If you're looking for flagship-level wireless earbuds with outstanding sound and excellent ANC, the Sony WF‑1000XM5 is a strong contender. But their sleek, slippery shell and fit quirks may not be ideal for everyone.
These earbuds deliver a rich, immersive soundstage with punchy bass, detailed mids, and crisp highs. DSEE Extreme upscaling enhances compressed streams, while LDAC unlocks full potential on Android. AAC playback on iOS is solid but not as deep.
Sony's dual-processor system adapts ANC in real time and removes ambient noise effectively. If you achieve a perfect seal, you'll enjoy near-silence. But fit inconsistencies can hinder performance — foam tips may help, but aren't foolproof.
Compact and ergonomic, the XM5 design is an improvement over its predecessor. Yet, the glossy surface makes them slippery and tricky to handle. A tight seal is crucial for sound and ANC — some users workaround fit with aftermarket tips or hacks.
Bone-conduction and beamforming microphones deliver generally clear voice capture—even in noisy settings. That said, some users still report robotic or tinny tones depending on ambient noise and connection stability.
Battery runtime is solid: about 8 hours per charge with ANC and roughly 24 hours with the case. Quick charging gives 1 hour in just 3 minutes. Wireless charging is supported, but the case feels delicate and the coil placement is reportedly finicky.
The Sony Headphones Connect app offers granular controls (EQ, 360 Audio, gesture profiles), but it's cluttered and overwhelming to many. Multi-device switching isn't always seamless — pairing with PCs still occasionally misbehaves.
Pairing is easy on mobile devices, but switching between Windows and other devices can be inconsistent. Some users must re-pair regularly — disappointing for premium hardware.
Rated IPX4, these earbuds withstand sweat and light splashes but are not built for rough use. Their slippery design also raises questions about grip and wear-test durability.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Battery Life | ~8 hours (ANC on), ~24 hours with case |
| Noise Cancellation | Dual-processor adaptive ANC |
| Charging | Quick charge + wireless support |
| Bluetooth | LDAC, AAC, SBC |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 (sweat/splash) |
If you're audiophile-prioritized and okay tweaking fit, the WF‑1000XM5 offer stellar sound and strong ANC performance. However, if ease-of-use, grip comfort, or flawless multi-device reliability matter most — consider other options.