Sony WF-1000XM5
Sony's new flagship noise canceling wireless earbuds have pretty much everything we hoped for, with several upgrades headlined by an all-new Sony V2 audio processor that enables powerful Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, stronger sound, and even better active noise cancellation. There's an updated Headphones Connect app too, offering even stronger customization and adaptive sound features.
For
- Outstanding sound quality
- Strong noise cancelation
- Exceptional functionality
- Excellent level of control
Against
- Smaller earbud size affects eartip seal and fit
- Battery life remains the same as predecessor
- Flaky 360 Reality Audio personalization set up
Sony WF-1000XM4
The Sony WF-1000XM4 are currently still on sale and although they're not as elegant as the newer version they still offer exceptional, full-bodied sound signature with a frequency balance that we love. They may be several years old, but the WF-1000XM4 have the same battery capacity as the new version, and their sound is still a match for many near rivals.
For
- Exceptional, full-bodied sound
- Strong noise cancellation
- Strong battery life
- Responsive smart controls
Against
- Mediocre call quality
- No multipoint technology or NFC
