Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones vs Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023)
In the battle between the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones and the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023), the Sony headphones take the lead thanks to their industry-leading active noise cancellation (ANC) that blows away the competition. With an impressive 30-hour battery life, they offer a luxurious listening experience that's hard to beat. If you prioritize long battery life and a microphone that delivers near-broadcast clarity, the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) shines with its 70-hour battery. This headset is perfect for gamers who want to avoid frequent charging and enjoy crystal-clear communication during intense sessions, making it a compelling choice for a different use case in 2026.
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Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones
Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023)
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 Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023)
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones
Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023)
| Criterion | Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones | Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.2(18,670)Amazon | ★4(11,865)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed, dynamic) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.2 + 3.5mm (stereo mini jack) | 2.4 GHz HyperSpeed (USB-A dongle) + Bluetooth 5.2 + USB-C (Wired Audio & Charging) |
Bluetooth Version | 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.2 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC | AAC, SBC |
ANC | Yes (Industry-leading Active Noise Cancellation) | No (Passive noise isolation via memory foam seals) |
Transparency | Yes (Ambient Sound Mode) | No |
Drivers | 30 mm (1.18") precision-engineered driver unit | Razer TriForce Titanium 50 mm Drivers |
Frequency Response | 4 Hz–40,000 Hz (Wired) / 20 Hz–40,000 Hz (LDAC) | 12 Hz – 28,000 Hz |
Microphones | 8 total (4 per earcup for NC and calls) | Detachable Razer HyperClear Super Wideband Mic (32 kHz sampling rate) |
Battery Life | Up to 30 hrs (NC on) / Up to 40 hrs (NC off) | Up to 70 hours (2.4 GHz wireless) |
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; ~4 hours full charge; 15 min rapid charge = 6 hours playback |
Multipoint | Yes (Connect 2 devices simultaneously) | Yes (SmartSwitch Dual Wireless: Toggles between 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth) |
Low Latency Mode | No dedicated mode (Connection priority via app) | Yes (via 2.4 GHz HyperSpeed dongle) |
Wired Mode | Yes (3.5mm cable included) | Yes (USB-C to USB-A cable for digital audio + charging; NO 3.5mm jack) |
Water Resistance | None (No IP rating) | None (No IP rating) |
Weight | 250 g (approx.) | 11.3 oz (320 g) |
Controls | Touch sensor (right cup) + Physical buttons (power/NC) | Physical knobs/buttons (Volume knob, Mic mute, Power, SmartSwitch/EQ button) |
App Eq | Sony Headphones Connect (5-band EQ + Clear Bass) | Razer Synapse (PC); On-headset eSports FPS Profiles (Apex, CoD, CS:GO, Valorant) |
Extras | Speak-to-Chat, DSEE Extreme, 360 Reality Audio, Auto NC Optimizer | THX Spatial Audio (Windows only); Breathable FlowKnit memory foam cushions; USB extender cable included |
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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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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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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 Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023). That said, grab the BlackShark if you need a headset for gaming with an extraordinary 70-hour battery life - it eliminates the hassle of charging.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones if: you want top-notch noise cancellation, need clear call quality with 8 microphones, or prioritize comfort for long listening sessions.
Choose the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) if: you require a headset for gaming with extreme battery life, want a high-quality microphone for streaming, or prefer a more budget-friendly option. (11.29 oz weight)
Conclusion
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones and Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) are both solid choices. Match the strengths above to your budget and workflow to make the best call.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones excels if you value market-leading active noise cancellation (anc). Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) is better if you prioritize hyperclear super wideband mic delivers near-broadcast vocal clarity (best-in-class for wireless). 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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