The world of premium noise-cancelling headphones has been ruled by Sony for years, and the WH-1000XM5 is the brand’s latest statement of excellence. Building on the legacy of the XM4, Sony has refined almost every aspect of its flagship over-ear headphones—from design to sound quality to smarter noise cancellation. The result is a product that not only sets a new benchmark but also redefines what premium headphones can deliver in 2025.
If you’re wondering whether the Sony WH-1000XM5 deserves the crown of “best noise-cancelling headphones,” this in-depth review will answer every question.
Introduction: A New Era of Silence and Sound
Sony has been leading the active noise-cancellation (ANC) race for years, competing primarily with Bose and Apple. The WH-1000XM5 represents a complete redesign — slimmer, lighter, and more futuristic. At first glance, you can tell that Sony wanted to move beyond iterative upgrades and instead introduce a more refined, mature listening experience.
Everything about these headphones feels premium: the smooth matte finish, the minimalist curves, and the whisper-quiet operation of the ANC system. Whether you’re commuting, working in a café, or flying across continents, the XM5 promises an environment of pure sound and absolute calm.
Design and Comfort
Sony has overhauled the design of the WH-1000XM5, making it sleeker and more modern compared to the XM4. The headband now has a continuous curve, giving it a cleaner aesthetic. The earcups are slightly larger and use a new soft-fit synthetic leather that feels gentle against the skin while maintaining excellent grip.
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The biggest change is in the hinge — or rather, its absence. Sony has done away with the folding design in favor of a fixed headband that allows smoother adjustment and less mechanical stress. While this means the XM5 is less compact for travel, the included hard case keeps it well-protected.
Weighing just 250 grams, these headphones are incredibly light for their class. You can wear them for hours without fatigue, making them perfect for long flights or extended work sessions.
Specifications Overview
| Feature | Sony WH-1000XM5 |
|---|---|
| Driver Unit | 30mm carbon fiber composite drivers |
| Noise Cancellation | Dual Processor (QN1 + V1) |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.2 |
| Battery Life | 30 hours (ANC on), 40 hours (ANC off) |
| Charging Time | 3 minutes for 3 hours playback (Quick Charge) |
| Supported Codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC |
| Weight | 250g |
| Voice Assistants | Google Assistant, Alexa |
| Multipoint Connection | Yes (connects two devices simultaneously) |
Sound Quality: Immersive and Detailed
When it comes to audio performance, the WH-1000XM5 delivers an experience that’s both powerful and refined. The newly designed 30mm drivers use lightweight carbon fiber diaphragms that improve high-frequency response while keeping bass rich and controlled.
Sony’s sound signature remains warm and engaging, with a slight emphasis on the lower end that adds punch without overwhelming the mids. Vocals are crisp and natural, and instruments have impressive separation.
If you listen to genres like jazz, classical, or acoustic, you’ll appreciate the clarity and precision. For electronic, hip-hop, or pop tracks, the XM5 delivers deep, satisfying bass that never distorts even at higher volumes.
The inclusion of LDAC codec ensures high-resolution wireless audio, letting you enjoy studio-quality sound when paired with compatible devices.
Noise Cancellation: The Gold Standard
Sony’s active noise cancellation has always been industry-leading, but the XM5 takes it to another level. The headphones feature eight microphones and two dedicated processors — the QN1 and V1 chips — working in tandem to detect and neutralize ambient noise in real time.
Whether it’s the hum of an airplane engine, the chatter of a busy café, or traffic noise, the XM5 eliminates distractions with remarkable precision. During flights, it performs exceptionally well, rivaling (and in some cases surpassing) the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones.
The “Adaptive Sound Control” feature automatically adjusts ANC levels based on your activity and location. For instance, it can lower noise cancellation when you start walking or talking, providing a seamless listening experience.
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Microphone and Call Quality
The Sony WH-1000XM5 excels not just in playback but also in communication. With four beamforming microphones and advanced AI noise reduction, your voice remains crystal clear even in windy or noisy environments.
For remote workers and frequent callers, this is a huge upgrade. Whether you’re on Zoom, WhatsApp, or regular voice calls, the XM5 ensures consistent clarity.
