
Sony WF-1000XM5 Black
Score: 89/100
Technics EAH-AZ80-A
Score: 80/100Rankings

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.

Technics EAH-AZ80-A offers dual-hybrid ANC, LDAC support and a lightweight 7 g design with three-device multipoint and wireless charging. However, ANC reduces playback to just 4.5 hours and the case lacks fast-charge speed. Suited for active users and multitaskers who value comfort and decent battery life.
| Attribute | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
24 hoursbest | 15 hours | |
8 hoursbest | 4.5 hours | |
| ↓ lower better | 90 minutesbest | 120 minutes |
8.4 mm | 10 mmbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 3 minutesbest | 15 minutes |
10 metersbest | 10 metersbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 50.8 gbest | 57 g |
6 | 8best |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
Build & Design(1) | ||
Total Weight (Earbuds + Case) (g) | 50.8 g | 57 g |
Battery & Power(4) | ||
Battery Life (Total with Case) (hours) | 24 hours | 15 hours |
Battery Life (Earbuds Only) (hours) | 8 hours | 4.5 hours |
Charging Time (Full) (minutes) | 90 minutes | 120 minutes |
Quick Charge Time (10 min boost) (minutes) | 3 minutes | 15 minutes |
Audio(3) | ||
Supported Audio Codecs | AAC, LC3, LDAC, SBC | SBC, AAC, LDAC |
Driver Size (mm) | 8.4 mm | 10 mm |
Microphone Count | 6 | 8 |

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 consider the EAH-AZ80 a strong contender for active-lifestyle users, praising its precise stereo balance, lightweight comfort, and robust ANC performance. The high-resolution audio capabilities and superior call quality further position it as a premium option for audiophiles and professionals who need reliable wireless connectivity across multiple devices.


Everyday users are enthusiastic about the immersive, rich sound and the clear calls even in windy conditions, appreciating the comfortable fit and the convenience of three-way multipoint switching. Recurring concerns focus on battery life under ANC, occasional Bluetooth hiccups when juggling multiple devices, and a bass-forward tuning that may not suit all listeners.