The best Sony headphones and earbuds of 2024: Expert tested and reviewed

Sony’s WF-1000XM5 are the earbud equivalent to the over-ear headphones of the same name. Hence, the XM5 earbuds are Sony’s premium and most sophisticated version. They feature advanced AI technology for clear voice calling, an upgraded processor for stable Bluetooth connections, and an ergonomic design for optimal comfort.

The XM5 earbuds sport a round bud design that sits inside the ear canal. When I tested these earbuds, I found that the round design was more comfortable and secure than the traditional bud-and-stem design you see in other earbuds, like the Apple AirPods Pro. The only drawback of Sony’s earbud design is that the company opted for foam ear tips instead of silicone. I found the foam tips to be more absorbent than silicone, and they easily trap sweat and ear wax and can be challenging to clean.

Review: Sony WF-1000XM5

However, silicone ear tips are slippery and tend to fall out of your ear when you sweat. So, if you want earbuds that are very secure in your ear and don’t mind the debris that the foam tips accumulate, the XM5 buds will do you well.

The XM5 buds come with a charging case that delivers an extra six hours of juice, so these earbuds can go a few days before needing a charge. AI technology ensures clear calling by isolating your voice and quieting background noises.

The noise-canceling tech in these earbuds is impressive, and they easily compete with Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 and Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra earbuds. They’re equipped with Bluetooth 5.3 and the LC3 Bluetooth codec, offering more stable Bluetooth connections, a wider connection range, lower latency, and better sound quality. However, only a few newer Samsung and Google phones are compatible with LC3, so if you have an iPhone, you’re stuck with Apple’s AAC codec.

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