Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones vs Bose QuietComfort Headphones
In the battle of the headphones, the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones takes the crown for most people, especially with its impressive 30-hour battery life. Meanwhile, the Bose QuietComfort Headphones excels in comfort, making them a favorite for long listening sessions. Key specs: Weight: 8.82 oz vs 8.40 oz and Battery: 30h vs 24h.
Why compare these? The Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones (premium flagship) and Bose QuietComfort Headphones (high-end) represent different approaches to headphones. While they may appeal to different budgets, many buyers consider both options. This 2026 comparison helps you decide if the differences justify the price gap.
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Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Sony WH-1000XM5 | Bose QuietComfort |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | 4.2★ (18,670 reviews) | ✓4.6★ (17,542 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Market-leading active noise cancellation (ANC) | Legendary comfort (low clamping force, deep ear pads) |
| Main Drawback | Non-foldable design reduces portability | No wear sensors (music does not auto-pause when taken off) |
| Market Position | ✓Flagship | Premium |
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones
Over-ear (closed, dynamic)
Bluetooth 5.2 + 3.5mm (stereo mini jack)
5.2
SBC, AAC, LDAC
Bose QuietComfort Headphones
Over-ear
Bluetooth, 2.5mm to 3.5mm analog cable
Bluetooth 5.1
SBC, AAC
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.
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Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones vs Bose QuietComfort Headphones
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones
Bose QuietComfort Headphones
| Criterion | Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones | Bose QuietComfort Headphones |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.2(18,670)Amazon | ★4.6(17,542)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed, dynamic) | Over-ear |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.2 + 3.5mm (stereo mini jack) | Bluetooth, 2.5mm to 3.5mm analog cable |
Bluetooth Version | 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.1 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC | SBC, AAC |
ANC | Yes (Industry-leading Active Noise Cancellation) | Yes (Quiet & Aware modes + Custom modes) |
Transparency | Yes (Ambient Sound Mode) | Yes (Aware Mode) |
Drivers | 30 mm (1.18") precision-engineered driver unit | Custom dynamic drivers (Size/Type undisclosed by manufacturer) |
Frequency Response | 4 Hz–40,000 Hz (Wired) / 20 Hz–40,000 Hz (LDAC) | 20 Hz - 20 kHz (Measured) |
Microphones | 8 total (4 per earcup for NC and calls) | Microphone system with noise-rejecting boomless array |
Battery Life | Up to 30 hrs (NC on) / Up to 40 hrs (NC off) | Up to 24 hrs |
Battery Life | N/A (Headphones only) | N/A (Headphones only) |
Charging | USB-C; ~3.5 hrs full charge; 3 min = 3 hrs playback (PD) | USB-C; 2.5 hrs for full charge; 15 min = up to 2.5 hrs play |
Multipoint | Yes (Connect 2 devices simultaneously) | Yes (2 devices with seamless switching) |
Low Latency Mode | No dedicated mode (Connection priority via app) | No (SimpleSync available only for Bose Soundbars) |
Wired Mode | Yes (3.5mm cable included) | Yes (Active or Passive - passive sounds different) |
Water Resistance | None (No IP rating) | None |
Weight | 250 g (approx.) | 238 g |
Controls | Touch sensor (right cup) + Physical buttons (power/NC) | Physical buttons (Volume, Play/Pause, Mode Switch) |
App Eq | Sony Headphones Connect (5-band EQ + Clear Bass) | Bose Music app (3-band EQ + Presets) |
Extras | Speak-to-Chat, DSEE Extreme, 360 Reality Audio, Auto NC Optimizer | Wind Block feature; Spotify Tap; Foldable design; Hard carry case included |
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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
Bose QuietComfort Headphones
Over-ear
Bluetooth, 2.5mm to 3.5mm analog cable
Bluetooth 5.1
SBC, AAC
Yes (Quiet & Aware modes + Custom modes)
Yes (Aware Mode)
Pros
- Legendary comfort (low clamping force, deep ear pads)
- Best-in-class physical buttons (preferred by many over touch)
Cons
- No wear sensors (music does not auto-pause when taken off)
- 2.5mm audio jack limits third-party cable options
Which one is better?
The Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones is the better buy for most people - its impressive 30-hour battery life crushes the Bose QuietComfort Headphones' 24-hour offering. That said, grab the Bose if you prioritize lighter weight and legendary comfort - it's lighter.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones if: you need top-tier noise cancellation, want the longest battery life for travel, or require excellent call quality for work. (8.82 oz weight)
Choose the Bose QuietComfort Headphones if: you value notable comfort for long listening periods, prefer physical buttons over touch controls, or want a foldable design for travel. (8.40 oz weight)
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.6★ vs 4.2★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Bose QuietComfort
Premium Buyers
Higher-tier option with more premium features and build quality
→ Choose Sony WH-1000XM5
Value Seekers
Better value proposition for buyers who don't need top-tier features
→ Choose Bose QuietComfort
Market-leading active noise Priority
Market-leading active noise cancellation (ANC)
→ Choose Sony WH-1000XM5
Conclusion
There is no wrong answer here. Focus on the features you will use daily and pick the model that aligns with them.
Bottom line: The Bose QuietComfort Headphones 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 Bose QuietComfort Headphones?
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones is the better choice if you prioritize market-leading active noise cancellation (anc). Bose QuietComfort Headphones wins if you value legendary comfort (low clamping force, deep ear pads). 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 Bose QuietComfort Headphones?
Key differences: Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones offers market-leading active noise cancellation (anc), while Bose QuietComfort Headphones stands out with legendary comfort (low clamping force, deep ear pads). Consider that Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones non-foldable design reduces portability. Meanwhile, Bose QuietComfort Headphones no wear sensors (music does not auto-pause when taken off). 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.
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