Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) vs Sony WH-1000XM5
Verdict: Sony WH-1000XM5 leads with 30-hour battery versus 20 hours on AirPods Max (per manufacturer specs) and 134 g lighter weight, plus stronger ANC scores on RTINGS. AirPods Max excels only for Apple users via Spatial Audio and build quality. Sony wins overall for most listeners.
Winner: Sony WH-1000XM5
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C): 7.5/10
Sony WH-1000XM5: 8.5/10
Spec-by-spec comparison
| Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) | Sony WH-1000XM5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Life (ANC on) | 20 hours | 30 hours |
| Weight | 384 g | 250 g |
| Driver Size | 40 mm dynamic | 30 mm dynamic |
| Microphones | 9 | 8 |
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
What works
- Seamless Apple device integration with Spatial Audio
- Premium aluminum build with Digital Crown controls
- Excellent transparency mode per RTINGS tests
What doesn't
- Only 20 hours battery with ANC (per Apple specs)
- Heavy at 384 g causing fatigue during long sessions
Sony WH-1000XM5
What works
- 30 hours battery life with ANC (per Sony specs)
- Lightweight design at 250 g for extended wear
- Superior ANC performance per RTINGS measurements
What doesn't
- Plastic build feels less premium than metal alternatives
- Sony app required for full feature access
Bottom line
Our pick: Sony WH-1000XM5.
People also ask
How does bose quietcomfort 35 ii vs sony wh-1000xm5 compare?
Sony WH-1000XM5 surpasses the Bose QuietComfort 35 II in active noise cancellation and sound customization options. Bose QuietComfort 35 II remains a strong choice for comfort during long sessions.
How does sennheiser momentum 4 vs sony wh-1000xm5 compare?
The Sony WH-1000XM5 delivers stronger noise cancellation than the Sennheiser Momentum 4. Sennheiser's model lasts longer on a charge for travel.
How does apple airpods max vs sony wh-1000xm5 compare?
Sony WH-1000XM5 deliver 30-hour battery life and stronger ANC than the AirPods Max. They also cost less than the $549 AirPods Max while adding multipoint pairing.
How does bose quietcomfort ultra vs sony wh-1000xm5 compare?
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra delivers stronger noise cancellation than the Sony WH-1000XM5 in direct tests. Sony leads with longer battery life and more app features.
How does jabra evolve2 85 vs sony wh-1000xm5 compare?
The Jabra Evolve2 85 targets calls with its boom mic and Microsoft Teams certification while the Sony WH-1000XM5 focuses on music with stronger ANC. Sony also leads in app features and battery life for daily listening.
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