I am almost 65 years old SO, I DO NOT have the ears of a 18 year old. That said, I consider these to be good for these reasons:
A: Exceptional battery life.
B: Call quality that was considered good UNTIL I did a direct comparison to my Blueparrott B450-XT’s - NO WHERE NEAR the quality of the Blue 450’s, BUT the Blues are made specifically for calls in noisey environments. . Blues are in my opionion the defacto standard by which all other ANC phone calls should be judged. My "demo" for people is to run my upright vacuum cleaner whilst on a call. People on the other end cannot hear it AT ALL – REALLY!, I hear them, and they hear me perfectly! TRULY amazing! I did the same test with these and alas they failed miserably in comparison. I expected that. I was told they sound like I am in a room away from the microphone, a bit fishtank like, and muddy. SO, they’ll do in a call but not as a primary phone call device in noise. I heard a sample of the BOSE 700’s and they were terrible, which is what prompted me to get the Sony’s.
C: One unconventional thing they do great at: A Sleep Aid. Yup, they drown out all the extraneous noises like people talking, Air conditioners, fans, Water coolers, hums, etc. ALL gone with nothing playing through them!
I bought them primarily for playing on my PS5, and watching TV late at night. They do both quite well.
D: Amazingly, my ears do not sweat much in these even after prolonged use. I’ve ordered those Dekoni Suede Earpads for them as well just for added comfort.
(https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BS4T3X62?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details)
(5/16/23 - Returned The earpads: they claim they are suede when in fact they are 2/3 suede. The inner part inside the cup is something else, not leather so NOT durable. Considering this, $49 seems FAR too expensive.)
E: They are long-term comfortable unless you have ears like a B-52 in which case you will probably be stuffing bits.
As for music, I find them to be more flat without pronounced highs or bass - which I prefer. The EQ on the app is a nice feature. The ANC works very well listening to music and will be adequate to the task in both quiet and noisey settings. Again, I remind you, I’m not 18. ;-)
Pricewise, they ARE a bit expensive but the build quality seems better than most.
If you have the time, I would HIGHLY recommend you test several brands and models at a store simply because sound quality is subjective and EVERYONE has their preference.
UPDATE: 5/23/23 - Returning (REPLACING) Headphones - Why? They started acting "Funky". By that, I mean that if you turn them off, they will not turn on unless you do not hit any buttons for about 15 sec. NOT normal. ALSO, they started to exhibit Connection issues that were NOT there initially. I STILL, at this point consider them excelllent. Now, if the NEW pair goes weird, THEN I would have to re-evaluate.
UPDATE 6-3-23: New pair are working as they should no connection issues or on/off bttun problems.
UPDATE 2-16-24: Still working perfectly and I use them nearly every night to sleep.
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Sony WH-1000XM5/B Wireless Industry Leading Noise Canceling Bluetooth Headphones (Renewed) $249.49 & FREE Shipping
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For over 70 years, imagination has been the fuel of everything we do. From how people listen to music, to how they play games, to how they watch TV, our big imaginations have led us to create products that innovate and inspire generations.
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This Item  Sony WH-1000XM5 The Best Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones with Auto Noise Canceling Optimizer, Crystal Clear Hands-Free Calling, and Alexa Voice Control, Black |  |  |  |  |  | |
| Price | -13% $348.00 List: $399.99 | -13% $348.00 List: $399.99 | -20% $278.00 List: $348.00 | -20% $278.00 New Price: $348.00 | -21% $278.00 List: $349.99 | -8% $349.00 List: $379.00 |
| Delivery | Get it as soon as Friday, May 3 | Get it as soon as Friday, May 3 | Get it as soon as Friday, May 3 | Get it May 1 - 3 | Get it as soon as Friday, May 3 | — |
| Customer Ratings | ||||||
| Battery life | ||||||
| Sound quality | ||||||
| Noise cancellation | ||||||
| Volume control | ||||||
| Bass quality | ||||||
| Sold By | Huppins | Huppins | Amazon.com | Deals2Go (SN Recorded) | Amazon.com | Frontrow Tech LLC |
| connectivity tech | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0, Bluetooth | Wireless | Bluetooth, Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth |
| headphones form factor | Over Ear | Over Ear | Over Ear | Over Ear | Over Ear | Over Ear |
| connector type | Stereo Mini Jack | Stereo Mini Jack, USB | USB Type C | Stereo Mini Jack | USB Type C | wireless |
| noise control | active noise cancellation | active noise cancellation | active noise cancellation | active noise cancellation | active noise cancellation | active noise cancellation |
| headphones jack | 3.5 mm Jack | 3.5 mm Jack | 3.5 mm Jack | 3.5 mm Jack | 3.5 mm Jack | 2.5 mm Jack |
| cable feature | Without Cable | Without Cable | Detachable, Without Cable | Detachable | Without Cable | Without Cable |
From the manufacturer
WH-1000XM5
YOUR WORLD. NOTHING ELSE.
