Sony WH-1000XM5 vs Apple AirPods Max
Head-to-head comparison based on trust scores, features, pricing, and real user feedback.
Our pick: Sony WH-1000XM5 (Trust Score 9.4 vs 8.8)
9.4
Excellent
Best Overall
Pros
- +Best-in-class ANC silences airplane engines and open offices
- +Best-in-class ANC silences airplane engines and open offices
- +Multipoint connects to two devices simultaneously
- +Multipoint connects to two devices simultaneously
- +Speak-to-Chat pauses music when you start talking
Cons
- −Does not fold flat — harder to pack than XM4
- −Does not fold flat — harder to pack than XM4
- −Touch controls have a learning curve
- −Touch controls have a learning curve
Don't buy if
- ⚠ XM5 ear cups are not removable for washing — use a damp cloth only to avoid voiding the warranty
- ⚠ XM5 ear cups are not removable for washing — use a damp cloth only to avoid voiding the warranty
8.8
Excellent
Best for Apple Ecosystem
Pros
- +Instant switching between all Apple devices via iCloud pairing
- +Premium aluminum and stainless steel build that lasts years
- +Transparency mode is the most natural of any ANC headphone
Cons
- −Very expensive — limited value for non-Apple users
- −Smart Case barely protects the headphones
Don't buy if
- ⚠ Lightning charging model is discontinued — USB-C (2024) version is current; confirm before purchase