Highlight
- Sony WF-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Cancelling Stereo Headset is the latest addition to the popular Sony 1000X Series.
- Currently available for pre-booking at ₹21,990, WF-1000XM5 headsets are due for release on 17th October 2023, at an introductory price of ₹24,990.
- Sony is marketing these as the best true wireless noise-cancelling in-ear earbuds with in-built mics, dual processors, up to 36-hour battery life, and a multi-point connection.
Sony is introducing the recently unveiled Sony WF-1000XM5 as – the best Noise Cancelling Headphones.
To assess this claim, we’ve spent the past few days thoroughly testing these premium earbuds.
Dive into our in-depth review to uncover everything you need to know about Sony’s latest wireless audio device.
Sony WF-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Cancelling Stereo Headset – Key Features
- Active Noise Cancellation
- Noise-Cancelling QN2E Processor
- Advanced Integrated Processor V2
- Bluetooth 5.3 (SBC, AAC, LDAC, LC3)
- Driver size: 8.4mm
- IPX4 Water resistance
- 8 hours with ANC (up to 24 hours with case)
- Wireless Charging
Sony WF-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Cancelling Stereo Headset – Pros And Cons
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Sony WF-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Cancelling Stereo Headset – My Mobile Rating
Design – 3/4
Design & Fit – 2/5
Sound Quality – 3.5/5
ANC Performance – 3.5/5
Call Quality – 4/5
Battery – 3.5/5
Overall – 3/5
Unboxing Sony WF-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Cancelling Stereo Headset
Sony WF-1000XM5 – Design and Fit
We cannot discuss the design and fit of the Sony WF-1000XM5 without keeping the predecessor 1000XM5 alongside in comparison.
Sony has launched these new versions with considerable upgrades that need to be discussed.
The Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds’ notable design changes are most prominently seen in the charging case.
The case is now smaller and boasts a matte finish, enhancing its portability and aesthetic appeal.
The removal of the LED light bar in favour of a simple dot indicator contributes to a more minimalist design.
Additionally, the case features a physical pairing button and a convenient Type-C portat the back.In terms of the earbuds too, significant modifications have been made.
They sport a glossy finish, which Sony believes makes the earbuds more visually appealing and modern.
The earbuds are also smaller and more ergonomically shaped, promising a better fit within the ear.
Moreover, they are lightweight, which ideally should ensure a comfortable experience, especially during prolonged use.
However, despite these positive changes, there are notable concerns.
The earbuds, even after size and shape adjustments, still feel bulky and uncomfortable for extended periods.
They tend to stick out of the ears, affecting both the overall look and stability.
Despite Sony providing three different ear tip sizes, finding the perfect fit remains a challenge, particularly for individuals with larger ears.
This imperfect seal hampers their suitability for activities like outdoor workouts.
Sony WF-1000XM5 – Touch Controls
The Sony WF-1000XM5 Noise Cancelling Headsets are decent in the realm of touch controls. Here are some observations at a glance –
- Touch controls are highly responsive, ensuring an efficient and seamless user experience.
- Offers auto pause functionality through wearing detection, enhancing convenience and battery life.
- The Quick Attention feature is activated with a tap and hold, allowing users to interact with their surroundings without removing the earbuds.
- Hands-free voice activation for Google Assistant or Alexa, accessible with a simple tap-and-hold gesture.
- No need to tap the earbuds first, a step-saving feature not commonly found in other earbuds.
- Allows the use of either earbud independently, regardless of the chosen voice assistant. Provides flexibility and convenience to users.
- Introduction of volume control gestures, enabling users to adjust volume by tapping the left earbud for decrease and the right earbud for increase. A practical and intuitive addition.
- However, lack of individual gesture remapping options. Users are required to select predefined controls in bulk via the Sony Headphones Connect App for each side.
- Limited customization may be a drawback for users seeking personalized touch control configurations.
Sony WF-1000XM5 – Sound Quality and ANC
The Sony WF-1000XM5 Noise Cancelling Headsets offer a well-balanced sound profile.
Notably, their standout feature lies in their exceptional sound stage and instrument separation, creating an immersive, open, and spacious musical experience.
We found the stereo separation impressive, which adds depth to the overall audio quality.
Detailed treble and clear, distinctive vocals enhance the listening session without veering into harsh or sibilant tones.
The bass performance is notably natural, with minimal distortion, signifying a marked improvement from Sony’s previous models.
However, a drawback surfaces in the realm of sub-bass and overall loudness.
Some users might find the lack of significant sub-bass and the challenge of achieving optimal loudness for certain tracks disappointing.
Adjusting settings to attain the desired volume level can be a struggle, impacting the overall enjoyment of music.
Let’s talk about the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) performance.
The Sony WF-1000XM5 headphones offer intelligent adaptive sound control, seamlessly transitioning between different environments based on user actions.
Manual control options, both through the app and the earbuds themselves, provide flexibility, allowing users to switch between ANC modes, ambient mode, and transparency mode.
The ambient mode, with 20 adjustable levels, effectively enhances awareness of surroundings, delivering a clear and immersive experience.
Despite the improvements, the ANC performance of the WF-1000XM5 might not meet the expectations of users in the luxury earbuds category, especially given the fierce competition at similar price points.
The noise reduction, although subtly enhanced in mid to high frequencies like crowd and traffic noise, faces limitations due to the earbuds’ smaller size, resulting in reduced passive noise isolation.
