I’ve always been a fan of Sony’s WH-1000X series. Each new model somehow improves on an already impressive design, and the WH-1000XM5 continues that trend in a big way. From the moment I unboxed these headphones, I could tell Sony was aiming for a more refined experience—both in terms of looks and performance. If you’re in the market for top-notch noise-canceling headphones, here’s a personal look at what makes the WH-1000XM5 so compelling.

A Fresh Unboxing Experience

When you first open the WH-1000XM5’s box, you’re greeted by eco-friendly packaging, which immediately feels good from a sustainability perspective. There isn’t much plastic—most of it is recyclable cardboard and paper. Inside, you’ll find the headphones themselves, a slim carrying case, a USB-C charging cable, and a 3.5 mm headphone cable for wired listening.

The carrying case looks sleeker than previous iterations and lays flatter. The headphones don’t fold inwards like older WH-1000X models, which might be a slight adjustment if you’re used to that feature, but I actually like how this new design feels more modern and streamlined.

Comfort That Lasts All Day

One of the first things I noticed when putting on the WH-1000XM5 is how plush and airy the earcups feel. Sony opted for a new synthetic leather, and it’s incredibly soft against the skin. Even though the headphones are slightly heavier than some earlier models, I never felt any strain during long listening sessions. The headband adjustment is now a smooth slider instead of the usual notches—an understated change that makes the entire headset feel a bit more premium.

Because they don’t fold, the earcups are slightly larger, which results in better ear coverage and a stronger seal. If you’re someone who wears headphones for hours on end—whether for work, gaming, or just vibing to your playlists—that extra bit of comfort really makes a difference.

Sound Quality That Hits the Sweet Spot

Sony’s reputation for superior audio holds strong in the WH-1000XM5. The sound signature is balanced and engaging, with a gentle boost in the bass that doesn’t overshadow the mids and highs. Whether I’m listening to a bass-heavy hip-hop track or a delicate acoustic ballad, I can hear each layer with clarity and warmth.

High-resolution audio lovers might appreciate Sony’s LDAC codec support. When connected to a compatible device, LDAC can deliver more detail than the usual SBC or AAC codecs. There’s also DSEE Extreme, which is like Sony’s secret sauce for upscaling compressed audio files in real time. It’s especially handy if you rely on streaming services that can sometimes compromise a bit on audio fidelity.

If you prefer a specific sound signature, the Sony Headphones Connect app lets you tweak everything from the EQ to noise-cancellation levels. I enjoy customizing the EQ for certain genres—pushing the bass up for pop and R&B, then switching to a flatter profile for podcasts and classical music.

The Noise-Canceling Magic

Sony has been a leader in active noise cancellation (ANC) for a while now, and the WH-1000XM5 solidifies that reputation. With two processors handling eight microphones, these headphones adapt to your surroundings almost instantly. I’ve worn them in bustling coffee shops and on crowded public transportation, and the outside world just fades away. Yet, there’s no sense of pressure or weird ear “vacuum” effect, which some other ANC headphones can produce.

I also love how quickly they switch between noise cancellation and ambient sound mode. If you want to stay aware of what’s happening around you—maybe you’re waiting for your stop or you don’t want to miss a coworker calling your name—you can enable ambient sound at the tap of a button. Or you can use Speak-to-Chat, which automatically pauses your audio and pipes in external sound the moment you start speaking. It’s convenient when you need to answer a quick question without taking the headphones off.

Battery Life You Can Count On

Nothing spoils a great pair of wireless headphones faster than subpar battery life. Luckily, the WH-1000XM5 delivers a solid 30 hours of playback with ANC on, and that’s been more than enough for me to get through full workdays and long-haul flights. Turning ANC off can stretch that battery even further, which is useful if you’re in a quiet environment and want to conserve power.

When you do need to charge, the USB-C fast charging feature will get you about three hours of use from just three minutes of charging. A full charge from empty generally takes around 3.5 hours, so it’s never too long before you’re back to listening.

Crisp Calls and Clear Voice Pickup

Sony packed eight microphones into these headphones, and it shows. Whether I’m on a Zoom meeting or taking a phone call in a busy environment, my voice comes through remarkably clear on the other end. The noise-canceling tech doesn’t just benefit your own listening experience—it also filters out background sounds while you speak.

If you tend to take work calls on the go, the improved wind noise suppression is a lifesaver. Having tried other headphones that often transmit a lot of wind noise, it’s nice to finally chat outside without having to duck into the nearest doorway.

Where the App Shines

The Sony Headphones Connect app is like having a command center for your headphones right on your phone. It’s easy to navigate and opens up a bunch of features:

• Adaptive Sound Control: This feature detects what you’re doing (sitting still, walking, commuting) and adjusts noise cancellation or ambient sound accordingly.
• EQ Customization: Tweak or choose from various presets to fine-tune the audio signature.
• Speak-to-Chat & Touch Settings: Personalize how sensitive the headphones are to your voice if you’d rather not trigger Speak-to-Chat every time you clear your throat.

Sony also pushes firmware updates through the app, which can bring improvements or new features over time. It’s reassuring to know your headphones can evolve and potentially get better with each update.

How They Stack Up Against the WH-1000XM4

If you already own the WH-1000XM4 or you’re deciding between the two, there are some noticeable differences. The XM5’s design is a bigger departure, with a more refined aesthetic and no collapsible hinges. Noise cancellation has also taken a step up, particularly in mid-range frequencies (like office chatter). The microphone system is more advanced, so you’ll likely see an improvement in call quality.

Sound-wise, the XM5 feels slightly more balanced. The XM4 had a touch more bass emphasis, but if you miss that, you can replicate it by fiddling with the EQ in Sony’s app. There’s a price difference, of course, and the XM4 still offers a fantastic experience. But if you crave the latest and greatest, the XM5 delivers enough enhancements to justify the upgrade.

Who Will Love These Headphones?

If you’re someone who spends a lot of time in noisy environments—like bustling offices, cafes, or during frequent travel—the WH-1000XM5 can be a game-changer. They offer stellar noise cancellation, impressive call clarity, and a balanced, immersive sound. They’re also great for remote workers or anyone who needs a reliable headset for conference calls or online classes.

For music enthusiasts who value convenience and quality, the LDAC support and excellent tuning make these a top contender among wireless headphones. Plus, the comfort factor means you can wear them for extended periods without feeling that usual ear soreness or headband pressure.

Final Thoughts

Sony has refined nearly every aspect of the WH-1000X series with the WH-1000XM5. The new design is sleek, the noise cancellation is unrivaled, and the overall audio performance is absolutely stunning. Are they perfect? Pretty close. If you’re willing to adjust to the non-folding design and pay a premium for the latest tech, these headphones will be an incredible companion for your daily routine.

I’ve tested many noise-canceling headphones over the years, but few have impressed me like the WH-1000XM5. They feel like a natural evolution of Sony’s best ideas, all wrapped up in a comfortable and modern package that’s hard not to love. If you decide to try them, I’d love to hear your thoughts—drop me a comment or reach out on social media. Here’s to happy listening!