Sony WF-1000XM5 Black
Score: 86/100
JBL Live Buds 3
Score: 85/100Rankings
The Sony WF-1000XM5 are premium true-wireless earbuds delivering market-leading ANC, high-resolution audio support and a compact, lightweight design. Their IPX4 rating and premium price are trade-offs for the top-tier performance. Best for audiophiles and travelers who prioritize noise isolation and sound quality over cost.
The JBL Live Buds 3 combine True Adaptive ANC, wireless charging and spatial sound with a 40-hour total battery life, targeting listeners who want premium features without an app. The case is bulky and ANC reduces playback time, which may affect users seeking ultra-compact convenience. Ideal for frequent callers, media enthusiasts and active users who value immersive sound and long endurance.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
8 hours | 10 hoursbest | |
24 hours | 30 hoursbest | |
10 metersbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 50.3 gbest | 82.2 g |
8.4 mm | 10 mmbest | |
1 yearsbest | 1 yearsbest | |
6best | 6best |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Build & Design(2) | ||
IP Rating | IPX4 | IP55 |
Total Weight (including case) (g) | 50.3 g | 82.2 g |
Battery & Power(2) | ||
Battery Life (Earbuds) (hours) | 8 hours | 10 hours |
Battery Life (Charging Case) (hours) | 24 hours | 30 hours |
Audio(1) | ||
Driver Size (mm) | 8.4 mm | 10 mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
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.
Professional reviewers and editors commend the Live Buds 3 for its industry-leading True Adaptive ANC, monumental JBL Signature Sound, and the innovative touchscreen case that eliminates the need for a companion app. They also highlight the impressive 40-hour battery life, fast 10-minute quick charge, six-mic call clarity and seamless multi-point Bluetooth switching as standout attributes, while noting the bulkier case and reduced playback time when ANC is engaged as minor drawbacks.
Everyday customers consistently praise the earbuds for their long battery endurance, clear call performance in noisy environments, intuitive touchscreen case controls and immersive spatial audio. The most common negative feedback centers on the case's heft and size, as well as the shorter playback time when ANC is engaged, though overall sentiment remains positive.
“Long battery, clear calls in noise, easy touchscreen controls, immersive sound”
