Sony WH-1000XM5 Pink
Score: 91/100
Apple AirPods Pro 3
Score: 90/100Rankings
The Sony WH-1000XM5 delivers flagship-level ANC, high-resolution audio, and long battery life in a premium over-ear package. Its comfort and feature set are excellent, though the lack of a folding design and water resistance limit its travel suitability.
Apple AirPods Pro 3 are premium true-wireless earbuds offering advanced active noise cancellation, live translation, heart-rate monitoring, and spatial audio, all powered by a USB-C charging case.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
30 hoursbest | 8 hours | |
| ↓ lower better | 250 g | 9.07 gbest |
30 mmbest | — | |
40 hoursbest | 10 hours | |
| ↓ lower better | 3 minutesbest | — |
| ↓ lower better | 48 Ωbest | — |
102 dB SPLbest | — | |
10 mbest | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(1) | ||
Noise Cancellation Type | Dual Processor ANC | Active |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Weight (g) | 250 g | 9.07 g |
Battery & Power(2) | ||
Battery Life (ANC On) (hours) | 30 hours | 8 hours |
Battery Life (ANC Off) (hours) | 40 hours | 10 hours |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers laud the WH-1000XM5 for its unmatched ANC performance, refined sound signature, and robust feature set including LDAC and multipoint Bluetooth. While the audio and call quality set a new benchmark, critics note the loss of a foldable design and a premium feel compared to earlier models, making the price premium feel less justified for some.
Everyday users overwhelmingly praise the headphones for their magical noise cancellation, superior sound, and comfort during long wear, while repeatedly mentioning the quick-charge convenience. Common complaints focus on the lack of portability due to the non-foldable design, overly sensitive touch controls, and the absence of sweat resistance or iOS EQ support.
“Noise cancellation is magical - blocks out subway noise completely.”
“Sound is rich and detailed, better than my old Bose QC35.”
“Call quality is amazing - people say I sound like I'm on a landline.”
