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The Sony WF-1000XM6 is the stronger all-round choice in What Hi-Fi?’s close comparison, particularly for sound, calls and features. The Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 5 is a compelling alternative if comfort, dust protection, Bluetooth 6.0 and user-replaceable batteries matter more to you. Neither is automatically better for every listener: fit, codec support, sound preference and the price in your region can change the decision.
Which earbuds should you choose?
- Choose Sony WF-1000XM6 if you want the review’s overall pick, with a warmer, more expressive sound, clearer calls in What Hi-Fi?’s comparison and longer stated ANC-on playback per charge.
- Consider Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 5 if you prioritize the fit What Hi-Fi? found more comfortable, IP54 dust protection, Bluetooth 6.0 with aptX-family codec support, or batteries that Sennheiser says users can replace with standard tools.
- Try both if possible if comfort and sound preference are decisive. The review found Sony’s fit divisive, and listening impressions are subjective.
What Hi-Fi? named Sony its winner for sound, call quality and features, but described the result as close. That is an editorial judgment, not a guarantee that every listener will prefer Sony.
How do sound and noise cancelling compare?
Sound character
What Hi-Fi? describes the Sennheiser’s 7 mm TrueResponse drivers as clean and balanced, with strong midrange clarity and a nimble, detailed presentation. It also notes that the high frequencies can sound sharp or etched on some material; the app equalizer can help adjust that balance.
The same reviewers characterize Sony as naturally warm, detailed and more expressive, and narrowly prefer it for sound. Those descriptions reflect the reviewers’ listening impressions, so your preferred tuning may differ.
#1 Best Overall
- EXCEPTIONAL AUDIO: Catch details like never before. Designed with a High-Res Audio¹ 24-bit hi-fi codec, the latest Galaxy earbuds maintain the integrity of your favorite audio over Bluetooth.
- TWO-WAY SPEAKER: Enjoy every audio experience to the fullest with two speakers in both Buds, including a tweeter for rich highs and a woofer for deep, full lows.
- HD VOICE: Enjoy clear phone calls with Galaxy Buds4 Pro and Galaxy S26 Series² —they work together to deliver crisp and clear conversations.
- ANC 2.0: Wherever you go, Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation 2.0³ intelligently adapts in real time to provide stronger, smoother noise cancellation wherever you go.
- OPTIMIZED COMFORT: Enjoy that just-right fit, with an improved, ear-hugging design and changeable ear tips.
Noise cancelling and calls
Both models have four microphones per earbud, according to What Hi-Fi?. The publication found both effective at noise cancelling, but judged Sony’s ANC stronger in its head-to-head and its call quality clearer.
Sony says the WF-1000XM6 reduces noise by 25% compared with the WF-1000XM5. That is Sony’s manufacturer-reported comparison with its predecessor, not an independent measurement against the Sennheiser. Sony attributes noise reduction and call features to a combination of processors, microphones, an adaptive optimiser, a bone-conduction sensor and AI beamforming.
Will they fit, and how durable are they?
What Hi-Fi? found the Sennheisers more comfortable during its comparison and noted that Sony’s fit divides opinion. Ear shape matters: try the supplied tip sizes and check for a secure seal, since an uncomfortable fit can make long listening sessions difficult.
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- THE BEST NOISE CANCELLATION: Experience powerful, adaptive noise cancelling that keeps distractions out and your music front and center.
- LONG BATTERY LIFE AND CONVENIENT CHARGING: Stay powered up with up to 24 hours of total playback
- Bundle includes both Axiom CPS program and WF1000XM6/S
- Care includes additional 27-month Device Plan, managed by CPS.
The comparison reports an IP54 rating for Sennheiser and IPX4 for Sony; Sony’s official US specifications also list IPX4. Sennheiser therefore has the stated dust-protection advantage. Neither rating means the earbuds are submersible.
