner of the previous Sony WH-1000XM4, you’re probably wondering how much better the XM5 is and whether it justifies upgrading. The answer depends on what you value, but in several key areas the WH-1000XM5 does make notable improvements:

Noise Cancellation: The jump from four mics to eight mics, plus the new processing chip, means the XM5 cancels noise even more effectively than the XM4whathifi.com. The XM4 were already excellent, but the XM5 especially improves canceling voices and higher-frequency noises that the XM4 might let through. Also, the convenience of automatic ANC optimization on the XM5 versus the manual optimizer on XM4 is a nice quality-of-life upgradewhathifi.com.

Sound Quality: This is arguably the biggest leap. The XM4 were warm, bassy, and smooth, but the XM5 are clearer and more detailed by comparisonwhathifi.com. Thanks to the new 30mm carbon-fiber drivers and tuning, you’ll likely notice better clarity in vocals and instruments, tighter bass control, and a more open soundstage on the XM5. If sound quality is your priority, the XM5 will sound like an upgrade – many reviewers describe it as a surprisingly big improvementwhathifi.com.

Design & Comfort: The XM5 have a fresh design that is sleeker (no visible hinges) and slightly lighter by a few gramswhathifi.com. The trade-off is they no longer fold up, whereas the XM4 did. Comfort-wise, the XM5’s lighter clamp and new ear cushions may feel a bit nicer on long listens. However, the XM4 were also very comfortable, and some users might actually prefer the slightly sturdier feel of the XM4’s build (with metal in the headband versus ABS in XM5). Both are high quality; the XM5 feels more modern, the XM4 a tad more rugged due to the folding mechanism.

Features: Most smart features are similar, but the XM5 has improved Speak-to-Chat responsivenesswhathifi.com and wearing detection. Both models offer multipoint Bluetooth (the XM4 got it via firmware update). If you use Sony’s 360 Reality Audio or other software features, they’re present on both. One thing to note: because the XM4 is older, it might not get new feature updates, while the XM5 will be supported longer.

Battery Life: Both XM4 and XM5 are rated at 30 hours ANC on, so no change there.

Given these points, the WH-1000XM5 is undoubtedly the better headphone overall – with superior ANC and sound quality being the two biggest reasons to choose it. If those matter a lot to you and you have the budget, upgrading from the XM4 will feel rewarding. On the other hand, the XM4 is still a great headphone in 2025 (and Sony is still selling it at a lower price now). The XM4 might actually beat the XM5 on portability (because of folding) and very slightly on build premium feel (the XM5’s new design can feel less dense). If you’re happy with your XM4, you’re not missing anything critical – it might be worth holding off to see what Sony does next. But new buyers or those craving the latest improvements will find the XM5 to be one of the best upgrades in noise-cancelling headphones. We also have a detailed comparison in our Sony WH-1000XM4 Review for further insight on the differences.

Competition and Alternatives

The Sony WH-1000XM5 sits at the premium end of the wireless headphone market, and it faces strong competition from other flagship models. Here’s a quick look at how it stacks up against a few notable alternatives:

Bose QuietComfort 45 / Bose QuietComfort Ultra: Bose is Sony’s perennial rival in ANC headphones. The QC45 (and the newer QuietComfort Ultra introduced in late 2023) have excellent noise cancellation – Bose slightly edges out Sony in cancelling certain types of noisewhathifi.com. Bose headphones also tend to have a very comfortable fit and a more neutral sound signature. However, the XM5 often wins on features (Bose lacks things like LDAC, and multipoint was introduced later via update) and bass response (Sony delivers a richer bass experience). If absolute noise-canceling performance is your top priority or you prefer the Bose sound signature, they are a great choice, but the XM5 offers a more all-round package (and many will prefer Sony’s sound quality which has more warmth and detail).

Apple AirPods Max: Apple’s over-ear headphones offer a great build (aluminum earcups, very premium) and top-notch active noise cancelling with seamless integration for Apple users. The AirPods Max have slightly different strengths – for instance, their transparency (ambient) mode is the best in class, and the spatial audio integration is a plus if you’re in the Apple ecosystem. However, they are heavier (384 g vs 250 g for Sony) and significantly pricier in most regions. The WH-1000XM5 matches or exceeds the AirPods Max in many areas: battery life (30h vs ~20h), portability (AirPods Max don’t fold either and have a notoriously awkward case), and arguably sound tuning (Sony’s tuning is more universally appealing, whereas AirPods Max has an adaptive EQ and a unique sound profile). Unless you are deeply tied to Apple-only features, the Sony offers better value and comfort.

Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless: Sennheiser’s Momentum 4, released around the same time as the XM5, surprised many with a massive 60-hour battery life (with ANC on) and very good noise cancellation. Sound-wise, the Momentum 4 have that Sennheiser audiophile-grade sound – a bit more neutral, with very clear mids and refined bass. The XM5 versus Momentum 4 is a close call: Sony wins in ANC slightly and in features (Sony’s app and features are more robust), while Sennheiser wins in battery and possibly in call quality consistency. Design is subjective (Momentum 4 are a bit more understated and also fold flat but not inward). If you need that extreme battery life or prefer a flatter sound signature, consider Sennheiser; otherwise, the XM5 holds its own very well and still has the more advanced noise canceling system.

Others: There are other notable mentions – Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2/S3 for stylish design and audiophile sound (though ANC is a notch below Sony), JBL Tour One M2 and AKG N700 series for lower-cost alternatives with decent performance, etc. Even Sony’s WH-1000XM4 remains an alternative if budget is tighter, since it’s often on sale at significantly lower prices now and still offers perhaps 80-90% of the experience of the XM5. Our best noise-cancelling headphones roundup covers these options in detail, but suffice it to say, the WH-1000XM5 is still a top recommendation in its class for 2025.

Price and Value

At launch, the Sony WH-1000XM5 came with a premium price tag of $399 / £380 / AU$649 – aligning with other flagship headphones. As of 2025, however, the price has become more wallet-friendly. We’ve seen the XM5’s street price drop to around $329 / £299 / AU$549 on Sony’s official site and major retailerstechradar.com. During seasonal sales like Black Friday, the price has even dipped below $300 (as low as ~$280 in some cases)techradar.com. This is great news for buyers, as it makes the XM5 an even better value proposition.

Considering everything the WH-1000XM5 offers – top-tier noise cancelling, superb sound, long battery life, and a suite of features – its price is justified among high-end headphones. When compared to its direct competitors, Sony often undercuts Apple’s AirPods Max (which cost ~$549) by a large margin and is on par or slightly above Bose and Sennheiser pricing. Given the frequent discounts and the fact that these headphones have a solid build meant to last years, the XM5 can be a smart investment for your audio needs.

If that price is still steep for you, keep an eye on Sony’s own older models or mid-range offerings. For instance, the WH-1000XM4 often goes on sale around $250 or less and gives you much of the XM5 experience. Sony also has the WH-XB910N (Extra Bass series) and others in lower tiers, though they won’t match the XM5’s overall performance. But if you want the best of the best, the WH-1000XM5 stands tall in 2025. And with the possibility of a successor (the WH-1000XM6) on the horizon, we might see prices of the XM5 drop further. Sony typically releases new models every couple of years; rumors suggest an XM6 could appear in late 2025 with improvements like a new folding hinge designtechradar.com. When that happens, the XM5 will likely become even more affordable, yet it will remain an excellent headphone for years to come. In summary, the Sony WH-1000XM5 offers excellent value for its class, especially at the current discounted rates – it’s an elite headphone that justifies its cost through a rich feature set and performance.

Conclusion

The Sony WH-1000XM5 confirms Sony’s place at the top of the noise-cancelling headphone game. With this model, Sony managed to significantly enhance sound quality and fine-tune its noise cancellation, all while introducing a sleek new design and maintaining strong battery life. The result is a headphone that feels exceptionally polished and versatile. Whether you’re an audiophile looking to enjoy every nuance of your music, a traveler seeking peace amid the chaos of transit, or a remote worker needing focus during calls and work sessions, the WH-1000XM5 rises to the occasion.

Through the lens of E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness), it’s clear why the XM5 has garnered rave reviews: experts praise its balanced, clear audio and class-leading ANCtechradar.com, whathifi.com, and its continuous top rankings in “best headphones” lists underscore its authority in the markettechradar.com. Sony’s years of experience in this field are evident – the XM5 is the culmination of iterative improvements that create a superb user experience. From the moment you put them on, these headphones exude quality – the comfort, the silence when ANC kicks in, and the rich sound all come together to justify the hype.

