Used XM4's 2 years. Gave them to my family, bought XM5's returned them after 2 days because of volume adjustment lagging and auto NC optimizer. Bought another XM4's. Best headphones ever! They just work
I have both. Granted, I'm still in the honeymoon phase with the XM5's as I only got them on Wednesday, but I think they are a clear upgrade. Comfort is way better. Sound is better if you like a more balanced sound: I'd say there's a bit less bass and a bit more treble while maintaining the signature warm sound. Haven't really had a chance to compare ANC much yet but seems at least as good. Plus the silver color looks cooler: more of a cream color than a gray color.
What blew me away with this comparison between the headphones was the phone call mic quality. That is a very underrated test that people don't do. Awesome comparison video 🙌
I received my XM5 today. I am testing my XM5 for use in my home and work activities. So far, the XM5’s ANC is working great for yard work as it cancels the noise from the lawn mower, blower, and weed trimmer.
Hi can I ask if xm5 also xancels dogs barking and roosters when in a meeting? I attend virtual meetings but I have a small farm nearby so I needed something that has really good ANC that can cancel animal noises when in a virtual meeting.
I got the XM5 just for music, however for remote work, calls, and teams, nothing beats Microsoft`s Surface Headphones 2 for Business. I just wished Sony would integrate the mobile app and PC together since Microsoft has a very well-thought-out plan but sucks in visual aesthetics.
For someone who travels a lot, the XM5 feels bulky. XM4 is a better choice for its portability and compact design. Maybe Sony is reading this comment and will make things right with the Xm6 next year. Sony Xm6 - with the noice cancelling improve from Xm5 - compactness from xm4 ahhh bliss 😌
I did a lot of reading of user reviews, and tested both for noise cancelling in the shop. I decided to buy the XM4s. A LOT of users are saying the XM5 noise cancelling is too clever, so at times there are lags of strength and changes. When the XM5s are in the ideal situation, they do have the best cancellation, but when things are changing people prefer the constant amount of blocking on the XM4. The XM4 partially uses white noise, which I personally like. I had to choose between the XM4 and BOSE QC45s in the end, and it was a really hard decision. The QC45 have excellent basic buttons, are lighter, and very comfortable. For people with smaller heads the QC45 may feeel a bit loose. But in the end I felt the noise cancelling in an average office/shop environment was a tiny bit better on the XM4s, but it was a 50/50 call to choose between these two. Again, many users really like the XM4s.
I got the XM4's over the 5's too. the difference is too tiny. Sony's biggest competition for the XM5s is it's predecessor. As long as the XM4s exist there's no reason to buy the fives.
@@FyreAndBlood Agreed. Also, I could be wrong, but I think the XM5s have to be listening to music or connected to a device to have noise cancelling on. The XM4s dont need to be connected to anything and you can use the noise cancelling. I think this is the case, so XM4s win again.
Did you keep the QC45 or the XM4's? I currently have the QC45s and I feel like they lack on bass even after bumping it up on the app, and the treble is too strong, thinking about going to the XM4s but I also worry about comfort, what do you think?
@@danielq4411 I kept the XM4s, they are great for me, low volume audio and tv and noise cancelling. I dont really know about serious music listening, would pay to check the XM4 v XM5 reviews re bass etc. Good luck.
@@nanyabiznus4738 I haven't tried them, I saw a video of a guy testing the ANC with a fan while probably having a mic in one or both of the ear cups, with XM4 it was clearly there, but with XM5 it was like the fan was turned off :O edit: it was in this video actually check the segment at 6:15
Thank you for the review. Every time there is anything new that I want to see a review of, this channel is where I always come knowing it’s a reliable channel.
I have buy the WH4 because of your reviews. and I absolutely LOVE my WH4. I mostly listen to videos/metal music and zoom meetings and everything is perfect ! The music qualities and some times when I play horror game I have to chechk if the noises are coming from my games or my house because the headphones are too real !!! Love your videos man ! cheers
This was fantastic, just what I wanted. People can talk about features all they like but without the ability to actually go out to a shop (they never have working models) it's very difficult to know how they will actually sound in real life. This was absolutely the next best thing. The comparison in the phone calls was astonishing and has made my mind up for me, it's definitely worth spending the extra few quid on the XM5s. Thanks for the video, my mind is made up and I'm off to buy a pair right now.
I was thinking of selling my xm4s to upgrade to the xm5. I heard the sound quality is less muddy than the xm4 and that's enough of a reason alone in itself.
Nice review. I don't like the new design myself, I would have gone with the if it ain't broke, don't fix it approach . The lack of foldability will be an issue for me. Nice to see the improvement in the NC though. The call test was particularly impressive. I'll stick with the XM4. Hopefully the next interation is foldable.
I use my headphones half for a fashion accessory (hair is usually flat AF but poofs cutely when I’m wearing my headphones.)(other half is serious heavy use lol music as much as possible) so I’d wonder if that band would do the same like my previous headphones would.
i have been using the XM4 at least 9hours a day for the past 2 years and still that there isnt such a big gap and reason to go over and but the Xm5 , looking at the bigger case , its not a big deal , also the softer ear pads and room space also does not play a big role , beside all of that the NC sound the same
I have the xm3 and xm4 headphones and noticed the wired connection sounds better than bluetooth on both but the wired connection sounds noticeably better on the xm3 than it does on the xm4, and with the THX Onyx, the quality is elevated to another level. I am interested in a comparison between the wired connection of all 3 generations now.
