The Redesigned Sony WH-1000XM5 Steps Up Its Sound Quality

Sony’s 1000X headphones series have long been a “gold standard” for noise-canceling headphones, and with their latest addition (the M5), they’re attempting to beat rivals Bose and Apple once and for all.

The design has been overhauled, setting them apart from previous iterations of the headphones. Thinner, sleeker, and with a single stem to replace the dual ear cup arms, they look much more modern and refined. The mic inlets have also been relocated to reduce wind noise as well as reduce visible seams and inputs. The thicker ear padding makes for a more comfortable listening experience, but without adding any extra weight.

Though they can’t fold down (a winning feature of the M4s), their sound is tighter, cleaner, crisper, and better-balanced. With 30 hours of battery life and a 3.5-hour recharge time, you’ll always be ready to listen to your music.