Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones vs Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless
The Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones is the premium option here, boasting superior call quality with 8 microphones compared to the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless's 4 microphones. In real-world use, this means clearer conversations and better noise cancellation, which can make a huge difference during calls or in noisy environments, especially since the WH-1000XM5 features top-tier active noise cancellation. However, if you're someone who values battery life, the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless really shines with a class-leading 60-hour battery life with ANC on. That's nearly double what the Sony offers, making it perfect for long trips or daily commuting without worrying about charging constantly. In 2026, choosing the right headphones can elevate your listening experience significantly, so let's break down the key differences. Key specs: Battery: 1200 mAh vs 700 mAh and Weight: 8.82 oz vs 10.34 oz.
Why compare these? Both the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones and Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless 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.
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Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Sony WH-1000XM5 | Sennheiser MOMENTUM |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | ✓4.2★ (18,670 reviews) | 4.1★ (9,318 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Market-leading active noise cancellation (ANC) | Class-leading 60-hour battery life (even with ANC on) |
| Main Drawback | Non-foldable design reduces portability | ANC is great, but slightly behind Sony/Bose top-tier models |
| 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
Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless
Over-ear
Bluetooth, USB-C (audio + charging), 2.5mm to 3.5mm analog cable
Bluetooth 5.2
SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX Adaptive
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 Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones
Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless
| Criterion | Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones | Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.2(18,670)Amazon | ★4.1(9,318)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed, dynamic) | Over-ear |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.2 + 3.5mm (stereo mini jack) | Bluetooth, USB-C (audio + charging), 2.5mm to 3.5mm analog cable |
Bluetooth Version | 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.2 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX Adaptive |
ANC | Yes (Industry-leading Active Noise Cancellation) | Yes (Hybrid Adaptive ANC) |
Transparency | Yes (Ambient Sound Mode) | Yes (Transparency Mode / Adjustable) |
Drivers | 30 mm (1.18") precision-engineered driver unit | 42 mm dynamic transducer |
Frequency Response | 4 Hz–40,000 Hz (Wired) / 20 Hz–40,000 Hz (LDAC) | 6 Hz – 22 kHz |
Microphones | 8 total (4 per earcup for NC and calls) | 4 digital beamforming microphones (2 per side) |
Battery Life | Up to 30 hrs (NC on) / Up to 40 hrs (NC off) | Up to 60 hrs (Bluetooth with ANC on) |
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; 5 min charge = 4 hrs play; approx 2 hrs for full charge |
Multipoint | Yes (Connect 2 devices simultaneously) | Yes (2 devices simultaneously) |
Low Latency Mode | No dedicated mode (Connection priority via app) | Yes (via aptX Adaptive automatically) |
Wired Mode | Yes (3.5mm cable included) | Yes (USB-C digital audio + analog via included cable) |
Water Resistance | None (No IP rating) | None (IP rating not officially stated) |
Weight | 250 g (approx.) | 293 g |
Controls | Touch sensor (right cup) + Physical buttons (power/NC) | Touch pad (right earcup) + 1 physical power/pairing button |
App Eq | Sony Headphones Connect (5-band EQ + Clear Bass) | Sennheiser Smart Control (5-band EQ, Sound Personalization, Sound Zones) |
Extras | Speak-to-Chat, DSEE Extreme, 360 Reality Audio, Auto NC Optimizer | Smart Pause (wear detection); Auto On/Off; hard travel case; Sound Personalization test |
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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
Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless
Over-ear
Bluetooth, USB-C (audio + charging), 2.5mm to 3.5mm analog cable
Bluetooth 5.2
SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX Adaptive
Yes (Hybrid Adaptive ANC)
Yes (Transparency Mode / Adjustable)
Pros
- Class-leading 60-hour battery life (even with ANC on)
- Superb sound quality with aptX Adaptive support
Cons
- ANC is great, but slightly behind Sony/Bose top-tier models
- Design does not fold up compactly (only rotates flat)
Which one is better?
The Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones is the better buy for most people - its 8 microphones crushes the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless's 4, ensuring superior call quality. That said, grab the MOMENTUM 4 if you need outstanding battery life - it's 30 hours longer on a single charge.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones if: you prioritize call quality with 8 microphones, want top-tier noise cancellation, or enjoy touch controls for seamless usage.
Choose the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless if: you need up to 60 hours of battery life, want superb sound quality with aptX Adaptive support, or prefer a hard travel case for portability.
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.2★ vs 4.1★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Sony WH-1000XM5
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 18,670 reviews vs 9,318
→ Choose Sony WH-1000XM5
Market-leading active noise Priority
Market-leading active noise cancellation (ANC)
→ Choose Sony WH-1000XM5
Class-leading 60-hour battery Priority
Class-leading 60-hour battery life (even with ANC on)
→ Choose Sennheiser MOMENTUM
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 Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones edges ahead with a 4.2★ rating compared to 4.1★. However, Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless remains a strong contender if its strengths align better with your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones or Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless?
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones is the better choice if you prioritize market-leading active noise cancellation (anc). Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless wins if you value class-leading 60-hour battery life (even with anc on). Both are rated highly (4.2★ vs 4.1★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones and Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless?
Key differences: Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones offers market-leading active noise cancellation (anc), while Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless stands out with class-leading 60-hour battery life (even with anc on). Consider that Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones non-foldable design reduces portability. Meanwhile, Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless anc is great, but slightly behind sony/bose top-tier models. 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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