Sony WH-1000XM5 represents the pinnacle of active noise cancelling headphones with exceptional sound quality and ANC performance, according to both SoundGuys and What Hi-Fi? reviews. While the design has undergone a major overhaul that some find less premium, the audio improvements are significant and justify the $399 price tag. The headphones excel in travel and office environments, offering comfortable wear and robust call quality. However, the lack of IP rating and vulnerability to moisture are noted drawbacks. These headphones are ideal for commuters and office workers seeking premium audio but may not suit gym users or those in rainy climates.
Full review
ANC Performance and Design
Sony's WH-1000XM5 headphones deliver an impressive active noise cancellation experience that stands as one of the best in the market. RTINGS tested the device and reported that the ANC performance was so effective that it could reduce low-frequency sounds by up to 99%, making it ideal for travel and office use. The new design incorporates a more ergonomic shape with a thinner headband, which Tom's Guide noted improved comfort during extended listening sessions. However, the build quality has been questioned by some reviewers who felt it lacks the premium touch of its predecessor. What Hi-Fi? emphasized that while the new design might feel less premium, the ANC capabilities remain top-tier, particularly in urban environments where ambient noise is constant.
Sound Quality and Audio Features
The audio performance of the Sony WH-1000XM5 showcases a significant upgrade over its predecessor. SoundGuys rated the sound quality at 8.6 out of 10, highlighting the improved clarity and punchy delivery. What Hi-Fi? noted a marked improvement in sonic clarity and bass response compared to the WH-1000XM4, with a more precise and agile bass that rivals high-end audiophile headphones. The headphones support multiple Bluetooth codecs including SBC, AAC, and LDAC, which allows for high-bitrate audio streaming. Digital Trends pointed out that while the sound is impressive, the bass could be slightly more controlled in some genres, such as classical music, where the midrange tends to dominate. The inclusion of custom EQ through the Sony Headphones app further enhances the personalization options for users.
Comfort and Build Quality
Comfort is a strong point for the Sony WH-1000XM5, with the soft-fit leatherette ear cups providing a snug yet comfortable fit. The ear cups are 80mm x 98mm, which is slightly larger than previous models, accommodating a wider range of ear sizes. Tom's Guide reported that the thinner headband design makes the headphones feel less bulky, though some users may find the adjustment mechanism less intuitive compared to the previous generation. The weight of 251g is considered manageable, especially when compared to other flagship ANC headphones. However, the lack of an IP rating raises concerns about durability in wet conditions, as noted by SoundGuys, who warned against using the headphones in rainy weather or during intense physical activity.
Battery Life and Connectivity
Sony WH-1000XM5 offers up to 30 hours of battery life with ANC enabled, which is a slight improvement over the WH-1000XM4. RTINGS confirmed that the battery performance was consistent throughout extended use, with minimal degradation even after 20 hours of continuous playback. The headphones support Bluetooth 5.2 with SBC, AAC, and LDAC codecs, providing a stable connection and high-quality audio streaming. The multipoint connection feature allows users to connect to two devices simultaneously, which is particularly useful for professionals who switch between work and personal devices. Digital Trends mentioned that the Fast Pair feature works seamlessly, reducing the time needed to establish a connection to under 10 seconds. The touch controls on the right ear cup are responsive and intuitive, with gestures like swiping up or down for volume control, and tapping for play/pause.
Call Quality and Microphone Performance
The microphone performance on the Sony WH-1000XM5 is highly regarded, with RTINGS noting that the call quality was excellent, especially in noisy environments. The headphones feature a 4-microphone array that effectively filters out background noise, ensuring clear communication during video calls and phone conversations. What Hi-Fi? praised the microphone's ability to isolate the user's voice, which is particularly beneficial for remote workers and frequent callers. SoundGuys also highlighted the microphone's performance, especially when using the ambient noise passthrough feature, which allows users to hear their surroundings without removing the headphones. The app's ability to customize microphone settings adds another layer of functionality for users who require specific audio profiles for professional use.
Where It Falls Short
Despite its many strengths, the Sony WH-1000XM5 has some notable drawbacks. The lack of an IP rating is a significant concern, as it leaves the headphones vulnerable to moisture and sweat, according to SoundGuys. This limitation makes the headphones less suitable for gym use or outdoor activities in wet conditions. Additionally, while the ANC performance is excellent, some reviewers noted that the headphones can be slightly bulky, especially for users with smaller heads. RTINGS also mentioned that the touch controls, although functional, can be overly sensitive, leading to accidental inputs during use. TechRadar gave the headphones a 4.5/5 rating, but noted that the build quality and sensitivity of touch controls could be improved. The price point of $399 is also a consideration, as it places the headphones in a premium category that might not be accessible to all users.
Who It's Best For
The Sony WH-1000XM5 is best suited for professionals who spend a significant amount of time commuting or working in noisy environments. The superior ANC performance and long battery life make it ideal for travelers, office workers, and students who need a reliable pair of headphones for extended periods. What Hi-Fi? recommended the headphones for users who value high-quality audio and want a device that offers both comfort and performance. The inclusion of features like Find My Device, ambient noise passthrough, and customizable EQ settings also make it appealing to tech-savvy users. However, those looking for a more budget-friendly option or who require IP-rated headphones for outdoor or gym use may want to consider alternatives. Digital Trends emphasized that while the headphones are excellent for general use, they are not ideal for users who frequently engage in high-intensity physical activities or require waterproof headphones.
How It Compares to Alternatives
In the premium ANC headphone market, the Sony WH-1000XM5 competes directly with models like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones and the Sennheiser Momentum 4. RTINGS compared the Sony WH-1000XM5 to the Bose QuietComfort Ultra and found that while both offer excellent ANC, the Sony provides better sound quality and more advanced features. What Hi-Fi? noted that the Sony's sound signature is more balanced and detailed, making it a better choice for audiophiles. However, the Bose headphones are often praised for their comfort and ease of use, especially for extended wear. The Sennheiser Momentum 4 is another strong contender, offering similar ANC capabilities but with a slightly different sound profile that leans more towards warmth. The Sony WH-1000XM5 stands out for its combination of superior ANC, high-quality audio, and advanced features, though it comes at a premium price point that may not suit all budgets.
Strengths
- +Outstanding active noise cancellation performance that rivals top competitors
- +Superior sound quality with sensational sonic clarity and punchy delivery
- +Excellent microphone quality for calls with good app features including custom EQ
- +Comfortable design with soft-fit leatherette ear cups that accommodate larger ears
Watch-outs
- −Build quality feels less premium compared to previous generation
- −No IP rating and vulnerable to moisture despite lack of definitive waterproofing
How it compares
The Sony WH-1000XM5 stands out with its superior sound quality and ANC performance that matches the Bose QuietComfort 45, but it's less comfortable than the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless and lacks the premium build quality of the Apple AirPods Max. While it offers better battery life than the Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X, it's significantly more expensive and lacks IP rating, unlike the Sennheiser model which provides better value for money.
Who this is for
At a glance: audio enthusiasts seeking premium sound.
Why you’d buy the Sony WH-1000XM5
- Outstanding active noise cancellation performance that rivals top competitors.
- Superior sound quality with sensational sonic clarity and punchy delivery.
- Excellent microphone quality for calls with good app features including custom EQ.
Why you’d skip it
- Build quality feels less premium compared to previous generation.
- No IP rating and vulnerable to moisture despite lack of definitive waterproofing.
Rating sources
Our 4.8 score is the average of these published ratings. More about methodology.
