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Long-term Assessment of Sony WF-1000XM5 Earbuds: Largely resembling the previous model but considerably more compact
Though the Sony WF-1000XM5 isn't a massive upgrade from the Sony WF-1000XM4, it does perform slightly better in a significantly more compact design.
Positive aspects:- Outstanding audio performance- Considerably more compact than XM4- Comfortable fit in the ear, effective passive noise suppression- Incredible Active Noise Cancellation and environmental mode- Features like wear detection and multipoint support- Compatibility with LDAC codecs even when connected to two devices- Handy associated application, intelligent sound adjustments- Reliable battery life, compatible with wireless charging
Downsides: – The controls' settings are not as detailed as they could be – The active noise cancellation, while decent, isn't an improvement from the previous version – The cost could have been more market-friendly.
Cost: Between Rs 22,290 and Rs 24,990. Score: 4 out of 5.
Sony introduced its highly anticipated WF-1000XM5 TWS earbuds in India in October of the previous year. For reasons that are unclear, the product took an unusually long time to become available to us. Rather than hurrying the testing process, we decided to take our time with it and put together a detailed long-term review. Honestly, this is a product that is meant to be leisurely experienced and enjoyed.
We've thoroughly tested the Sony WF-1000XM4 and are very familiar with its pros and cons. It continues to be one of the top-notch TWS (true wireless) earbuds in the market, presenting a significant challenge for Sony to surpass, even with more than two years to launch the next model. A noticeable problem with the XM4 was its size, which has certainly been rectified. However, the question remains; can the Sony WF-1000XM5 surpass its predecessor in other areas? Let's explore.
The design and comfort of Sony WF-1000XM5 Earphones have been given an 8 out of 10 score. While they maintain a similar form to the WF-1000XM4, the WF-1000XM5 earbuds are slightly smaller and lighter. They are not as tiny as the Linkbuds S, but they are about 25% smaller and 20% lighter than the previous model, according to the manufacturer. Each earbud weighs roughly 5.9 grams, which isn't the lightest on the market but also isn't too heavy. Importantly, they have a comfortable feel in the ear and provide a reasonably secure fit when worn properly. They do not protrude from the ears as much as the 1000XM4 model did.
Instead of the usual silicone ear-tips found in most earbuds, these come with polyurethane foam tips. These tips mold to the shape of your ear canals, providing superior passive noise isolation. In fact, this is often more effective than the active noise cancellation feature found in many budget to mid-level earbuds. An additional three pairs of tips are included in case the initial ones don't fit perfectly. It's worth taking a bit of time to select the most suitable ones.
The product is well-constructed with a mix of shiny and smooth matte finishes, along with large touch areas on the back of the earbuds. The shiny finish can sometimes make it a bit tricky to take the earbuds out of their case. The small, pocket-sized charging case has a matte finish and weighs less than 40 grams. The case is equipped 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 different colors – black and silver (beige).
Sony persistently carries out its eco-friendly efforts, which we commend. The earbuds and their case are allegedly produced from diverse recycled plastic substances, and the external packaging is largely free of plastic to maintain environmental sustainability.
Sony WF-1000XM5 Earbuds: Details and Features (8.5/10) Despite their compact size, each earbud is equipped with a larger 8.4 mm dynamic driver and three microphones – two are used for active noise cancellation (ANC) and one for making calls. Additionally, these earbuds now come with two processors instead of just one. Sony's updated V2 processor handles sound processing, while a specific QN2e chip manages the ANC. The fact that each earbud weighs less than 6 grams, despite incorporating all these features and without sacrificing battery life, is quite impressive.
The Sony WF-1000XM5 is compatible with SBC, AAC, LDAC, and LC3 codecs through Bluetooth 5.3. Depending on your preference for sound quality or reliable connectivity, a suitable codec will be selected. It's recommended to opt for sound quality and use LDAC codecs when the earbuds and the source device are in the same room. These earbuds also offer the convenience of dual-pairing, enabling them to connect with two devices at the same time. What's more, the LDAC codec can be used on both devices, an option not available with the XM4 when it was first released.
The earbuds come equipped with sensors that can detect when they are being worn. They automatically pause the audio when you take one out of your ear and resume once you put it back in. The earbuds' backsides have touch capabilities, allowing you to carry out several commands through one, two, or three taps. These features can be customized using the Sony Headphones application. Yet, it's not as detailed as we would prefer as the features come in groups and it's not possible to link a certain function to a specific tapping pattern.
For example, selecting Playback for the right earbud 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 one. This cannot be altered. In the same way, if you set ANC for the left bud, you can toggle between various ANC modes with just one tap. Quick access for Spotify Tap or Amazon Music Play Now can be set up separately using double or triple taps. These earbuds have a sweat resistance rating of IPX4, making them suitable for workouts or running.
Sony WF-1000XM5 Earbuds: Efficiency (8.5/10) The earbuds offer a decent wireless range, maintaining a steady link even at a distance of 10 metres, provided there's no obstruction between the earbuds and the device it's connected to. There were no delays experienced during video streaming. Similar to other Sony TWS earbuds with ANC, these come with three sound modes – Noise Cancellation, Ambient Sound, and a standard mode where both are switched off. You can select any two or all of these modes to toggle between using the Sony Headphones app, which has become increasingly popular over time.
