Key specifications

Noise cancellation performance

The WH-1000XM5 features Sony’s most advanced ANC system with 8 microphones (up from 5 in the XM4) and two dedicated processors. According to RTINGS testing, the XM5 can mitigate more sound across the frequency spectrum compared to Sony’s in-ear WF-1000XM5 earbuds.

Per RTINGS comparison testing, the newer XM6 shows improvements in mid-range noise attenuation — particularly effective at cutting out office chatter and keyboard sounds. However, the XM5 still holds its own, especially at current sale prices. SoundGuys notes that the XM5’s ANC and audio quality remain outstanding and don’t fall far behind the newer model.

The Auto NC Optimizer automatically adjusts noise cancellation based on your environment and wearing conditions, though RTINGS notes this adaptive system cannot be disabled if you prefer manual control.

Winner: Still excellent — among the best ANC available, though the XM6 edges ahead in mid-frequency blocking.

Sound quality

Sony’s 30mm carbon fiber composite drivers deliver what What Hi-Fi describes as engaging sound quality with punchy bass that improves on the XM4 predecessors. The publication notes the overall sound is deeper and more immersive than the previous generation.

SoundGuys’ lab testing found the XM5 boosts bass probably a little too much, which can drown out the midrange. They note that without equalization, stringed instruments and higher vocals can get somewhat dulled. However, the Sony Headphones Connect app offers extensive EQ customization to tune the sound to your preference.

LDAC codec support enables Hi-Res audio streaming when paired with compatible devices, and DSEE Extreme upscales compressed audio for better quality from streaming services.

Winner: Very good for consumer headphones — fun, engaging sound signature that most listeners will enjoy.

Comfort & design

At 250g, the WH-1000XM5 is one of the lightest premium ANC headphones available — 5 grams lighter than the XM4. Expert reviewers consistently praise the comfort, with one reviewer noting these headphones are near perfect for comfort with minimal top-of-head pressure and very soft clamping force.

The redesigned synthetic leather earcups and slimmer headband distribute pressure evenly for all-day wear. However, SoundGuys notes one minor gripe: the earcups are fairly shallow, so ears may press against the fabric inside. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra offers more internal space if this concerns you.

One trade-off versus the XM4: the XM5 doesn’t fold for compact storage. The case is larger as a result, which may matter for travel.

Winner: Excellent — among the most comfortable over-ear headphones for extended listening sessions.

Battery life & charging

Sony rates the WH-1000XM5 at 30 hours with ANC enabled. SoundGuys’ standardized testing found even better results: approximately 32 hours with ANC on, extending to a whopping 53 hours with ANC disabled.

The quick charge feature delivers 3 hours of playback from just 3 minutes of charging — genuinely useful when you forget to charge before heading out. USB-C charging is standard.

For comparison, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 offers significantly longer battery life at 62.3 hours per RTINGS testing, but the XM5’s 30+ hours is more than sufficient for most use cases including long-haul flights.

Winner: Excellent — 30+ hours is plenty for all-day use, and quick charge is a genuine lifesaver.

Call quality

The WH-1000XM5 features 4 beamforming microphones with AI-powered noise reduction for calls. SoundGuys notes the call quality is quite good and will knock the socks off any Zoom call — the microphone array particularly excels at rejecting outside noise.

RTINGS testing confirms the XM5 offers better overall mic performance compared to the in-ear WF-1000XM5, and represents a significant improvement over the XM4 generation for voice calls.

Winner: Very good — excellent for business calls and video conferencing.

How it compares

Per RTINGS analysis, the XM5 still holds its own versus the XM6, especially if you’re aiming to get the most for your money. The XM6 introduces a redesigned hinge with more comfortable fit and sturdier build, plus improved mid-range noise attenuation. However, the XM6’s softer pads may cause inconsistent sound for glasses wearers.

Who should buy the Sony WH-1000XM5?

Buy the WH-1000XM5 if you:

• Want premium ANC headphones at an excellent price (currently ~$248 on sale)
• Travel frequently and need long battery life with great noise cancellation
• Work from home and need clear call quality for video meetings
• Prefer a fun, bass-forward sound signature
• Value lightweight, all-day comfort
• Use Android and want LDAC Hi-Res audio support

Consider alternatives if you:

• Must have the absolute best ANC — get the Sony WH-1000XM6 ($450)
• Wear glasses regularly — XM6’s softer pads may break seal; test both
• Need maximum battery life — Sennheiser Momentum 4 offers 62+ hours
• Prefer spatial audio features — Bose QC Ultra or AirPods Max excel here
• Want a foldable design — XM5 lays flat but doesn’t fold compact

Final verdict

The Sony WH-1000XM5 remains an outstanding choice in 2025. While the newer XM6 offers incremental improvements in ANC and build quality, the XM5 delivers 90% of the performance at significantly lower prices — especially during frequent sales that drop them to $248.

Engadget awarded the XM5 a score of 95 in their original review, praising the comfortable redesign, sound quality, and powerful ANC. SoundGuys had these at the top of their best headphones list for multiple years, and notes they remain fabulous in 2025.

For most users, the XM5 represents the sweet spot of performance and value in premium noise-canceling headphones. Unless you specifically need the XM6’s improved mid-frequency ANC or have $200 extra to spend, the WH-1000XM5 is the smarter buy.

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How we researched this review

This review synthesizes expert analysis and lab testing from leading audio publications including RTINGS, SoundGuys, What Hi-Fi, Engadget, and Tom’s Guide. We referenced standardized measurements for ANC performance, frequency response, and battery life rather than conducting our own lab tests. All specifications are from official Sony sources and verified expert testing.

Sources referenced:

• RTINGS.com — Lab measurements and comparison testing
• SoundGuys — Battery life testing (32h ANC on, 53h ANC off)
• What Hi-Fi — Sound quality assessment
• Engadget — Original review (95/100 score)
• Tom’s Guide — Real-world usage testing

Disclosure

This article contains affiliate links; therefore, we may earn a commission if you purchase through our links at no extra cost to you. This helps us continue to bring you research-based reviews. We were not paid by Sony to produce this content, and all analysis is based on publicly available expert testing.