
Sony WH-1000XM5 Black
Score: 86/100
Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Black
Score: 89/100Rankings

The Momentum 4 Wireless delivers audiophile-grade sound and an unmatched 60-hour battery life, backed by hybrid adaptive ANC and fast charging. Its main trade-offs are less effective low-frequency noise cancellation and occasional fit-related instability. Ideal for travelers and audio professionals who value long runtime and sound customization.

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.
| Attribute | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
30 hours | 60 hoursbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 250 gbest | 292 g |
| ↓ lower better | 3 minutesbest | 5 minutes |
30 mm | 42 mmbest | |
48 Ω | 470 Ωbest | |
10 mbest | — | |
4best | 4best | |
1 yearsbest | 1 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
Battery & Power(2) | ||
Battery Life (ANC On) (hours) | 30 hours | 60 hours |
Quick Charge Time (minutes) | 3 minutes | 5 minutes |
Audio(4) | ||
Noise Cancellation Type | Active | Hybrid Adaptive |
Driver Size (mm) | 30 mm | 42 mm |
Impedance (Ω) | 48 Ω | 470 Ω |
Supported Audio Codecs | LDAC | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX Adaptive |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Weight (g) | 250 g | 292 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, notably RTINGS.com, commend the MOMENTUM 4 for its audiophile-grade sound accuracy, robust hybrid ANC that excels at mid-to-high-frequency noise, and an impressive 60-hour battery life with fast-charge capability. They also praise the premium build, comfort, and extensive EQ customization, while noting weaker low-frequency ANC and occasional stability issues.

Opt for Sony if ANC performance and codec versatility are top priorities; opt for Sennheiser if you prefer a lighter build and a more neutral sound profile.

Everyday users commend the headphones for clear, immersive sound after EQ, long battery endurance, and effective ANC for commuting. Common praise centers on the app's presets and solid build, while recurring complaints involve a tight fit for larger ears, unreliable touch controls, weak microphone performance, and occasional ANC hiss.