The Best Noise Canceling Headphones*
Two processors control 8 microphones
Specially developed by Sony, the new Integrated Processor V1 unlocks the full potential of our HD Noise Canceling Processor QN1. This unique combination of technology controls 8 microphones to deliver unprecedent noise canceling quality.
The best noise canceling headphones
From airplane noise to people’s voices, our WH-1000XM5 wireless headphones keep out more high and mid frequency sounds than ever. And with Auto NC Optimizer, noise canceling is automatically optimized based on your wearing conditions and environment.
All day power and quick charging
With up to 30 hours of battery life, you’ll have enough power even for long trips. If you need to charge in a hurry, you can get 3 hours' worth of charge after just 3 minutes with an optional USB-PD compatible AC adapter.
Crystal clear hands-free calling
With Precise Voice Pickup Technology & advanced audio signal processing, the person on the other end of the call will hear your voice clearly, even when you are in noisy situations. Equipped with two beamforming microphones on each earcup, these headphones are calibrated to only pick up your voice.
All day comfort with an elegant design
These lightweight headphones are beautifully finished in newly developed soft fit leather. This material fits snugly around the head with less pressure on the ears while keeping out external sounds. The stepless slider, seamless swivel and hanger, and silent joints, makes it a pleasure to wear.
Multipoint connection
These headphones can be paired with two Bluetooth devices at the same time. So when a call comes in, your headphones know which device is ringing and connects to the right one automatically. You’ll also be able to quickly switch your headphones to either of the two devices at the touch of a button.
Touch controls
Pause/play/skip tracks, control volume, activate your voice assistant, and answer phone calls.
Speak to Chat
As soon as you start a conversation, Speak-to-Chat automatically stops your music and lets in ambient sound.
Adaptive Sound Control
Automatically optimizes volume based on your environment learning your behavior and recognizes locations that you frequently visit.
Collapsible case saves space
Carry your headphones effortlessly in the redesigned case.
Sony Noise Canceling Wireless Headphones
 WH-1000XM5 |  WH-1000XM4 |  ULT WEAR |
|---|---|---|
Noise CancelingThe Best Noise Cancellation | Noise CancelingPremium Noise Cancellation | Noise CancelingDigital Noise Cancellation |
Battery LifeUp to 30 Hrs, Quick charging: 3 Min charge for up to 3 Hrs playback | Battery LifeUp to 30 Hrs, Quick charging: 10 Min charge for up to 5 Hrs playback | Battery LifeUp to 30 Hrs, Quick charging: 3 Min charge for up to 90 Min playback |
Calling featuresBeamforming microphones + AI noise reduction, Multi device connection | Calling featuresBeamforming microphones, Multi device connection | Calling featuresBeamforming microphones, Multi device connection |
Audio featuresHi-Res audio compatible | Audio featuresHi-Res audio compatible | Audio featuresULT mode for more bass |
Special FeaturesAuto Noise Canceling Optimizer, Carrying Case, Wearing detection, Touch Control | Special FeaturesNC optimizer, Foldable design, Carrying Case, Wearing detection, Touch Control | Special FeaturesFoldable design, Carrying Case, Wearing detection, Touch Control |
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Is it really worth it? Watch this before you buy.
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Sony Xm5 vs Skullcandy Crusher Evo
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Sony WH-1000XM5 vs Sony WH-1000XM4 - Which One Is Better?
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Reviews with images
Sony never disappoints!
