Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) vs Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones
Choosing between Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) and Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones can be tricky. Both are excellent, but they serve different priorities. This guide highlights what matters for US shoppers.
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Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023)
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones
Comparison: Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) vs Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones
Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023)
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones
| Criterion | Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) | Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4(11,865)Amazon | ★4.2(18,670)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (closed, dynamic) |
Connectivity | 2.4 GHz HyperSpeed (USB-A dongle) + Bluetooth 5.2 + USB-C (Wired Audio & Charging) | Bluetooth 5.2 + 3.5mm (stereo mini jack) |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.2 | 5.2 |
Codecs | AAC, SBC | SBC, AAC, LDAC |
ANC | No (Passive noise isolation via memory foam seals) | Yes (Industry-leading Active Noise Cancellation) |
Transparency | No | Yes (Ambient Sound Mode) |
Drivers | Razer TriForce Titanium 50 mm Drivers | 30 mm (1.18") precision-engineered driver unit |
Frequency Response | 12 Hz – 28,000 Hz | 4 Hz–40,000 Hz (Wired) / 20 Hz–40,000 Hz (LDAC) |
Microphones | Detachable Razer HyperClear Super Wideband Mic (32 kHz sampling rate) | 8 total (4 per earcup for NC and calls) |
Battery Life | Up to 70 hours (2.4 GHz wireless) | Up to 30 hrs (NC on) / Up to 40 hrs (NC off) |
Battery Life | N/A (No charging case) | N/A (Headphones only) |
Charging | USB-C; ~4 hours full charge; 15 min rapid charge = 6 hours playback | USB-C; ~3.5 hrs full charge; 3 min = 3 hrs playback (PD) |
Multipoint | Yes (SmartSwitch Dual Wireless: Toggles between 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth) | Yes (Connect 2 devices simultaneously) |
Low Latency Mode | Yes (via 2.4 GHz HyperSpeed dongle) | No dedicated mode (Connection priority via app) |
Wired Mode | Yes (USB-C to USB-A cable for digital audio + charging; NO 3.5mm jack) | Yes (3.5mm cable included) |
Water Resistance | None (No IP rating) | None (No IP rating) |
Weight | 11.3 oz (320 g) | 250 g (approx.) |
Controls | Physical knobs/buttons (Volume knob, Mic mute, Power, SmartSwitch/EQ button) | Touch sensor (right cup) + Physical buttons (power/NC) |
App Eq | Razer Synapse (PC); On-headset eSports FPS Profiles (Apex, CoD, CS:GO, Valorant) | Sony Headphones Connect (5-band EQ + Clear Bass) |
Extras | THX Spatial Audio (Windows only); Breathable FlowKnit memory foam cushions; USB extender cable included | Speak-to-Chat, DSEE Extreme, 360 Reality Audio, Auto NC Optimizer |
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Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023)
✓ Pros:
- • HyperClear Super Wideband Mic delivers near-broadcast vocal clarity (best-in-class for wireless)
- • Exceptional 70-hour battery life eliminates frequent charging interruptions
- • On-board FPS audio profiles tuned by pro gamers (usable without software running)
- • Extremely comfortable clamping force and breathable cushions for long sessions
- • SmartSwitch allows seamless toggling between PC (dongle) and phone (Bluetooth) audio
✗ Cons:
- • Completely lacks a 3.5mm analog jack (cannot connect to Xbox controllers or older devices)
- • No Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) features
- • SmartSwitch does not mix audio simultaneously (one source at a time)
- • Full feature set (THX Spatial, precise EQ) is locked to Razer Synapse software on PC
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Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones
✓ Pros:
- • Market-leading active noise cancellation (ANC)
- • Excellent call quality with 8-microphone system
- • Lightweight and comfortable for long sessions
- • Fast charging (3 min for 3 hours playback)
- • Multipoint connection works seamlessly
✗ Cons:
- • Non-foldable design reduces portability
- • Price increase compared to previous generation
- • No IP water resistance rating
- • Auto NC Optimizer cannot be manually forced to max
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Which one is better?
Based on ratings and feature balance, Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones has a slight edge for overall satisfaction. Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) remains a strong alternative if its strengths match your needs.
Who should buy each?
Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) excels at: HyperClear Super Wideband Mic delivers near-broadcast vocal clarity (best-in-class for wireless), Exceptional 70-hour battery life eliminates frequent charging interruptions
Watch for: Completely lacks a 3.5mm analog jack (cannot connect to Xbox controllers or older devices)
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones excels at: Market-leading active noise cancellation (ANC), Excellent call quality with 8-microphone system
Watch for: Non-foldable design reduces portability
Conclusion
With the key differences outlined, the decision should be clearer. Both options deliver quality—choose the one that fits your priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) excels if you value hyperclear super wideband mic delivers near-broadcast vocal clarity (best-in-class for wireless). Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones is better if you prioritize market-leading active noise cancellation (anc). Pick based on your budget and daily use.
+Is this an independent review?
Yes. We use affiliate links for monetization, but recommendations are research-driven and unbiased.
+Do newer models exist?
Check release timelines from the manufacturers and compare pricing before you buy. We refresh this page when major updates land.
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