Sony WF-1000XM5 Black
Score: 89/100
Technics EAH-AZ100
Score: 84/100Rankings
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 Technics Reference Class Hi-Fi earbuds combine magnetic fluid drivers, full adaptive hybrid ANC and Dolby Atmos with head tracking for a premium audio experience. Their battery life falls to 10 hours with ANC on and they lack a companion EQ app, which may deter some power users. They are aimed at audiophiles and frequent travelers who prioritize sound fidelity and advanced features over ruggedness.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
24 hours | 28 hoursbest | |
8 hours | 10 hoursbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 90 minutesbest | — |
8.4 mm | 10 mmbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 3 minutesbest | 15 minutes |
10 metersbest | 10 metersbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 50.8 gbest | — |
6best | 6best |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Battery & Power(3) | ||
Battery Life (Total with Case) (hours) | 24 hours | 28 hours |
Battery Life (Earbuds Only) (hours) | 8 hours | 10 hours |
Quick Charge Time (10 min boost) (minutes) | 3 minutes | 15 minutes |
Audio(2) | ||
Supported Audio Codecs | AAC, LC3, LDAC, SBC | LDAC |
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. 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 consistently commend the Technics EAH-AZ100 for its reference-grade magnetic fluid drivers, adaptive ANC that excels against low-frequency noise, and immersive Dolby Atmos with head tracking. They also praise the three-device multipoint Bluetooth and rapid charging. However, they note sound-signature quirks such as bass bleed into mids and a subdued treble, as well as inconsistent battery life reporting and only IPX4 water resistance.
Everyday users highlight the earbuds' comfortable fit, impressive Dolby Atmos immersion, and crystal-clear call quality as major positives. Recurring themes in consumer feedback include concerns about limited water resistance, occasional Bluetooth switching glitches, and battery life that may fall short of advertised figures during continuous ANC use.
