Sony WH-1000XM5 vs XM4: Which One Should You Buy?

In this video, Caleb Dennison compares the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones to the XM4 and helps viewers decide which one to buy.

Unboxing Experience

• The XM4 comes in premium packaging while the XM5 has a plain box made of recycled material.

• The XM5 case is bigger and U-shaped, while the XM4 is more compact.

• The XM5 case has a magnetic flap and compartment for cables, but it doesn't come with an airline adapter.

• The charging cable for both models is short, but it's especially inconvenient for the XM5.

Design and Comfort

• The XM5 has a sleeker design than the XM4 and feels lighter due to its weight difference.

• The faux leather material on the ear cups of the XM5 is softer and more breathable than that of the XM4, making them more comfortable to wear for long periods.

Sound Quality

• Both headphones have excellent sound quality with noise-cancellation features. However, some users may prefer one over the other based on personal preference.

Battery Life

• Both models have similar battery life with up to 30 hours of playback time. However, the charging time for the XM5 is shorter than that of the XM4.

Price

• The price difference between these two models reflects their differences in design, comfort, sound quality, and battery life. While both are great options, choosing between them depends on individual preferences and budget constraints.

Sony WH-1000XM5 vs XM4: Which is the Better Buy?

This video compares the Sony WH-1000XM5 and XM4 headphones in terms of battery life, noise cancelling, call quality, and audio performance.

Battery Life

• The XM5 and XM4 have similar battery life.

• Quick charge capability is better on the XM5.

• 3 hours of performance from just 3 minutes of charging.

• Requires a USB PD or USB power delivery capable charging block.

• Similar to the XM4 which will do about 5 hours of performance off 10 minutes of charging.

Noise Cancelling

• The XM5 has superior noise cancelling compared to the XM4.

• Cuts out more high mids and treble frequencies than the XM4.

• Best noise cancelling you can get from any headphone on the market period.

• Addition of a second audio processor and more microphones (four per ear cup).

• Both headphones are sufficient for most people when playing music or movies but if you're looking for quiet, go with the XM5.

Call Quality

• The XM5 has better call quality than the XM4.

• Erases background noise such as barking dogs or jackhammers.

• Makes you sound like you're all alone in a room by yourself even if you're in a noisy environment.

• Not suitable for recording podcasts but great for phone calls and video meetings.

Audio Performance

• The difference between audio performance on both headphones is nuanced.

• Low end is more refined on the XM5 but still plenty of bass.

• If you prefer bigger bass, go with the XM4.

• Sound stage instrumental separation overall timbre are very close between both headphones.

Conclusion

The Sony WH-1000XM5 is the better buy if you want the best possible noise cancelling, call quality, and most comfortable fully featured headphones on the market. The XM4 is still one of the best sets of full-featured cans you can buy and is a better deal overall for those with less specific needs or demands.