Sony WH-1000XM5 vs Apple AirPods Max – Head-to-Head

Picking between Sony’s WH-1000XM5 and Apple’s AirPods Max? This head-to-head compares noise cancelation, sound, comfort, features, battery, and value—so it’s easy to choose the right premium ANC headphones for work, travel, and music.

  • 🎧 ANC shootout: cabin hum, office chatter, and low-frequency rumbles
  • 🎵 Sound: tuning, detail retrieval, and stage for music and calls
  • 🪶 Comfort and build for long flights and desk days
  • 🔋 Battery life, quick charge, and ecosystem perks
  • 💰 Price-to-value: who should buy which
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Noise Cancelation (ANC)

  • WH-1000XM5: Excellent low-frequency suppression with adaptive ANC; top-tier for flights and commute.
  • AirPods Max: Superb wideband cancelation with natural pressure feel; great in offices and aircraft cabins.
  • Verdict: Tie—Sony slightly edges travel hum; Apple excels in mixed environments.

Sound Quality

  • WH-1000XM5: Warm, engaging bass with smooth treble; EQ in app for personal tuning.
  • AirPods Max: Clean, detailed presentation with wide stage; Spatial Audio for Apple devices.
  • Verdict: Sony for flexible tuning and bass lovers; Apple for detail and Spatial ecosystem.

Comfort & Build

  • WH-1000XM5: Very light, plush pads; folds flat, travel-friendly case.
  • AirPods Max: Premium aluminum build, mesh headband; heavier on long sessions.
  • Verdict: Sony for lighter comfort; Apple for premium materials.

Battery & Features

  • WH-1000XM5: Up to 30 hours ANC on; USB‑C fast charge; multipoint works broadly.
  • AirPods Max: Around 20 hours; seamless Apple device switching; Lightning charge.
  • Verdict: Sony wins battery and cross‑platform; Apple best for iPhone/Mac users.

Value: Which One to Buy?

  • Choose WH-1000XM5 if cross‑platform use, lighter comfort, and tuning control matter.
  • Choose AirPods Max if deep in Apple ecosystem and value Spatial Audio and build feel.
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Sony WH-1000XM5 over-ear ANC headphones in black
Sony WH-1000XM5
Lightweight comfort, class-leading ANC, customizable sound—great all-rounder for travel and work.
Check Price on Amazon
Apple AirPods Max premium over-ear headphones in space gray
Apple AirPods Max
Premium build, detailed sound, and effortless switching for Apple users with Spatial Audio.
See Deal on Amazon

FAQs – XM5 vs AirPods Max

Q: Which is better for flights?
A: Both are excellent; Sony’s adaptive ANC slightly favors constant engine hum.

Q: Which sounds better?
A: Preference-based: Sony is warmer and tunable; Apple is cleaner with Spatial perks on iOS.

Q: Which is more comfortable for long sessions?
A: Sony’s lighter build usually wins for all‑day wear.

💡 Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links. Specifications and features are subject to change—check retailer pages for the latest details.