I thoroughly enjoy what Sony has to offer in their product line. I have the PlayStation 5, a Sony Bravia 4K TV and several other Sony products. Yes although I have owned a few of their product line I will not try to be biased here with the review. What got me into Sony products was really their earphones dating back to 2011! They have the best earphones you could get for $20 back at the time in 2011 and now the quality they still continue to put out never disappoints! Here's the pros and cons of the Sony WH-1000XM5.Update: I also picked up the XM4 Earbuds from Sony and take note that those are on a different level for listening to music compared to the XM5 Over the Ear headphones. Shares the same features like the XM5, not the same sound like over the ear obviously but also more marketed to those who goes to the gym and likes something more compact.Pros:Comfortable and lightweight!I don't ever have a complaint with what they have to offer when it comes to comfort. These are better than BOSE in regards as to comfort. I think the one thing that makes them comfortable also is that they are light. They weigh only about 0.56 pounds! People tend to have problems with headphones if they are heavy in my opinion! I also assume they use a low density memory foam for cushioning which is great but will eventually need to be replaced or tended to if left compressed or squished for too long.Unique featuresNoise Cancelling is top notch but not much different than their previous lines in my opinion! It is a standard these days to get noise cancelling and the headphones are great for drowning out noise if need be. They also tend to those who need to be aware of their surroundings by implementing a ambient mode like previous models. Works great and works like a charm by either taking the headphones off or covering the touch control panel. Also the Speak to Pause Music feature is insanely nice to have! Helps when your hands are busy and or you just don't want to adjust your headphones having to speak.Superb sound!The sound quality out of these are amazing! Does really well in all areas of music genres. Particularly really in low frequencies for bass! I get to enjoy these at a great volume and it pairs amazingly with my PS5 as a gaming headset! (Will mention the headphones does not come with a microphone for gaming when using a headphone jack.) As a pair of noise cancelling headphones, you can expect to hear a positively good detail in music, movies, gaming or even a phone call! They are clear and surprisingly really balanced. The microphone on these headphones for phone calls are great. Better than the previous versions.Fast charging!The charging rate of these headphones is incredible! I never knew how fast charging can be with this! There's times I have left this powered on overnight as I'm at work for my 10 hour job and it was drained by the time I wanted to use it again. In those times I left it charging and goodness greatness these were ready to go in a about 10-15 minutes! I enjoy these so much that I'm actually glad they have a 24-30 hour battery life.Cons:Cost.Its expensive! If you can get these on sale, it's worthwhile! If it's in your budget go for it! You pay for what you get in my opinion and these are worth their weight in gold!Fitment.They don't exactly fit around my short wide neck whenever I need to take it off and be present in a conversation or in my surroundings. Not exactly a big matter or deal breaker. More so it's a personal perspective. My neck size is 15 ¾ inches in circumference and that's pretty average I believe. I have to extend these in order to keep them around my neck without compromise. They also do not fold inward like the previous Sony headphone models but again never a issue.Cushion. Yes the ear cup cushions are comfortable but again when I place them around my neck it compresses the cushion to a point where it feels awkward after putting it back on. I'm looking at other options to replace their soft fit leather design.Update: There is different earcups that you can replace the OEM cups with but it comes at a cost of I believe $60 which is worth noting.Conclusion.Worthiness of $350+ (price as of 12/07/2022) during the holidays? Yes!Personal opinionated review:Sony WH-1000XM5 or other leading competition? Sony, easily Sony. I've never been unhappy about this purchase and I tell people that Sony is industrial leading company that continues to impress people when it comes to their headphones. Beats by Dre(Apple), Apple and Bose has always been great by popularity but Sony gets appraised by quality!I will update this review as I go until they put a new model out.
Top reviews from the United States
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Reviewed in the United States on May 4, 2023
Color: BlackSize: One SizeStyle: HeadphonesVerified Purchase
Reviewed in the United States on April 12, 2024
Color: SilverSize: One SizeStyle: HeadphonesVerified Purchase
Reviewed in the United States on November 24, 2022
Color: BlackSize: One SizeStyle: HeadphonesVerified Purchase
I thoroughly enjoy what Sony has to offer in their product line. I have the PlayStation 5, a Sony Bravia 4K TV and several other Sony products. Yes although I have owned a few of their product line I will not try to be biased here with the review. What got me into Sony products was really their earphones dating back to 2011! They have the best earphones you could get for $20 back at the time in 2011 and now the quality they still continue to put out never disappoints! Here's the pros and cons of the Sony WH-1000XM5.