Same thing here, my lg v50 has Quad DAC hires audio and the xm3 and the qc35ii bose outstrip all the newer anc headsets, maybe the driver in the xm3 is lighter to drive or more worn in potentially? but i still preburn in all my audio gear as im a bit of an audionut. Its interesting to see someone else noticed that eith the xm3 as well. if only the mic for calls worked in sony theyd be perfect.
I bought both and knew I was giving one away as a gift. I kept the XM4 because the bass just sounded better to me, and being foldable was a priority since it has to fit in a small bag whenever I travel. Also, in my opinion, the design of the XM4 is better and fits my linking a lot better.
I tested the XM5s yesterday for a few minutes and I feel you are right about the noise cancelling performance. Various other speakers and equipment was in demo nearby and once the ANC came on, nearly none of the other sounds can be heard. Sound quality wise I liked them a lot, I told the sales guy I had to take them off after listening for a minute because if I had listened to them longer I would have bought a pair on the spot 😂
The only reason I'm buying these is better ANC. I live in loud neighborhood where every DB reduction counts, and I'm willing to pay for it. I have XM4s, i gave XM3s to my GF for listening music. I don't need any other features than better ANC. This video shows significantly better ANC, much more than XM3 vs XM4 which wasn't huge improvement eventually. The chit chats and kling klangs, kids yelling and so on seems to isolate better than before.
I was so excited to get this pair of headphones after watching your review the other day but I was so dissapointed. I do lawn service for a living so I need good noise canceling to block out the loudness of the mower and the equipment. I have the WF 1000xm4 and they work great to block out the noise. I tried the XM5s today and the "noise canceling" was horrible. I don't know if I got a faulty one but they headphones didn't know what to do with all the noise around it. The level of noise cancelling kept changing and at times it made the sounds louder. I had to return them and keep my wfs xm4/
Same here I found the XM4 to have better noise cancelling than the XM5's. Also I was the same reading/watching all the hype about the XM5's noise cancelling upgrades. Maybe a future software update will improve.
The biggest omission with the XM5 is that they don't fold as the case is huge. Apart from that I'd say they're better but not with the upgrade if you already own the Xm4s.
Never understood this argument. I take my bag with me literally anywhere and it can fit a large laptop in it many times over. The case isn't going to cause issue.
Great review...one problem I get with my xm4 is that it buffers alot when I'm home..but I realize it's something to do with the router..with data and other routers there's no problem...
i just got mine and i LOVE them. I was using earbuds almost exclusively and had a pair of XM2's but the hinges are kinda weak so i don't like taking them out of the house. The XM5's are perfect for me and i can wear them for hours while writing or making art.
Are the earpads spacious enough on the inside? One of the things I didn't like about the XM4, is that your ears touch the interior part of the earpad, and after an hour, it started to feel uncomfortable
When i listening to the xm4 with movies has very good movie bass as i use them lots with tv movies and gaming i like heavy lows with nice mids and trebble with the wide space stereo sound
So if we dont care about money in buying these two. Which would be the more recommended? ( Dont care about the mic when i often chat more then calling ) Or more like how mutch better anc and audio is it and how big difference it actually is. I often dont really find that answer in these kinds of reviewe/compare videos. And in the standpoint right now i need to decide between a pair of xm4 for 250$ and xm5 for 319$.
nice review - I think the new design is a trade off, yea bigger case etc.... but you get so much more for the new design. This is whay I have been using the APM and not the XM4 becuase of ANC and call quality etc. I want APM ANC and voice calls in a lighter package which I think the XM5 will do. (just wish it came in different colors lol)
As I thought… they need proper balance in their tuning before I ever look in their direction for sound again. And not just catering to one ridiculously biased preference.
As someone who loves to sing while listening to my music, I’d love to know if the XM5 allow you to do this without them stopping & thinking you’re giving a command. I had terrible issues with this on the XM4s. Even with the “Speak to Chat” button turned off, it would turn on the minute I started singing. I guess it didn’t occur to Sony that lots of people like to sing along with their music. Could you let me know if the XM5s have the same issue? Thank you so much!
Well... lets see how it performs when the app gets the update. I have the xm4 and I'm pretty satisfied, but I'm considering an upgrade to xm5 when your next video about this headphone comes out. Great video, Aaron, I was looking forward to watch it and I'm pretty excited for the next one.
I tested both in a shop today. Sounded to me like max volume definitely suffered on xm5. Noice cancellation is way way better tho. The whole 500m^2 shop went totally quiet with the xm5 while I could hear chatter from all the people in the store with xm4. I think for commuting in a big city, xm5 is the way to go. New design is a bit less compact, but I think I will be able to stuff these into any space that I were able to stuff the xm3 into, so no big loss. At the end of the day, they are not made for you to look at, but to sit on your head where you can't see.
If i can get them both for the same price which one should i get? I’m a student so i would wear it while studying and in public transport and to have private dance parties
I'm finding that even with noise canceling on and music going I can clearly hear people talking in the cafe. WTF is the point of these if I'm hearing people talking even with my music going in NC mode? I've done all the setup and everything so I'm super confused about this and about to just return them because this I still have no peace from other people's noise!
Still rocking the XM2 and I see no need to upgrade. They still perform really well. I try to save money and see no point in upgrading when my stuff still works.
i have tried them both, they are both excellent headphones... nothing to choose between them. i do own a pair of xm4,s and will not be upgrading to xm5s... regards mick.
Thanks for the review! I have the XM4s but they are way too big for me. I would like them to sit higher on my head (not hanging on my jaw). Do you know if the XM5s are more adjustable, so I can make them smaller than the XM4s? This is a big issue for me! They are big head approved - but are they small head approved? I don’t care about the cups being big, I just need to be able to adjust the hoop.
