Sony WF-1000XM5 Review: Premium ANC Earbuds With Better Fit and Bigger Sound
The true wireless market is crowded, but Sony’s WF-1000XM series has always stood at the top for noise cancellation, smart features, and all-round audio performance. The WF-1000XM5 aims to take that further with a smaller design, better fit, upgraded ANC and improved sound. This review looks closely at how the earbuds perform in real-world use, their strengths, limitations, and whether they justify their premium price.
The Sony WF-1000XM5 comes at a time when consumers expect powerful ANC even in loud, chaotic environments. With many users travelling or commuting every day, the WF-1000XM5 tries to solve problems like external noise, comfort and sound clarity. This review explains each aspect clearly so buyers can understand whether this premium model is right for them.
Design and Comfort
The WF-1000XM5 brings important improvements to design. The earbuds are smaller than the previous generation and also lighter, which makes them more comfortable for long sessions. Many true wireless earbuds struggle with comfort when used for several hours, but the shape and weight distribution of the WF-1000XM5 help reduce fatigue.
Sony includes foam ear tips that expand in the ear canal to create a tight and secure seal. This seal is important for both sound quality and noise cancellation. The foam design blocks external noise even before ANC turns on, and this natural isolation improves overall performance. For many users, the fit is noticeably better than the previous model. The inclusion of extra-small and multiple ear tip sizes also helps users find the right fit.
However, the foam tips may not feel perfect for everyone. Some people might feel slight pressure due to the memory foam material. This depends on individual ear shape, and it may take a few days of usage to adjust. Despite this, the design still performs better than many earbuds in the same price range.
Active Noise Cancellation
Noise cancellation is one of the biggest reasons to buy the WF-1000XM5. The ANC is among the strongest available in any true wireless earbuds. These earbuds excel at reducing low-frequency sounds like engine rumble, traffic noise and general background hum. They also perform well in blocking mid-level sounds such as human chatter in cafés, busy offices or metro stations.
The combination of strong passive isolation from the foam tips and powerful ANC helps the earbuds handle noisy environments easily. This makes the WF-1000XM5 a suitable choice for commuting in loud cities, taking flights, working in busy offices or even using them at home during noisy hours. Sony has also tuned the ANC to feel natural without creating pressure on the ears.
In everyday use, the earbuds maintain their performance well. Whether used while travelling, walking on crowded streets, or working from home, the ANC delivers consistent results. Users who prioritise silence and focus will definitely appreciate this strength.
Sound Quality
Sony has improved sound quality in the WF-1000XM5 compared to the previous model. The earbuds deliver a full, rich and detailed sound that suits many music styles. Bass response is strong and punchy, making the sound enjoyable for modern music. The midrange is clear and works well for vocals and instruments. The treble adds brightness without becoming harsh.
The soundstage also feels wider than expected for in-ear earbuds. This gives music more space and makes audio feel less compressed. It creates an enjoyable listening experience, especially for genres like pop, hip-hop, film soundtracks and podcasts.
However, the earbuds do not deliver a completely neutral sound. They are tuned to give a “fun” sound with emphasis on bass and treble. Users who prefer a strictly flat or studio-like tuning may need to use the equaliser in the Sony app. Luckily, Sony’s app provides a detailed EQ that helps balance the sound easily.
Even with this tuning preference, the WF-1000XM5 offers strong overall performance and stands out as one of the best-sounding ANC earbuds available.
Features and Connectivity
Sony has packed several useful features into the WF-1000XM5. The earbuds support high-resolution audio through LDAC on compatible devices. This allows for better sound quality when using Android phones that support the codec. Multipoint connectivity lets the earbuds connect to two devices at the same time, allowing users to switch between phone calls and laptop audio smoothly.
The Sony Headphones Connect app remains an important part of the experience. Users can adjust ANC strength, customise sound with EQ, change control gestures and monitor battery levels. The app is stable and easy to use, and it adds value to the earbuds.
Bluetooth 5.3 ensures reliable connectivity. In daily use, the earbuds maintain a stable connection even in busy areas like markets, metro stations or offices. Connection drop issues are rare.
Battery life is strong as well, with around eight hours of use with ANC enabled. With the charging case, this increases further and is suitable for full-day use. This makes the WF-1000XM5 capable of handling daily commutes, long workdays or travel without anxiety.
Controls and Call Quality
The touch controls on the WF-1000XM5 offer full customisation, allowing users to adjust playback, volume, ANC and more. These controls work well most of the time, but accidental triggers can occur depending on finger placement. While not perfect, the touch response is reliable for daily use.
Call quality is good but not class-leading. Voices sound clear enough for regular calls, and the microphone handles indoor environments well. However, in very loud surroundings, the microphone performance may not match the level of premium over-ear headphones.
Even so, for everyday calling and video meetings, the performance is more than sufficient.
Value and Pricing
The WF-1000XM5 is a premium product and comes with a premium price. For many users, the strong ANC, improved comfort, excellent sound and advanced features justify the cost. Those who need top-tier noise cancellation and wireless convenience will find good value.
However, buyers who do not need strong ANC or premium features may find better value in mid-range earbuds. The decision depends on daily usage, environment and expectations. If ANC, comfort and sound quality matter most, the WF-1000XM5 is one of the strongest choices in the market.
The Sony WF-1000XM5, originally priced at £259 / $299 / AU$419 when launched two years ago, have dropped significantly since and can now be found regularly at £219 or even lower.
Verdict
The Sony WF-1000XM5 stands out as one of the best true wireless ANC earbuds available today. The improvements in design, comfort, noise cancellation and sound quality make them suitable for a wide range of users. Their performance in noisy environments, especially in cities, is impressive.
They deliver strong battery life, high-quality sound, reliable connectivity and useful features that enhance daily use. While the price is premium, the overall experience supports that positioning.
For users who want the best combination of ANC, comfort and sound in a compact true wireless format, the Sony WF-1000XM5 is an excellent choice.
FAQs
Q1. Is the Sony WF-1000XM5 good for commuting?
A. Yes, the earbuds offer strong ANC and isolation, making them ideal for buses, metro and street environments.
Q2. How is the sound quality on the WF-1000XM5?
A. The sound is full, detailed and enjoyable with strong bass and clear vocals.
Q3. Does the WF-1000XM5 support multipoint connectivity?
A. Yes, it can connect to two devices at the same time.
Q4. Are the earbuds comfortable for long use?
A. The smaller design and lightweight build make them comfortable for extended listening sessions.
Q5. Is the price justified?
A. For users who need excellent ANC, strong sound and a premium feature set, the price is justified.
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