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Sony WF-1000XM5 Earbuds Extended Review: Comparatively like the previous version yet noticeably compact
Not a significant enhancement from the Sony WF-1000XM4, but the XM5 does most tasks slightly better in a notably smaller form.
Advantages:
– Superior audio performance
– Notably more compact than XM4
– Pleasant fitting in the ear, effective passive noise reduction
– Remarkable Active Noise Cancellation and environment mode
– Wear detection, multi-device connectivity
– Compatibility with LDAC codecs, even when connected to two devices
– Helpful associated application, intelligent audio adjustments
– Satisfactory battery life, provision for wireless charging
Negatives: The controls' setup is not yet refined. The Active Noise Cancellation, while decent, doesn't surpass the previous model. The price point could also be more appealing.
Cost: Between Rs 22,290 and Rs 24,990. Score: 4 out of 5.
Sony unveiled its highly anticipated WF-1000XM5 TWS earbuds in India in October of the previous year. The arrival took longer than expected for reasons that remain unclear. Rather than hastening the testing process, we decided to take more time to thoroughly explore the product and put together a comprehensive long-term review. It's only fair, after all, this is a product meant to be leisurely appreciated.
Having experienced the Sony WF-1000XM4 in depth, we are familiar with its advantages and disadvantages. Despite its age, it continues to be one of the top TWS (true wireless) headphones available. Sony had a difficult job trying to surpass it, even with more than two years to develop the next model. A significant problem with the XM4 was its size, which has certainly been rectified. But is the Sony WF-1000XM5 superior in other areas? Let's see.
The design and comfort of the Sony WF-1000XM5 Earphones earn an 8 out of 10 rating. The earbuds have a somewhat similar shape to the previous model, the WF-1000XM4, but are noticeably smaller and lighter. They're not as petite as the Linkbuds S, but according to Sony, they're 25% smaller and 20% lighter than the previous version. Each earbud weighs approximately 5.9 grams, so they're not the lightest on the market, but they're not overly heavy either. Crucially, when worn properly, they fit snugly and comfortably in the ear. Unlike the 1000XM4, they don't protrude excessively from the ears.
These earbuds are unique because they come with polyurethane foam tips, not the usual silicone ones. They adapt to the form of your ear canals, providing top-notch passive noise isolation. The noise isolation is so good that it outperforms the active noise cancellation (ANC) featured in many budget to mid-level earbuds. In addition, there are three extra pairs of tips included, so you can find the perfect fit if the original ones don't suit you. Take a few minutes to select the ideal pair.
The product is well-made, featuring both shiny and sleek matte finishes, with large touch areas on the back of the buds. The shiny finish can make them slightly slippery when taking them out of the case. The charging case is small, easy to carry, and has a matte finish, weighing less than 40 grams. It comes with a USB-C charging port, a Bluetooth pairing/reset button on the back, and a charge status light on the front. The WF-1000XM5 is available in two colors – black and silver (beige).
Sony is persisting with its eco-friendly campaign, which is commendable. The headphones and their container are reportedly crafted from different types of recycled plastic, and the external packaging is virtually free of plastic to maintain environmental sustainability.
Sony WF-1000XM5 Earphones: An Overview of Features and Specifications (8.5/10)
Despite their compact size, each earpiece accommodates a larger 8.4 mm dynamic driver and three microphones – two designated for active noise cancelling (ANC) and one for phone calls. Additionally, these earphones now come with two processors instead of just one. The new V2 processor from Sony is responsible for sound processing, while a specialized QN2e chip manages the ANC. It's impressive that Sony has managed to keep each earbud's weight below 6 grams, even with all these components, without sacrificing battery life.
The Sony WF-1000XM5 is compatible with SBC, AAC, LDAC and LC3 codecs via Bluetooth 5.3. Users have the option to prioritize either sound quality or a stable link, with a codec being allocated based on their choice. As long as the earbuds and the device they're connected to are in the same vicinity, it's advisable to opt for sound quality and utilize LDAC codecs. These earbuds also enable dual-pairing, allowing them to be connected to two devices at once. An added advantage is that you can employ the LDAC codec on both devices, a capability that was absent when the XM4 was first released.
The earbuds also come with wear detection sensors, which automatically stop the sound when you take out an earbud and start again when you put it back in. The earbuds' backside has a touch-sensitive surface, allowing interaction through one, two or three tap actions. These actions can be customized using the Sony Headphones app. However, the customization options are still not as detailed as desired. The available functions come in groups, and you cannot assign a particular function to a specific tapping gesture.
For example, selecting Playback for the right earpiece means a single tap will play or pause, a double tap will skip to the next song, and a triple tap will go back to the previous song. This setting is fixed and can't be altered. Likewise, if you set ANC for the left earbud, you can toggle between different ANC settings with a single tap. Assignments for quick access for Spotify Tap or Amazon Music Play Now can be made using a double or triple tap. These earbuds are sweat resistant with an IPX4 rating, making them suitable for wearing during exercise or running.
Sony WF-1000XM5 Earbuds: Efficiency (8.5/10) The wireless reach is adequate and maintains a steady connection even at distances of 10 meters, provided there are no obstructions between the buds and the device they're paired with. No lagging issues were detected during video streaming. Similar to other Sony true wireless stereo buds that feature active noise cancellation, these earbuds offer three modes – Active Noise Cancellation, Ambient Sound, and Normal mode (neither on). Through the Sony Headphones application, which has been well-received over time, users can select any two or all three of these modes to switch between.
