Sony headphones have quite a cult following. There’s no other way to explain why so many people know the model numbers by heart and why they can tell the difference between the WH line (the big, over-the-ear ones) and the WF line.

We now have Sony’s latest TWS active noise canceling earbuds – the flagship WF-1000XM5 models – and they have some big shoes to fill.

The buds come in black or silver (which is much more beige) and cost €319/£259/$299. They ship in an eco-friendly box with a USB cable and three extra pairs of ear tips, totaling XS, S , M and L.

Sony WF-1000XM5 in test

The WF-1000XM5s are smaller (25% to be exact and 20% lighter) and more comfortable, which is perhaps the biggest upgrade they could have brought. The 1000XM4s were a pain to keep in your ears for long periods of time. However, the real hassle of using the previous earbuds was more than compensated for by their audio prowess and impressive active noise cancellation. Sony says this year’s model is better on both counts – would that make them the best out there?

The buds are equipped with Sony’s latest V2 integrated processor, which ‘unlocks the potential of the QN2e chip’. Then there’s the new Dynamic Driver X, which allows for a wide frequency response and clear vocals.

Sony WF-1000XM5 in test

The final touch is the new polyurethane foam ear pads. Most other earphones on the market use rubber or silicone tips. The foam tips allow for a better seal when the earphones are in your ears and offer better passive isolation.

Foam ear cushions
Foam ear cushions

Polyurethane foam ear cushions

There’s a lot to marvel at with these buds, so stay tuned for a more detailed look.

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Philip Owell

Professional blogger, here to bring you new and interesting content every time you visit our blog.