I have been waiting for this video for a very long time I love watching your video I saw your video before buying wh1000xm4 after it was launched now am excited about this as well 😀
In the moment you said XM5 have better bass you got me, working for them to be my first quality wireless headphones, Ill reply to this msg when I have worked and got them in maybe 1yr :D
Bought the MX5 and I'm glad I did! I did not compare them to Bose QC Ultra but to the 45's, finding both sound repro and ANC to be just better with MX5. MX5 has no mute option so no office (Bose 700 there) but instead are my HTPC/S24+ phones and they are excellent: superior ANC, sound and voice so no need to look further. Subscribed.
would appreciate if you answer my question, which of these four headphones should I buy, my money should not be wasted 1000xm4 1000xm5 or bose 700 bose 45 advice is very important to me
I have both. Xm5 works great for interior noises but it doesn't help block the jack ass with the loud 4x4 or stupid sports car and Harley. Problem here in my city is people have loud cars and are full of themselves. They're probably from New York or new jersey which would explain a hell of a lot. These aren't people I grew up with and I lived here all my life.
Unfortunately decided to pass and purchase AirPods Max instead, for me quite simply a total surprise no ear sweat and sound is perfect for me with all correct sittings. Sony needed to do more. Thanks again for a great review
By hearing nothing on the microphone with test I think first that someone forgot to activate ambient sounds but finally I understand... but now I'm a bit surprised because the headphone's microphone did the work to remove all sound... so yes, the xm5 is probably the best for call, music, sound quality... the best, so thanks for testing headphones for what everyone use them, sound quality, sounds isolation and sounds quality for calls.
Wish I could find a set with more power than needed, great sound, Aptx all forms, Ldac with a manual eq for under $200. I have no need for all of the other stuff.
Please if you can - compare Sony WH-1000XM5 vs. BeoPlay H95 vs. Mark Levinson 5909 vs. Apple Airpod Max - especially in terms of ANC and phone call quality.
Hi! My XM3s broke and I got myself a pair of AirPods Pros. The noise cancelling and sound quality is not as I expected. I also had the WF-XM4s, but I sent them back because they were uncomfortable. Is the transparency mode in the XM5s as good as the Pros? Thanks!
Tried the XM4s and the Technics A 800s. Both were underwhelming in the sound department. Muddy and a feeling that lower end and mids were somewhat muffled. I'm hoping the XM5s are an improvement.
Kor kor! I went to the shop today to try the XM5 and I connected it to the Sony app but I can't seem to toggle between NC, ambient mode and the passive NC like the ones on my WF XM4... Cos of that I can't test the XM5 properly. Is the Sony app not updated for the XM5 yet?
I already have 1000xm4 for 2 years. Loved it's audio but a couple of points that i hated: 1. M4's pressed my ear too hard 2. Cushion and headband leather is poor quality. 3. ANC was good but not excellent. I like almost 100% cancelled noise and want to be able to use ANC without music. 4. Software glitches in multi-device auto switch or auto-pause on taking them off not working or not starting when putting them back on. Aaron, do you think M5 significantly solves the above pain points ? I will buy it immediately if it does, don't care about the increased size as i have a big laptop bag.
Speaking about the XM4's weaker mid ranges: Is that something that only applies to the default settings? Meaning, is it something that could easily be rectified using an equalizer? I don't know much about headphones, so sorry if this is a pointless question.
How much noise cancellation do you need? I have the xm3 and I’m ok with them. Plus the xm5 are huge and ugly looking. Thanks for the video Aaron as always.
whoa! this is the most helpful review ive seen and ive been scouring the internet. thank you for your diligence!! the call and anc test is what convinced me to wait for a sale on the xm5's instead of picking up the xm4 tomorrow
Tried the xm5 demo unit. Without comparing side by side, xm5 just feel absolutely note confirmable than previous xm and sound also feel better to me. The comfort definitely improve significantly. Was not really able to wear the previous xm unit when trying the store in the past, but xm5 feel comfortable
hi, another in-depth review, but as in your xm4 review, you left out a major concern. please can you add in your future reviews, noise leakage test, i found the xm4's to have a ridiculous amount of noise leakage. Thanks
Hi Aaron, I’m relatively new to all this. With ANC on, isn’t it all important to know how it (the music) still sounds while cancelling out ambient noise; that they haven’t thrown out the baby with the bath water so to speak. Curiously, with my experience with certain in-ear phones, I prefer to listen to music with the ANC on even in a quiet environment because of the EQ “adjustments” that is inherent with the ANC. Your thoughts on this? I am interested in the physical changes of theXM5. My son has theXM3 which I find too “clammy” on my head after wearing it even a shirt while. Thanks for the review PS: Do you have the XM5’s measured frequency response with the ANC on .
Thank you for the review, Aaron. I enjoyed your review even though I have no intention of buying this. However, I always love your narrative and writing so I listen to your views and your writing style (you know what I mean). I hope you'll enjoy these XM5's when you go on a plane and do please let us know!
@@aaronloudnwireless I think it's great that the world is starting to open up again after the Covid. It would be wonderful for everyone to go back to how things were- if that could ever be possible. Meanwhile, the excitement of going on holiday for me starts at the airport and strapping myself down to my seat on the plane. That rush of adrenaline when the plane powers down the runway and the smoothness of noise-cancelling as my earphones/headphones block out the roaring of the engines is just indescribable. I long for those days to return.
