Wireless earbuds continue to improve each yr . Two of thetop optionsavailable right now are theAirPods Pro 2and theSony WF-1000XM5 . In our critical review of both models , we generate them each a 4.5 - star evaluation . They both proffer expectant sound and ANC characteristic , comfortable fit , and an excellent user experience , so you really ca n’t go awry with either option . However , is there a better alternative between them ? have ’s search and find out .

Apple AirPods Pro 2 vs. Sony WF-1000XM5: specs

Apple AirPods Pro 2 vs. Sony WF-1000XM5: design and comfort

Thefirst - generation AirPods Pro 2was bring in in September 2022 and has since been break off . This initial looping have a Lightning connector on the institutionalise case , which was typical for many Apple devices at the time . However , in September 2023 , Apple introduced the current version of the AirPods Pro 2,now equipped with a USB - C connector , align more closely with the wide tech industriousness trend toward general charge solution .

From a design perspective , both versions remain consistent , showcasing Apple ’s commitment to a sleek and minimalistic aesthetic . The earbuds run around a glossy white finish , complement by short stem that domiciliate the microphone and feeling controls . To ensure a comfortable and secure paroxysm during use , each pair comes with silicone polymer ear tips in unlike sizes ( extra - small , humble , average , and large ) to supply to various capitulum shape and preferences . When you get hold the good size for you , the paroxysm is arrant and the AirPods Pro 2 can be wear upon for protracted stop of clip .

The include charging case is also white and features a compact designing that ’s easy to carry . A standout lineament of the caseful is its build - in speaker , which supports find oneself My alerts , making it leisurely for user tolocate their caseful if it ’s misplace . The showcase also supports MagSafe and wireless charging capabilities , offering versatility in how users can reload their devices .

We found the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds unusually well-to-do as well , thanks to their smooth plastic building and newly designed foam ear bakshis . The earbuds have been expertly craft to be smaller , lighter , and more streamlined than their herald , theWF-1000XM4 , making them ideal for long listening sessions without discomfort .

The accompanying charging case has also been redesigned , making it more pocket - friendly thanks to its summary size of it . This makes it commodious to carry around , whether commuting , traveling , or just heading out for a ready errand .

However , it ’s deserving noting a few thing . The lustrous finish of the WF01000XM5s can make them slippy , which may take some getting used to , peculiarly when handling them . Additionally , while the fit is generally good , we find it less unafraid than the XM4 . This could pose a challenge during more vigorous action , such as runningor intense workouts , where a close-fitting fit is preferable for optimal operation overall . While the WF-1000XM5 earbuds deliver a comfortable experience during casual use , those with dynamic lifestyle should be aware of the potential for a less secure fit .

Because of the set number with Sonys when compare to the AirPods Pro 2 , we ’re hold this point to Apple ’s earbuds .

Winner : AirPods Pro 2

Apple AirPods Pro 2 vs. Sony WF-1000XM5: features and controls

The AirPods Pro 2 and the Sony WF-1000XM5 are premium earbuds fit out with various in advance audio features and control option . The AirPods Pro 2 include Active Noise Cancellation ( ANC ) , an Adaptive Transparency mode , Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic capitulum tracking , and Adaptive EQ . While stationary , you’re able to make readjustment using the options app on your connected iPhone or iPad . The force detector on the stems allow for easy playback direction for on - the - go control .

to boot , you could practice Siri for hand - free mathematical operation and an update with the iOS 18 update came easy - to - use of goods and services chief motion features that give up you to accept Siri prompt like incoming phone call , by nodding “ yes ” or shaking your head “ n0 . ” Automatic auricle spotting also pauses the music whenever you remove one earbud and resumes playback once it is localise back in your ear .

A standout feature of the AirPods Pro 2 is conversation sentience , which automatically let down the book and raise voices when you start talking . The earbuds seamlessly flip between Apple devices , admit you to control euphony while quickly transitioning between your Mac and iPhone if you , for deterrent example , use both throughout your work twenty-four hour period for calls and Teams merging .

feature film like Find My documentation enable exact location trailing and individualized alerts through the appoint case speaker . Lastly , theHearing Aidcompatibility feature of speech allows you to employ the earbuds to help you get a line well . These features make the AirPods Pro 2 a delicious option for Apple users .

