Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones vs Soundcore Space One
The Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones stands out as the flagship option, boasting an notable 30-hour battery life with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) on. In contrast, the Soundcore Space One offers a whopping 55 hours without ANC, making it a strong contender for those who prioritize battery longevity. In real-world use, the WH-1000XM5's eight microphone system delivers exceptional call quality, while the Space One's three mics still provide clarity. If you need top-notch noise cancellation and sound quality, the Sony is worth the investment, especially for frequent travelers and professionals. Key specs: Weight: 8.82 oz vs 9.35 oz and Battery: 30h vs 55h (ANC Off).
Why compare these? The Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones (premium flagship) and Soundcore Space One (mid-range) 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 | Soundcore Space |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | 4.2★ (18,670 reviews) | ✓4.4★ (12,971 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Market-leading active noise cancellation (ANC) | LDAC codec support for Hi-Res Wireless Audio |
| Main Drawback | Non-foldable design reduces portability | Build quality feels plasticky compared to premium models |
| Market Position | ✓Flagship | Mid-range |
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones
Over-ear (closed, dynamic)
Bluetooth 5.2 + 3.5mm (stereo mini jack)
5.2
SBC, AAC, LDAC
Soundcore Space One
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.3 + 3.5mm AUX (wired)
5.3
SBC, AAC, LDAC
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 Soundcore Space One
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones
Soundcore Space One
| Criterion | Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones | Soundcore Space One |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.2(18,670)Amazon | ★4.4(12,971)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed, dynamic) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.2 + 3.5mm (stereo mini jack) | Bluetooth 5.3 + 3.5mm AUX (wired) |
Bluetooth Version | 5.2 | 5.3 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC | SBC, AAC, LDAC |
ANC | Yes (Industry-leading Active Noise Cancellation) | Adaptive ANC (Reduces noise by up to 98%) |
Transparency | Yes (Ambient Sound Mode) | Yes (Transparency mode; 5 adjustable levels) |
Drivers | 30 mm (1.18") precision-engineered driver unit | 40 mm dynamic drivers |
Frequency Response | 4 Hz–40,000 Hz (Wired) / 20 Hz–40,000 Hz (LDAC) | 20 Hz – 40 kHz (Hi-Res Audio wired/LDAC) |
Microphones | 8 total (4 per earcup for NC and calls) | 3 mics with AI algorithm (for clear calls) |
Battery Life | Up to 30 hrs (NC on) / Up to 40 hrs (NC off) | 55H (ANC Off) / 40H (ANC On) |
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; 5 min = 4 hrs (Normal mode); Full charge ~2 hrs |
Multipoint | Yes (Connect 2 devices simultaneously) | Yes (Connect to 2 devices simultaneously) |
Low Latency Mode | No dedicated mode (Connection priority via app) | No (Not supported) |
Wired Mode | Yes (3.5mm cable included) | Yes (3.5mm AUX; Bluetooth disabled in wired mode) |
Water Resistance | None (No IP rating) | No (Not waterproof/sweatproof) |
Weight | 250 g (approx.) | 9.35 oz (265 g) |
Controls | Touch sensor (right cup) + Physical buttons (power/NC) | Physical buttons (Power, Volume +/-, NC) + soundcore app |
App Eq | Sony Headphones Connect (5-band EQ + Clear Bass) | soundcore app (HearID EQ, Custom EQ, Presets) |
Extras | Speak-to-Chat, DSEE Extreme, 360 Reality Audio, Auto NC Optimizer | Travel pouch; wear detection (auto-pause); Google Fast Pair |
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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
Soundcore Space One
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.3 + 3.5mm AUX (wired)
5.3
SBC, AAC, LDAC
Adaptive ANC (Reduces noise by up to 98%)
Yes (Transparency mode; 5 adjustable levels)
Pros
- LDAC codec support for Hi-Res Wireless Audio
- Effective Adaptive ANC at a mid-range price point
Cons
- Build quality feels plasticky compared to premium models
- No dedicated low-latency/gaming mode
Which one is better?
The Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones is the better buy for most people - its 30-hour battery with ANC crushes the Soundcore Space One's 40 hours with ANC on.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones if: you prioritize the best noise cancellation, want superior call quality with 8 mics, or enjoy a premium sound experience.
Choose the Soundcore Space One if: you need ultra-long battery life for a weekend trip, prefer a lower price point, or value a design for portability. (9.35 oz weight)
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.4★ vs 4.2★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Soundcore Space
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 Soundcore Space
Market-leading active noise Priority
Market-leading active noise cancellation (ANC)
→ Choose Sony WH-1000XM5
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 Soundcore Space One leads with a 4.4★ 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 Soundcore Space One?
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones is the better choice if you prioritize market-leading active noise cancellation (anc). Soundcore Space One wins if you value ldac codec support for hi-res wireless audio. Both are rated highly (4.2★ vs 4.4★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones and Soundcore Space One?
Key differences: Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones offers market-leading active noise cancellation (anc), while Soundcore Space One stands out with ldac codec support for hi-res wireless audio. Consider that Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones non-foldable design reduces portability. Meanwhile, Soundcore Space One build quality feels plasticky compared to premium 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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