If they fixed “speak-to-chat” (self turning on, even when I’d deactivate in the app) If fixed then I’ll buy, but otherwise speak-to-chat is very annoying. Thanks
My experience, not impressed. One, they automatically switch (can't manually toggle it anymore) between NC and NC Wind Mode at the drop of a hat, making the NC unstable (cuts out) when people talk loudly (especially if you yourself make the noise) or you momentarily walk into a momentary draft. Two, the pads don't seal as well as with glasses as the XM4s, which leads to noticeable subpar NC with eyewear. If you're in a controlled environment without glasses, they're fantastic. If not, you're wasting your money.
i just bougth the xm4 . i used to have xm1 and to me i think the noice canceling in the xm1 works better in the forklift i drive everyday . so i would like to see a test where you test the xm1 vs xm4-5 if possible?
How are these headphones with gaming? I’m looking into an all in one headphone, music,gaming and video editing. I’m really trying to avoid getting multiple headphones.
Love these Sony headphones. Can someone please tell me why when changing between different audio sources, the volume defaults to high volume??? l'm listening to say some music at a reasonable volume level, then change to a different source, the volume goes to high.…??? Very annoying, I wished I could understand why.!!!!
How is the ANC when it comes to vibration/music from neighbours when you are in a quiet room trying to read books/study? In my buildning there is always some buzz noise coming into the appartment, and with XM4 on max ANC, it just can't pick up that type of noise. It even amplify(!) that annoying noise when trying to cancling it, for some wierd reason. Do you know how the XM5 would handle this type of noise environment? Thanks!
in short, the XM4 for people who travel more, XM5 for people using it for work.
What about those who do neither 😂
@@MsVamPireChic then go fro xm5 and go for xm4 if your poor
@@mrpepe9569 poor?. Xm4 cost 300$
@@octoobhai6096 xm5 now cost 299 xD
Where? Amazon is over 300
Used XM4's 2 years. Gave them to my family, bought XM5's returned them after 2 days because of volume adjustment lagging and auto NC optimizer. Bought another XM4's. Best headphones ever! They just work
Reading your comment make me wanna get the XM4 over XM5. thanks
@@kodaph Deffinetly, you can research if XM5 issue has been solved, but XM4 is a safe pick 👌🏽
You can turn off auto nc optimizer
@@w.yat_ayersHow? I've been struggling 😢
Any advice with the sweat and oil on the cushion, how often does that happen to you when you use it and did it damage the cushions/leather
I have both. Granted, I'm still in the honeymoon phase with the XM5's as I only got them on Wednesday, but I think they are a clear upgrade. Comfort is way better. Sound is better if you like a more balanced sound: I'd say there's a bit less bass and a bit more treble while maintaining the signature warm sound. Haven't really had a chance to compare ANC much yet but seems at least as good. Plus the silver color looks cooler: more of a cream color than a gray color.
What blew me away with this comparison between the headphones was the phone call mic quality. That is a very underrated test that people don't do. Awesome comparison video 🙌
The microphone is best in the world in any headphones
I received my XM5 today. I am testing my XM5 for use in my home and work activities. So far, the XM5’s ANC is working great for yard work as it cancels the noise from the lawn mower, blower, and weed trimmer.
Hi can I ask if xm5 also xancels dogs barking and roosters when in a meeting? I attend virtual meetings but I have a small farm nearby so I needed something that has really good ANC that can cancel animal noises when in a virtual meeting.
I got the XM5 just for music, however for remote work, calls, and teams, nothing beats Microsoft`s Surface Headphones 2 for Business. I just wished Sony would integrate the mobile app and PC together since Microsoft has a very well-thought-out plan but sucks in visual aesthetics.
How good is the sound quality for the xm5
I was screaming in my heart when you were stretching the headphones.
But It did gave me a confidence that my XM5s are durable
For someone who travels a lot, the XM5 feels bulky. XM4 is a better choice for its portability and compact design. Maybe Sony is reading this comment and will make things right with the Xm6 next year.
Sony Xm6
- with the noice cancelling improve from Xm5
- compactness from xm4
ahhh bliss 😌
Will xm6 come next year?
@@MrRoshanfiroz probably February or March. I think that's when the xm5s dropped.
@@MrRoshanfirozknowing Sony is not good with teasing releases, XM6 would be a bliss if they grant my my suggestions
@@kodaphisn’t it going to come out in 2024
well...
I did a lot of reading of user reviews, and tested both for noise cancelling in the shop. I decided to buy the XM4s. A LOT of users are saying the XM5 noise cancelling is too clever, so at times there are lags of strength and changes. When the XM5s are in the ideal situation, they do have the best cancellation, but when things are changing people prefer the constant amount of blocking on the XM4. The XM4 partially uses white noise, which I personally like. I had to choose between the XM4 and BOSE QC45s in the end, and it was a really hard decision. The QC45 have excellent basic buttons, are lighter, and very comfortable. For people with smaller heads the QC45 may feeel a bit loose. But in the end I felt the noise cancelling in an average office/shop environment was a tiny bit better on the XM4s, but it was a 50/50 call to choose between these two. Again, many users really like the XM4s.
I got the XM4's over the 5's too. the difference is too tiny. Sony's biggest competition for the XM5s is it's predecessor. As long as the XM4s exist there's no reason to buy the fives.
@@FyreAndBlood Agreed. Also, I could be wrong, but I think the XM5s have to be listening to music or connected to a device to have noise cancelling on. The XM4s dont need to be connected to anything and you can use the noise cancelling. I think this is the case, so XM4s win again.
I agree with your analysis, but I went with the XM5's simply because I travel much less frequently and do not mind the lack of foldability
Did you keep the QC45 or the XM4's? I currently have the QC45s and I feel like they lack on bass even after bumping it up on the app, and the treble is too strong, thinking about going to the XM4s but I also worry about comfort, what do you think?
