Sony WH-1000XM5 Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones

Description

The Sony WH-1000XM5 are premium wireless over-ear headphones known for strong noise cancellation, comfortable fit and long battery life. They suit commuters, frequent flyers and anyone working in noisy spaces.

Inside the Sony WH-1000XM5

Sony lists industry-leading noise cancellation with multiple microphones, up to 30 hours of battery with ANC, quick charging, multipoint Bluetooth, LDAC support, clear call quality and a lightweight design with soft-fit leather.

Using the Sony WH-1000XM5 at home and away

Long-haul flights, open-plan offices, train commutes, focused study sessions, or hours of music and podcasts with app EQ customisation.

Unlike the older XM4, the XM5 earcups do not fold inward, so the case is larger and takes more bag space; that matters if you travel light. Noise cancellation is excellent for constant drones like engines, though sudden sharp noises still come through. LDAC high-quality streaming works best with Android phones; iPhones use AAC. Multipoint lets you connect a laptop and phone at the same time. Some people find over-ear headphones warm during summer or workouts, and they are not designed for gym sweat. If you want the very latest model, Sony has also released the XM6, so compare prices; the XM5 often represents good value as a result.

One thing to watch: large case

Compare the price against the XM6 and Bose alternatives.

Other options beyond the Sony WH-1000XM5

Bose QuietComfort Ultra and Sony WH-1000XM6 are close alternatives.

The Sony WH-1000XM5: strengths and weaknesses

Best thing: top-tier ANC

• Top-tier ANC
• 30-hour battery
• Comfortable

Minus points of the Sony WH-1000XM5

• Large case
• Not for workouts

The ideal Sony WH-1000XM5 owner

The Sony WH-1000XM5 fits frequent flyers

• Frequent flyers
• Office workers
• Commuters

Gym users: look elsewhere

• Gym users
• Travellers wanting compact folding

Is the Sony WH-1000XM5 worth it?

Still one of the best noise-cancelling headphones for travel.

Who it suits best

The WH-1000XM5 suits frequent flyers, commuters, and remote workers who spend hours in noisy places and want strong noise cancelling with comfortable, light earcups. Multipoint pairing makes switching between a laptop and phone easy for people who take calls all day.

Who should skip it

If you need headphones that fold small for a tiny bag, the XM5’s flat-folding design and larger case take more space. People who exercise in them or live in hot climates may prefer earbuds, which feel less warm.

Key considerations before you buy

• Fit and comfort: The light design and soft cushions suit long wear, but people with larger heads should check the clamping force.
• Codec: LDAC high-quality streaming works with many Android phones. iPhones use AAC, which still sounds very good.
• Case size: The case is wider than older Sony models. Make sure it fits your carry-on or work bag.
• Battery: Battery life covers long flights. Use quick charging before you leave if you forget to top them up.
• Calls: The microphones handle calls well in most settings, but very windy streets can still affect voice clarity, so step indoors for important calls.

Alternatives worth comparing

The Bose QuietComfort headphones are the closest rival for comfort and noise cancelling. If you want a budget option, the Soundcore Q20i offers solid noise cancelling at a lower cost.

Related guide

For more travel tech, see our frequent flyer gift guide.