Of course, no product is without its caveats. The non-foldable design might be a sticking point for some, and there are competitors that beat Sony in specific niches (like Bose in pure noise cancellation, or Sennheiser in raw battery life). Additionally, if you already own a WH-1000XM4, the upgrade, while significant in areas like sound, might not feel essential unless you’re a passionate listener or you find a good trade-in deal. But taken on its own, the WH-1000XM5 stands as one of the best wireless noise-cancelling headphones you can buy in 2025 – a true all-rounder that excels in almost every category.

In conclusion, the Sony WH-1000XM5 earns a strong recommendation. It’s a testament to how far headphone technology has come, delivering an immersive listening experience with minimal compromises. For anyone seeking a premium headphone that “does it all,” the XM5 should be at the top of your list.

Ready to dive deeper or compare options? Check out our other headphone reviews and tech guides for more insights and the latest recommendations.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is the Sony WH-1000XM5 better than the WH-1000XM4?

Yes, in most regards the WH-1000XM5 is an upgrade over the WH-1000XM4. It offers improved noise cancellation (thanks to 8 mics vs 4, and new processing) whathifi.com, noticeably clearer and more detailed sound quality whathifi.com, and a fresh design with even more comfort. The XM5 also has auto‑optimizing ANC and slightly better call quality. However, the XM4 is still a great headphone – it folds for easier travel and is more affordable. If you already have the XM4, you’ll see improvements with the XM5, but if you’re happy with the XM4’s performance, you can stick with it until you’re ready to upgrade. New buyers who want the best should lean toward the XM5 for its enhancements.

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

The Sony WH-1000XM5 is rated for up to 30 hours of playback with ANC on, or about 40 hours with noise cancelling off techradar.com. This means you can get roughly 2–3 full days of typical use on a single charge with ANC active. In real use, most users find the 30‑hour claim accurate (this assumes moderate volume levels). If you use the headphones without ANC, you can stretch to close to 40 hours. Additionally, the XM5 has a quick‑charging feature – just 3 minutes of charging can provide around 3 hours of listening time bhphotovideo.com (with an appropriate USB‑PD charger). A full charge from empty takes about 3 to 3.5 hours via USB‑C. Overall, the battery life is excellent and among the best in class, suitable for long flights, work sessions, and daily commutes without frequent charging.

Do the WH-1000XM5 support multipoint pairing (connecting to two devices)?

Yes. Sony introduced multipoint Bluetooth connectivity in the 1000X series and the WH-1000XM5 can pair with two devices at once bhphotovideo.com. For example, you can connect the headphones to your laptop and smartphone simultaneously. This allows you to listen to music or watch a movie on the laptop, and if a call comes in on your phone, the headphones will automatically switch to the phone audio. It’s a seamless way to use two devices. To enable multipoint, you have to turn it on via the Sony Headphones Connect app (it might slightly reduce codec quality, disabling LDAC when active). Once set, the XM5 manages the connections intelligently. This is great for multitasking and is a feature that not all competitors had at the XM5’s launch, making it a strong selling point for Sony.

What audio codecs does the Sony WH-1000XM5 support?

The WH-1000XM5 supports SBC and AAC codecs, as well as Sony’s high‑quality LDAC codec for Bluetooth audio whathifi.com. SBC is the standard codec supported by all Bluetooth audio devices. AAC is used primarily by Apple devices (iPhones, iPads) for better quality than SBC. LDAC, which is supported by many Android devices and music players, allows for higher bitrate streaming (up to 990 kbps) – effectively letting you enjoy near‑lossless quality and Hi‑Res Audio Wireless with compatible sources. Notably, the XM5 does not support Qualcomm’s aptX or aptX HD/Adaptive codecs whathifi.com. Sony chose to focus on LDAC for high‑res needs. If you’re on Android, LDAC is excellent for sound quality. If you’re on iPhone, you’ll be using AAC, which still provides very good quality (though slightly less data rate than LDAC). In any case, the WH-1000XM5 delivers great sound with the available codecs, and most users won’t miss aptX unless they have specific devices that use it.

Is the Sony WH-1000XM5 comfortable for long listening sessions?

Absolutely, the XM5 is designed for comfort during extended use. It weighs around 250 grams, which is relatively light for over‑ear headphones whathifi.com. The ear cups use soft memory‑foam earpads with a smooth leather‑like cover that minimizes pressure on the sides of your head. Sony also engineered the headband with a flexible, stepless adjustment and added padding to distribute weight evenly whathifi.com. The clamping force is gentle – enough to keep the headphones secure but not too tight. Many users report wearing the WH-1000XM5 for 2–3 hours at a time (or even longer, like on a flight) without discomfort. The materials feel soft, and there’s a bit of swivel in the earcups to accommodate different head shapes. Even if you wear glasses, the consensus is that the XM5 works well since the pads can conform around the frames. Of course, individual comfort can vary, but overall Sony has nailed the comfort design, making the XM5 one of the more comfortable ANC headphones for long‑term wear.

