Sony WF-1000XM5 Black
Score: 89/100
Nothing Wireless Earbuds
Score: 82/100Rankings
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 Nothing Ear provide premium sound with 11 mm ceramic drivers, support for LDAC and LHDC, and wireless charging for up to 40.5 hours of total playtime. Their ANC falls short of marketing claims and the case attracts fingerprints, which can be distracting. Best suited for audiophiles seeking high-resolution codecs and feature-rich controls.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
24 hours | 41.5 hoursbest | |
8 hours | 9.5 hoursbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 90 minutesbest | — |
8.4 mm | 11 mmbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 3 minutesbest | 10 minutes |
10 metersbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 50.8 gbest | 56.5 g |
6best | 3 |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Build & Design(2) | ||
IP Rating | IPX4 | IP54 |
Total Weight (Earbuds + Case) (g) | 50.8 g | 56.5 g |
Battery & Power(3) | ||
Battery Life (Total with Case) (hours) | 24 hours | 41.5 hours |
Battery Life (Earbuds Only) (hours) | 8 hours | 9.5 hours |
Quick Charge Time (10 min boost) (minutes) | 3 minutes | 10 minutes |
Audio(3) | ||
Supported Audio Codecs | AAC, LC3, LDAC, SBC | LDAC, LHDC 5.0, AAC |
Driver Size (mm) | 8.4 mm | 11 mm |
Microphone Count | 6 | 3 |
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. 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.
Professional reviewers commend the Nothing Ear earbuds for their standout sound quality, high-resolution codec support, and a well-implemented app that adds deep customization. While battery life and wireless charging are praised, the ANC is noted as underperforming relative to its marketing claims, and the maximum volume is considered modest for very loud environments.
Everyday users appreciate the lightweight comfort, effective passive isolation, and the convenience of customizable pinch controls, but they frequently mention that the ANC does not match premium rivals and that the earbuds could be louder in noisy settings. The transparent case's fingerprint-prone finish also draws regular complaints.
