Sony WH-1000XM5
Sony's previous-generation flagship and still one of the strongest noise-cancelling headphones on sale, now priced well below its WH-1000XM6 successor. Two processors drive eight noise-cancelling microphones, the roughly 250g design stays comfortable over long sessions, and it supports LDAC, two-device multipoint, and up to 30 hours of playback with ANC on (40 hours off). Independent reviewers, including RTINGS, note it still holds its own against the XM6, which adds stronger noise cancelling, better call quality, and a folding design.
We may earn a commission when you buy through our links.
Our Verdict
The best value here and the predecessor most buyers cross-shop against the XM6. It keeps the same 30-hour ANC battery, LDAC and two-device multipoint, and its two-processor, eight-microphone noise cancelling still ranks among the strongest available, which is why it places above the audiophile-tuned Px8 S2 and HDB 630 on this ANC-weighted list. It sits below the XM6 and Bose QC Ultra because their noise cancelling and call quality are a clear step ahead and the XM5 does not fold for travel, but since the XM6 launched it has sold for far less, delivering most of the flagship experience for the money.
Score Breakdown
Pros & Cons
Pros
- •Two processors and eight microphones deliver ANC that still ranks among the best available
- •Lightweight ~250g build with a soft, low-pressure fit for long sessions
- •LDAC hi-res Bluetooth plus two-device multipoint
- •30 hours with ANC (40 hours off), and a 3-minute charge adds up to 3 hours
- •Sells well below the WH-1000XM6 since Sony's 2025 refresh
Cons
- •ANC and call quality trail the newer WH-1000XM6 and Bose QC Ultra
- •Earcups swivel flat but do not fold, so the carry case is bulky
- •No aptX support and no audio over USB-C
- •No water-resistance rating
Specifications
| Driver Size | 30mm carbon fiber composite dome |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.2 with LDAC |
| ANC | Integrated Processor V1 + QN1, 8 microphones |
| Weight | ~250g |
| Battery | 30 hours with ANC, 40 hours ANC off |
| Codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC |
| Multipoint | Yes (2 devices) |
| Fast Charging | 3 min for up to 3 hours (USB PD) |
| Foldable | No (earcups swivel flat) |
| Wired Audio | 3.5mm cable included |
Quick Answers
What is the driver size of the Sony WH-1000XM5?
Sony WH-1000XM5 driver size: 30mm carbon fiber composite dome.
What is the connectivity of the Sony WH-1000XM5?
Sony WH-1000XM5 connectivity: Bluetooth 5.2 with LDAC.
What is the ANC of the Sony WH-1000XM5?
Sony WH-1000XM5 ANC: Integrated Processor V1 + QN1, 8 microphones.
What is the weight of the Sony WH-1000XM5?
Sony WH-1000XM5 weight: ~250g.
What is the battery of the Sony WH-1000XM5?
Sony WH-1000XM5 battery: 30 hours with ANC, 40 hours ANC off.
What is the codecs of the Sony WH-1000XM5?
Sony WH-1000XM5 codecs: SBC, AAC, LDAC.
What is the multipoint of the Sony WH-1000XM5?
Sony WH-1000XM5 multipoint: Yes (2 devices).
What is the fast charging of the Sony WH-1000XM5?
Sony WH-1000XM5 fast charging: 3 min for up to 3 hours (USB PD).
Who is the Sony WH-1000XM5 for?
It suits buyers who want flagship-class ANC for less, commuters and frequent flyers, android listeners who can use LDAC. It is not the right pick for travelers who need a compact folding design, buyers who want the strongest ANC available.
Is the Sony WH-1000XM5 worth buying?
Sony's previous-generation flagship and still one of the strongest noise-cancelling headphones on sale, now priced well below its WH-1000XM6 successor. Two processors drive eight noise-cancelling microphones, the roughly 250g design stays comfortable over long sessions, and it supports LDAC, two-device multipoint, and up to 30 hours of playback with ANC on (40 hours off). Independent reviewers, including RTINGS, note it still holds its own against the XM6, which adds stronger noise cancelling, better call quality, and a folding design. It ranks #3 in our Top 5 Over-ear Wireless Headphones for Music. The best value here and the predecessor most buyers cross-shop against the XM6. It keeps the same 30-hour ANC battery, LDAC and two-device multipoint, and its two-processor, eight-microphone noise cancelling still ranks among the strongest available, which is why it places above the audiophile-tuned Px8 S2 and HDB 630 on this ANC-weighted list. It sits below the XM6 and Bose QC Ultra because their noise cancelling and call quality are a clear step ahead and the XM5 does not fold for travel, but since the XM6 launched it has sold for far less, delivering most of the flagship experience for the money.
Who Is This For?
Best For
- Buyers who want flagship-class ANC for less
- Commuters and frequent flyers
- Android listeners who can use LDAC
Not For
- Travelers who need a compact folding design
- Buyers who want the strongest ANC available
Where to Buy
Appears In
Compare Head-to-Head
Customer Reviews
Alternatives to Consider
Sony WH-1000XM6
Sony
Consistently rated best overall wireless over-ear headphones thanks to well-balanced, high-resolution sound, strong active noise cancellation, and long battery life. Sony's QN3 processor delivers improved ANC and audio processing.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Bose
Often leads in noise cancellation performance and comfort, with immersive sound that's particularly engaging for detailed, dynamic music playback. Bose's Immersive Audio mode creates a spatial listening experience.
Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2
Bowers & Wilkins
Premium build and sound quality with support for high-resolution codecs (aptX Adaptive & Lossless) and luxury materials. The Px8 S2 delivers refined, detailed sound with Nappa leather and aluminum construction.
Sennheiser HDB 630
Sennheiser
A compelling choice for sound purists with powerful dynamics and hi-fi tuning often rivaling much more expensive models. Advanced Bluetooth codecs with dongle support deliver audiophile-grade wireless performance.