Sony WF-1000XM5 Review: Expensive But Worth It
With the market flooded with noise-canceling earbuds, it’s easy to dismiss the Sony WF-1000XM5’s $299 price tag at first. However, after nearly a year of using them daily, I can confidently say that these earbuds deliver some of the best noise-canceling capabilities and sound quality I’ve ever experienced. They have earned a permanent spot in my purse whenever I leave the house.
Design and Features
The Sony WF-1000XM5s come in a compact charging case that is incredibly small, making it easy to carry around in any pocket or bag. The case also supports Qi wireless charging, adding to its convenience. The earbuds themselves have a sleek design, resembling small black beans with comfortable foam tips that fit snugly in the ears.
One standout feature of the WF-1000XM5s is their impressive noise cancelation technology, which includes AI-based noise cancelation and a bone conduction sensor for clear voice pick-up in noisy environments. Additionally, the earbuds support high-res audio with 8.4mm dynamic drivers and LDAC codec.
Performance
Sound quality on the Sony WF-1000XM5s is exceptional, with the earbuds delivering balanced audio that can be customized using the Headphone Connect app. The noise cancelation works effectively, making these earbuds perfect for drowning out external noise in busy environments.
The battery life on the WF-1000XM5s is impressive, offering up to 8 hours of listening time and 24 hours with the charging case. The quick charging capability ensures you can get back to your music in no time.
Battery
Sony promises up to 8 hours of listening time on the WF-1000XM5s, which extends to 24 hours with the charging case. In my experience, the battery life has been reliable, lasting through long listening sessions without any issues. Even on cross-country flights, these earbuds have kept up with my music needs without needing frequent recharging.
Overall, the Sony WF-1000XM5s may come with a hefty price tag, but the combination of excellent noise cancelation, sound quality, and battery life make them a worthwhile investment for anyone looking for premium wireless earbuds.
Jackie Thomas is the Hardware and Buying Guides Editor at IGN and the PC components queen. You can follow her @Jackiecobra