Sony WF-1000XM4 Black
Score: 82/100
Sony WF-1000XM5 Black
Score: 89/100Rankings
The Sony WF-1000XM5 are premium true-wireless earbuds offering industry-leading active noise cancellation and a total of up to 24 hours of playback with the charging case. They trade off a modest IPX4 water-resistance rating and a premium price point. Ideal for commuters and audiophiles who prioritize ANC and battery life.
The Sony WF-1000XM4 deliver top-tier ANC, LDAC high-resolution audio and up to 12 hours of playback without ANC. They lack wireless charging and are slightly bulkier than newer models. Suited for audiophiles and travelers seeking premium sound and strong noise cancellation.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
— | 24 hoursbest | |
12 hoursbest | 8 hours | |
| ↓ lower better | 90 minutesbest | 90 minutesbest |
6 mm | 8.4 mmbest | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 3 minutesbest |
10 metersbest | 10 metersbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 55.6 g | 50.8 gbest |
— | 6best |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Build & Design(1) | ||
Total Weight (Earbuds + Case) (g) | 55.6 g | 50.8 g |
Battery & Power(1) | ||
Battery Life (Earbuds Only) (hours) | 12 hours | 8 hours |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | 5.2 | 5.3 |
Audio(2) | ||
Supported Audio Codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC | AAC, LC3, LDAC, SBC |
Driver Size (mm) | 6 mm | 8.4 mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the WF-1000XM4 for its superior sound quality, thanks to 6 mm drivers, the Integrated Processor V1, and LDAC support, while also highlighting the lightweight build and solid ANC performance. However, they warn that the strong noise cancellation can reduce situational awareness, making the earbuds unsuitable for activities like biking, and note the lack of detailed dimension data and reduced call-time battery life as drawbacks.
Everyday users praise the earbuds for their lightweight comfort, effective noise cancellation on commutes and travel, and high-quality audio when using LDAC. Recurring complaints focus on occasional fit issues, safety concerns during outdoor activities due to ANC, and shorter battery life during voice calls.
Professional reviewers praise the WF-1000XM5 for its market-leading ANC, real-world battery performance that exceeds specifications, and the significant size and weight reductions that enhance portability. The inclusion of dual ANC processors, advanced microphone array, and support for high-resolution LDAC audio further solidify its position as a high-end offering, though the limited IPX4 rating is seen as a minor drawback.
