Sony WF-1000XM5

Sony WF-1000XM5 In the realm of noise-canceling earbuds, a transformative shift is looming on the horizon. Presently, the foremost offerings from Sony, Bose, Apple, Samsung, and other esteemed brands aptly execute the fundamental task of eradicating ambient disturbances. These stalwarts excel in that aspect. However, the tech arena is now pivoting towards innovation, seeking to augment this experience with astuteness and adaptability, primarily by integrating AI and machine learning.

In this inevitable progression, Sony unveils its latest flagship ANC earbuds, the Sony WF-1000XM5, retailing at $299.99. These Sony WF-1000XM5 elevate the groundwork laid by their well-received, slightly more affordable predecessor. They boast a refined, more ergonomic design, enhanced sound quality facilitated by larger drivers, and an intensified noise cancellation capability. While there isn’t a singular standout feature compelling an immediate upgrade, Sony strategically addresses the primary limitations of the prior model, banking on these improvements to resonate with consumers. Notably, these earbuds retain Sony’s higher-fidelity LDAC Bluetooth codec, offer more adaptable onboard controls, and deliver clearer voice calls compared to Sony’s previous flagship models. Nevertheless, exercising patience and deliberate consideration before clicking “buy” may be prudent this time.

The glossy finish on these new earbuds has become an unexpected hassle. It might seem like a minor complaint, but it’s genuinely frustrating: the glossy surface makes it noticeably more difficult to retrieve them from the case compared to the previous matte-finished 1000XM4s. Several times, I’ve tried to take out the M5s, only to find my fingers sliding over the glossy sides, lacking the grip needed to hold them properly. If your fingers are greasy or sweaty, it becomes even more challenging.

Sure, the glossy/matte combination gives the new earbuds a sleeker and more stylish appearance than their predecessors. The Verge editor-in-chief Nilay Patel even complimented their aesthetics. However, I never struggled to remove the 1000XM4s—or even the M3s—from their case in the same way. When I miss, I feel a bit foolish. It’s not a crisis or a deal-breaker, but removing your earbuds from the case should be effortless. With these, I find myself contemplating it every time I try. We’re not even in the peak of summer yet, and I’m already bothered by this. So far, my workaround has been using my thumb to push each earbud out of its cradle instead of using two fingers.

However, once you get Sony WF-1000XM5 in your ears, the fit is notably more comfortable and ergonomic than the bulkier M4s. These earbuds are 25 percent smaller and 20 percent lighter than their predecessors, and the difference feels more significant when worn. Perhaps it’s because the M4s were already a bit too large and heavy, but Sony has now achieved a better balance. The case has also been downsized by 15 percent, making it pocket-friendly and supporting wireless charging, though slightly thicker than the AirPods Pro case.

The company has significantly enhanced its proprietary foam ear tips. Firstly, the inclusion of a fourth extra-small pair (joining small, medium, and large) is a notable upgrade. Sony has reduced the firm plastic beneath the foam, making the newer tips more flexible and easier to compress before inserting the M5s into your ears. I was already fond of the foam tips that came with the M4s, but these are a definite improvement. Sony claims the material aids in “reducing noise in the high-frequency range,” thus serving a specific purpose within the broader noise cancellation scheme.

Regarding noise cancellation, the M5s have undergone considerable advancement. Equipped with six microphones and two separate processors working in tandem, these earbuds efficiently monitor ambient sounds, diminishing the external auditory interference. Sony emphasizes their enhanced capability in analyzing and reducing lower-frequency noise—such as airplane cabins, buses, and everyday street noise like cars and construction. The M5s outperform the M4s in suppressing human speech, albeit with a less pronounced difference. Additionally, users will experience reduced wind noise due to Sony’s relocation of the microphone inlets, making them less susceptible to distortion from environmental elements.

