In the world of premium headphones, few companies stand out as much as Sony. Today, we delve into our comprehensive Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones review. These headphones, priced at $400, boast a complete redesign and are touted as one of the best active noise-canceling (ANC) headphones on the market. After spending a week testing them in various conditions, here are our detailed insights.
Design and Build Quality
The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones feature a sleek and modern design with a soft-touch coating and vegan leatherette ear cups. The padding is deep and wide, accommodating larger ears comfortably. Weighing in at 250g, they are light enough to prevent undue pressure on your head. The headband, equipped with a friction rod design, allows for easy and precise adjustments. The overall build quality is impressive, though the lack of an IP rating might be a concern for those in humid or rainy conditions.
Sound Quality
When it comes to sound quality, the Sony WH-1000XM5 does not disappoint. The headphones deliver a well-balanced audio profile with strong bass and treble emphasis, although the midrange can feel slightly recessed. This results in a consumer-friendly sound that can be further enhanced with the custom equalizer available in the Sony Headphones Connect app. The support for LDAC, AAC, and SBC codecs ensures high-quality wireless audio, though the absence of aptX might be a drawback for some users.
Features and Specifications
The Sony WH-1000XM5 is packed with features, including:
- Advanced ANC performance
- Eight-microphone array for excellent call quality
- Bluetooth 5.2 with SBC, AAC, and LDAC support
- Bluetooth multipoint connectivity
- Find My Device support on Android
- Custom EQ and 360 Reality Audio via the Sony Headphones Connect app
- Capacitive touch controls for easy navigation
Battery Life and Charging Time
Battery life is one of the standout features of the Sony WH-1000XM5. In our tests, the headphones lasted an impressive 32 hours with ANC turned on, surpassing Sony’s claimed 30-hour battery life. Disabling ANC extended the battery life to over 53 hours. A quick 3-minute charge provides 180 minutes of playback, making these headphones perfect for long commutes or travel.
Performance
The Sony WH-1000XM5 excels in various performance metrics. The ANC is highly effective, significantly reducing ambient noise across a broad frequency range. The headphones also offer excellent isolation, which further enhances the ANC’s effectiveness. Connectivity is stable and reliable, with easy pairing and multipoint support allowing seamless switching between devices.
Comfort and Usability
Comfort is another area where the Sony WH-1000XM5 shines. The soft-fit leatherette ear cups and padded headband ensure a snug yet comfortable fit. The headphones are equipped with an ear sensor that pauses playback when you remove them and resumes when you put them back on. Touch controls on the right ear cup allow for intuitive navigation, and the left ear cup features buttons for power and ANC mode selection.
Price and Value for Money
At $400 or Rs. 30,000 , the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are undoubtedly a significant investment. However, the premium features, exceptional sound quality, and outstanding ANC performance justify the price tag. For those seeking top-of-the-line headphones with cutting-edge technology, the Sony WH-1000XM5 offers excellent value for money.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional ANC performance
- Outstanding microphone quality
- Customizable EQ through the app
- Bluetooth 5.2 with multipoint support
- Comfortable and durable design
Cons:
- High price point
- No IP rating
Conclusion
The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are a top-tier choice for anyone seeking superior sound quality, advanced noise cancellation, and a comfortable listening experience. While the price may be steep, the features and performance offered make it a worthy investment for audiophiles and frequent travelers.
Image Credits :The images used in this review are sourced from the official Sony Website https://electronics.sony.com/ . All rights reserved to their respective owners.
FAQs
How good is the noise canceling on the Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones?
The noise canceling on the Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones is exceptional, significantly reducing ambient noise and providing a quiet listening experience even in noisy environments.
What is the battery life of the Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones?
The battery life of the Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones is up to 31 hours and 53 minutes with ANC on and up to 53 hours and 6 minutes with ANC off.
Do the Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones support high-bitrate audio?
Yes, the Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones support high-bitrate audio with Bluetooth codecs including SBC, AAC, and LDAC.
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