Sony WH-1000XM5

Position in the current range

The Sony WH-1000XM5 is the 2022 generation of Sony’s premium wireless noise-cancelling headphones. It remains widely available even though the foldable WH-1000XM6 has replaced it at the top of the range. The XM5 uses a light over-ear design, soft synthetic-leather pads and a narrow stepless headband. At roughly 250g it is much easier to wear for a full working day than metal-bodied alternatives such as the first-generation AirPods Max. Its ear cups rotate flat but do not fold inward, so the supplied hard case occupies more bag space than the cases used by the XM6, Bose QuietComfort Ultra or older XM4.

Controls combine a physical power and Bluetooth button with a touch-sensitive right cup for volume, playback and calls. Sony’s companion app exposes equalisation, adaptive sound control, multipoint pairing, Speak-to-Chat and ambient-sound settings. This depth is useful, but it can feel excessive and some features are better disabled if they interrupt listening. The headphones support AAC, SBC and Sony’s LDAC codec, but not aptX. They can also be used with a 3.5mm cable. USB-C is for charging rather than acting as a general digital-audio input.

Noise cancellation, sound and calls

The XM5 remains a strong noise-cancelling performer. Its microphones and automatic processing are particularly effective against aircraft rumble, trains, ventilation and steady office noise. The newer XM6 reacts more confidently to changing environments and generally suppresses voices better, while Bose’s latest Ultra generation remains a benchmark for maximum isolation. Even so, discounted XM5 stock can provide nearly flagship-level quiet for much less money. Wind performance is good but not perfect, and the adaptive system occasionally changes behaviour when a listener would prefer a fixed setting.

Sony tunes the XM5 for an energetic, warm presentation with generous bass and smooth treble. The app’s equaliser allows significant correction, and LDAC can improve detail with a compatible Android source under favourable wireless conditions. It is an enjoyable all-round sound rather than a neutral studio reference; Sennheiser Momentum 4 and Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 are stronger choices for listeners prioritising tonal refinement. Call quality was a major improvement over the XM4 and remains useful for hybrid work, although loud wind and competing voices can still reach the other caller.

Battery, comfort and ownership

Sony rates battery life at about 30 hours with noise cancellation and around 40 hours without it. Real endurance depends on codec, call time, volume and adaptive features, but it is sufficient for several commutes or a long-haul return journey. Fast charging is useful, although the fastest result depends on a suitable USB Power Delivery charger. Multipoint pairing is practical for moving between a phone and laptop, but high-resolution codec behaviour and application settings should be checked when two devices are connected.

The pads are comfortable and the low weight reduces neck strain, though the shallow cups and warm synthetic covering may not suit large ears or hot rooms. The hinges and slim headband deserve careful handling, and the non-folding structure should travel in its case rather than loose in a bag. Replacement pads and battery servicing are less straightforward than on modular studio headphones. As an older flagship, value depends heavily on discounting: it should be clearly cheaper than the XM6, because the newer model restores folding, improves cancellation and refines sound and calls.

Verdict

The Sony WH-1000XM5 is still a polished travel, commuting and office headphone. It combines low weight, strong active noise cancellation, useful calls, long battery life and unusually detailed software controls. Its large case, touch controls and now-superseded position are the principal drawbacks. Buy it when the price is materially below the XM6 and you value comfort and isolation more than compact packing. Choose the XM6 for Sony’s current best all-round performance, Bose for maximum quiet and simpler travel folding, Sennheiser for battery and sound, or Sonos Ace when physical controls and compatible soundbar integration matter.