Sony WH-1000XM5 Black
Score: 86/100
Bose QuietComfort
Score: 80/100Rankings
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.
Bose QuietComfort headphones deliver strong active noise cancellation, lightweight comfort, and dual-device Bluetooth connectivity with NFC pairing. Their battery life is limited to 24 hours and they lack water resistance and wireless charging. Best suited for frequent travelers and professionals seeking premium ANC.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
30 hoursbest | 24 hours | |
| ↓ lower better | 250 g | 240 gbest |
| ↓ lower better | 3 minutesbest | — |
30 mmbest | — | |
48 Ωbest | — | |
10 mbest | 9 m | |
4best | 1 | |
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 | 24 hours |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Range (m) | 10 m | 9 m |
Audio(1) | ||
Microphone Count | 4 | 1 |
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 such as RTINGS note that the Bose QuietComfort headphones deliver strong active-noise-cancellation performance, comfortable all-day wear, and a long-lasting battery, making them a solid choice in the premium ANC market.
Pros: Active noise cancellation reduces ambient sound, providing a quiet listening environment for travel and work.; Lightweight over-ear design at only 8.5 oz ensures comfort during long listening sessions.; Up to 24 hours of battery life on a single charge supports marathon use without frequent recharging.; Bluetooth 5.1 with a 30-foot wireless range and dual-device connectivity offers stable, flexible connections.; Included accessories such as a USB-C charging cable, 3.5 mm audio cable, and hard leather carrying case add value.; NFC one-touch pairing simplifies initial setup with compatible smartphones.; SimpleSync compatibility lets the headphones sync audio with Bose soundbars for home entertainment.; Removable protein-leather ear cushions are replaceable for extended durability and comfort.
