Verdict: The Sennheiser HD 800 S is a better choice for audiophiles who value accurate sound reproduction, while the Sony WH-1000XM5 is a better choice for commuters who want wireless connectivity and active noise cancellation. The Sennheiser HD 800 S has better sound quality and build quality, but is more expensive and not wireless. The Sony WH-1000XM5 has more features and is more affordable, but has less accurate sound reproduction and is not as durable.
Sennheiser HD 800 S lists at $1,399.95 while Sony WH-1000XM5 lists at $349.99 — Sony WH-1000XM5 undercuts Sennheiser HD 800 S by $1,049.96 (300%).
Winner: Sennheiser HD 800 S
Sennheiser HD 800 S: 8.5/10
Sony WH-1000XM5: 7.5/10
| Sennheiser HD 800 S | Sony WH-1000XM5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Driver Size | 56mm | 30mm |
| Frequency Response | 4 Hz - 51 kHz | 20 Hz - 20 kHz |
| Impedance | 300 ohms | 47 ohms |
| Weight | 330g | 250g |
Our pick: Sennheiser HD 800 S.
Focal Utopia uses 40mm beryllium-magnesium drivers while Sennheiser HD 800 S uses 56mm ring radiators. Reviews place the Utopia ahead in resolution and the HD 800 S ahead in soundstage width.
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless lasts longer on a charge than the Sony WH-1000XM5. Sony's model edges out in active noise cancellation performance.
The Sony WH-1000XM5 delivers 30 hours of ANC battery life and costs less than the AirPods Max. The AirPods Max adds 20-hour ANC runtime, spatial audio, and aluminum build quality for Apple ecosystem users.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra delivers stronger noise cancellation than the Sony WH-1000XM5 in lab and flight tests. Sony provides longer battery life and more frequent firmware updates at comparable street prices.
The Sony WH-1000XM5 delivers stronger noise cancellation than the Jabra Evolve2 85. The Jabra Evolve2 85 adds a boom mic for clearer Microsoft Teams calls.
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