Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones vs Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
You'll want the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones for superior noise cancellation and call quality. With industry-leading active noise cancellation and 30 hours of battery life, it's a no-brainer for frequent travelers or commuters. The Focal Bathys Hi-Fi shines with its USB-DAC mode delivering uncompressed 24-bit/192kHz audio, perfect for audiophiles. However, its heavier build at 12.3 oz might not suit everyone, especially if you're looking for portability in 2026.
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Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
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 Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
| Criterion | Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones | Focal Bathys Hi-Fi |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.2(18,670)Amazon | ★4.2(465)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed, dynamic) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.2 + 3.5mm (stereo mini jack) | Bluetooth 5.1 + USB-C DAC (Digital) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog) |
Bluetooth Version | 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.1 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC | SBC, AAC, aptX™, aptX™ Adaptive |
ANC | Yes (Industry-leading Active Noise Cancellation) | Yes (2 modes: 'Silent' for high noise, 'Soft' for focus) |
Transparency | Yes (Ambient Sound Mode) | Yes (Transparency Mode) |
Drivers | 30 mm (1.18") precision-engineered driver unit | 40mm Aluminum-Magnesium 'M'-shaped Dome Drivers (Made in France) |
Frequency Response | 4 Hz–40,000 Hz (Wired) / 20 Hz–40,000 Hz (LDAC) | 15 Hz – 22,000 Hz |
Microphones | 8 total (4 per earcup for NC and calls) | 8 Microphones total (Clear Voice Capture technology) |
Battery Life | Up to 30 hrs (NC on) / Up to 40 hrs (NC off) | 30 hours (Bluetooth + ANC) / 35 hours (3.5mm Jack) / 42 hours (USB-DAC) |
Battery Life | N/A (Headphones only) | N/A (No charging case) |
Charging | USB-C; ~3.5 hrs full charge; 3 min = 3 hrs playback (PD) | USB-C Fast Charge; 15 min charge = 5 hours playback |
Multipoint | Yes (Connect 2 devices simultaneously) | Yes (Simultaneous connection to 2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | No dedicated mode (Connection priority via app) | Yes (via aptX™ Adaptive) |
Wired Mode | Yes (3.5mm cable included) | Yes (USB-DAC mode supports 24-bit/192kHz; 3.5mm analog cable included) |
Water Resistance | None (No IP rating) | No (No IP rating) |
Weight | 250 g (approx.) | 12.3 oz (350 g) |
Controls | Touch sensor (right cup) + Physical buttons (power/NC) | Physical Buttons (Volume, Pairing, ANC mode, Voice Assistant) |
App Eq | Sony Headphones Connect (5-band EQ + Clear Bass) | Focal & Naim App (5-band EQ + Mimi Sound Personalization) |
Extras | Speak-to-Chat, DSEE Extreme, 360 Reality Audio, Auto NC Optimizer | Illuminated Focal flame logo (dimmable); Rigid carrying case; Mimi Hearing Test support |
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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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Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
✓ Pros:
- • USB-DAC mode delivers uncompressed 24-bit/192kHz audio directly from a computer or phone
- • Aluminum/Magnesium drivers provide audiophile-level detail and dynamic range
- • Mimi Sound Personalization adapts the audio profile to your specific hearing health
- • Premium construction with real leather, aluminum, and magnesium materials
- • Solid battery life across all modes, especially when using the internal DAC (42 hours)
✗ Cons:
- • Heavier (12.3 oz) and bulkier than mainstream competitors like Bose or Sony
- • No official water resistance rating (IP) requires care during use
- • High price point targets a niche audiophile audience rather than general consumers
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Which one is better?
The Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones is the better buy for most people - its market-leading active noise cancellation crushes the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi. That said, grab the Focal Bathys if you prioritize audiophile sound quality and need 42 hours of battery life - it's worth the extra weight.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones if: you want top-notch noise cancellation, need excellent call quality for work, or prefer lightweight comfort for long listening sessions. (8.82 oz weight)
Choose the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi if: you crave audiophile-grade sound quality, want uncompressed audio streaming, or appreciate a robust build with premium materials. (12.35 oz weight)
Conclusion
We hope this comparison helps you buy with confidence. Both products are dependable; the right one depends on how you will use it.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones excels if you value market-leading active noise cancellation (anc). Focal Bathys Hi-Fi is better if you prioritize usb-dac mode delivers uncompressed 24-bit/192khz audio directly from a computer or phone. 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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