Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones vs Soundcore Space Q45
The Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones is the flagship option here, delivering top-tier active noise cancellation and superior call quality with its 8-microphone system. In real-world use, you’ll get up to 30 hours of battery life with noise cancellation on, which is solid but falls short compared to the Soundcore Space Q45. If battery life is your priority, the Soundcore Space Q45 crushes it with an impressive 50 hours of use with ANC active. Plus, it supports Hi-Res Audio Wireless and is lighter, weighing in at 10.3 oz compared to the 8.82 oz of the Sony. This means you can enjoy longer listening sessions without fatigue, which is a game changer for travelers or long commutes in 2026. Key specs: Weight: 8.82 oz vs 10.30 oz and Battery: 50h (ANC on) vs 30h (ANC on).
Why compare these? The Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones (premium flagship) and Soundcore Space Q45 (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.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Sony WH-1000XM5 | Soundcore Space |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | 4.2★ (18,670 reviews) | ✓4.3★ (12,933 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Market-leading active noise cancellation (ANC) | Exceptional battery life (50H ANC / 65H Standard) |
| Main Drawback | Non-foldable design reduces portability | No IP water-resistance rating |
| 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 Q45
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.
Expand
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 Q45
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones
Soundcore Space Q45
| Criterion | Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones | Soundcore Space Q45 |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.2(18,670)Amazon | ★4.3(12,933)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 Active Noise Cancelling (3-stage system) |
Transparency | Yes (Ambient Sound Mode) | Yes (Talk-through, Custom, and Ambient modes via app) |
Drivers | 30 mm (1.18") precision-engineered driver unit | 40mm double-layer diaphragm drivers (Metal-Ceramic) |
Frequency Response | 4 Hz–40,000 Hz (Wired) / 20 Hz–40,000 Hz (LDAC) | 20 Hz – 40 kHz |
Microphones | 8 total (4 per earcup for NC and calls) | 2 mics with AI algorithm (calls) / Hybrid ANC array |
Battery Life | Up to 30 hrs (NC on) / Up to 40 hrs (NC off) | 50 hours (ANC On) / 65 hours (ANC Off) |
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 charge = 4 hours playback; Full charge ~2 hours |
Multipoint | Yes (Connect 2 devices simultaneously) | Yes (Connect 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 cable included) |
Water Resistance | None (No IP rating) | None (No IP rating) |
Weight | 250 g (approx.) | 10.3 oz (292 g) |
Controls | Touch sensor (right cup) + Physical buttons (power/NC) | Physical buttons + Soundcore app |
App Eq | Sony Headphones Connect (5-band EQ + Clear Bass) | Soundcore App (HearID Sound 2.0 + Custom EQ) |
Extras | Speak-to-Chat, DSEE Extreme, 360 Reality Audio, Auto NC Optimizer | Travel case included; Hi-Res Audio Wireless certified; NFC pairing |
| Pros |
|
|
| Cons |
|
|
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. | Check Price on Amazon→ | Check Price on Amazon→ |
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 Q45
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.3 + 3.5mm AUX (wired)
5.3
SBC, AAC, LDAC
Adaptive Active Noise Cancelling (3-stage system)
Yes (Talk-through, Custom, and Ambient modes via app)
Pros
- Exceptional battery life (50H ANC / 65H Standard)
- Hi-Res Audio Wireless certification with LDAC support
Cons
- No IP water-resistance rating
- Lacks on-ear detection (auto-pause/play)
Which one is better?
The Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones is the better buy for most people - its 8-microphone system crushes the Soundcore Space Q45. That said, grab the Soundcore Space Q45 if you need the longer battery life of 50 hours with ANC on - it's a no-brainer for those who listen all day.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones if: you need top-tier noise cancellation, you make a lot of calls, or you want premium sound quality. (8.82 oz weight)
Choose the Soundcore Space Q45 if: you want exceptional battery life for long trips, you prefer a design, or you’re looking to save some money. (10.30 oz weight)
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.3★ 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 Q45 leads with a 4.3★ 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 Q45?
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones is the better choice if you prioritize market-leading active noise cancellation (anc). Soundcore Space Q45 wins if you value exceptional battery life (50h anc / 65h standard). Both are rated highly (4.2★ vs 4.3★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones and Soundcore Space Q45?
Key differences: Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones offers market-leading active noise cancellation (anc), while Soundcore Space Q45 stands out with exceptional battery life (50h anc / 65h standard). Consider that Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones non-foldable design reduces portability. Meanwhile, Soundcore Space Q45 no ip water-resistance rating. 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.
Affiliate disclosure
PageBen uses Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This supports independent content for US shoppers.