Sony WH-1000XM5 Review 2025

Design and Comfort

Sony has completely redesigned the WH-1000XM5 with a more modern, streamlined aesthetic. The headphones feature a sleek profile with seamless curves and a premium matte finish that resists fingerprints. Build quality is exceptional throughout, with high-grade plastics and metal reinforcement in key stress points.

The most significant change is the elimination of the folding mechanism. While this makes the headphones less compact for travel, it allows for a more robust design and improved weight distribution. The included carrying case is larger but provides excellent protection.

Comfort is outstanding thanks to the redesigned headband with softer padding and reduced clamping force. The ear cups use plush synthetic leather that creates an effective seal without becoming uncomfortable during extended listening sessions. Weight distribution is excellent at just 250 grams.

Sound Quality

Audio performance is simply superb. The 30mm drivers deliver rich, detailed sound with excellent separation across the frequency spectrum. Bass response is deep and controlled without overwhelming the mids, while treble remains crisp and detailed without harshness.

The soundstage is impressively wide for closed-back headphones, creating an immersive listening experience. Imaging is precise, making these headphones excellent for both music and movie content. The V1 processor ensures consistent audio processing and minimal latency.

Hi-Res Audio support with LDAC codec provides exceptional wireless audio quality when paired with compatible devices. The DSEE Extreme AI upscaling technology effectively enhances compressed audio files, making even low-bitrate content sound remarkably good.

Noise Cancellation

The WH-1000XM5's noise cancellation is industry-leading, surpassing even the excellent XM4 model. Two processors working with 8 microphones create an incredibly quiet environment, effectively blocking low-frequency rumble from planes, trains, and air conditioning.

Mid-frequency noise reduction is particularly impressive, making these headphones ideal for office environments. The system adapts automatically to your environment and wearing conditions, optimizing ANC performance throughout the day.

Ambient sound mode allows natural sound passthrough when needed, with 20 adjustment levels for precise control. The Speak-to-Chat feature automatically pauses music and allows conversation when you start talking – a genuinely useful innovation.

Battery Life and Connectivity

Battery performance is excellent with 30 hours of playback with ANC enabled, extending to 40 hours with ANC disabled. Quick charge functionality provides 3 hours of playback from just 3 minutes of charging – perfect for travelers.

Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity is rock-solid with excellent range and stability. Multipoint connection allows simultaneous connection to two devices, seamlessly switching between phone calls and computer audio. Codec support includes SBC, AAC, and LDAC for high-quality wireless audio.

The 3.5mm wired connection maintains audio quality when batteries are depleted, though some processing features are disabled in wired mode. USB-C charging is fast and convenient.

Controls and App

Physical controls are minimal – just the power button and 3.5mm jack. Most control is handled through touch gestures on the right ear cup. While responsive, the touch controls can occasionally trigger accidentally or fail to register intended gestures.

The Sony Headphones Connect app provides comprehensive control over EQ, noise cancellation levels, and smart features. The 360 Reality Audio support creates immersive soundscapes with compatible content, while the adaptive sound control automatically adjusts settings based on your activity and location.

Customizable quick attention mode and speak-to-chat sensitivity levels allow personalization of the smart features. The app also provides battery status, codec information, and firmware updates.

Call Quality

Call quality is exceptional thanks to the 4-microphone array with advanced noise processing. Voice clarity is excellent even in noisy environments, with effective wind noise reduction. The precise voice pickup technology ensures your voice comes through clearly during conference calls.

Multipoint connection allows seamless switching between music on your computer and phone calls, making these headphones excellent for work-from-home scenarios. The mute button functionality through the app adds professional convenience.