Sony WH-1000XM5 Review
A previous-generation ANC headphone that remains a strong all-around pick for calls, now often available at a lower price than the XM6.
At a Glance
This model is best suited to buyers prioritizing microphone and call quality. Its strongest buying points are widely regarded as one of the best all-around ANC headphones for calls, and 30-hour battery life.
Technical Assessment
Widely regarded as one of the best all-around ANC headphones for calls, named among top business headphones picks, with independent testing describing the XM-series 8-microphone array as delivering exemplary call performance.
Performance
Uses an 8-microphone array to support both active noise cancellation and clear call pickup, backed by up to 30 hours of battery life and multipoint Bluetooth pairing for switching between devices.
Features and Workflow
Over-ear drivers supporting standard Bluetooth codecs. Together, these capabilities support complete day-to-day workflows rather than resting on a single headline specification.
Reliability and Ownership
Now the predecessor to the XM6; No dedicated boom mic. Warranty: Not independently confirmed this pass.
Buyer Fit and Trade-Offs
Best For & Key Strengths
Best For
- Buyers prioritizing microphone and call quality.
Key Strengths
- Widely regarded as one of the best all-around ANC headphones for calls
- 30-hour battery life
Not Ideal For & Key Trade-Offs
Not Ideal For
- Buyers prioritizing platform and UC compatibility above other factors.
Key Trade-Offs
- Now the predecessor to the XM6
- No dedicated boom mic
Technical Specifications
| Summary | Wireless over-ear ANC headphones; 8-microphone array for calls and ANC; up to 30 hours battery life; multipoint Bluetooth pairing. |
| Evidence Id | sony-wh-1000xm5-official |
| Source Url | https://electronics.sony.com |
| Observed Date | 2026-08-06 |
| Audio | Over-ear drivers supporting standard Bluetooth codecs. |
| Microphones | 8-microphone array supporting both active noise cancellation and call pickup. |
| Range | Standard Bluetooth range typical of this class; exact rated range not independently confirmed this pass. |
| Controls | Touch-sensitive controls on the ear cup. |
| Construction | Over-ear design; the predecessor generation to the WH-1000XM6. |
| Compatibility | Broad Bluetooth device compatibility; no dedicated UC/Teams certification identified this pass. |