Update: I also picked up the XM4 Earbuds from Sony and take note that those are on a different level for listening to music compared to the XM5 Over the Ear headphones. Shares the same features like the XM5, not the same sound like over the ear obviously but also more marketed to those who goes to the gym and likes something more compact.
Pros:
Comfortable and lightweight!
I don't ever have a complaint with what they have to offer when it comes to comfort. These are better than BOSE in regards as to comfort. I think the one thing that makes them comfortable also is that they are light. They weigh only about 0.56 pounds! People tend to have problems with headphones if they are heavy in my opinion! I also assume they use a low density memory foam for cushioning which is great but will eventually need to be replaced or tended to if left compressed or squished for too long.
Unique features
Noise Cancelling is top notch but not much different than their previous lines in my opinion! It is a standard these days to get noise cancelling and the headphones are great for drowning out noise if need be. They also tend to those who need to be aware of their surroundings by implementing a ambient mode like previous models. Works great and works like a charm by either taking the headphones off or covering the touch control panel. Also the Speak to Pause Music feature is insanely nice to have! Helps when your hands are busy and or you just don't want to adjust your headphones having to speak.
Superb sound!
The sound quality out of these are amazing! Does really well in all areas of music genres. Particularly really in low frequencies for bass! I get to enjoy these at a great volume and it pairs amazingly with my PS5 as a gaming headset! (Will mention the headphones does not come with a microphone for gaming when using a headphone jack.) As a pair of noise cancelling headphones, you can expect to hear a positively good detail in music, movies, gaming or even a phone call! They are clear and surprisingly really balanced. The microphone on these headphones for phone calls are great. Better than the previous versions.
Fast charging!
The charging rate of these headphones is incredible! I never knew how fast charging can be with this! There's times I have left this powered on overnight as I'm at work for my 10 hour job and it was drained by the time I wanted to use it again. In those times I left it charging and goodness greatness these were ready to go in a about 10-15 minutes! I enjoy these so much that I'm actually glad they have a 24-30 hour battery life.
Cons:
Cost.
Its expensive! If you can get these on sale, it's worthwhile! If it's in your budget go for it! You pay for what you get in my opinion and these are worth their weight in gold!
Fitment.
They don't exactly fit around my short wide neck whenever I need to take it off and be present in a conversation or in my surroundings. Not exactly a big matter or deal breaker. More so it's a personal perspective. My neck size is 15 ¾ inches in circumference and that's pretty average I believe. I have to extend these in order to keep them around my neck without compromise. They also do not fold inward like the previous Sony headphone models but again never a issue.
Cushion. Yes the ear cup cushions are comfortable but again when I place them around my neck it compresses the cushion to a point where it feels awkward after putting it back on. I'm looking at other options to replace their soft fit leather design.
Update: There is different earcups that you can replace the OEM cups with but it comes at a cost of I believe $60 which is worth noting.
Conclusion.
Worthiness of $350+ (price as of 12/07/2022) during the holidays? Yes!
Personal opinionated review:
Sony WH-1000XM5 or other leading competition? Sony, easily Sony. I've never been unhappy about this purchase and I tell people that Sony is industrial leading company that continues to impress people when it comes to their headphones. Beats by Dre(Apple), Apple and Bose has always been great by popularity but Sony gets appraised by quality!
I will update this review as I go until they put a new model out.
Update: I also picked up the XM4 Earbuds from Sony and take note that those are on a different level for listening to music compared to the XM5 Over the Ear headphones. Shares the same features like the XM5, not the same sound like over the ear obviously but also more marketed to those who goes to the gym and likes something more compact.
Pros:
Comfortable and lightweight!
I don't ever have a complaint with what they have to offer when it comes to comfort. These are better than BOSE in regards as to comfort. I think the one thing that makes them comfortable also is that they are light. They weigh only about 0.56 pounds! People tend to have problems with headphones if they are heavy in my opinion! I also assume they use a low density memory foam for cushioning which is great but will eventually need to be replaced or tended to if left compressed or squished for too long.
Unique features
Noise Cancelling is top notch but not much different than their previous lines in my opinion! It is a standard these days to get noise cancelling and the headphones are great for drowning out noise if need be. They also tend to those who need to be aware of their surroundings by implementing a ambient mode like previous models. Works great and works like a charm by either taking the headphones off or covering the touch control panel. Also the Speak to Pause Music feature is insanely nice to have! Helps when your hands are busy and or you just don't want to adjust your headphones having to speak.
