Sony WH-1000XM5 vs Apple AirPods Max
HEAD-TO-HEAD COMPARISON
Can Sony’s lightweight ANC powerhouse dethrone Apple’s ultra-premium metal design? We compared ANC, sound, comfort, and battery life to help you choose.
Head-to-Head Specification Comparison
| Feature | Sony WH-1000XM5 | Apple AirPods Max |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $398.00 | $549.00 |
| ANC Strength | Outstanding (Auto-optimizing) | Excellent |
| Transparency Mode | Very Natural | Best-in-class |
| Battery Life | 30 Hours | 20 Hours |
| Weight | 250 grams (Lightweight) | 385 grams (Heavy) |
| Earcup Material | Soft-fit synthetic leather | Acoustically engineered knit mesh |
Our Winner: Sony WH-1000XM5
While the AirPods Max offer unmatched metal styling and seamless integration for Apple purists, the Sony WH-1000XM5 are the smarter choice for most listeners. They are substantially lighter, fold into a practical travel case, cost $150 less, and deliver slightly more effective active noise cancellation.