@@danielq4411 I kept the XM4s, they are great for me, low volume audio and tv and noise cancelling. I dont really know about serious music listening, would pay to check the XM4 v XM5 reviews re bass etc. Good luck.
I'm impressed at how well the XM5 remove wind noise, but unfortunatly it's still a lot more expensive, I'm going for the XM4
wait how did you try xm5? i wanna try it too.
you should have black friday deals.
same bro, i just ordered my xm4s with 44% off, really a good deal, while the xm5 only were 20% off
@@nanyabiznus4738 I haven't tried them, I saw a video of a guy testing the ANC with a fan while probably having a mic in one or both of the ear cups, with XM4 it was clearly there, but with XM5 it was like the fan was turned off :O edit: it was in this video actually check the segment at 6:15
facts, i just received my XM4s because of the deals they were having.
Thank you for the review. Every time there is anything new that I want to see a review of, this channel is where I always come knowing it’s a reliable channel.
I have buy the WH4 because of your reviews. and I absolutely LOVE my WH4. I mostly listen to videos/metal music and zoom meetings and everything is perfect ! The music qualities and some times when I play horror game I have to chechk if the noises are coming from my games or my house because the headphones are too real !!! Love your videos man ! cheers
You sound like exactly my twin. Zoom, Metal, Horror.
Haha.
@@JonsterTheBondster ahah !! 🤘🤘
The background noise test you did is very well done and really highlights the xm5
Thank you!
Best review on TH-cam for SONY XM5. I love when you make comparisons in a noisy environment.
I see many reviews explaining what they feel, and there's you who show it. Love your videos..kudos
I appreciate that!
This was fantastic, just what I wanted. People can talk about features all they like but without the ability to actually go out to a shop (they never have working models) it's very difficult to know how they will actually sound in real life. This was absolutely the next best thing. The comparison in the phone calls was astonishing and has made my mind up for me, it's definitely worth spending the extra few quid on the XM5s. Thanks for the video, my mind is made up and I'm off to buy a pair right now.
I was thinking of selling my xm4s to upgrade to the xm5. I heard the sound quality is less muddy than the xm4 and that's enough of a reason alone in itself.
Just EQ the 4s and they will sound fantastic. Search for audiophile tweaks here on YT for the settings.
Another thing to keep in mind with delay is, generally the more processing that the sound has to pass thru, the longer the delay.
Nice review. I don't like the new design myself, I would have gone with the if it ain't broke, don't fix it approach . The lack of foldability will be an issue for me. Nice to see the improvement in the NC though. The call test was particularly impressive. I'll stick with the XM4. Hopefully the next interation is foldable.
Hopefully xm6 fold. XM series are a travel essential
Lol xm5 look modern and aesthetic. I love it
The thing is a lot of people complained that XM4's were breaking at the hinges. XM5's so far look durable (even though not foldable)
I use my headphones half for a fashion accessory (hair is usually flat AF but poofs cutely when I’m wearing my headphones.)(other half is serious heavy use lol music as much as possible) so I’d wonder if that band would do the same like my previous headphones would.
@@7ish4m They could have just improved the hinges instead. Bose QC35s never had any issues with theirs.
i have been using the XM4 at least 9hours a day for the past 2 years and still that there isnt such a big gap and reason to go over and but the Xm5 , looking at the bigger case , its not a big deal , also the softer ear pads and room space also does not play a big role , beside all of that the NC sound the same
some reviews comparison, both NC difference is almost negligible to human hearing... (depending on scenarios)
I have the xm3 and xm4 headphones and noticed the wired connection sounds better than bluetooth on both but the wired connection sounds noticeably better on the xm3 than it does on the xm4, and with the THX Onyx, the quality is elevated to another level. I am interested in a comparison between the wired connection of all 3 generations now.
wired is always better when you have a decent DAC
@@otepdotnet whats DAC?
Same thing here, my lg v50 has Quad DAC hires audio and the xm3 and the qc35ii bose outstrip all the newer anc headsets, maybe the driver in the xm3 is lighter to drive or more worn in potentially? but i still preburn in all my audio gear as im a bit of an audionut. Its interesting to see someone else noticed that eith the xm3 as well. if only the mic for calls worked in sony theyd be perfect.
@@rizzoli7igital Analog Converter, a device that increase audio quality that passes through it before sending it to your device
Been waiting for this one, especially because of the driver difference.... Thanks Aaron...
No problem!
@@aaronloudnwireless pls compare the sennheiser momentum 3 to Sony xm5
@@aaronloudnwireless waiting for xm5 vs bose 700 🙏
I am a little disappointed the new ones have smaller drivers, but apparently it doesn't affect the XM5's sound quality.
@@bobfoss9446 i heard it's even better than xm4 larger driver
I bought both and knew I was giving one away as a gift.
I kept the XM4 because the bass just sounded better to me, and being foldable was a priority since it has to fit in a small bag whenever I travel.
Also, in my opinion, the design of the XM4 is better and fits my linking a lot better.
Which one you think has better noise-cancellation ? I tried both and oddly thought that the xm4 had better noise cancellation!
The XM4's to me had much better clarity to me
@@Anonymous-sg4zm The xm5's
agreee 100%!!!!
I tested the XM5s yesterday for a few minutes and I feel you are right about the noise cancelling performance. Various other speakers and equipment was in demo nearby and once the ANC came on, nearly none of the other sounds can be heard.
