Sony WH 1000XM5 Review

Removing up to -29.9 dB of audio, the Sony WH-1000XM3 Wireless is better for noise cancellation than the Sony WH-1000XM5, which has a -26.74 dB overall attenuation rate. It also supports aptX and aptX HD, providing higher-quality audio over Bluetooth than the XM5, which lacks this tech. On the other hand, the Sony WH-1000XM5 supports dual-device Bluetooth pairing, unlike the older device.

With a more neutral sound profile, the Sony WH-1000XM5 is better for music than the Sony WH CH710N. It also has an overall attenuation of -26.74 dB, canceling out noise much better than the Sony WH CH710N, with its overall attenuation of -13.71 dB. However, the CH710N offers 29.4 hours of battery life, running for longer than the 27 hours of the Sony WH-1000XM5. Check out our Sony WH CH710n review for details.

Although the Sony WH-1000XM5 boasts better noise cancellation against office chatter, the Bose QuietComfort 45 Wireless is better at masking low-rumbling noise from an airplane or vehicle engine. Unlike the Bose model, the Sony device is compatible with 360 Reality Audio, providing a better 3D soundstage.

The microphone on the Sony WH-1000XM5 peaks up the voice better against background noise than its predecessor, the Sony WH-1000XM4. The newer device also has more effective ANC against office chatter. However, the older device does a better job at removing low-rumbling noises such as vehicle engine sounds. Check out our Sony WH-1000XM4 review to learn more about the previous model.