Superb sound!
The sound quality out of these are amazing! Does really well in all areas of music genres. Particularly really in low frequencies for bass! I get to enjoy these at a great volume and it pairs amazingly with my PS5 as a gaming headset! (Will mention the headphones does not come with a microphone for gaming when using a headphone jack.) As a pair of noise cancelling headphones, you can expect to hear a positively good detail in music, movies, gaming or even a phone call! They are clear and surprisingly really balanced. The microphone on these headphones for phone calls are great. Better than the previous versions.
Fast charging!
The charging rate of these headphones is incredible! I never knew how fast charging can be with this! There's times I have left this powered on overnight as I'm at work for my 10 hour job and it was drained by the time I wanted to use it again. In those times I left it charging and goodness greatness these were ready to go in a about 10-15 minutes! I enjoy these so much that I'm actually glad they have a 24-30 hour battery life.
Cons:
Cost.
Its expensive! If you can get these on sale, it's worthwhile! If it's in your budget go for it! You pay for what you get in my opinion and these are worth their weight in gold!
Fitment.
They don't exactly fit around my short wide neck whenever I need to take it off and be present in a conversation or in my surroundings. Not exactly a big matter or deal breaker. More so it's a personal perspective. My neck size is 15 ¾ inches in circumference and that's pretty average I believe. I have to extend these in order to keep them around my neck without compromise. They also do not fold inward like the previous Sony headphone models but again never a issue.
Cushion. Yes the ear cup cushions are comfortable but again when I place them around my neck it compresses the cushion to a point where it feels awkward after putting it back on. I'm looking at other options to replace their soft fit leather design.
Update: There is different earcups that you can replace the OEM cups with but it comes at a cost of I believe $60 which is worth noting.
Conclusion.
Worthiness of $350+ (price as of 12/07/2022) during the holidays? Yes!
Personal opinionated review:
Sony WH-1000XM5 or other leading competition? Sony, easily Sony. I've never been unhappy about this purchase and I tell people that Sony is industrial leading company that continues to impress people when it comes to their headphones. Beats by Dre(Apple), Apple and Bose has always been great by popularity but Sony gets appraised by quality!
I will update this review as I go until they put a new model out.
Images in this review
Top reviews from other countries
Bruno N.
Headphone top padrão Sony, qualidade Japonesa!
Reviewed in Brazil on November 2, 2023Color: BlackSize: One SizeStyle: HeadphonesVerified Purchase
Bruno N.
Reviewed in Brazil on November 2, 2023
Cancelamento de ruído não funciona perfeitamente pra sons muito agudos, ex: tenho periquitos australianos e com o NC ativado ainda da pra escutar o piado deles, porém se vc colocar uma música de fundo ai desaparece todos os sons ao redor e vc fica isolado.
Qualidade de som nas músicas é excelente, porém tenho um Astro A40 que uso no playstation e prefiro o som do Astro com a MixAmp tanto pra músicas como filmes e séries.
Em relação ao conforto achei confortável, dá pra usar por bastante tempo, porém achei o espaço para orelhas muito raso, as orelhas encostam e é oq faz ter que dar umas pausas, oq por exemplo não ocorre com o Astro A40 que o espaço é bem maior, mais confortável, a orelha não encosta e daria pra ficar o dia inteiro com ele, nesse quesito também gostaria de citar o Anker Life Q30 que era o headphone que usava antes desse, acho o Anker mais confórtável, embora perca no NC e qualidade sonora.
Por fim o investimento foi grande, mais nosso problema é a taxação e o real que não vale nada comparado com o dólar, espero que o headphone dure muito tempo, pois realizei a compra por conta do meu Anker Life Q30 com 1 ano e meio de uso parou de funcionar o Noise Cancel e descascou todo e abriu a parte da espuma, levando em conta que o Anker custa em medio R$ 400 e o Sony R$ 2500 espero que se reflita na durabilidade.