How does the noise cancelling of the WH-1000XM5 compare to Bose headphones?

Sony’s WH-1000XM5 and Bose’s top noise‑cancelling models (like the QuietComfort series) are both excellent, but there are slight differences. The XM5 uses Sony’s latest system with eight microphones and dual processors, which excels at a broad spectrum of noise – from low rumbles to higher‑pitch sounds whathifi.com. In head‑to‑head comparisons, the XM5 and Bose QuietComfort 45/700/Ultra are often very close on constant noise (airplane engines, etc.), with Bose sometimes having a small edge in reducing sudden or variable sounds whathifi.com. Bose’s algorithms historically handle things like people talking or city traffic very effectively. However, the XM5 also reduced those substantially and even outperforms Bose in some scenarios according to user feedback. One review noted Bose’s newest might cancel a tad more noise in total, but also mentioned the XM5 is “still very good for the money” and among class leaders whathifi.com. Essentially, both are top‑tier: Bose might win by a hair in pure ANC strength, but Sony’s ANC is extremely close and comes with advantages like better music quality during ANC and more adjustable settings. Unless you’re extremely noise‑sensitive to specific frequencies, the WH‑1000XM5’s noise cancellation will feel just as effective as Bose’s in everyday use, placing it firmly in the elite ANC headphone category.

Are the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones waterproof or sweat-resistant?

The WH-1000XM5 do not have an official waterproof or IPX sweat‑resistant rating. They are designed for general use (commuting, flying, office, home) and not specifically for heavy workouts or use in rain. The materials include electronics and leatherette pads that could be damaged by excessive moisture. This means you should be careful using them in the rain (use an umbrella or a hood) and avoid soaking them in sweat during intense exercise. Light sweat from a normal walk or wearing them on a hot day is usually fine – just be sure to wipe the earpads down afterwards with a soft cloth. If you need headphones for the gym or running, you might want to look at sport‑oriented earbuds or headphones with water resistance. For everyday use, the XM5 handle normal conditions well, but avoid water exposure to keep them in good shape. If they do get slightly damp, power them off and let them dry completely before using again.

What comes in the box with the WH-1000XM5?

In the box, you’ll find the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones, a sturdy carrying case, a 3.5mm audio cable (approximately 1.2 m) for wired listening, and a USB‑A to USB‑C charging cable bhphotovideo.com. Sony typically also includes an airplane adapter in older models, but for the XM5 they actually did not include the airplane dual‑prong adapter (since many airlines now have single 3.5mm jacks or Bluetooth support, and it’s easy to get an adapter if needed). The carrying case for the XM5 is a new collapsible design – it’s a bit thinner and can fold slightly when empty to save space. The case has a small compartment area to hold the cables. There’s also the usual paperwork (quick start guide, warranty card). Everything needed to get started is included; you might just need to provide your own wall charger (any USB charger or laptop USB port works, but a USB‑PD charger is needed for the fastest charging).

Has the Sony WH-1000XM5 won any awards or recognition?

Yes, the WH-1000XM5 has received widespread acclaim in the tech and audio community. For instance, it won the What Hi‑Fi? Awards 2024 in the wireless noise‑cancelling headphone category whathifi.com, which is a strong endorsement of its performance and quality. It’s also consistently rated 4.5 to 5 stars in reviews from outlets like TechRadar, T3, and others for its superb sound and ANC. Many publications and consumer guides list the XM5 among the best headphones of 2023‑2025 techradar.com. These accolades reflect consensus that Sony nailed it with this model. The combination of excellent noise cancelling, improved audio, and rich features led it to top or near‑top positions in almost all “best of” lists since its release. So, if awards and expert recommendations influence your decision, the XM5’s trophy case is well‑stocked, giving it a high degree of authority and trustworthiness in its segment.

Author: Wiredu Fred – Audio Tech Reviewer & Editor at Freditech.com. Fred has 10+ years of experience testing consumer audio equipment, with a background in sound engineering. He has reviewed dozens of headphones and speakers, and his work is featured in several tech publications. This review draws on hands-on evaluation of the WH-1000XM5 and analysis of expert sources to provide an accurate, trustworthy perspective.