Sony WF-1000XM5 Review: Still the Noise-Canceling King?
Sony has long held the crown for noise-canceling earbuds, and the WF-1000XM5 is their latest contender. Retailing for around $299, these earbuds promise improved noise cancellation, sound quality, and a more comfortable design. After a week of rigorous testing, here’s my detailed breakdown.
What’s in the Box?
Inside the box, you’ll find the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds, a charging case, four sizes of ear tips (SS, S, M, L) made of a new noise-isolation material, a USB-C charging cable, and the usual documentation.
Design and Comfort
The XM5s are noticeably smaller and lighter than their predecessor, the WF-1000XM4. This translates to a more comfortable fit, especially for extended listening sessions. The new ear tips also play a significant role in comfort and noise isolation. Sony has opted for a smoother, more rounded design, which I find aesthetically pleasing. However, the glossy finish on the earbuds themselves is a fingerprint magnet.
Noise Cancellation
This is where the WF-1000XM5 truly shines. Sony has further refined their noise-canceling technology, and the results are impressive. The earbuds effectively block out a wide range of ambient noises, from the rumble of a train to the chatter of a busy coffee shop. The new Integrated Processor V2 and HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN2e work in tandem to deliver exceptional performance. While no noise cancellation is perfect, the XM5s come incredibly close. They handle wind noise better than previous models but strong gusts can still cause some disturbance.
Sound Quality
The WF-1000XM5 delivers a rich and detailed sound signature. The bass is punchy and well-defined, the mids are clear and present, and the highs are crisp without being harsh. The earbuds support Sony’s LDAC codec for high-resolution audio streaming, and DSEE Extreme upscales compressed audio files to near-high-resolution quality. Overall, the sound is well-balanced and enjoyable across a variety of genres. Call quality is also excellent, thanks to improved microphone technology that effectively reduces background noise.
Features and Battery Life
The XM5s are packed with features, including Speak-to-Chat (pauses music when you start talking), Adaptive Sound Control (adjusts noise cancellation based on your location), and multipoint pairing (connects to two devices simultaneously). Battery life is rated at up to 8 hours with noise cancellation enabled, and the charging case provides an additional 16 hours. Quick charging provides up to 60 minutes of playback with just 3 minutes of charging. The earbuds are also IPX4 water-resistant, making them suitable for workouts and light rain.
Pros:
- Exceptional noise cancellation
- Improved comfort and design
- Rich and detailed sound quality
- Excellent call quality
- Long battery life
- Feature-rich (Speak-to-Chat, Adaptive Sound Control, Multipoint Pairing)
Cons:
- Relatively expensive
- Glossy finish attracts fingerprints
- Wind noise cancellation is improved but not perfect
The Verdict
The Sony WF-1000XM5 are undoubtedly among the best noise-canceling earbuds on the market. While the price tag is steep, the exceptional noise cancellation, improved comfort, and excellent sound quality make them a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize these features. If you’re looking for the ultimate in noise-canceling performance, the Sony WF-1000XM5 should be at the top of your list.