If you desire a high-end noise-canceling headphone with excellent sound quality, comfort, and smart features, then the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are one of the best available in the queue. These are the successor to the much-hailed WH-1000XM4, and they take performance to a new level with refined design and enhanced internals. In this in-depth review, we’ll explore why the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are a great investment for audiophiles, frequent travelers, remote workers, and casual listeners alike.

Sleek New Design
One of the most noticeable upgrades with the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones is the design. Sony has moved away from the foldable structure of the previous generation, opting for a sleeker, more modern silhouette. The seamless headband and smooth matte finish give the headphones a futuristic aesthetic that matches their high-tech capabilities.
While the non-folding style is a disadvantage to portability, Sony offsets it with a fantastically thin and rugged carrying case. The better weight distribution also makes sure that the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are incredibly comfortable to wear for long periods of time, even during flights or extended work shifts.
Industry-Leading Noise Cancellation
The standout feature of the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones is the industry-leading noise cancellation. Sony has integrated two processors and eight microphones to actively cancel out ambient noise with extreme precision. Whether you’re in a busy office, on a noisy train, or walking through a bustling city, these headphones adapt in real-time to reduce distractions.
The Adaptive Sound Control intelligently balances noise cancellation based on your movement and location. It even learns your patterns with the passage of time. This smart noise-canceling experience is what truly distinguishes the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones in the market.
Read more about Sony’s noise-canceling technology
Incredible Sound Quality
Under the hood, the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones make use of a new 30mm carbon fiber driver unit. The reduced size may appear to be an improvement over the WH-1000XM4’s 40mm drivers, but in reality, it is a major gain in terms of clarity of sound and resolution.

Opt for punchy bass, clear midrange, and neat highs. Whether it’s classicals, EDM, podcasts, or cellphone calls, the sound is well-balanced and immersive. High-res audio support with LDAC and DSEE Extreme ensures that compressed music also sounds brilliant.
Smart Features for Smart Users
The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones come loaded with smart features that make your life easy. With Speak-to-Chat, music starts pausing as soon as you start speaking, and automatically picks up where you left off when you’re finished. The headphones also support hands-free voice command with Google Assistant or Alexa.
The built-in sensors mean the headphones pause the playback whenever you take them off your ears—conserve your battery and your position in the podcast or song.
Simple and effortless pairing with Bluetooth 5.2. The multipoint connection feature allows you to have two devices connected simultaneously—perfect for alternating between your phone and laptop without pause.
Explore WH-1000XM5 features on TechRadar
Long Battery Life and Fast Charging
Battery life is yet another highlight feature of Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones. You get as much as 30 hours of playback time when you have active noise cancellation, and up to 40 hours without the active noise cancellation. That’s more than ample for extended commutes, workdays, or study sessions.
In a rush? With a 3-minute quick charge, you get up to 3 hours of playback. This is a lifesaver when you’re heading out the door and need music or call access on the go.
Sony Headphones Connect App
Sony Headphones Connect app gives you complete control over your listening experience. You can adjust EQ settings, alter ambient sound levels, enable adaptive sound control, etc. Firmware updates are also offered through the app so that your headphones stay updated with all the features.
Download the Sony Headphones Connect App
Call Quality and Microphone Performance
The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are great for music, but they’re great for phone and video calls as well. The headphones use beamforming microphones and intelligent noise rejection to counteract your voice, making it ring out clear and loud despite noisy surroundings.

As Zoom calls and virtual meetings become increasingly common, and as cell phone use continues to grow, this function makes the WH-1000XM5 an instrumental tool for businesspeople and students alike.
Eco-Friendly Materials
Sony has adopted sustainability by utilizing recycled plastic material in the construction of the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones and their packaging. The brand’s initiative in reducing its ecological impact is quite impressive and makes these already fantastic headphones that much more appealing.
Where to Buy the Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones
Ready to upgrade your audio experience? You can purchase the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones from the following trusted retailers:
- 🔗 Amazon – Competitive pricing, fast shipping, and frequent discounts.
- 🔗 Best Buy – Buy online or pick up in-store; often includes exclusive deals.
Who Should Buy the Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones?
The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are ideal for:
Regular Flyers: Eliminate airplane noise and enjoy all-day battery life.
Remote Workers: Crystal clear calls, great sound quality, and ultimate comfort.
Music Enthusiasts: Hi-resolution sound, adjustable EQ, and sublime audio.
Students: Wonderful for studying in noisy surroundings or participating in virtual classes.
Even though it is priced on the upper side, the quality, features, and performance make it worth the expense. If you are passionate about your audio experience, these headphones are well worth the money.
Final Thoughts
The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are the crème de la crème wireless noise-canceling headphones. With their lightweight build, intelligent features, and great sound quality, they check all the boxes for top-of-the-line over-ear headphones. If you’re upgrading from an older generation or buying your first high-end headphones, the WH-1000XM5 is a choice you won’t regret.
Sony paces the pack when it comes to headphones, and with the WH-1000XM5, they’ve shifted the goalposts once again.
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