Audio & Headphones
Sony WF-1000XM5 Review: The Noise-Cancelling Earbuds to Beat
- Brand:
- Sony
- Ages:
- 13+ years
- Updated:
- 2026-07-01
The verdict
The WF-1000XM5 earns its price with genuinely class-leading noise cancellation and refined sound, but it's a purchase for people who prioritize ANC and audio quality over battery life or waterproofing — both of which are merely good, not great, here.
Pros
- Some of the strongest active noise cancellation of any true wireless earbuds, even in loud environments like planes and trains
- Smaller, lighter shell than the previous XM4 generation, which noticeably improves all-day comfort and fit stability
- LDAC codec support delivers genuinely high-resolution sound on compatible Android phones and DAPs
- Roughly 8 hours of ANC playback per charge plus about 24 more hours from the case, with quick-charge topping up an hour of listening in 3 minutes
Cons
- IPX4 splash resistance only — fine for sweat and light rain, not for swimming or heavy downpours
- At around $299, they sit at the very top of the price range for wireless earbuds
- No aptX support, so some Android phones default to lower-quality SBC/AAC streaming
- Touch controls on the small stemless shells take some practice to hit reliably
This review draws on Sony's published specifications for the WF-1000XM5 and the consistent findings across independent audio outlets and long-term owner feedback since its 2023 launch, with particular attention to how it compares against its own XM4 predecessor and current rivals from Bose and Apple.
Noise cancellation is the headline feature
Sony redesigned the driver and processor for the XM5 specifically to push ANC further, and reviewers consistently rank it among the very best available in a true wireless form factor — capable of meaningfully quieting engine drone, HVAC hum, and office chatter. It's not magic; sudden sharp sounds like a dog bark or door slam still get through, as with any ANC earbud.
Smaller shell, real comfort gains
The XM5 dropped the stem-and-bulb shape of the XM4 for a smaller, rounder shell, and the fit improvement is one of the most-cited upgrades in owner reviews — less jaw pressure during long listening sessions and a lower chance of the seal breaking when chewing or talking. It does mean XM4 ear tip accessories aren't compatible.
Who it's for
Best for commuters, frequent flyers, and anyone who wants the strongest ANC currently available in a true wireless earbud and is willing to pay flagship pricing for it. Skip it if you need serious water resistance for workouts or swimming — look at a sport-focused earbud with an IP67 or higher rating instead.
Frequently asked
- How does the WF-1000XM5 compare to the WF-1000XM4?
- The XM5 has a smaller, more comfortable shell, stronger ANC, and improved call quality thanks to more microphones per earbud, though earbud-only battery life is similar to slightly shorter.
- Can I swim with the WF-1000XM5?
- No — they're rated IPX4, which protects against sweat and splashes but not submersion. For swimming, look at earbuds with an IP67 or IP68 rating instead.
- Do they support Android and iPhone equally well?
- Both platforms get full ANC and call features, but Android users on LDAC-compatible devices get access to higher-resolution streaming that iPhone users, limited to AAC, cannot use.
- Is the Sony WF-1000XM5 worth buying?
- Yes, if class-leading noise cancellation and sound quality are your priority and you're comfortable paying premium pricing. It's a harder sell if waterproofing or maximum battery life matter more to you than ANC performance.
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