Sound quality wise I liked them a lot, I told the sales guy I had to take them off after listening for a minute because if I had listened to them longer I would have bought a pair on the spot 😂
It's easy to get 'poisoned' by such a compelling product 🤣
The only reason I'm buying these is better ANC.
I live in loud neighborhood where every DB reduction counts, and I'm willing to pay for it.
I have XM4s, i gave XM3s to my GF for listening music.
I don't need any other features than better ANC.
This video shows significantly better ANC, much more than XM3 vs XM4 which wasn't huge improvement eventually.
The chit chats and kling klangs, kids yelling and so on seems to isolate better than before.
lol no you dont have to
but it is better to have a listen while buying smth
I finally got my wh1000xm5 yesterday and they are excellent i love the multipoint and voice call quality and noise cancelling
I was so excited to get this pair of headphones after watching your review the other day but I was so dissapointed. I do lawn service for a living so I need good noise canceling to block out the loudness of the mower and the equipment. I have the WF 1000xm4 and they work great to block out the noise. I tried the XM5s today and the "noise canceling" was horrible. I don't know if I got a faulty one but they headphones didn't know what to do with all the noise around it. The level of noise cancelling kept changing and at times it made the sounds louder. I had to return them and keep my wfs xm4/
U R not alone in your experience. XM5's ANC is worse than XM4's for me as well.
Same here I found the XM4 to have better noise cancelling than the XM5's. Also I was the same reading/watching all the hype about the XM5's noise cancelling upgrades. Maybe a future software update will improve.
You are my favorite headphone reviewer on TH-cam, because you simply have Vietnamese subtitles, I am also using google translate for this text.
You're welcome :)
The biggest omission with the XM5 is that they don't fold as the case is huge. Apart from that I'd say they're better but not with the upgrade if you already own the Xm4s.
Never understood this argument. I take my bag with me literally anywhere and it can fit a large laptop in it many times over. The case isn't going to cause issue.
@@OnlyGraftingAh, space is essential. The less space stuff consumed the better.
Great review...one problem I get with my xm4 is that it buffers alot when I'm home..but I realize it's something to do with the router..with data and other routers there's no problem...
I was waiting for your review. You are the best and honest. Thanks.
You have no idea how fast I went to the comments as soon as I saw those XM5 headphones get bent and stretched like that. My heart drooped 😂😭
i just got mine and i LOVE them. I was using earbuds almost exclusively and had a pair of XM2's but the hinges are kinda weak so i don't like taking them out of the house. The XM5's are perfect for me and i can wear them for hours while writing or making art.
I have the xm3 and honestly wouldn't bother upgrading as they are still amazing
Are the earpads spacious enough on the inside? One of the things I didn't like about the XM4, is that your ears touch the interior part of the earpad, and after an hour, it started to feel uncomfortable
Reviews on Amazon say they allow bigger ears to fit, but they still touch the back of the cushion.
Thanks for the review! I've been waiting for it since Sony officially announced the xm5.
No problem!
Oh my goodness. Sony listened to the customer. Especially in the phone call quality. Thank you Sony.
I hope they made their sound quality better too…
When i listening to the xm4 with movies has very good movie bass as i use them lots with tv movies and gaming i like heavy lows with nice mids and trebble with the wide space stereo sound
So if we dont care about money in buying these two. Which would be the more recommended? ( Dont care about the mic when i often chat more then calling ) Or more like how mutch better anc and audio is it and how big difference it actually is. I often dont really find that answer in these kinds of reviewe/compare videos. And in the standpoint right now i need to decide between a pair of xm4 for 250$ and xm5 for 319$.
nice review - I think the new design is a trade off, yea bigger case etc.... but you get so much more for the new design. This is whay I have been using the APM and not the XM4 becuase of ANC and call quality etc. I want APM ANC and voice calls in a lighter package which I think the XM5 will do. (just wish it came in different colors lol)
The APM brought cabin pressure back to ANC. They seriously need to fix that.
I have always found that the Momentum 3's sound passthrough mode was the most natural sounding. Aaron, how would you compare them to the new XM5s?
Momentum likely bags the crown for better sound quality as always, if Sony refuses to move away from their dark sound signature.
The foldability isn't a problem for me. But I understand how some prefer the smaller case
Hey Aaron could you make a video on what to expect for the XM5 earbuds after seeing the XM5 headphones improvements? That would be nice!
I do hope they make the sound a little more brighter. I do love them but it does sound a little to warm for me
As I thought… they need proper balance in their tuning before I ever look in their direction for sound again.
And not just catering to one ridiculously biased preference.
Yes. I prefer bright mids and trebles over heavy bass....fortunately my iTunes library allows me to set the EQ.
Amazing review! I'm waiting the XM5 to arrive in my country, definitely worth an upgrade.
The bigger ear cup is game changer for me....I had to sell my xm4 as they really hurt my ears by pressing against them
Same Here
The design makes me want to get another 4 before they are discontinued. Coolest design which should have been refined not killed.
As someone who loves to sing while listening to my music, I’d love to know if the XM5 allow you to do this without them stopping & thinking you’re giving a command. I had terrible issues with this on the XM4s. Even with the “Speak to Chat” button turned off, it would turn on the minute I started singing. I guess it didn’t occur to Sony that lots of people like to sing along with their music. Could you let me know if the XM5s have the same issue? Thank you so much!
Is the XM5 more "breathable" than the XM4? Do they make your ears sweat less?
Well... lets see how it performs when the app gets the update. I have the xm4 and I'm pretty satisfied, but I'm considering an upgrade to xm5 when your next video about this headphone comes out. Great video, Aaron, I was looking forward to watch it and I'm pretty excited for the next one.