Consequently, the efficacy of the ANC varies depending on individual ear fit.
Sony WF-1000XM5 – Mic and Call Quality
The Sony WF-1000XM5 sets a new standard in mic and call quality, significantly improving upon its predecessor, the 1000XM4 model.
During our tests conducted both outdoors amidst heavy traffic and indoors, the advancements in mic technology were immediately noticeable.
Sony has made remarkable strides in enhancing the mic quality, elevating the overall call experience for users.
With the WF-1000XM5, voices are distinctly isolated.
The incorporation of three microphones per earbud also enhances the clarity and precision of voice transmission during calls.
Sony’s implementation of new processors and AI algorithms further contributes to the impressive noise-cancelling effect experienced during phone conversations.
Additionally, the WF-1000XM5 introduces a unique and innovative feature: head gestures.
This functionality allows users to answer a call with a simple head nudge or reject it with a headshake, providing a hands-free option for managing calls.
While this feature works admirably, there is a caveat. However, accidental gesture registration is a potential concern, requiring users to exercise caution when this feature is active.
Despite this, the introduction of head gestures adds a layer of convenience for users with busy hands, further enhancing the overall usability of the earbuds during calls.
Sony WF-1000XM5 – Battery Life
The headset impresses with its battery life, striking a balance between longevity and efficient charging.
The earbuds charge swiftly, requiring approximately 1.5 hours to reach a full battery level.
Users have the flexibility of charging via USB or wirelessly with the case, accommodating various charging preferences and situations.
In terms of playback, the WF-1000XM5 offers a maximum of 8 hours of usage with ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) turned on, ensuring uninterrupted listening in noisy environments.
For users who prefer conserving battery life and do not require ANC, the earbuds extend their usage to an impressive 12 hours, delivering an extended listening experience without the noise-cancelling feature.
When it comes to communication, the earbuds provide a maximum of 6 hours of battery life with ANC activated, ensuring reliable and continuous hands-free calling and communication.
For scenarios where ANC is unnecessary during calls, users can enjoy up to 7 hours of communication time, providing flexibility for various communication needs.Verdict
The Sony WF-1000XM5 Noise Cancelling Headset presents a mixed picture, offering a range of impressive features alongside some notable drawbacks.
The decision to buy the Sony WF-1000XM5 headset depends on your priorities.
If you value brand name, looking for premium quality headsets, an improved mic quality, and advanced touch controls, these earbuds offer a compelling package.
The addition of unique features like head gestures adds to their appeal.
However, if comfort and fit are your top concerns, especially for extended use, you might want to consider other options in the market.
Similarly, if you are specifically seeking top-tier ANC performance, there are alternatives that might better meet your requirements.
In conclusion, while the WF-1000XM5 has its strengths, potential buyers should weigh these against the limitations and consider their individual preferences and priorities before making a decision.
Buy Sony WF-1000XM5 Noise Cancelling Headset For
- Decent sustainable design
- Good sound and Android spatial audio
- Effective noise cancelling
- Smooth touch and gesture controls
- Premium category headset with good brand value
Alternatives You Can Consider Before
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II
Features
- Built-in Microphone
- Adjustable Noise Cancelling
- CustomTune technology
- Proprietary active noise cancelling
- Adjustable EQ
- Adjustable Quiet & Aware Modes
- Up to 6-hour battery life
- Simple touch controls
Price – ₹19,398
Sony LinkBuds S WF-LS900N
Features
- In-ear Wireless Earbuds
- Bluetooth v5.2
- 6 hrs Playback Time
- 5mm, Dynamic Driver
- Noise Cancellation
Price – ₹12,989
FAQs
Q1. How is the sound quality of Sony WF-1000XM5 wireless headsets?
Answer. The Sony WF-1000XM5 wireless headsets boast exceptional sound quality, specifically noted for their well-balanced sound profile, impressive sound stage, and outstanding instrument separation.
These features create an immersive and spacious listening experience for users.
Q2. Does Sony WF-1000XM5 have better mic quality compared to 1000XM4?
Answer. Sony has significantly enhanced the mic quality in the WF-1000XM5 model. They achieved this by incorporating three microphones per earbud, effectively isolating the user’s voice.
Additionally, new processors and AI algorithms play a crucial role in improving noise-cancelling effects during phone calls, resulting in clear and precise voice transmission.
Q3. What are the unique touch control features offered by the Sony WF-1000XM5?
Answer. The Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds come with responsive touch controls, allowing users to enjoy auto-pause with wearing detection, a quick attention feature activated through a tap and hold, and hands-free voice-activated Google Assistant or Alexa control.
Moreover, users can adjust volume by tapping the left earbud for a decrease and the right earbud for an increase, simplifying the user experience.
Q4. What is the battery life like for the Sony WF-1000XM5?
Answer. The WF-1000XM5 offers a balanced battery life. With Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) on, users can enjoy up to 8 hours of playback and 6 hours of communication.
With ANC off, the playback time extends to an impressive 12 hours, and communication time increases to 7 hours.
The earbuds charge fully in approximately 1.5 hours through both USB and wireless methods.
Q5. Can you use the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds individually?
Answer. Yes, you can use each Sony WF-1000XM5 earbud individually, regardless of the chosen voice assistant.
This flexibility allows users to use a single earbud for tasks like calls or listening to music, enhancing convenience and usability.
Also Read: Sony WF-1000XM5 TWS Earbuds Launched in India: Pricing, Specs, Availability, and, More