Loading verified data
Preparing the comparison experience…
The short answer · Balanced overview
Sony WH-1000XM5 leads the Balanced Bettr Score 81.7–62.3. The existing category models use the available evidence automatically; open the score details for sources and coverage.
Apple
Keep the case configuration in view. Compare the listed charging and listening features with the other AirPods 5 option rather than treating the two packages as identical. The sourced feature set includes active noise cancellation.
Bettr Score · Balanced
62.3/100
Sony
Keep the generation exact when comparing Sony’s over-ear options. The XM5 has qualifying independent evidence in this snapshot, so you can inspect the listening trade-offs as well as the features. The sourced feature set includes active noise cancellation and wired playback.
Bettr Score · Balanced
81.7/100
The sourced facts below explain each product’s features. Bettr Scores use the existing category models and available evidence automatically. Reference prices are not live checkout prices.
| AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case | Specification | Sony WH-1000XM5 |
|---|---|---|
Not verified | Reference price (USD)Not enough data | $228.00 |
earbuds | Form factorPersonal preference | over-ear |
7 hours | Maximum battery life | 40 hours ✓ Winner |
5 hours | Battery life with ANC | 30 hours ✓ Winner |
Yes | Active noise cancellationTie | Yes |
Yes | Transparency / ambient modeTie | Yes |
0.15 oz ✓ Winner | Weight | 8.82 oz |
5.3 ✓ Winner | Bluetooth version | 5.2 |
Not verified | Bluetooth multipointNot enough data | Yes |
Not verified | Wired audioNot enough data | Yes |
Not verified | USB-C audioNot enough data | Not verified |
Not verified | Full charge timeNot enough data | 3.5 hours |
Yes | Spatial audioTie | Yes |
IP57 | Water resistancePersonal preference | NOT WATERPROOF |
Not verified | FoldableNot enough data | Not verified |
Yes | Carrying case includedTie | Yes |
Sony WH-1000XM5 leads the Balanced Bettr Score.
GearLab test results · checked 2026-10-19. GearLab wireless headphone category tests, July 2026 comparison table. Bettr Than did not perform these tests.
People's Pick
Loading voting options…
No verified retailer offers are available yet.
We may earn a commission when you buy through links marked “Affiliate link.” This does not change your price or our scores. How we earn
eBay — New
In stock · checked Oct 26, 2026
Price needs rechecking. Confirm at the retailer.
$199.00
Item price · shipping unknown
We may earn a commission when you buy through links marked “Affiliate link.” This does not change your price or our scores. How we earn
Related matchups
Compare Headphones
