WH-1000XM5 Review: Sony’s Flagship ANC Headphones Redefine Audio Excellence

Experience unparalleled comfort and immersive sound with Sony’s WH-1000XM5 headphones. With industry-leading noise cancellation and intuitive controls, they redefine the listening experience for audiophiles and travelers alike.


Sony’s WH-1000XM5 headphones represent the pinnacle of audio engineering, combining cutting-edge technology with unparalleled comfort to deliver a truly immersive listening experience. As the successor to the highly acclaimed WH-1000XM4, these headphones have big shoes to fill, and they do not disappoint.

Design-wise, the WH-1000XM5 maintains the sleek and sophisticated aesthetic of its predecessor, with subtle refinements that enhance both form and function. The plush ear cushions and adjustable headband ensure a comfortable fit for extended wear, while the lightweight design makes them ideal for travel and daily use. The foldable design and included carrying case add to their portability, allowing you to take your music with you wherever you go.

When it comes to sound quality, the WH-1000XM5 sets a new standard for excellence. Sony’s proprietary drivers deliver a rich, detailed soundstage, with crisp highs, deep lows, and a natural midrange. Whether you’re listening to your favorite tracks, watching movies, or taking calls, every sound is reproduced with stunning clarity and precision, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the music.

Of course, one of the standout features of the WH-1000XM5 is its industry-leading active noise cancellation (ANC) technology. Sony’s Adaptive Sound Control analyzes your environment and adjusts the ANC settings accordingly, ensuring that you remain undisturbed no matter where you are. Whether you’re in a busy airport, a crowded café, or a noisy office, these headphones block out external noise with remarkable effectiveness, allowing you to focus on what matters most.

Another notable improvement with the WH-1000XM5 is its enhanced battery life. With up to 30 hours of playback on a single charge, you can enjoy your favorite music all day long without interruption. Even if you run out of battery, a quick 10-minute charge gives you up to 5 hours of playback time, ensuring that you’re never without your music for long. Additionally, the headphones feature a new feature called “Quick Attention Mode,” which allows you to instantly pause your music and let in ambient sound by simply covering the right ear cup with your hand—a handy feature for when you need to quickly listen to announcements or have a conversation.

Comfort is paramount when it comes to over-ear headphones, and the WH-1000XM5 excels in this regard. The plush ear cushions and lightweight design make these headphones a joy to wear for extended periods, while the adjustable headband ensures a snug and secure fit. The ear cups are designed to conform to the shape of your ears, minimizing pressure points and discomfort, even during long listening sessions.

In terms of connectivity, the WH-1000XM5 offers both Bluetooth and NFC pairing options, allowing for seamless connectivity with your favorite devices. The intuitive touch controls make it easy to adjust volume, skip tracks, and activate your voice assistant with a simple swipe or tap. Additionally, the headphones feature multipoint connectivity, allowing you to pair them with two devices simultaneously, so you can easily switch between your phone and laptop without missing a beat.

Overall, the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are a triumph of design and engineering, offering unmatched comfort, immersive sound, and industry-leading noise cancellation. Whether you’re a frequent traveler, a music enthusiast, or someone who simply values peace and quiet, these headphones are sure to impress. With their blend of style, performance, and functionality, the WH-1000XM5 stands as a testament to Sony’s commitment to innovation and excellence in audio technology.