Our verdict
The WF-1000XM5 is the reference for Android earbuds: LDAC delivers wireless sound that embarrasses rivals, ANC is nearly flagship-class, and the fit is better than any Sony bud before it. If you're not in Apple's walled garden, these are the earbuds to buy.
What we love
- LDAC support — hi-res sound on Android
- ANC that rivals over-ear flagships
- Compact, comfortable, secure fit
- Multipoint and excellent call mics
- Wireless charging case
What could be better
- Touch controls are finicky to master
- Battery (8 hrs) trails competitors
- Sound tuning is warm — not for purists
- Pricey against the AirPods Pro 2
Sound quality
Over LDAC, the WF-1000XM5 delivers detail and dynamics that no AAC-only earbud can match — separation between instruments, real bass texture and a soundstage that feels much bigger than a pair of buds should manage. Sony tunes them warm, so they flatter most music; audiophiles will want the app's EQ to flatten the curve. It's the closest wireless earbuds get to hi-fi.
Noise cancelling & battery
ANC is outstanding for the form factor — on a plane, the difference versus the AirPods Pro is small. Transparency is natural, and the buds' improved fit means the seal does half the work. Battery hits 8 hours with ANC on (24 with the case), which trails Apple and doesn't match the 2026 class leaders.
Comfort & build
Sony finally nailed the fit. The XM5s are 20% smaller than their predecessors, with a rounded shape that sits flush in the ear — we wore them through a full day of calls without adjusting. The case is the smallest in class. Build quality is standard Sony: durable plastic that feels like it will survive a decade.
Specifications
| Type | In-ear, wireless, ANC |
| Driver | 8.4 mm dynamic |
| Bluetooth | 5.3, multipoint, LDAC / AAC / SBC |
| Battery | 8 hrs + 24 hrs case, USB-C & Qi |
| Weight | 5.9 g per bud |
| Extras | Speak-to-chat, wear detection, EQ app |
Score breakdown
Final take
Android user? These are the earbuds to buy, full stop. iPhone user? You'll get more seamless magic from the AirPods Pro 2 — but you'll still be giving up real sound quality to get it.