Sony WH-1000XM5 Review: A New Benchmark for Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones

In the field of high-end wireless noise-canceling headphones, Sony’s WH-1000X series has always been the industry’s vane. As the latest masterpiece of the series, the WH-1000XM5 not only continues the excellent genes of its predecessors, but also achieves a comprehensive breakthrough through a number of innovative technologies. The new headphones bring a long-awaited appearance innovation and noise reduction upgrade, but the price has also risen to $400 (2999 yuan for the national version). Are these improvements worth upgrading? Let’s find out.

Design and wearing experience

The WH-1000XM5 breaks the design language of the series that has remained unchanged for many years. The most significant change is the cancellation of the folding structure. The new headband adopts an integrated design, the material is lighter and slimmer, and it is like a simple-style headband when worn, reducing the sense of pressure on the head. The earmuffs are seamlessly designed, the microphone is more concealed, and the overall weight is 5 grams lighter than the XM4 (only 250 grams), and it is still comfortable to wear for a long time.

However, the flexible surface and smooth leatherette of the new headphones are more susceptible to oil stains, so it is recommended to carry a cleaning cloth with you.

Noise reduction performance: smarter and quieter

The active noise reduction (ANC) of the XM5 has been significantly upgraded:

8 noise reduction microphones (double that of the XM4) monitor internal and external noise in real time

The V1 processor (the same as the WF-1000XM4) automatically optimizes the noise reduction effect with the AI ​​algorithm

In actual experience, high-frequency noises such as subway brake squeaks are effectively suppressed

The ambient sound mode is natural and close to the listening experience of open headphones. The newly added “Smart No-Removal” function will automatically pause the music and switch to ambient mode when the user is detected talking, but the sensitivity may be too high (yawning can also trigger it).

Sound quality: All-rounder among wireless headphones

XM5 continues Sony’s consistent high sound quality standards:

Three-band balance, strong but not muddy bass, wide sound field

Support LDAC high-definition encoding and DSEE Extreme sound quality restoration technology

In actual testing, both the explosion scene of “Guardians of the Galaxy” and the details of Bach’s string music can be accurately restored

Unfortunately, it does not support aptX HD, but you can customize EQ or turn on 360-degree real-time sound effects through the “Sony Headphones Connect” APP (compatible sound source service required).

Battery life and functions

30 hours of battery life (ANC on), supports fast charging (3 minutes of charging for 3 hours of playback)

Retain the multi-point connection function of XM4 (can pair two devices at the same time, but LDAC needs to be turned off)

APP provides in-depth settings such as adaptive sound control and firmware upgrade

Purchase suggestions

Suitable for:

Commuters who pursue top noise reduction and sound quality

Travelers who need to wear for a long time

Users who have high requirements for wireless connection stability

WH-1000XM5 has once again consolidated Sony’s leading position in the field of wireless noise-cancelling headphones through design innovation and hardware upgrades. Although the cancellation of the folding structure and the price increase may cause controversy, its overall performance is still an industry benchmark.

“This is a pair of headphones that makes you forget about technology – because it just works perfectly.”