The effectiveness of the passive noise isolation can easily give the impression that Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is turned on. Turning on ANC further minimizes sounds from the lower and medium frequency range, such as the hum of a fan or traffic noise. Conversations in the background are significantly decreased, but not completely removed. While the noise-cancellation feature is top-notch, it doesn't seem to outdo its previous model. I had a chance to compare it with an XM4 model, and I was hoping for a bit more from the dedicated QN2e processor on the XM5.
The surrounding sound mode in this place is one of the best, with sounds appearing authentic except for the occasional wind noise. I could speak to pedestrians and a taxi driver without taking the earbuds out. By tapping the left earbud once, you can cycle through the Active Noise Cancellation modes. The Adaptive Sound Control option is also available, which automatically alternates between ANC and ambient modes based on where you are. You can access additional functionalities such as head gestures, DSEE Extreme audio enhancement, 360 Reality Audio, and more through the app on these headphones.
Let's move on to discussing the audio quality. At 60% volume, the Sony WF-1000XM5 provides ample loudness. Oddly enough, the default audio is slightly bass-centric for a high-end pair of earbuds. However, don't be alarmed, it's not as bass-dominant as some mid-tier earbuds that cost significantly less, nor does it resemble the sound from Sony's old XB series. That being said, the Sony 1000X series has never professed to deliver a neutral audio experience, but rather a mildly warm and enjoyable sound. The XM5 continues this trend following a few minor adjustments via its companion app.
Within the application, you have the option to use one of the existing audio presets or have fun adjusting the equalizer to create your own. For individuals who aren't confident in using a multi-band equalizer, Sony has introduced an easy method of making your own personalized EQ. All you have to do is play a sound and click on the various numbered circles displayed on the screen until you find the sound output that matches your preference. It's a straightforward and efficient process that doesn't require any knowledge of diverse frequency ranges. Rely on your hearing and select what you enjoy the most.
Once adjusted properly, the Sony WF-1000XM5 offers a clear, well-balanced, and pleasurable sound. While it does lean towards the lower frequencies, it offers a robust and controlled bass that doesn't overpower the midrange frequencies. The vocals are crisp, and the distinction between instruments is excellent. High tones are defined but not overly piercing, avoiding a hissing sound. The sound field is impressively wide for a set of true wireless stereo earbuds, enhancing the overall listening experience across different types of music and video content.
Once more, the total audio output isn't markedly superior to that of the 1000XM4, which was already superb, but it has been subtly enhanced and the audio landscape certainly appears wider in this context. I believe Sony's main hurdle this time was to maintain all the positive attributes of the XM4 in a more compact casing, and I can confidently assert that they have accomplished this.
Sony WF-1000XM5 Earbuds: Phone Call Performance (7.5/10) The call performance of the 1000XM5 earbuds is fairly good. Communication is clear, with both parties able to hear each other well, although the transmitted voice could be a bit clearer. During outdoor use, some background noise is captured by the microphones, but it doesn't overly disrupt the conversation. The noise reduction feature performs fairly well, but it seems to slightly mute the transmitted voice in loud environments.
Sony WF-1000XM5 Earphones: Battery Duration (8/10) Sony states that these earbuds have an 8-hour battery life with active noise cancellation (ANC) enabled and up to 24 hours when used with the charging case, which is similar to the XM4's battery life. However, these figures are likely accurate only when using the AAC codec. In my own tests using the LDAC codec, the earbuds lasted slightly more than 6 hours with ANC continuously on. The case is capable of charging the earbuds two additional times, bringing the overall battery life to approximately 18 hours.
As previously stated, the noise-blocking feature of these earbuds is top-notch, greatly reducing any surrounding noise even when the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is switched off. Without using ANC, the earbuds can run for more than 9 hours after being fully charged, an impressive feat. Along with the case, they can function for roughly 28 hours in total. As a result, if you only use the ANC occasionally, you could potentially achieve nearly 24 hours of usage from the earbuds and the case. This is quite good, especially when using the LDAC codec.
You can see the power level of each earpiece and the charging box on the connected phone or within the associated application. The software also alerts you when the case's power decreases under 30%. It requires around an hour and a half to completely charge the earpieces and the case using a regular USB-C charger. The XM5 is compatible with rapid charging, offering 60 minutes of music playtime after a 3-minute charge; this is a useful function to possess. The case is also compatible with Qi wireless charging.
Sony WF-1000XM5 Earbuds: Cost and opinion
The Sony WF-1000XM5 true wireless stereo earbuds were initially available in India for Rs 24,990, including a one-year guarantee. Currently, they can be bought for around Rs 22,000. Sony could have been more aggressive in their pricing to stay competitive. The WF-1000XM4 was released at Rs 19,990 in the same region, so a similar initial price for the XM5 would have been preferable, considering the comparable performance of the two models.
The XM5 stands out being noticeably smaller, lighter and more comfortable without missing any crucial features of the XM4, placing it among the top TWS earbuds currently available in India. However, its sound quality and noise cancellation aren't significantly better than its predecessor. So, if you're okay with slightly larger and heavier earbuds, you can own the Sony WF-1000XM4 for less than 14K, or even as low as Rs 12,490 with some luck. This makes it a far better bargain until the successor is selling for less than 20K.
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