Smart Features and Connectivity
Sony continues to refine the smart ecosystem around its headphones. Through the Sony Headphones Connect app, you can customize EQ settings, control noise cancellation, adjust ambient sound levels, and even enable Speak-to-Chat — which automatically pauses playback when you start speaking.
Multipoint connectivity allows you to pair two devices simultaneously, switching between them effortlessly. For example, you can listen to music on your laptop and instantly take a call on your smartphone without manual switching.
The touch controls on the right earcup are intuitive — swipe up or down to adjust volume, forward or backward to skip tracks, and double-tap to play/pause.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery performance is another strong point for the WH-1000XM5. You get 30 hours of playback with ANC on and up to 40 hours without. For most users, this means several days of use before needing a recharge.
A quick 3-minute charge via USB-C provides 3 hours of playback — perfect for those always on the go. The headphones support fast charging with compatible PD adapters, making them travel-friendly and efficient.
Build Quality and Durability
The Sony WH-1000XM5 feels robust yet lightweight. The materials are of high quality, with a soft-touch matte finish that resists fingerprints and scratches. The redesigned headband is flexible and durable, though the non-folding design may be a drawback for frequent travelers.
Despite this, the overall construction inspires confidence. Sony has also emphasized sustainability by using recycled plastic materials and eco-friendly packaging — a thoughtful step toward greener technology.
Performance in Real-World Use
In daily use, the WH-1000XM5 performs flawlessly. Whether it’s cancelling out the drone of an air conditioner, the chatter in an office, or the chaos of public transport, these headphones create a bubble of tranquility.
Gamers and video watchers will appreciate the low latency and excellent synchronization, while music lovers can fine-tune their sound through the customizable EQ. The companion app also supports 360 Reality Audio, offering an immersive spatial sound experience on compatible platforms.
Comparison with Competitors
When compared with the Bose QuietComfort Ultra and Apple AirPods Max, the Sony WH-1000XM5 stands out for its perfect balance of features, comfort, and price.
| Model | Noise Cancellation | Battery Life | Weight | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sony WH-1000XM5 | Excellent (Best-in-Class) | 30 Hours | 250g | $399 |
| Bose QuietComfort Ultra | Excellent | 24 Hours | 240g | $429 |
| Apple AirPods Max | Great (Less Adjustable) | 20 Hours | 385g | $549 |
While Bose slightly edges out in comfort, and Apple wins in luxury build, the Sony WH-1000XM5 remains the most well-rounded option. It delivers class-leading ANC, superior battery life, and a balanced, customizable sound profile at a more accessible price point.
Who Should Buy the Sony WH-1000XM5?
The Sony WH-1000XM5 is ideal for:
- Frequent travelers who need top-tier noise cancellation.
- Remote workers who want crystal-clear calls.
- Music lovers and audiophiles seeking rich, balanced sound.
- Commuters and students looking for all-day comfort.
Its combination of performance, intelligence, and design ensures it appeals to both casual listeners and professionals alike.
Pricing and Availability
The Sony WH-1000XM5 is priced at around $399 (USD) or ₹34,990 (India), available at Sony’s official stores and major online retailers. Given its features and performance, it offers excellent value for its class.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Best-in-class noise cancellation
- Exceptional sound quality with customizable EQ
- Long battery life and fast charging
- Comfortable and lightweight design
- Strong call quality and smart features
Cons:
- Non-folding design makes it bulkier for travel
- Expensive for casual users
- Touch controls can be sensitive at times
Final Verdict: Still the ANC King
After thorough testing, it’s safe to say that the Sony WH-1000XM5 continues Sony’s tradition of excellence. It refines everything that made its predecessor great — better ANC, superior comfort, and smarter features.
While competitors like Bose and Apple offer compelling alternatives, the XM5 strikes the perfect balance between sound, silence, and sophistication. For those seeking the best all-around noise-cancelling headphones, the Sony WH-1000XM5 stands tall as the ultimate choice.
With unmatched ANC performance, premium sound, and a host of intelligent features, the WH-1000XM5 proves once again that Sony knows how to blend technology with artistry — redefining what peace and music should sound like.