The integration of upgraded silicon and improved microphones has proven effective. In my subjective tests, the Sony WF-1000XM5 rank alongside Bose’s QuietComfort Earbuds II and the second-generation AirPods Pro. Choosing a definitive winner among them feels akin to flipping a coin. Sony excels over Bose in audio quality, but falls slightly behind the other two in the natural and convincing sound of its transparency mode. While adequate for its intended purpose, it’s a notch or two below the very best. While not a generational leap over the M4s, the combination of vastly improved comfort and better ANC marks noticeable progress.

Similar strides have been made in sound quality, although not a significant leap. Each M5 earbud houses an 8.4mm driver compared to the 6mm unit in the M4s. While I usually don’t dwell on driver size, Sony claims this change results in improved tonal accuracy and better reproduction of the lower bass range. The M5 earbuds also boast a superior DAC and lower harmonic distortion, according to the company.

These enhancements may go unnoticed unless you possess a keen ear, activate the LDAC codec, and consistently listen to higher-bitrate audio from services like Amazon Music, Apple Music, Tidal, or Qobuz. By default, most Android phones prioritize stable Bluetooth connections and lower bitrates over pure fidelity with LDAC. If desired, users can delve into developer settings or employ third-party utilities to force maximum performance. Comparing the sound signature between the two pairs of Sony buds, I find them quite similar. If you disliked the M4s, these won’t miraculously change your opinion. However, they do feel more dynamic and detailed, competing closely with the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3s and the Technics EAH-AZ80 earbuds I’ve recently tested.

A standout improvement compared to the M4s lies in voice calls. Sony claims to have utilized over 500 million voice samples to train the AI algorithm in the M5s, enabling it to discern and isolate your voice from various environmental noises. Additionally, a bone conduction sensor has been incorporated to detect vibrations, further ensuring that your voice is distinguished from nearby sounds.

The Sony WF-1000XM5s introduce notable improvements in the company’s flagship line. They’ve notably enhanced comfort compared to previous models, although the new glossy coating might test some users’ patience. While the active noise cancellation and sound quality are notably better, they don’t bring game-changing advancements. Importantly, making calls with these earbuds doesn’t invoke concerns about sounding muffled. Overall, these earbuds represent a well-rounded execution of Sony’s vision, yet concerns linger regarding battery longevity.

However, Sony faces an uphill battle against heavyweights like Apple, Samsung, and Google, who leverage ecosystem advantages to introduce software features and novel audio experiences achievable only through tight integration between phone and earbuds. Sony’s efforts to keep pace feel somewhat lacking in execution.

The earbuds offer numerous capabilities through the Sony Headphones Connect app. Yet, there’s friction and noticeable limitations compared to Apple and Samsung’s more seamless native integration between their phones and earbuds. For instance, Sony’s Adaptive Sound Control and spatial audio features require multiple steps and don’t match the ease of Apple’s Adaptive Audio or Samsung’s head tracking for Android users.

A Critical Observation Regarding Battery Performance of Sony WF-1000XM5

Battery reliability is a concern as some users reported issues with the 1000XM4s over time. Although Sony has been replacing affected units, the lack of an extended warranty and unresolved battery drain problems raise caution for potential buyers.

Nonetheless, the Sony WF-1000XM5 shine for their exceptional noise cancellation, sound quality, and comfort. They’re a solid choice if you prioritize rich, immersive sound and effective noise cancellation. However, Sony faces the challenge of maintaining their appeal against competitors with stronger ecosystem ties and continues to strive to keep up with their advancements in audio technology.

Ultimately, if you seek outstanding noise-canceling earbuds with impressive sound quality, the $300 Sony WF-1000XM5 deliver. Yet, for Sony, it’s uncertain where further improvements can be made, especially in competing with the advancements made by industry heavyweights.

CONCLUSION

Positives:

• Enhanced, smaller, and more comfortable design
• Improvements in active noise cancellation (ANC) and sound quality
• Significantly improved clarity in voice call performance

Negatives:

• Glossy texture could potentially make removal from the case more difficult
• Sony’s additional features lack the seamless integration seen in competitor products
• Potential concerns regarding battery longevity