Sony WH-1000XM5 Review: Still Worth It in 2025?
Excellent noise cancelling and sound quality, but hinge issues and new competition raise questions
At a Glance
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The Bottom Line
The Sony WH-1000XM5 remains one of the best noise-cancelling headphones you can buy, delivering excellent sound quality, industry-leading active noise cancellation, and impressive battery life. However, widespread reports of hinge failures and strong competition from newer models like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra make them a tougher recommendation in 2025.
If you can find them on sale for under $300 and don't mind the durability concerns, they're still an excellent choice for frequent travelers and commuters. But if you're looking for maximum reliability or the latest features, consider the newer Sony WH-1000XM6 or Bose alternatives.
⚠️ Important Quality Control Warning
Multiple sources report widespread hinge failures affecting the Sony WH-1000XM5. A Reddit poll found that 36 out of 175 users experienced identical hinge breaks, often during normal use. Sony's repair cost of $370 is close to the original price, making this a significant concern for potential buyers.
What the Reviews Say
Strengths and Weaknesses
What We Love
- Industry-leading noise cancellation with 8 microphones
- Excellent sound quality with wide soundstage
- Lightweight design (250g) for all-day comfort
- 30-hour battery life with quick charging
- Crystal clear call quality with beamforming mics
- Comprehensive Sony app with EQ customization
- LDAC support for high-res audio
- Multipoint Bluetooth connectivity
What Concerns Us
- Widespread hinge failure reports across multiple sources
- No longer foldable, less travel-friendly than XM4
- Requires EQ adjustment for optimal sound
- No USB-C audio support
- Expensive repair costs ($370 for hinge replacement)
- Competition from newer models offers better value
- Touch controls can be finicky
- Glossy surfaces show fingerprints easily
How They Compare in 2025
| Model | Price | ANC Quality | Sound | Durability | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sony WH-1000XM5 | $299 (Amazon) | Excellent | Very Good | ⚠️ Concerns | Lightweight design |
| Sony WH-1000XM6 | $399 | Excellent | Excellent | Improved | Auracast support |
| Bose QuietComfort Ultra | $429 | Best-in-class | Very Good | Good | Superior ANC |
| Sennheiser Momentum 4 | $299 | Good | Excellent | Good | 60-hour battery |
Who Should Buy Them
✅ Good for:
- Budget-conscious buyers who can find them on sale under $300
- Frequent travelers who prioritize noise cancellation and comfort
- Office workers needing all-day comfort and call quality
- Sony ecosystem users who prefer familiar app integration
- Gentle users who take excellent care of their equipment
❌ Consider alternatives if:
- Durability is your top priority - hinge issues are well-documented
- You want the latest features - XM6 offers improvements
- Maximum ANC performance matters - Bose QuietComfort Ultra leads
- You prefer folding headphones - XM4 or competitors offer this
- You're rough with electronics - these require careful handling
Our Verdict
The Sony WH-1000XM5 remains a technically excellent pair of headphones that delivers on its promises of superior noise cancellation, comfort, and sound quality. However, the documented hinge durability issues represent a significant flaw that potential buyers must consider.
At current sale prices around $300, they offer good value for the performance delivered. But we recommend the newer Sony WH-1000XM6 or Bose QuietComfort Ultra for buyers who want maximum reliability and the latest features.
"These headphones show Sony's engineering prowess but also highlight the importance of build quality in premium products. Great sound and features can't overcome fundamental design flaws." - ReviewFinderPro Editorial Team
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