Introduction

Sony has long been a leader in the noise-cancelling headphone market, and with the WH-1000XM5, they aim to solidify their position at the top. This latest iteration of their flagship wireless headphones promises improved sound quality, better noise cancellation, and a redesigned form factor. In this review, we’ll explore how these headphones perform and whether they’re worth the upgrade for existing Sony fans or newcomers to the brand.

Review

The first thing you’ll notice about the WH-1000XM5 is its new design. Sony has opted for a sleeker, more minimalist look compared to its predecessor. The headband is thinner and uses a stepless slider for adjustment, which some users may find more comfortable. The ear cups are slightly larger and more oval-shaped, providing a better seal around the ears. While the new design is undoubtedly stylish, it comes at the cost of foldability – unlike previous models, the XM5 doesn’t fold inward for compact storage.

Sound quality has always been a strong point for Sony, and the XM5 continues this tradition. The headphones feature new 30mm drivers, which might seem like a downgrade from the 40mm drivers in the XM4. However, Sony claims these new drivers offer improved sound quality, particularly in the high frequency range. In practice, the sound is indeed excellent, with crisp highs, detailed mids, and punchy, controlled bass. The soundstage feels wider and more spacious than its predecessor, allowing for a more immersive listening experience.

Noise cancellation is where the XM5 truly shines. Sony has increased the number of microphones used for noise cancellation from four to eight, and the results are noticeable. The XM5 does an outstanding job of blocking out low-frequency noises like airplane engines or air conditioners, but it also performs admirably with mid and high-frequency sounds like voices or keyboard clicks. The improvement is particularly noticeable in complex noise environments like busy cafes or open offices.

Battery life remains impressive, with Sony claiming up to 30 hours of playback with noise cancellation enabled. In real-world usage, this claim holds up well, and the headphones support fast charging, providing 3 hours of playback from just 3 minutes of charging.

The touch controls on the right ear cup are responsive and intuitive, allowing easy control of playback, volume, and noise cancellation modes. Sony has also improved the “speak-to-chat” feature, which automatically pauses your music and enables ambient sound mode when you start speaking.

One area where some users might be disappointed is the lack of aptX codec support. While the XM5 supports LDAC for high-quality audio over Bluetooth, the absence of aptX might be a dealbreaker for some Android users.

The Sony Headphones Connect app provides a wealth of customization options, including adjustable EQ, 360 Reality Audio setup, and the ability to customize the noise cancellation and ambient sound modes. The app also allows you to set up multipoint connectivity, enabling the headphones to connect to two devices simultaneously.

At $399, the WH-1000XM5 is priced at the higher end of the premium headphone market. While the improvements in sound quality and noise cancellation are significant, the price increase from the previous model may give some potential buyers pause.

Conclusion

The Sony WH-1000XM5 sets a new standard for noise-cancelling headphones. With its improved sound quality, class-leading noise cancellation, and comfortable design, it’s a worthy successor to the already excellent XM4. The new design may not appeal to everyone, particularly those who valued the foldability of previous models, and the high price point might be a barrier for some. However, for those seeking the best possible noise-cancelling experience coupled with exceptional sound quality, the WH-1000XM5 is hard to beat. Whether you’re a frequent traveler, an office worker in need of focus, or simply an audiophile looking for a premium wireless listening experience, the Sony WH-1000XM5 is a top-tier choice that justifies its premium price tag.