Are the Sony WF-1000XM5 Earbuds worth all the buzz?
Looking for the perfect wireless earbuds that deliver exceptional sound quality and cutting-edge features?
The Sony WF-1000XM5 Earbuds have been making waves in the market, but is their performance worth the hype?
In this review, we’ll explore everything these earbuds have to offer, from their noise-canceling capabilities to their comfort and battery life.
So, if you’re curious to know if the Sony WF-1000XM5 Earbuds are worth considering, read on to uncover our verdict on these earbuds.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| 1) Small and comfortable 2) Top-notch sound 3) Excellent noise cancelling 4) Superb call quality 5) Bluetooth multipoint with LDAC | Fit isn’t super secure |
Price
Buy for $298 at Amazon
Buy for $300 at Sony Electronics
Sony WF-1000XM5: Sleeker and Lighter!
The WF-1000XM5 earbuds are not just smaller than the XM4 model; they are also 20% lighter, making them more convenient to carry around.
Moreover, the sleek and streamlined design extends to the wirelessly-charging case as well, which now has a rounded and pocket-friendly lozenge-like shape.
Compared to the XM4’s bulky and bulbous appearance with gold-tone microphone ports, the XM5 takes on a more elegant and refined look. The gold-toned microphone port is now seamlessly integrated into the earbud body, resembling a stylish inlaid accent rather than a functional component.
With their small, smooth, and sophisticated design, you can confidently wear the XM5 earbuds even to formal occasions without looking out of place.
Sony WF-1000XM5: Comfort and Fit
Are the WF-1000XM5 earbuds more comfortable than the XM4?
Yes, in my experience, they are.
These earbuds have a smooth plastic design and are smaller in size, making them less tiring to wear. Sony also improved the foam ear tips for a more forgiving fit, and now there are four sizes to choose from, including an extra small size.
However, it’s important to note that the XM5 earbuds don’t sit as securely as the XM4 or Sony’s LinkBuds S. This might make them less suitable for activities like running or going to the gym, even though they have an IPX4 rating for water and sweat resistance.
Furthermore, the glossy finish of the earbuds provides less grip on your ear’s skin, and the horn (partly covered by the foam ear tip) doesn’t stick out as far as it does on the XM4. This limitation affects how deeply you can insert the earbuds, reducing the amount of contact the foam sleeve has with your ear canal.
Sony WF-1000XM5: ANC and Transparency
The Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds come with improved features for active noise cancellation (ANC) and transparency mode.
Sony upgraded the earbuds with a dual processor platform, combining the new V2 Integrated Processor and the HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN2e, resulting in better ANC performance compared to its predecessor, the XM4.
Moreover, the XM5’s six onboard microphones and redesigned drivers contribute to the enhanced ANC, especially in managing wind noise, where they outperform other earbuds.
In everyday situations, the XM5 earbuds match the capabilities of Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 and Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II. However, they require precise fit and proper positioning for optimal ANC performance. To achieve similar ANC results, it is essential to use the included ear tips that provide the best seal and ensure they are comfortably inserted deep into the ears.
Furthermore, Sony’s Headphones app offers a fit test to help find the most suitable ear tips, but it’s essential to experiment and find the best fit that works for you personally.
While the XM5 earbuds improve ANC performance over the XM4, the difference may not be dramatically noticeable, roughly around 10% to 15% better. Nonetheless, they prove to be effective and versatile companions for reducing unwanted background noise in various environments.
Sony WF-1000XM5: Call and Voice Quality
The Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds excel in call and voice quality, thanks to advanced technology. These earbuds have six microphones and a bone conduction sensor in each bud.
These features work together with an AI algorithm trained on 500 million voice samples. The result is excellent background noise reduction, making your voice stand out during calls.
In comparison to the AirPods Pro Gen 2, the WF-1000XM5 proved to be highly effective in eliminating background sounds like traffic, construction, and wind. Your voice remains clear and prominent on the other end of the call.
However, in very noisy environments, there might be a slight reduction in your voice volume, and some fine details may get compressed. Overall, the WF-1000XM5 earbuds offer a better dynamic range for your voice compared to the AirPods Pro, especially during indoor calls where the built-in microphones shine.
Sony WF-1000XM5: Unbeatable Sound Quality
The Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds have undergone significant improvements in their drivers compared to their predecessor, the XM4. The new drivers are 40% larger at 8.4mm and have a unique dome-edge separation structure called Dynamic Driver X. This design aims to reduce distortion, enhance vocal clarity, and improve low-frequency response.
When it comes to sound quality, Sony has always been impressive, and the XM5 earbuds continue this tradition. The sound signature is a slight but noticeable enhancement of the XM4’s performance. The bass response is rich and musical, now better balanced with other frequencies.
In addition, these earbuds maintain clarity and distinction even when listening to complex tracks across various genres. Thanks to Sony’s LDAC Bluetooth codec (available on Android), there’s an additional improvement in detail and dynamic range, especially with lossless hi-res audio sources.
Vocals are crystal clear, though some might find that the XM4 had a slightly more natural high-end. Nonetheless, both earbuds offer excellent sound quality overall.
The soundstage is detailed and precise, but it’s worth noting that Sony earbuds tend to concentrate most of the sound within a small circle, rather than expanding widely around your head in normal stereo mode.
However, 3D formats like Sony 360 Reality Audio (360RA) and Dolby Atmos provide a broader performance, with 360RA benefiting the most.
Not only this but Sony has introduced a beta version of its sound personalization system called Find Your Equalizer. This feature allows you to create custom EQ settings based on your preferences, though some users may find the resulting sound signature a bit less appealing.
Overall, the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds deliver exceptional sound quality, making them a top-notch choice for music enthusiasts and audiophiles alike.
Sony WF-1000XM5: Battery Life
The battery life of the Sony WF-1000XM5 remains the same as the WF-1000XM4. When the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is turned on, you can expect eight hours of playtime per charge, and up to 12 hours with ANC off.
With two full charges in the case, this means you might get up to 36 hours of total usage before needing to recharge, as long as you keep the volume around 50%.
Additionally, Sony has improved the quick-charge feature of the XM5 earbuds. Now, if you put the earbuds back in their case for just three minutes, you’ll get an extra hour of playtime. This is one of the fastest quick-charge times available.
One change from the WF-1000XM4 is the amount of voice guidance. With the XM4, you received messages about the remaining battery life and successful device connections.
However, in the XM5, these messages have been removed, and now you only get a tone for connection (with a double tone for a second device).
After spending time with the WF-1000XM5, it’s clear that Sony has created an outstanding set of wireless earbuds. They excel in sound quality and noise cancellation, making them hard to beat even if you spend more money.
Call quality is also among the best, and they come packed with the latest features. The only area where Apple still outshines them is in transparency mode.
In terms of comfort, the XM5 is an improvement over the XM4, making them a good option for those who found the XM4 too big. If you were considering the XM4 but hesitated due to size, the XM5 is definitely worth a try, even with a slightly higher price.
However, if you are content with the fit of the XM4, you might not need to rush out and upgrade to the XM5. The improvements, while noticeable, are not major. Moreover, now that the XM4 is no longer the newest model, you might find some attractive discounts, making the XM4 a compelling option.
Final Verdict
Thus, the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds have proven themselves as a top-notch choice, delivering exceptional sound, noise cancellation, and comfort.
If you’re in the market for premium wireless earbuds that offer an unparalleled audio experience, the WF-1000XM5 is a compelling option. And while you’re on the lookout for the latest and greatest tech, we encourage you to follow Hazehunt for more reviews, insights, and exciting updates in the world of gadgets and technology.
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