Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones vs Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
You're looking at two of the best flagship headphones on the market: the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones and the Apple AirPods Max (USB-C). Key specs: Weight: 8.82 oz vs 13.58 oz and Battery: 30h vs 20h.
Why compare these? Both the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones and Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) are premium flagship headphones competing in the same market segment. This makes them direct rivals for buyers looking for premium flagship features and performance in 2026. Understanding their differences helps you choose the right one for your specific needs.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Sony WH-1000XM5 | Apple AirPods |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | 4.2★ (18,670 reviews) | ✓4.6★ (3,079 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Market-leading active noise cancellation (ANC) | Seamless switching and integration within Apple ecosystem |
| Main Drawback | Non-foldable design reduces portability | Heavier than most competitors (385g) |
| Market Position | Flagship | Flagship |
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones
Over-ear (closed, dynamic)
Bluetooth 5.2 + 3.5mm (stereo mini jack)
5.2
SBC, AAC, LDAC
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.0; USB-C (charging + lossless wired audio)
5.0
AAC, SBC (Wireless); ALAC (Wired via USB-C)
Only the specs that differ are shown here. Winners are highlighted when the data is clear.
+Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Expand
Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones vs Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
| Criterion | Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones | Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.2(18,670)Amazon | ★4.6(3,079)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed, dynamic) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.2 + 3.5mm (stereo mini jack) | Bluetooth 5.0; USB-C (charging + lossless wired audio) |
Bluetooth Version | 5.2 | 5.0 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC | AAC, SBC (Wireless); ALAC (Wired via USB-C) |
ANC | Yes (Industry-leading Active Noise Cancellation) | Yes (Pro-level Active Noise Cancellation) |
Transparency | Yes (Ambient Sound Mode) | Yes (Transparency mode) |
Drivers | 30 mm (1.18") precision-engineered driver unit | 40mm Apple-designed dynamic driver |
Frequency Response | 4 Hz–40,000 Hz (Wired) / 20 Hz–40,000 Hz (LDAC) | Not officially specified |
Microphones | 8 total (4 per earcup for NC and calls) | 9 mics (8 for ANC, 3 for voice pickup - 2 shared) |
Battery Life | Up to 30 hrs (NC on) / Up to 40 hrs (NC off) | Up to 20 h (with ANC/Spatial Audio) |
Battery Life | N/A (Headphones only) | N/A (Smart Case preserves battery, does not charge) |
Charging | USB-C; ~3.5 hrs full charge; 3 min = 3 hrs playback (PD) | USB-C |
Multipoint | Yes (Connect 2 devices simultaneously) | Automatic Switching (Apple ecosystem only) |
Low Latency Mode | No dedicated mode (Connection priority via app) | Ultra-low latency via USB-C (wired) |
Wired Mode | Yes (3.5mm cable included) | Yes (Lossless digital audio via USB-C cable) |
Water Resistance | None (No IP rating) | None |
Weight | 250 g (approx.) | 0.85 lb (385 g) |
Controls | Touch sensor (right cup) + Physical buttons (power/NC) | Digital Crown (volume/control), Noise Control button |
App Eq | Sony Headphones Connect (5-band EQ + Clear Bass) | iOS Settings (Headphone Accommodations) |
Extras | Speak-to-Chat, DSEE Extreme, 360 Reality Audio, Auto NC Optimizer | Personalized Spatial Audio; Find My support; Smart Case (low power mode) |
| Pros |
|
|
| Cons |
|
|
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. | Check Price on Amazon→ | Check Price on Amazon→ |
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones
Over-ear (closed, dynamic)
Bluetooth 5.2 + 3.5mm (stereo mini jack)
5.2
SBC, AAC, LDAC
Yes (Industry-leading Active Noise Cancellation)
Yes (Ambient Sound Mode)
Pros
- Market-leading active noise cancellation (ANC)
- Excellent call quality with 8-microphone system
Cons
- Non-foldable design reduces portability
- Price increase compared to previous generation
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.0; USB-C (charging + lossless wired audio)
5.0
AAC, SBC (Wireless); ALAC (Wired via USB-C)
Yes (Pro-level Active Noise Cancellation)
Yes (Transparency mode)
Pros
- Seamless switching and integration within Apple ecosystem
- Class-leading ANC and Transparency modes
Cons
- Heavier than most competitors (385g)
- Smart Case offers minimal physical protection
Which one is better?
Grab the Apple AirPods Max if you need smooth integration in the Apple ecosystem - it offers great features like lossless audio support via USB-C.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones if: you want superior battery life for long travels, need excellent noise cancellation for busy environments, or prioritize call quality with its 8-microphone system.
Choose the Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) if: you want the best integration with Apple devices, prioritize premium build quality for comfort, or need lossless audio support for critical listening. (13.58 oz weight)
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.6★ vs 4.2★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Apple AirPods
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 18,670 reviews vs 3,079
→ Choose Sony WH-1000XM5
Market-leading active noise Priority
Market-leading active noise cancellation (ANC)
→ Choose Sony WH-1000XM5
Seamless switching and Priority
Seamless switching and integration within Apple ecosystem
→ Choose Apple AirPods
Conclusion
We hope this comparison helps you buy with confidence. Both products are dependable; the right one depends on how you will use it.
Bottom line: The Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) leads with a 4.6★ rating versus 4.2★. That said, Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones could still be the right pick depending on your specific priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones or Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)?
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones is the better choice if you prioritize market-leading active noise cancellation (anc). Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) wins if you value seamless switching and integration within apple ecosystem. Both are rated highly (4.2★ vs 4.6★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones and Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)?
Key differences: Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones offers market-leading active noise cancellation (anc), while Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) stands out with seamless switching and integration within apple ecosystem. Consider that Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones non-foldable design reduces portability. Meanwhile, Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) heavier than most competitors (385g). Check the detailed specs table above for a complete comparison.
+Where can US buyers get the best price?
For US buyers, Amazon typically offers competitive pricing with Prime shipping, easy returns, and reliable warranty support. We recommend comparing prices on both products using our affiliate links above—prices fluctuate regularly, and you may find sales or deals.
+Is this comparison up to date?
Yes, this comparison is current for 2026. We regularly verify specs, ratings, and availability. Last verified: January 26, 2026. PageBen uses affiliate links for monetization, but our recommendations are research-driven and independent.
Affiliate disclosure
PageBen uses Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This supports independent content for US shoppers.