Sony ’s earbuds bid telling feature that enhance the user experience . The contact controls are precise and nonrational , providing a hearty audible tone as confirmation with each interaction . This construct it easier to sail through functions and belittle the chances of accidental wiretap .

One notable melioration ( versus the former theoretical account )   is the enhanced functionality that allows user to adjust the volume on the earbuds without recede admission to representative assistant features . This seamless integration intend you could savour your medicine and superintend your call without interruption .

The XM5s also come equip with modern head movement control motion exchangeable to the AirPods Pro 2 — a simple nod can accept incoming calls , while shaking your head will decline them . This hand - free feature is ready to hand when your hand are occupied .

The Bluetooth link stands out for its reliability , maintaining a unchanging link even at a space . Whether out for a walking or moving around the house , the connection continue strong and continuous , allowing for a smooth listening experience . Overall , Sony has combined user - friendliness with advanced engineering , work their earbuds a standout selection for audio enthusiasts .

It ’s unvoiced to pick a winner on this full stop , so we wo n’t .

Winner : attach

Apple AirPods Pro 2 vs. Sony WF-1000XM5: battery life

The 2nd - generation AirPods Pro battery life can last up to six hours with active disturbance cancellation ( ANC ) when used at about 50 % volume , making them ideal for everyday commute or lengthy meetings . However , using ANC heavy may reduce the battery life-time to around five hours . A quick 5 - moment kick provides an extra usage hour , while the wireless charging case supports four full bursting charge , sum up 30 minute of hearing prison term .

The Sony WF-1000XM5 stand out for its battery life , offer up to eight hour with ANC spark and 12 hours with it deactivated . The rouse causa provides around 36 hour of full playtime , realize it suited for everyday use . to boot , their quick - heraldic bearing characteristic allows for an extra hr of playtime in just three minute , appeal to everyday listeners and audiophiles .

We ’ll give the boundary to Sony here .

Winner : WF-1000XM5

Apple AirPods Pro 2 vs. Sony WF-1000XM5: sound quality

The AirPods Pro 2 rescue particular sound quality that remain firm out in the competitive market of on-key wireless earbuds . Our review article of them determined that they produce punchy bass that feels mystifying and resonant , providing a productive sound foot without overpowering the mids and high . The treble is meticulously crafted , showcasing clarity and crispness that permit the elusive elaborateness of vocals and instruments to shine through . Every nuance in your favorite tracks is articulated attractively , ca-ca even the most complex transcription easy to treasure .

One of the standout feature article is the talkative soundstage , which creates a sense of spatial awareness that enfold the listener from all directions . The point - trailing spacial sound recording feature significantly enhances this immersive quality , which sham a live concert or cinematic surround . sound flow around you seamlessly as you move your head , making every listening academic term feel engaging and invigorated . This tempt you to explore your music library in a new Light Within .

accord to our commentator , though , the sound quality of the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds is top - notch as well , stating that “ you wo n’t find better , even if you pass more . ”

Sony systematically excels in sound quality , and the XM5 earbuds are no exception . They propose an audio experience that raise the already impressive performance of the XM4s , deliver balanced bass that is both redolent and musically rich .

Across a spectrum of literary genre , from operose rock ‘n’ roll to jazz , the XM5 earbuds manage to keep various musical element distinct and clear . For example , during Bill Laurance ’s complex track “ Zeal , ” which sweep over the $ 400Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 S2 , the XM5s effectively organized the multiple layers of synths , strings , and pleximetry , score them easily decipherable . utilize Sony ’s LDAC Bluetooth codec on Android enhances detail and dynamic range , peculiarly with lossless in high spirits - resolution audio file , which the AirPods Pro 2 does not stomach .

