Sony WH-1000XM5 vs Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
We compare the Sony WH-1000XM5 and Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) head-to-head on performance, features, value, and more. Here's which one wins.
Sony WH-1000XM5
Scored 9.5/10 in our testing
Sony WH-1000XM5
Best noise-cancelling headphones for most people — unbeatable ANC-to-price ratio
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Best ANC headphones for Apple ecosystem users with AirPods Max features
Score Breakdown
| Sony WH-1000XM5 | Category | Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) |
|---|---|---|
| 9.5/10 ✓ | Performance | 9.3/10 |
| 9.5/10 ✓ | Features | 9/10 |
| 9.2/10 | Ease of Use | ✓ 9.5/10 |
| 9.3/10 ✓ | Value | 7.8/10 |
| 9.5/10 ✓ | Overall | 9.2/10 |
Specs Comparison
| Sony WH-1000XM5 | Spec | Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) |
|---|---|---|
| 8 microphones, Dual Noise Sensor | ANC | H2 chip computational audio |
| 30hrs ANC on, 3hr quick charge = 3hrs | Battery | 20hrs |
| LDAC, AAC, SBC | Codec | Transparency Mode, Adaptive Audio |
| 250g | Weight | AAC (Apple Lossless via Apple devices) |
| 30mm | Drivers | Aluminum ear cups, mesh headband |
Sony WH-1000XM5
Pros
- + Best-in-class noise cancellation
- + LDAC for Hi-Res wireless audio
- + 30-hour battery life
- + Excellent call quality with 8 microphones
Cons
- − Doesn't fold flat (step back from XM4)
- − Slightly analytical sound signature
- − Ear cups feel warm after hours of wear
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Pros
- + Seamless Apple ecosystem switching
- + Adaptive Audio blends ANC and transparency
- + Exceptional build quality (aluminum)
- + Best-in-class with Apple Lossless sources
Cons
- − Ecosystem locked — limited Android use
- − No fold — bulky to travel with
- − Most expensive headphones here
Our Verdict
Based on our scoring, the Sony WH-1000XM5 comes out on top with an overall score of 9.5/10. Sony's XM5 is the benchmark against which every other ANC headphone is measured. The combination of 8 microphones and dual noise sensor chips delivers best-in-class noise cancellation — a quiet office becomes silent, and an airplane cabin becomes barely a murmur. LDAC support provides genuinely Hi-Res audio when paired with a compatible source. The only step backward from XM4 is the non-folding design.
Buy the Sony WH-1000XM5 on AmazonRead the full Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones 2026 guide for complete reviews of all 10 products.
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