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The Sony WH-1000XM5 improves on the WH-1000XM4 in sound, call handling and noise cancellation for many everyday situations, but its redesigned earcups no longer fold inward. That makes it less convenient to pack, and its advantages do not make it an automatic upgrade for XM4 owners. It is most appealing if you value its reviewed audio and call performance, comfortable fit, and strong ANC—and can find it at a price that makes sense against the newer XM6 and discounted XM4.
What changed from the WH-1000XM4 to the WH-1000XM5?
The XM5 is a substantial redesign rather than a simple refresh. Sony changed the drivers and noise-cancelling system, revised the microphones used for calls, and replaced the XM4’s folding design with a smoother-looking headband and earcups. Those changes benefit listening and everyday use, but they also make the headphones less compact to carry.
| Area | WH-1000XM5 | WH-1000XM4 |
|---|---|---|
| Driver | 30mm carbon-fibre-composite dome driver, according to What Hi-Fi?’s review. | 40mm driver, according to What Hi-Fi?’s review. |
| Noise-cancelling hardware | Sony says two processors control eight microphones; What Hi-Fi? notes automatic ANC optimization. | Four microphones, according to What Hi-Fi?’s comparison. |
| Folding | Does not fold inward; less compact to pack. | Folds inward for easier carrying. |
| Battery life | What Hi-Fi? reports 30 hours with Bluetooth and ANC enabled, or 40 hours with ANC disabled. | Not stated in the cited comparison. |
| Codec support | LDAC; no aptX or aptX HD, according to What Hi-Fi?. | Not stated in the cited comparison. |
Does the WH-1000XM5 have better noise cancellation?
It has highly capable ANC, but “better” depends on the sounds around you. Sony’s May 2022 announcement described its system as “Sony’s most remarkable noise cancelling yet,” with two processors controlling eight microphones to reduce noise “especially in the mid-high frequency range” and an Auto NC Optimizer that adjusts cancellation to the environment. That is Sony’s product claim, not an independent measurement. Independent reviews find strong performance, while also identifying situations where the XM4 or a rival can do better.
- Steady transport noise and crowded spaces: What Hi-Fi? found the XM5 effective against steady transport noise and conversation in crowded places.
- Office chatter and other mid- to treble-range noise: RTINGS describes its adaptive ANC as effective in these ranges.
- Variable traffic and bass-range noise: What Hi-Fi? found the XM5 less consistent than the XM4 against variable sounds such as general traffic. RTINGS also found less bass-range isolation than the XM4 in its comparison.
- Head movement: RTINGS notes that the headphones’ automatic re-optimization as the wearer moves may bother some people.
- Competitors: What Hi-Fi? judged Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra more effective at cutting some noise.
Those findings are not contradictory: ANC performance varies with sound frequency, steadiness, fit and testing method. The XM5 is a strong option for many commutes and shared spaces, but the available comparisons do not establish that it out-cancels the XM4 in every environment.
#1 Best Overall
- PREMIUM NOISE CANCELLATION: Two processors control 8 microphones for unprecedented noise cancellation. With Auto NC Optimizer, noise canceling is automatically optimized based on your wearing conditions and environment.
- MAGNIFICENT SOUND: Engineered to perfection with the new Integrated Processor V1.
- CRYSTAL CLEAR HANDS-FREE CALLING: 4 beamforming microphones, precise voice pickup, and advanced audio signal processing.
- LONG BATTERY LIFE: Up to 30-hour battery life with quick charging (3 min charge for 3 hours of playback).
- ULTRA-COMFORTABLE: Lightweight design with soft fit leather.
How does the WH-1000XM5 sound?
What Hi-Fi? found the XM5 clearer and more open than the XM4, with a more precise low end and stronger retrieval of detail. The move from the XM4’s 40mm driver to a 30mm carbon-fibre-composite dome is a concrete hardware change; the judgments about clarity, openness and bass precision are that outlet’s listening assessment, not a guarantee that every listener will prefer the XM5.
