Sony WH-1000XM5 Black
Score: 86/100
Apple AirPods Pro 2 USB-C
Score: 84/100Rankings
The Sony WH-1000XM5 are premium over-ear headphones featuring dual-processor ANC, LDAC Hi-Res audio, and up to 30 hours of playback. Their 250 g weight and higher-bitrate LDAC can cause fatigue and occasional dropouts. Perfect for audiophiles and frequent flyers who value top-tier sound and ANC.
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) offer top-tier ANC, adaptive audio, and personalized spatial audio in a compact, IP54-rated design. The larger charging case and reliance on the latest iOS versions are notable compromises. Best suited for Apple ecosystem users seeking premium features.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
30 hoursbest | 6 hours | |
| ↓ lower better | 250 g | 240 gbest |
| ↓ lower better | 3 minutesbest | — |
30 mmbest | — | |
48 Ωbest | — | |
10 mbest | — | |
4best | 2 | |
1 yearsbest | 1 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Battery & Power(1) | ||
Battery Life (ANC On) (hours) | 30 hours | 6 hours |
Audio(2) | ||
Noise Cancellation Type | Active | Active Noise Cancelling |
Microphone Count | 4 | 2 |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Weight (g) | 250 g | 240 g |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers consider the WH-1000XM5 a benchmark in active-noise-cancellation and audio fidelity, highlighting its sophisticated 8-mic, dual-processor system, long battery life, and premium driver design. Comfort is enhanced by a friction-rod headband, though the 250 g weight and potential LDAC-related dropouts are noted as drawbacks.
Professional reviewers praise the updated H2 chip for delivering markedly better active noise cancellation and transparency, note the practical benefit of extra battery life, and highlight the improved ear tip fit. They also point out the heavier charging case as a small compromise for the added features.
“the earbud weight difference between generations (5.3g vs. 5.4g) is imperceptible during use”
Everyday users appreciate the negligible weight difference of the earbuds, finding them comfortable for long sessions, and accept the slightly heavier case as a reasonable trade-off for the new capabilities. Overall sentiment is positive, with comfort and feature set being the most lauded aspects.