Images in this review
Will
Ótimo headphone
Reviewed in Brazil on March 3, 2023Color: SilverSize: One SizeStyle: HeadphonesVerified Purchase
Will
Reviewed in Brazil on March 3, 2023
Images in this review
Truthful Reviewer
Best Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones on the Market - Replacing my AirPods Max
Reviewed in Canada on May 30, 2022Color: SilverSize: One SizeStyle: HeadphonesVerified Purchase
Truthful Reviewer
Reviewed in Canada on May 30, 2022
✔ Much Better Microphone (vs. XM4) – Tested with Zoom/Microsoft Teams business calls and family/personal calls. Performs much better than XM4 previous generation
✔ Long Term Comfort – I can wear them for long periods of time (several hours) without any discomfort while wearing my glasses. XM4’s felt warm/hot after long term use, XM5’s have more breathability.
✔ Touch Controls – Works flawlessly between swipes and tap. Feels like an upgrade with better sensitivity compared to previous generation.
✔Bluetooth & Connectivity – I take them off, music pauses, I put them back on, music resumes. I walk anywhere in my home while leaving my phone on my desk. Clear sound, no distortion whatsoever, signal transmission remains in-tact and stable at any given moment. I have them connected to my iPhone and MacBook Pro, I’m able to swap between both devices quickly.
✔Hard Case & Wire – The case is good quality, headphones fit perfectly with slot for USB C charging cable and audio aux cable, both included no extra charge.
✔Sony app is full of features. Can customize audio profiles or use presets. The presets are excellent for any genres of music and I often swap depending on my mood. Updates are done through the app. NC and transparency mode can be controlled in the app or by using a button on the headphones. Adaptive sound is nice, it auto detects my environment and changes from NC and transparency. It works in my favor, no complaints. Auto power off is an option, or manually turn them off using the button on the headphones.
I purchased 2 pairs of the new Sony XM5’s – one for my wife and one for myself. We absolutely love using the latest and greater wireless noise cancelling headphones – I can easily say that both Sony and Apple make the best out there. Because I own all the latest NC headphones, I created a comparison below between the 2 best: Sony XM5’ and how they compare with Apple’s Air Pods Max.
Sound Quality: Winner Tied
I tested the XM5’s using Tidal and Apple Music using both wired and wireless. I found the music quality on the XM5’s sound better on specific genres such as Jazz, Bossa Nova, Hip-Hop (90’s), Classical Rock, Symphony, and R&B.
The APM are ahead when it comes to EDM like House, Drum & Bass, along with Pop and other computerized music.
Both headphones are close for most genres, however the biggest difference I noticed between the two was Jazz like genres, with the XM5’s being leagues ahead.
This is a tie because it depends on the genre you prefer.
Audio Enhancements: Winner Air Pods Max
The XM5’s offer 360 Audio Reality which is only accessible to less popular streaming music apps like Tidal, while the APM offer Dolby Atmos and Spatial Audio. The audio library for the sound enhancement is also smaller for Sony with limited selections.
Comfort: Winner Sony XM5
The XM5 can remain on your head for long periods of time (several hours) without any discomfort given its lightweight feel. When walking around the house, or outdoors, the XM5’s remains on your head without moving.
The APM on the other hand are heavier and begin causing some discomfort after 1-2 hours. When stationary, they’re fine, but when walking around and tilting your head, they begin to slip off.
Features: Winner Sony XM5
Sony offers an headphones app accessible from the App Store or Google Play Store which allows you to heavily customize your XM5’s, from building a sound profile, selecting audio pre-sets, adjusting noise cancelling, transparency modes and a great deal more.
The APM on the other hand, do not have an app of any kind, besides the ability to select audio pre-sets from the music app you subscribe to.
Transparency Mode: Winner Air Pods Max
The transparency mode on the APM is unlike anything else; I can have full conversations that sound natural. The XM5’s on the other hand are an upgrade from the XM4’s, but it doesn’t sound as natural as the APM.
Microphone: Winner Air Pods Max
The microphone on the APM is excellent; I’ve hosted hundreds of hours of business meetings and personal phone calls; the microphone is crystal clear and professional.
The XM5’s on the other hand is an upgrade from the XM4’s and noticeable a lot better, but the APM are noticeably better. I tested the XM5’s for calls and was satisfied with the results.
Noise Cancelling: Winner Sony XM5
When wearing the APM for a long period of time, my ears feel like they’re going to explode. When I first purchased the APM on the release date, I could use the noise cancelling option for hours however, after over a year, I can no longer handle noise cancellation beyond 15 minutes it gives me severe ear pain and I must switch to transparency mode or take them off and break.
