Sony WH-1000XM5 vs AirPods Max: Which Headphones Reign Supreme?
Written on
Introduction to Noise-Cancelling Headphones
For anyone interested in premium over-ear noise-cancelling headphones, the recent launch of Sony's WH-1000XM5 has caught attention. This model, often referred to as the XM5, follows the highly praised WH-1000XM4, which many consider the top choice for noise cancellation and sound quality.
As a proud owner of the XM4s, I can confidently say that the XM5s enhance their predecessor's strengths, although they feel more like a solid sequel rather than a groundbreaking innovation. Nevertheless, they do outshine Apple’s AirPods Max in several key areas.
Pricing: A Major Advantage
One of the most glaring issues with the AirPods Max is their price point. At £549, they deter all but the most devoted Apple enthusiasts. Justifying this expenditure can be challenging, especially with numerous excellent, more affordable alternatives available.
In contrast, the Sony WH-1000XM5s retail for £380. While this isn't exactly budget-friendly, it’s a more reasonable investment given Sony's proven track record with the XM4s. The XM5s deliver exceptional noise cancellation, impressive sound quality, and are built to last, alongside a sturdy case. Although the AirPods Max are beautifully designed, their high price tag makes them less accessible.
The Case: A Point of Contention
The case that accompanies the AirPods Max has been widely criticized. Its impractical design has made it a subject of mockery. On the other hand, Sony's cases, particularly for the XM4, are robust and durable.
The XM5s maintain this high standard, though their larger size has drawn some criticism. Personally, I don't mind the bulk; it’s a trade-off I’m willing to accept for a protective case. However, the ability to crush the XM5 case when empty is puzzling.
Battery Life: A Key Feature
My main grievance with the AirPods Max is the outdated Lightning connection. Even with potential changes on the horizon, the inability to completely power off the headphones remains a significant flaw.
In contrast, the XM5s can be fully turned off and charge via USB-C, enhancing the user experience considerably.
Noise-Cancellation Performance
The noise-cancellation capabilities of the Sony XM5s are truly unparalleled. While the AirPods Max come close, they sometimes struggle with lower frequencies, leading to an unappealing booming sound when moving your head. If superior noise cancellation is your priority, the XM5s are the clear choice.
Personalization: Tailoring Your Sound
Apple's headphones offer limited options for adjusting sound settings, which can be frustrating for audiophiles. On the other hand, the XM5s allow users to customize their audio experience extensively. They also support LDAC, enabling high-resolution audio streaming, giving them an edge over the AirPods Max.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
While both the Sony WH-1000XM5s and Apple AirPods Max are remarkable headphones, the XM5s excel in numerous aspects. Although the AirPods Max offer seamless integration with Apple devices and impressive features like spatial audio, the benefits of the XM5s—particularly in price, case quality, and charging convenience—make them a compelling choice.
This video compares the Sony WH-1000XM5 with the AirPods Max and highlights user experiences, revealing what sets them apart.
This audio test and comparison further illustrates the differences in sound quality and performance between the Sony WH-1000XM5 and AirPods Max.