Sony released itsWH-1000XM5over-ear noise-canceling headphones in 2022. The XM5, an updated version of Sony’s previous noise-cancelling headphones, theWH-1000XM4, quickly made its way to the top of my list of best over-ear noise-canceling headphones.
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The first pair of over-ear noise-canceling headphones I owned was Bose’s 2019Noise Cancelling Headphones (NCH) 700. While those headphones served me well, Sony’s WH-1000XM5 has several features that the Bose 700 NC doesn’t offer. From Sony’s XM5 lightweight design to its personal noise-canceling optimizer, here are my top reasons I’ve recently been swaying Sony.
1The lightweight design
Sony WH-1000XM5
Admittedly, when I first opened my Sony WH-1000XM5, I thought they felt pretty cheap. Once I put them on my head, I knew I was wrong. I’ve spent the past weekend testing the headphones out and can easily wear them for eight hours at a time. The headphones weigh only 249 grams.
I’ve spent the past weekend testing the headphones out and can easily wear them for eight hours at a time.
Although Bose’s 700 NC only weighs a gram more, 250 grams, the difference is noticeable. Sony’s ear cups aren’t as hard as Bose’s ear cups, with soft cushioning on the ear cups making for a comfortable listening experience.
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2Less bulky case
A case that still protects your headphones, but doesn’t take up too much space
I’ve been against bulky headphone cases thanks to my experience with Bose’s bulky, hard-shelled carrying case. The case took up way too much space in my compact backpack and, since it was hard shelled, it didn’t contort at all to squeeze in my bag. That’s why I’ve always been a proponent ofApple’s AirPods Maxsimple Smart Case.
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Sony’s carrying case is softer and collapsible, making it easier to fit into tight backpacks.
However, if you’re looking for a case that’s more protective than Apple’s AirPods Max carrying case but not as rigid as Bose, then you’ll be a fan of the Sony WH-1000XM5 carrying case. Sony’s carrying case is softer and collapsible, making it easier to fit into tight backpacks.
3Personalized Noise-Cancelling
Sony takes Noise Canceling to another level
I thought that the ability Bose gave users to control their noise cancelation level was top tier, until I tried Sony’s headphones. Using the Bose Connect app, users can adjust the noise-cancelling level on a scale from 1-10. Using the Sony app, however, users' listening experience is tailored to their surroundings.
I thought that the ability Bose gave users to control their noise cancelation level was top tier, until I tried Sony’s headphones
The auto noise-cancellation optimizer feature of the XM5 automatically optimizes the noise-cancelling levels based on your surroundings. Also, users can choose whether they want voices to be heard when in noise-canceling mode.
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I tend to be skeptical of noise-cancellation when walking around cities due to obvious safety hazards, but Sony’s auto noise-cancellation eliminates those fears. Walking around the city, I’m able to hear what’s around me while still being able to listen to my audio clearly.
4Sony WH-1000XM5 overall design
Sony’s soft fit leather wins
Sony’s WH-1000XM5 overall design tops Bose’s more traditional over-ear headphone design. Sony’s oval ear cups make for a more modern design than Bose’s circular ear cups. Plus, Sony’s special soft fit leather that wraps around its headband adds a more comfortable feel than Bose’s headphones.
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5Speak to Chat
No need to take your headphones off when ordering food
One feature Bose and Apple alike don’t have is the Speak to Chat technology. Wearing over-ear headphones always seems to be inconvenient, especially when having to order coffee at a coffee shop or ordering food. I hate messing up my hair as I take it off and awkwardly hold it or wear it around my neck as I order my coffee. With Sony’s WH1000XM5, the moment I start speaking my music pauses.
With Sony’s WH1000XM5, the moment I start speaking my music pauses.
According to Sony’s website, the smart feature uses microphones built into your headphones to recognize and react to your voice. After the conversation ends, the music will begin.
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