Do you use the equalizer on the xm4
Awesome mic performance from XM5. just wondering If Aaron can compare mic of XM5 vs 1)Bose 700 2) Jabra Evolve2 75
I tested both in a shop today. Sounded to me like max volume definitely suffered on xm5. Noice cancellation is way way better tho. The whole 500m^2 shop went totally quiet with the xm5 while I could hear chatter from all the people in the store with xm4. I think for commuting in a big city, xm5 is the way to go. New design is a bit less compact, but I think I will be able to stuff these into any space that I were able to stuff the xm3 into, so no big loss. At the end of the day, they are not made for you to look at, but to sit on your head where you can't see.
If i can get them both for the same price which one should i get? I’m a student so i would wear it while studying and in public transport and to have private dance parties
@7:25 wow, i dont even know what to say, at first i thought you havent turned on the background sound😂
Sony i love your products
I'm finding that even with noise canceling on and music going I can clearly hear people talking in the cafe. WTF is the point of these if I'm hearing people talking even with my music going in NC mode? I've done all the setup and everything so I'm super confused about this and about to just return them because this I still have no peace from other people's noise!
Xm4 or 5's?
Still rocking the XM2 and I see no need to upgrade. They still perform really well. I try to save money and see no point in upgrading when my stuff still works.
And it is good for the planet and pocket too.
i have tried them both, they are both excellent headphones... nothing to choose between them. i do own a pair of xm4,s and will not be upgrading to xm5s... regards mick.
Thanks for the review! I have the XM4s but they are way too big for me. I would like them to sit higher on my head (not hanging on my jaw). Do you know if the XM5s are more adjustable, so I can make them smaller than the XM4s? This is a big issue for me! They are big head approved - but are they small head approved? I don’t care about the cups being big, I just need to be able to adjust the hoop.
Already a comparison!! Thanks so much!
No problem 👍
I have been waiting for this video for a very long time I love watching your video I saw your video before buying wh1000xm4 after it was launched now am excited about this as well 😀
In the moment you said XM5 have better bass you got me, working for them to be my first quality wireless headphones, Ill reply to this msg when I have worked and got them in maybe 1yr :D
Bought the MX5 and I'm glad I did! I did not compare them to Bose QC Ultra but to the 45's, finding both sound repro and ANC to be just better with MX5. MX5 has no mute option so no office (Bose 700 there) but instead are my HTPC/S24+ phones and they are excellent: superior ANC, sound and voice so no need to look further. Subscribed.
would appreciate if you answer my question, which of these four headphones should I buy, my money should not be wasted 1000xm4 1000xm5 or bose 700 bose 45 advice is very important to me
I have both. Xm5 works great for interior noises but it doesn't help block the jack ass with the loud 4x4 or stupid sports car and Harley. Problem here in my city is people have loud cars and are full of themselves. They're probably from New York or new jersey which would explain a hell of a lot. These aren't people I grew up with and I lived here all my life.
Which ones are more durable? I want something long lasting
Unfortunately decided to pass and purchase AirPods Max instead, for me quite simply a total surprise no ear sweat and sound is perfect for me with all correct sittings. Sony needed to do more. Thanks again for a great review
Thanks for sharing and for watching!
If you primarily use Apple products, the Max makes sense, but if you use PC/Android they're a total waste of money
@@Ignacio.Romero correct I am and the price was lowered enough and Sonys increased. I will wait until next year and purchase them then
By hearing nothing on the microphone with test I think first that someone forgot to activate ambient sounds but finally I understand... but now I'm a bit surprised because the headphone's microphone did the work to remove all sound... so yes, the xm5 is probably the best for call, music, sound quality... the best, so thanks for testing headphones for what everyone use them, sound quality, sounds isolation and sounds quality for calls.
Wish I could find a set with more power than needed, great sound, Aptx all forms, Ldac with a manual eq for under $200. I have no need for all of the other stuff.
Please if you can - compare Sony WH-1000XM5 vs. BeoPlay H95 vs. Mark Levinson 5909 vs. Apple Airpod Max - especially in terms of ANC and phone call quality.
Hi! My XM3s broke and I got myself a pair of AirPods Pros. The noise cancelling and sound quality is not as I expected. I also had the WF-XM4s, but I sent them back because they were uncomfortable. Is the transparency mode in the XM5s as good as the Pros?
Thanks!
Tried the XM4s and the Technics A 800s. Both were underwhelming in the sound department. Muddy and a feeling that lower end and mids were somewhat muffled. I'm hoping the XM5s are an improvement.
If you're after good sound quality, you should consider the Yamaha YH-L700As.
For sound quality noise cancelling headphones might not be the best. You can try audio thecnicas
@@sirwongalot7918 Sennheiser did strike a balance for the most part though.
Kor kor! I went to the shop today to try the XM5 and I connected it to the Sony app but I can't seem to toggle between NC, ambient mode and the passive NC like the ones on my WF XM4... Cos of that I can't test the XM5 properly. Is the Sony app not updated for the XM5 yet?
Probably they hadn't updated the app in stores
I also would like abit deeper ear cups for my big ears as over time the pads flatten abit
I already have 1000xm4 for 2 years. Loved it's audio but a couple of points that i hated:
1. M4's pressed my ear too hard
2. Cushion and headband leather is poor quality.
3. ANC was good but not excellent. I like almost 100% cancelled noise and want to be able to use ANC without music.
4. Software glitches in multi-device auto switch or auto-pause on taking them off not working or not starting when putting them back on.