If you already like the XM4’s sound, audition both if possible or buy from a seller with a suitable return policy. A reviewer’s preference can help identify what to listen for, but it cannot settle your own preference.
Rank #2
- PREMIUM NOISE CANCELLATION: Two processors control 8 microphones for unprecedented noise cancellation. With Auto NC Optimizer, noise canceling is automatically optimized based on your wearing conditions and environment.
- MAGNIFICENT SOUND: Engineered to perfection with the new Integrated Processor V1.
- CRYSTAL CLEAR HANDS-FREE CALLING: 4 beamforming microphones, precise voice pickup, and advanced audio signal processing.
- LONG BATTERY LIFE: Up to 30-hour battery life with quick charging (3 min charge for 3 hours of playback).
- ULTRA-COMFORTABLE: Lightweight design with soft fit leather.
Are calls and comfort better on the WH-1000XM5?
The XM5 uses four beamforming microphones for voice pickup, according to What Hi-Fi?, alongside its noise-control microphones. The supplied reviews support call quality as one of the XM5’s improvements, but do not provide a directly comparable call test result or a numerical measure. Treat clearer calls as a practical reason to consider the newer model rather than a promise of flawless voice pickup in every setting.
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Its redesigned headband and smooth earcups give the XM5 a more modern appearance, and reviewers found it comfortable. Perceived build quality is more mixed: Stuff praised the redesign but said the headphones felt less premium than the XM4. Speak-to-Chat, which reacts to the wearer speaking, may also be less useful if you do not want the headphones to respond automatically.
Rank #3
- PREMIUM NOISE CANCELLATION: Two processors control 8 microphones for unprecedented noise cancellation. With Auto NC Optimizer, noise canceling is automatically optimized based on your wearing conditions and environment.
- MAGNIFICENT SOUND: Engineered to perfection with the new Integrated Processor V1
- CRYSTAL CLEAR HANDS-FREE CALLING: 4 beamforming microphones, precise voice pickup, and advanced audio signal processing.
- LONG BATTERY LIFE: Up to 30-hour battery life with quick charging (3 min charge for 3 hours of playback).(USB Type-C Cable included)
- ULTRA-COMFORTABLE: Lightweight design with soft fit leather.
What do you give up with the redesign?
Less convenient packing
The XM5 does not fold inward as the XM4 does. The earcups still move for wearing and storage, but the headphones take up more room in a bag. If you travel often or carry headphones in a small case, the XM4’s folding design is a meaningful advantage, not a cosmetic detail.
No stated water or sweat resistance
What Hi-Fi? says the XM5 is not waterproof or sweat-resistant. It is therefore a poor choice for running or workouts where sweat or rain is likely; look for headphones with an appropriate stated resistance rating instead.
Rank #4
- This Certified Refurbished product is manufacturer refurbished, shows limited or no wear, and includes all original accessories plus a 90-day limited hardware warranty.
- Precision-engineered to deliver exceptional High-Resolution Audio quality. Our Precise Voice Pickup Technology with newly developed wind noise reduction will also ensure you can hear and be heard clearly when taking calls on these noise cancelling headphones.
- Smart, intuitive, and intelligent. Adaptive Sound Control automatically adjusts the sound settings based on your environment and activity, and Speak-to-Chat automatically pauses the music when you want to have a conversation, without you having to remove the over ear headphones!
- For total convenience, these Bluetooth headphones can be paired with two devices at the same time. Fast Pair will help you locate the WH-1000XM5B if you can't find them and Swift Pair makes pairing with your PC or tablet simple.
- With up to a huge 30 hours of battery life, you’ll have enough power, even for long trips! A collapsible case is included with these Sony headphones for easy storage and travel.
Codec limits
The XM5 supports LDAC but not aptX or aptX HD, according to What Hi-Fi?. Codec compatibility depends on both the headphones and the playback device, so check the formats your phone or source actually supports before treating LDAC as a benefit.