The soundstage is imposingly elaborate and accurate , although it tends to remain pretty confined to the attender ’s head , concentrating most of the sound within a compact area during typical stereo playback . In contrast , immersive 3D audio format such as Sony 360 Reality Audio ( 360RA ) and Dolby Atmos significantly expand the listening experience , with 360RA demonstrating the most benefit .

Additionally , Sony has introduced a beta characteristic called chance Your Equalizer , which personalizes your sound experience . You take a strain and the system guides you through three EQ adjustments . After each pace , you pick out your prefer modification from a list , unlocking further refinements . Ultimately , these configurations are saved as a custom preset in the Headphones app , allow for future adaptation . Although the ensue sound profile was not to my liking — favoring low oftenness while belittle the highs — it ’s an interesting instrument for those who choose not to adjust individual EQ sliders manually .

Apple AirPods Pro 2 vs. Sony WF-1000XM5: call quality

The latest AirPods Pro 2 have elevated the call experience , boasting remarkable level-headed quality surpassing former model . This is in the first place assign to their land - of - the - prowess disturbance cancellation engineering science , which effectively filters background noise , allow the user ’s vocalisation to stand out intelligibly . During our evaluations , even disruptive sound like dealings from nearby trucks were entirely blocked out for the wearer , throw conversation straight and gratis from disturbance .

However , in highly tatty out-of-door configurations , the clarity of the voice might become more or less dampened . This can result in a perception that the voice sounds somewhat upstage to the listener . Nevertheless , feedback from callers indicates that they can see the speaker without trouble , akin to speaking directly into a phone ’s microphone .

On the other hand , Sony ’s latest WF-1000XM5 earbuds boast impressive call quality , thanks to their innovative dual processor and advanced mike setup . Each earbud includes six microphones and a pearl conduction sensor that captures the vibrations of your vocalism . The sensor is then processed by an AI trained on century of millions of phonation sample . This sophisticated technology effectively distinguishes your voice from any background noise .

In our examination , we were really impressed with the WF-1000XM5 ’s ability to conquer outside sound that often intervene with yell . Noises from dealings , construction , and even substantial winding were soundly managed , exit the other party with an discernible sound experience .

It ’s deserving noting that in situation where backcloth noise is deafening , your voice may be more or less fall in volume . Some compression can also come , regard okay nuances in speech . However , the overall carrying into action of the XM5s deliver a richer dynamical range compared to the AirPods Pro , make them ideal for outdoor and indoor conversations , where their microphone quality really excels .

Apple AirPods Pro 2 vs. Sony WF-1000XM5: price

The AirPods Pro 2 are priced at $ 249 before any discounts and are only useable in ashen . In contrast , the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds retail for $ 299 and come in three colors : Black , Silver , and Smokey Pink .

While the AirPods Pro 2 are more affordable than the Sony earbuds at their regular price , both Cartesian product frequently go on sale . Be certain to shop around before wee-wee a purchase .

Apple AirPods Pro 2 vs. Sony WF-1000XM5: The verdict

choose between the AirPods Pro 2 and the Sony WF-1000XM5 mostly depends on your preferences . The Sony WF-1000XM5 is known for its superior audio quality and exceptional noise cancellation ( ANC ) . It furnish a rich , elaborated sound visibility and allows for customizable EQ scene through the Sony Headphones app , making it ideal for audiophiles .

On the other hand , the AirPods Pro 2 excel in their unseamed integration within the Apple ecosystem . They bid effortless connectivity , spatial audio , and excellent overall carrying into action . While both models have telling noise cancellation , many users , particularly those who primarily apply Apple devices , opt the AirPods Pro 2 for their solace and substance abuser - friendly experience .

In sum-up , if audio quality and dissonance cancellation are your top priorities , the Sony WF-1000XM5 is likely the better choice . However , if you are heavily invested in the Apple ecosystem , economic value ease of use , and excellent sound quality , the AirPods Pro 2 may be the more suitable option .

Overall , we range the Sony WF-1000XM5 slightly well than the AirPods Pro 2 . frankly , however , it ’s only by a nose .