Battery life: single charge versus case total
The figures below come from different sources and conditions, so they are not a controlled side-by-side battery test. “Per charge” refers to playback from the earbuds before they need the case; “with case” is total listening time including recharges from the case.
| Measure | Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 5 | Sony WF-1000XM6 |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum playback, ANC on, per charge | Up to 6 hours, listed by Sennheiser UK | Up to 8 hours, listed by Sony USA |
| Maximum playback, ANC off, per charge | Up to 12 hours, listed by Sennheiser UK | Up to 12 hours, listed by Sony USA |
| Total playback with case, ANC on | 25 hours, as listed in What Hi-Fi?’s comparison | 24 hours, as listed in What Hi-Fi?’s comparison |
| Total playback with case, other stated condition | Up to 40 hours under Sennheiser UK’s stated test condition: iPhone at mid volume | Not stated in the cited Sony USA specification |
Sennheiser says the earbud and case batteries are user-replaceable with standard tools. Sony’s US specifications list wireless charging with the case.
Rank #3
- 2026 Bluetooth 5.4 Technology : The wireless earbuds use the bluetooth 5.4 chipset. There is a faster and more stable signal transmission and has successfully achieved low latency without interruption. With a range of up to 15 m, whether you are at home, in the office, or on the road, you don't have to worry about disconnection of the bluetooth earbuds. Automatic pairing & compatible with multiple devices.
- More Outstanding ENC Noise Reduction: Powered by dual 14.2 mm low-distortion composite dynamic drivers and a built-in high-resolution decoder, these wireless headphones deliver immersive, high-fidelity sound with AAC and SBC support.Advanced ENC call noise cancellation ensures crystal-clear voice quality, even in noisy environments—bringing you a truly elevated audio experience with the A90 noise-cancelling earbuds.
- LED Power Display & Easy Touch Control: The smart LED display keeps you informed of the remaining battery of both the charging case and wireless earphones, giving you full control over your listening time wherever you go. Simply tap the earbuds wireless bluetooth to control music playback, manage calls, or wake your voice assistant—hands-free convenience, no phone needed.
- 36 Hours Playtime & Faster Charging: Enjoy 6–8 hours of uninterrupted listening on one charge, with up to 36 hours of total battery life when used with the charging case. The Type-C fast charging design delivers safer, more efficient power, keeping your noise cancelling headphones ready whenever you need them.
- Ergonomic & IP7 Waterproof: Thanks to an ultra-light nano coating, these true wireless earbuds are IP7 waterproof and dustproof—perfect for workouts or outdoor adventures. The ergonomic in-ear design and soft silicone tips provide a secure, comfortable fit while keeping outside noise out, letting you immerse yourself fully in your music.
Bluetooth, codecs and other features
Both models support multipoint, according to What Hi-Fi?. Their Bluetooth versions and codec lists differ, so check that your phone, computer or other source supports the formats you want before deciding.
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|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth | 6.0 | 5.3 |
| Listed codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX Adaptive and aptX Lossless | SBC, AAC, LDAC and LC3 |
| Other listed audio features | Dolby Atmos support; Smart Control Plus app controls | Hi-Res Audio Wireless, DSEE Extreme, 360 Reality Audio, EQ and head tracking |
Codec availability and benefits depend on the source device and content. Sennheiser’s aptX options may suit a compatible source, while Sony lists LDAC and LC3. Sony also promotes spatial-audio features; consider whether you use compatible content and devices rather than choosing based on feature names alone.
What do they cost?
Prices vary by country, retailer, stock and date. The Sennheiser UK product page displayed £249.99 when accessed on 7 October 2026. What Hi-Fi? lists launch prices of £250 / $300 / AU$480 for Sennheiser and £250 / $330 / AU$500 for Sony. Those launch prices are historical context, not a promise of current pricing in any market. What Hi-Fi? notes that Sony, having launched earlier, may be more likely to receive discounts; check local listings before buying.
Verdict: Sony wins the comparison, but Sennheiser has clear reasons to choose it
For most buyers following the What Hi-Fi? verdict, the Sony WF-1000XM6 is the safer pick: the publication preferred its sound, calls and feature set, and Sony lists more ANC-on playback per charge. The Sennheiser is worth choosing if its fit suits you better or its dust rating, codec ecosystem and user-replaceable batteries align more closely with your needs. At similar prices, let fit and sound preference decide; if prices differ, weigh the features you will actually use against the local offer.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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