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Sony’s May 2022 announcement says “up to 30 hours,” a conditional manufacturer headline rather than a guarantee for every listening setup. In its review updated in December 2024, What Hi-Fi? reports 30 hours with Bluetooth and ANC enabled, or up to 40 hours with ANC disabled. Turning ANC off extends the reported figure, so compare battery claims only when the listening settings match.
Best Value
- Revolutionary noise cancellation: The Sony WH-1000XM5 wireless headphones set a new standard with industry-leading noise canceling, powered by 2 advanced processors and 8 microphones, offering an immersive sound experience. Ideal for audiophiles and professionals, these sony headphones deliver unparalleled quietness in any environment, enhancing focus whether you're working in a bustling office or relaxing on a noisy flight.
- Immersive sound, uncompromised clarity: Experience exceptional audio fidelity with newly developed drivers Sony WH-1000XM5 Noise-Canceling Wireless Over-Ear Headphones and DSEE Extreme technology that upscales compressed music files in real-time. With Hi-Res audio support, these headphones deliver stunning sound quality, allowing music lovers and audiophiles to enjoy tracks as the artists intended, capturing every detail and nuance for a truly engaging listening experience.
- Effortless multitasking and communication: Stay seamlessly connected with multipoint connection and crystal-clear hands-free calling, allowing you to switch between devices without missing a beat. Whether you're a busy professional or a music enthusiast, the intuitive touch controls and Speak-to-Chat feature offer quick access to ambient sound, ensuring you never miss an important conversation or cue in your environment.
- All-day comfort and convenience: Designed for prolonged use, the WH-1000XM5 Noise-Canceling Wireless Over Ear Headphones feature a lightweight, ultra-comfortable design with soft-fit leather that conforms to your ears. With up to 30 hours of battery life and quick charging capability, they are perfect for frequent travelers and daily commuters. The redesigned collapsible case provides easy storage, while Quick Access lets you tap into Spotify effortlessly.
- Bundle Includes: Sony WH-1000XM5 Noise-Canceling Wireless Over-Ear Headphones (Black) + 6Ave Microfiber Cleaning Cloth + P-Bank Battery + Headphone / Headset Stand
What Hi-Fi? says a ten-minute charge provides five hours of playback. Getting three hours of playback from a three-minute charge requires a USB Power Delivery (USB-PD) charger, which is not included. Charging results depend on using the specified charging conditions; do not assume the shortest-charge claim applies with any adapter.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Is it worth upgrading from the WH-1000XM4 to the WH-1000XM5?
If your XM4 still sounds good, fits well and cancels the noise you care about, there is no need to rush into an upgrade. The XM5 offers a compelling case if better-reviewed sound, call handling or ANC in the situations you encounter would materially improve daily use. In exchange, you lose the XM4’s inward-folding portability and may prefer its perceived build or sound.
For a new purchase, compare live prices and availability for the XM4, XM5 and WH-1000XM6, Sony’s newer successor. The sources reviewed here do not establish current prices, so a value recommendation depends on what each model costs where you shop.
Quick Recap
- Choose the XM5 if its sound, ANC, calls and comfortable fit suit your priorities, and its current price is compelling.
- Choose the XM4 if it costs meaningfully less, folds more conveniently, and its sound and ANC meet your needs.
- Consider the XM6 if you want Sony’s newer successor; compare its current price and features directly rather than assuming it is the better value.
Sources
- Stuff, Sony WH-1000XM5 review: making the best, better (originally posted 14 September 2022).
- What Hi-Fi?, Sony WH-1000XM5 wireless headphones review: outstanding sonics and ANC (published October 2022; updated December 2024).
- Sony Hong Kong, Sony re-writes the rules with new WH-1000XM5 headphones (13 May 2022).
- RTINGS.com, Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Review.
- What Hi-Fi?, Sony WH-1000XM5 vs WH-1000XM4: which headphones should you buy?.
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.
