Audio equipment: AirPods Max vs. Sony WH-1000XM5
Quick Verdict
The AirPods Max are a premium option for Apple users prioritizing sound quality and seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem, while the Sony WH-1000XM5 offer a more versatile and cost-effective solution with improved noise cancellation and longer battery life, suitable for a wider range of devices and users.
- The AirPods Max offer excellent sound quality, particularly in the midrange, and effective noise cancellation, but are heavier and more expensive.
- The Sony WH-1000XM5 provide improved noise cancellation, longer battery life, and multipoint pairing, but may have a recessed midrange and potential build quality concerns.
- AirPods Max are optimized for Apple ecosystem while Sony WH-1000XM5 offers broader compatibility with LDAC codec support and multipoint pairing.
Key features – Side-by-Side
| Attribute | AirPods Max | Sony WH-1000XM5 |
|---|---|---|
| Name | AirPods Max | Sony WH-1000XM5 |
| Price | $549 | Original price was $399. Refurbished options may be available at lower prices. |
| Noise Cancellation Effectiveness | Generally considered fantastic and best-in-class, effectively blocking out a wide range of sounds. Some reviews suggest it might not be as effective as competitors for airplane travel. Some users reported decreased performance after firmware updates. | Improved, especially in the higher frequency range. Uses two processors and eight microphones. Auto NC Optimizer adjusts based on environment. |
| Sound Quality (Overall) | Excellent sound quality, especially in the midrange, making vocals shine. Detailed and pleasing highs without harshness. Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos enhance the soundstage. U-shaped sound signature with emphasis on sub-bass and upper treble. | Decent sound quality with strong bass and treble emphasis, but a somewhat recessed midrange. Supports High-Resolution Audio and LDAC. Equalization may be desired. |
| Comfort and Fit (Long-Term) | Comfortable and spacious earcups with soft fabric. Headband engineered to distribute weight evenly. Weight (386 grams) is heavier than many competitors, which can be a concern for some users during extended wear. Some users may find that the earcups apply pressure to the ears after long periods of use. | Comfortable for extended periods due to lightweight build and soft earcups. Some with larger ears or glasses may experience discomfort. Soft fit leather padding on earcups. |
| Battery Life (Hours) | Up to 20 hours of listening time with Active Noise Cancellation enabled. This also applies to movie playback with Spatial Audio. | Up to 30 hours with noise cancellation enabled, around 40 hours with noise cancellation disabled. |
| Charging Time (Full Charge) | Around 2 hours to fully charge from 0% to 100%. A 5-minute charge provides approximately 1.5 hours of listening time. | Approximately 3.5 hours. A quick 3-minute charge can provide around 3 hours of playback with an optional USB-PD compatible AC adapter. |
| Bluetooth Codec Support | Bluetooth 5.0. No support for aptX or LDAC high-quality codecs. | SBC, AAC, and LDAC. Does not support aptX. |
| Microphone Quality (Call Clarity) | Equipped with built-in microphones designed for clear audio during calls. Microphone quality may not match dedicated headsets with boom mics, especially in noisy environments. iOS offers a Voice Isolation mode to enhance call clarity. | Precise Voice Pickup Technology with four beamforming microphones and AI-powered noise reduction for clear call quality, even in noisy environments. |
| Water Resistance Rating (IPX rating) | Not waterproof or water-resistant. | Not available |
| Weight (in grams) | 386 grams | 250g |
| Carrying Case Quality | The included Smart Case is often criticized for providing minimal protection. It also doesn't fully turn off the headphones, leading to battery drain. | Flatter design with a magnetic compartment for accessories. |
| Multipoint Pairing (Number of Devices) | Seamless switching between Apple devices connected to the same iCloud account. | Supports multipoint pairing, allowing connection with two Bluetooth devices simultaneously. |
Overall Comparison
AirPods Max: 386g, 20h battery, $549. Sony WH-1000XM5: 250g, 30h battery, $399 (original price).
Pros and Cons
AirPods Max
Pros:
- Excellent sound quality, especially in the midrange
- Effective noise cancellation
- Comfortable earcups
- Intuitive controls with the Digital Crown
- Seamless switching between Apple devices
Cons:
- Expensive compared to competitors
- Heavy, which can be a concern for long-term wear
- Carrying case provides minimal protection
- Noise cancellation may not be as effective as competitors in some situations (e.g., airplane travel)
- No support for aptX or LDAC high-quality codecs
Sony WH-1000XM5
Pros:
- Improved noise cancellation
- Comfortable for long periods
- Good microphone quality in noisy environments
- Multipoint pairing
- Improved audio clarity compared to previous models
Cons:
- Recessed midrange
- Concerns about build quality, particularly around the hinges
- Material peeling near the hinges reported after extended use
- Bass can be a bit warm and not well-defined
User Experiences and Feedback
AirPods Max
What Users Love
- Great noise cancellation in office and coffee shop environments
- Balanced sound signature with emphasis on midrange and detailed highs
- Easy switching between Apple devices
- Intuitive control with Digital Crown
Common Complaints
- Weight can be a concern for some users during extended wear
- Carrying case is not very protective
- Noise cancellation may not be the best for plane rides
- Microphone quality may not be as good as dedicated headsets in noisy environments
Value Perception
- No value feedback reported.
Sony WH-1000XM5
What Users Love
- Effective noise cancellation in airplanes, offices, and public transport
- Lightweight design and soft earcups
- Seamless switching between two devices
- Improved audio clarity, enhanced noise cancellation, and better microphone quality compared to previous models
Common Complaints
- Some users with larger ears or glasses may experience discomfort
- Concerns about build quality around the hinges
- Bass may be too warm for some users
- Recessed midrange
Value Perception
- No value feedback reported.
User Recommendations
- Sound signature is generally described as having strong bass and treble with a recessed midrange
- Considered a 'warm and soft' headphone, suitable for background music listening