Aaron, do you think M5 significantly solves the above pain points ? I will buy it immediately if it does, don't care about the increased size as i have a big laptop bag.
Speaking about the XM4's weaker mid ranges: Is that something that only applies to the default settings? Meaning, is it something that could easily be rectified using an equalizer? I don't know much about headphones, so sorry if this is a pointless question.
How much noise cancellation do you need? I have the xm3 and I’m ok with them. Plus the xm5 are huge and ugly looking. Thanks for the video Aaron as always.
Thank you for your work Sir! Really appreciate your work and help for us people to decide on earphones!
Always welcome
Great review! I'm also super curious on your opinion of the Linkbuds S vs WF-1000XM4 since they're basically in the same price region....!
whoa! this is the most helpful review ive seen and ive been scouring the internet. thank you for your diligence!! the call and anc test is what convinced me to wait for a sale on the xm5's instead of picking up the xm4 tomorrow
Tried the xm5 demo unit. Without comparing side by side, xm5 just feel absolutely note confirmable than previous xm and sound also feel better to me.
The comfort definitely improve significantly. Was not really able to wear the previous xm unit when trying the store in the past, but xm5 feel comfortable
hi, another in-depth review, but as in your xm4 review, you left out a major concern.
please can you add in your future reviews, noise leakage test, i found the xm4's to have a ridiculous amount of noise leakage. Thanks
Thank you, thank you, thank you! I've been waiting for your honest review. Now, I want to buy them!
Are there any news on Sony WF xm5 earbuds? Haven't seen anything on the internet....
Hi do you think the XM5 is also good for mixing when the jack is plug-in?
You can use it for that but they are not going to be as tonally flat as studio headphones
@@aaronloudnwireless thanks bro
Hi Aaron, I’m relatively new to all this. With ANC on, isn’t it all important to know how it (the music) still sounds while cancelling out ambient noise; that they haven’t thrown out the baby with the bath water so to speak. Curiously, with my experience with certain in-ear phones, I prefer to listen to music with the ANC on even in a quiet environment because of the EQ “adjustments” that is inherent with the ANC. Your thoughts on this?
I am interested in the physical changes of theXM5. My son has theXM3 which I find too “clammy” on my head after wearing it even a shirt while.
Thanks for the review
PS: Do you have the XM5’s measured frequency response with the ANC on .
Yes that is done with ANC turned on. It makes more sense as it's the default way people use these headphones.
Had a heart attack when he started abusing the head phones at 1:45
Thank you for the review, Aaron. I enjoyed your review even though I have no intention of buying this. However, I always love your narrative and writing so I listen to your views and your writing style (you know what I mean). I hope you'll enjoy these XM5's when you go on a plane and do please let us know!
Thanks! Hopefully there's an opportunity to fly again soon
@@aaronloudnwireless I think it's great that the world is starting to open up again after the Covid. It would be wonderful for everyone to go back to how things were- if that could ever be possible. Meanwhile, the excitement of going on holiday for me starts at the airport and strapping myself down to my seat on the plane. That rush of adrenaline when the plane powers down the runway and the smoothness of noise-cancelling as my earphones/headphones block out the roaring of the engines is just indescribable. I long for those days to return.
If they fixed “speak-to-chat” (self turning on, even when I’d deactivate in the app) If fixed then I’ll buy, but otherwise speak-to-chat is very annoying. Thanks
Do you got to set the NC for the XM5 because I can still hear background noise ? Feel like the new AirPods Pro are better
I'm lean towards keep the XM5s and I returned the XM4s when they were released because the bass was Subdued compared to my XM3s
Subdued bass is a _good_ thing depending on who you ask tho.
EQ?
Can we expect wf-1000xm5 anywhere soon ??
I will buy the XM5 when it goes on sale. The better ANC is enough for me to buy it.
For me, the bigger earcups will do better with my big ears.
Please compare against A Max and B&O H95
My experience, not impressed. One, they automatically switch (can't manually toggle it anymore) between NC and NC Wind Mode at the drop of a hat, making the NC unstable (cuts out) when people talk loudly (especially if you yourself make the noise) or you momentarily walk into a momentary draft. Two, the pads don't seal as well as with glasses as the XM4s, which leads to noticeable subpar NC with eyewear.
If you're in a controlled environment without glasses, they're fantastic. If not, you're wasting your money.
i just bougth the xm4 . i used to have xm1 and to me i think the noice canceling in the xm1 works better in the forklift i drive everyday . so i would like to see a test where you test the xm1 vs xm4-5 if possible?
How are these headphones with gaming? I’m looking into an all in one headphone, music,gaming and video editing. I’m really trying to avoid getting multiple headphones.
They're fine if you don't use the mic
I thought u accidentally turned off the background noise on the xm5's 😭😭
thanks for that video, your explanations are easy to catch it and clears
Glad it was helpful!
Love these Sony headphones. Can someone
please tell me why when changing
between different audio sources, the
volume defaults to high volume??? l'm
listening to say some music at a
reasonable volume level, then change to a
different source, the volume goes to
high.…??? Very annoying, I wished I could
understand why.!!!!
How is the ANC when it comes to vibration/music from neighbours when you are in a quiet room trying to read books/study? In my buildning there is always some buzz noise coming into the appartment, and with XM4 on max ANC, it just can't pick up that type of noise. It even amplify(!) that annoying noise when trying to cancling it, for some wierd reason. Do you know how the XM5 would handle this type of noise environment?
Thanks!
Been waiting this one. Love your style of reviews Aaron. Could your review the bose qc 45 at some point.
Hopefully!
Really appreciate your thorough review, Aaron!