The effectiveness of the passive noise isolation is impressive enough to make you think that the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is activated. Once you actually engage the ANC, it further reduces specific low and midrange frequency sounds such as the hum of a fan or traffic sounds. It significantly lessens human conversation, although it doesn't completely remove it. However, despite the impressive noise cancellation, it doesn't seem to surpass the performance of its previous model. I had the chance to compare it with an XM4 unit and had anticipated more from the dedicated QN2e processor on the XM5.
This model's ambient mode is one of the best available, providing natural sound with occasional wind noise. It allowed me to talk to passersby and a taxi driver without taking out the earbuds. By tapping the left earbud once, you can switch between the ANC modes. The earphones also offer Adaptive Sound Control, which automatically turns ANC and ambient modes on or off based on your location. The app for these earphones also includes features such as head gestures, DSEE Extreme audio enhancement, 360 Reality Audio, and more.
Let's now discuss the audio quality. The Sony WF-1000XM5 delivers a good amount of sound even at a 60% volume level. Interestingly, the default audio tends to lean towards a bass-heavy side for a high-end earphone pair. However, it's not as bass-intensive as some mid-range earphones available at less than a quarter of its cost, and it doesn't resemble the sound from Sony's older XB series. It's worth noting that the Sony 1000X series has never pledged to provide neutral sound, and it has consistently had a slightly warm yet enjoyable audio quality. The XM5 follows the same pattern, with some minor adjustments possible through the companion app.
The app allows you to either use one of the existing sound presets or to experiment with the equaliser to create your own sound. For those who might find using a multi-band equaliser daunting, Sony has provided an easy method to devise your own EQ. All you need to do is play any audio and click on the various numbered circles that show up on your screen until you find a sound output that appeals to you. This approach is straightforward and efficient, and doesn't require any knowledge about diverse frequency ranges. You just have to rely on your hearing and select what sounds best to you.
Once adjusted, the Sony WF-1000XM5 delivers a clear, balanced and pleasurable sound. Although it leans towards the lower frequencies, the bass is profound and firm without overpowering the midrange frequencies. The voice quality is crisp and the distinction between instruments is excellent. The high tones are precise and well-balanced to prevent a hissing sound. The sound space is surprisingly wide for a pair of true wireless stereo earbuds, enhancing the overall listening experience for different types of music and video material.
Once more, the total audio performance isn't remarkably superior to the 1000XM4's, which was already outstanding, but it's subtly more polished, and the acoustic field certainly seems wider here. I believe Sony's greatest hurdle this time was preserving the XM4's high-quality features in a compact casing, and I can confidently affirm, they've pulled it off.
Sony WF-1000XM5 Earbuds: Phone Call Quality (7.5/10)The phone call performance of the 1000XM5 is fairly good. The individual on the other end of the call was easily heard, and my voice was also understood with adequate precision, although it could have been a bit more crisp. When used outside, the microphones do capture some background noise, but not to the extent that it disrupts the discussion. The noise reduction feature functions quite effectively, however, it may slightly muffle the transmitted voice in noisy environments.
Sony WF-1000XM5 Earbuds: Power Duration (8/10) Sony purports that these earbuds have an 8-hour battery life when active noise cancellation (ANC) is enabled, and up to 24 hours when combined with the charging case; this is the same as the XM4. Nonetheless, these figures are likely accurate when the AAC codec is utilized. In my trial, using the LDAC codec, the earbuds lasted just over 6 hours with ANC continuously enabled. The case can provide two full recharges for the earbuds, extending the total battery life to roughly 18 hours.
As previously stated, the earbuds' ability to block out ambient noise is top-tier, and they significantly reduce background sound even when the active noise cancellation (ANC) feature is turned off. Without the use of ANC, these earbuds have an impressive battery life of more than 9 hours from a full charge. Along with the charging case, they can last for an approximate total of 28 hours. Therefore, if you use the ANC feature only occasionally, you could potentially achieve nearly 24 hours of playback time from the earbuds and the case combined. This is quite an excellent performance, especially when using the LDAC codec.
You can view the power level of each earpiece and the charging box on the connected phone or through the associated application. The app will alert you when the charging box's power falls below 30%. Typically, it requires around an hour and a half to fully recharge the earbuds and the box using a common USB-C charger. The XM5 model is equipped with a rapid charging feature, where a mere 3 minutes of charging can supply an hour's worth of music playback – a useful function. Additionally, the box is compatible with Qi wireless charging.
The Sony WF-1000XM5 TWS earbuds were initially introduced in India at a price of Rs 24,990, including a one-year warranty. Now, they are available at approximately 22K. Sony could have made these earbuds more competitively priced. The earlier model, WF-1000XM4, was launched at Rs 19,990 in the country. Ideally, a price closer to this would have been better, considering the performance of the two models is quite similar.
Indeed, the XM5 stands out for its compact size, lighter weight, enhanced comfort, and comprehensive feature set, making it one of the best True Wireless Stereo (TWS) earbuds currently available in India. However, its audio quality and active noise cancellation (ANC) don't surpass those of its predecessor. Therefore, if you don't mind slightly bigger and slightly heavier earbuds, you can own the Sony WF-1000XM4 for less than Rs 14,000, and potentially even for as low as Rs 12,490 if you're fortunate. This offers a much better cost-value ratio until its successor is available for less than Rs 20,000.
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