Sony WH-1000XM5: The New Reference in Noise-Cancelling Headphones
The Sony WH-1000XM5 represents the fifth generation of Sony’s acclaimed noise-cancelling headphone series, arriving with a renewed design and significant improvements in several key aspects.
Design and Comfort
Sony has opted for a complete redesign with the WH-1000XM5. The new look is more minimalist and modern, with a slimmer headband and redesigned ear cushions that better distribute pressure. The result is an extremely comfortable headphone even during extended listening sessions.
The only drawback of the new design is that, unlike the previous model, the XM5 doesn’t fold completely, making them less compact for travel, although the included case is well-designed.
Sound Quality
The WH-1000XM5 maintains Sony’s characteristic sound signature, with powerful but controlled bass, clear mids, and detailed highs without becoming harsh. The soundstage is wide for closed-back headphones, and instrumental separation is excellent.
Sony has incorporated a new V1 processor and 30mm drivers (smaller than the XM4’s 40mm), but optimized to offer a more precise response. In our tests, we noticed greater clarity in the mids and slightly better bass control, although the differences with the XM4 are not dramatic.
Noise Cancellation
This is where the XM5 truly shines. Sony has significantly improved the already excellent noise cancellation with 8 microphones (compared to 4 in the previous model) and a new processing algorithm. The result is simply impressive: the XM5 can eliminate virtually all background noise in environments like airplanes, trains, or noisy cafes.
The adaptive noise cancellation works more intelligently, automatically adjusting according to the environment and user activity.
Features and Connectivity
The XM5 maintains all the smart functions of the previous generation and adds some improvements:
- Multipoint connectivity: You can connect the headphones to two devices simultaneously
- Speak-to-Chat: The headphones detect when you speak and automatically pause the music
- Quick Attention: Place your hand over the right earcup to temporarily lower the volume and hear your surroundings
- Touch control: Touch panel on the right earcup to control playback, volume, and calls
- Voice assistant: Compatible with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and Siri
The Sony Headphones Connect app remains one of the best on the market, offering a complete equalizer, noise cancellation adjustments, and the ability to customize almost every aspect of the headphones.
Battery and Autonomy
Sony promises up to 30 hours of autonomy with noise cancellation activated, and our tests confirm these figures. Additionally, a quick 3-minute charge provides up to 3 hours of playback, which is extremely useful in emergency situations.
Call Quality
The 8 microphones and improved voice processing make the XM5 excellent for calls, even in noisy environments. The voice is transmitted clearly and naturally, and the system is very effective at eliminating background noise.
Final Verdict
The Sony WH-1000XM5 is, without a doubt, one of the best noise-cancelling headphones currently available on the market. Its combination of exceptional comfort, superior sound quality, leading noise cancellation, and smart features makes it an ideal choice for frequent travelers, professionals working in noisy environments, or anyone who values a premium audio experience.
The price is high, but the quality justifies the investment. If you already have the WH-1000XM4 and are satisfied with them, the upgrade might not be essential unless you particularly value the improvement in noise cancellation and comfort. For everyone else, the XM5 represents the best that the market can currently offer.
Rating: 4.8/5
Pros:
- Industry-leading noise cancellation
- Exceptional sound quality
- Long battery life (up to 30 hours)
- Superior comfort for extended use
- Multipoint connectivity
Cons:
- High price
- Don’t fold like the previous model
- No significant improvements in sound quality compared to the XM4