The XM5’s on the other hand, do not cause me any pain, regardless of if I’m listening for 30 minutes or 2 hours. During testing, I listened to music for a long period of time and watched a YouTube for an hour.
I feel that prolonged listening to the APM using the noise cancelling feature caused my ears to become highly sensitive after using them for over a year, with a feeling of severe cabin pressure. This is also worse if using the Bose QC35’s, with pressure being too intense.
I can wear the XM5’s for long periods of time; they manage to block loud televisions and screaming babies. The biggest takeaway is being able to keep them on for several hours without discomfort or pain.
Build Quality: Winner Air Pods Max
The APM are built to look and feel luxurious. From the band, metal, and aluminum components, they feel like the Lamborghini of headphones. The XM5’s on the other hand are made out of sophisticated plastic. Also, the APM has magnetic interchangeable ear cushions that can be purchased separately, while the XM5’s do not.
Accessories & Costs: Winner Sony XM5
Sony offers a real carrying case that protects the headphones and its accessories from damage/drops. Apple has a bra-like case that doesn’t protect the headphones at all, forcing the user to purchase a third-party case online. Also, Sony offers a headphone cable, while Apple requires a separate purchase ($45). This means between the cable and the case; you’re looking at almost $100 of added expenses with the APM.
Moreover, the price at the time of this review is $499 for the XM5’s and $779.00 for the APM. The Sony’s offer a much better value.
Conclusion:
There are many factors to take into consideration between both brands, but ultimately, my heart is with the XM5’s because they sound better for the genres I listen to (Jazz) on a daily basis, and it puts me in the musical ‘zone’. Also, the noise cancelling feature from the XM5’s don’t give me the ‘cabin pressure’ feeling found from the APM. The price difference between both is also substantial given they are close in most categories.
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Swaroop
Best consumer headphones.
Reviewed in India on June 15, 2023Color: SilverSize: One SizeStyle: HeadphonesVerified Purchase
Swaroop
Reviewed in India on June 15, 2023
Build quality: These are made of high-quality plastic and feel lightweight and comfortable to wear for longer durations. The only thing is, that the headband is thin and hurts a little on my head after wearing it for a few hours. Just move or adjust it a little and I'm good to go for another hour.
Sound quality: It's Sony, no need to brag about sound quality. Sony is known for sound clarity. Every small musical instrument is heard in great detail. I can't forget my first experience of listening to music using these headphones. I'm blown away by the details and the clarity of sound.
Battery life: It is mentioned 30 hours. Seems to be true. Headphones will easily last up to two days of mixed usage.
Noise cancellation (N.C.): These headphones are my first experience with noise cancellation. When NC is turned on, it is silent. Zero noise. But after a few days, I realised that I could still hear voices from other people when they were shouting or talking loudly. It's good not to completely block all sound.
Update on N.C.:
I want to address one thing people who are saying that NC is not good. I think they feel like that because of the adaptive NC feature in the Sony headphones app. Due to this feature, the level of Noise cancelling is adjusted automatically according to the surroundings. I know it doesn't work 100% accurately every time. It works sort of 70 - 80 % accurately depending on the surroundings. That's why some people complain that NC is not completely silent or perfect. Some are complaining there is no option to disable the adaptive NC feature. It is available in the Sony headphones app after the latest update. We can also manually disable the adaptive NC of headphones using the app. I mentioned these details because some people may not be aware of these features available in the headphones app.
Note: When NC is turned on, a sound pressure is created between ears and headphones. So there is a vacuum-like seal between ears and headphones and it blocks external sound. I'm not sure how NC works. This is the first time for me experienced noise cancellation. It was a shock and a surprise feeling when NC was on. My brother got scared due to this effect. I got used to it now. Check the Sony manual regarding the safety of NC. In the Sony Headphones Connect app, there is a safe listening setting. Please follow it and you don't need to worry about your ears getting damaged due to headphones. I have attached screenshots of the same. Please check.
Final Verdict: I can say that these headphones are the best consumer headphones. Audiophile headphones are different that's why I mentioned them as the best consumer headphones. Most people who use them will love them.
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J George
Poor sound quality
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on May 2, 2023Color: BlackSize: One SizeStyle: HeadphonesVerified Purchase
