Updated 18 Oct 2026
Is the Sony WF-1000XM5 worth it?
Yes — when they're well below XM6 money.
The WF-1000XM6 replaced them in 2026 with a little stronger noise cancelling and an extra mic in each bud, but the XM5 still sound rich, block out a lot and last the same 8 hours with noise cancelling on (24 with the case). The buds are smaller and lighter than the XM6, with a glossy finish. At the same price, get the XM6; with a real discount, these are the better buy.
76%of 615 owners give it 4 or 5 stars
- Strong noise cancelling and rich sound
- About 8 hours of battery, the same as the XM6
- Smaller, lighter buds than the XM6
We earn a commission from these links.
What owners say
Owners love the sound, the noise cancelling and the small, comfy buds. The main complaint is the fit: many can't get them to stay in or seal, and then the noise cancelling disappoints.
Good to know
- Only four tip sizes and no extra-large, so some people can't get a good seal.
- The glossy buds are slippery to pick out of the case.
- No aptX, and LDAC and head-tracked spatial audio work on Android only.
- Splash resistant only (IPX4).
From 615 buyer ratings at Currys and Target (US), every complaint read by us, October 2026. How we do this
What they love
- Great soundMentioned a lot
- Strong noise cancellingMentioned often
- Small, comfortable fitAlso mentioned
- A useful app and EQAlso mentioned
What they complain about
- Hard to get a secure fit: they fall out, won't seal or make ears soreOccasional
- Noise cancelling weaker than expectedOccasional
- Bluetooth drops, one bud disconnecting, or the app won't connectRare
Get it if…
- You want Sony sound and quiet for less.
- You find them well under the XM6's price.
- You use Android: LDAC gets the most from them.
Skip it if…
- The XM6 costs only a little more.
- You want the quietest earbuds: the XM6 and the Bose block more.
More on the Sony WF-1000XM5
How we reached this verdict
What Hi-Fi finds the XM6 better on sound and noise cancelling but calls the XM5 a very good option for the money. TechRadar measures the step up as small (about 10% better noise cancelling, near-identical sound, the same battery) and says the XM5 is the better buy for most people while they're discounted.
We compared independent expert reviews with the manufacturer's specifications, then checked it's sold at a major retailer where you live. We don't test products ourselves.
Sources: What Hi-Fi: WF-1000XM6 vs WF-1000XM5, TechRadar: WF-1000XM6 vs WF-1000XM5, RTINGS, RTINGS, What Hi-Fi, manufacturer specifications.
Updated 18 Oct 2026How we decide