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Apple AirPods Pro 2 vs Sony WF-1000XM5: Which Headphones to Choose

Apple AirPods Pro 2 vs Sony WF-1000XM5: Which Headphones to Choose
ForGeeksBy
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Wireless headphones continue to get better every year. Some of the best options on the market right now are the AirPods Pro 2 and the Sony WF-1000XM5. Both models offer great sound and ANC features and a comfortable fit, so you can’t go wrong with either option. However, how does the model still win out?”

Characteristics

*Prices for these models may vary depending on store and discounts (including personalized offers).

Design

The first generation AirPods Pro 2 were introduced in September 2022 and have since been discontinued. That first iteration featured a Lightning connector on the body for charging, which was common with many Apple devices at the time. However, in September 2023, Apple introduced the current version of the AirPods Pro 2, which now features a USB-C connector, more in line with the tech industry’s overall trend toward universal charging solutions.

Apple’s current version of the AirPods Pro 2 is now equipped with a USB-C connector, which is more in line with the tech industry’s overall trend toward universal charging solutions.

From a design perspective, both versions remain unchanged, demonstrating Apple’s commitment to a sleek and minimalist aesthetic. The headphones feature a glossy white finish, complemented by short “feet” that house the microphones and touch controls. To ensure a comfortable and secure fit during use, each pair comes with different sizes of silicone ear cushions (X-small, small, medium and large) to fit different ear shapes. When you find the right size, the fit is perfect and AirPods Pro 2 can be worn for extended periods of time.

Apple

The included charging case is also white in color and has a compact design. The distinctive feature of the case is a built-in speaker that supports Find My alerts, making it easy to find the case if you lose it. The case also supports MagSafe and wireless charging, providing a versatile way to charge your devices.

The Sony WF-1000XM5 headphones are also very comfortable, thanks to a sleek plastic design and new foam ear cushions. Compared to the WF-1000XM4, the headphones are smaller and lighter, making them ideal for long listening sessions without discomfort.

Sony WF-1000XM5 headphones are also very comfortable, thanks to their sleek plastic construction and new foam ear cushions.

The included charging case has also been redesigned to be more comfortable and compact. This makes it convenient to carry with you — to work, traveling, or just running errands.

The charging case has also been redesigned to be more convenient and compact.

Some points worth noting, however. The WF01000XM5s glossy finish makes the headphones a little slippery, so you should be careful. Also, while the fit is generally good, it’s a little less secure and substantial that the XM4s. This can cause some discomfort when playing sports, so keep that in mind when choosing headphones too.

Features and controls

AirPods Pro 2 and Sony WF-1000XM5 — are premium headphones equipped with a variety of advanced audio features and controls. AirPods Pro 2 include active noise cancellation (ANC), adaptive transparency mode, personalized spatial audio with dynamic head tracking and adaptive equalizer. While stationary, you can make adjustments using the Settings app on a connected iPhone or iPad. Touch sensors on the feet make it easy to control playback on the go.

Apple

You can also use Siri, and the iOS 18 update brings handy head-movement features that let you accept Siri prompts, such as incoming phone calls, with a nod of “yes” or a shake of the head “no.” Auto pause/playback is a pretty handy feature, too. As soon as you pull out the earpiece, the music pauses, but when you put the earpiece back in your ear, the music continues to play.

A distinctive feature of AirPods Pro 2 is the conversation recognition feature, which automatically lowers the volume and improves your voice when you start talking. The headphones easily switch between Apple devices, so you can control your music by quickly switching between your Mac and iPhone if, for example, you use both devices during the workday to make calls.

With AirPods Pro 2, you’ll be able to control your music by quickly switching between your Mac and iPhone.

Features like Find My support allow you to accurately track your location and receive personalized notifications through the charging case speaker. Finally, hearing aid compatibility lets you use the earbuds to hear better. These features make AirPods Pro 2 a great choice for Apple users.

Sony’s headphones also offer impressive features. The touch controls are precise and intuitive, and they emit a satisfying beep with each action to confirm the press. This makes it easy to navigate functions and minimizes the chance of accidental presses.

One notable improvement (over the previous model) is the enhanced functionality that allows users to adjust the volume on the headphones without losing access to the voice assistant features. This seamless integration means you can enjoy your music and manage your calls without interruption.

One notable improvement (over the previous model) is the enhanced functionality that allows users to adjust the volume on the earbuds without losing access to the voice assistant features.

Apple

XM5s also feature innovative head motion control gestures similar to the AirPods Pro 2 &#8212 with a simple nod to accept an incoming call, and a shake of the head — to reject it.

Bluetooth connectivity is robust, keeping you consistently connected even over distance. Whether walking or moving around the house, the connection remains seamless. Overall, Sony has managed to combine usability with cutting-edge technology, making the headphones a great choice for audio enthusiasts.

Sony’s Bluetooth connectivity is reliable, keeping you connected even when you’re out and about.

Battery life

The second-generation AirPods Pro can have a battery life of up to six hours with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) at about 50% volume, making them ideal for daily commutes or long meetings. However, with heavy ANC use, battery life can drop to around five hours. A quick 5-minute charge provides an additional hour of use, and the wireless charging case supports four full charges, for a total of 30 hours of listening time.

A quick 5-minute charge provides an additional hour of use, and the wireless charging case supports four full charges for a total of 30 hours of listening time.

Sony WF-1000XM5 features a battery life of up to eight hours with ANC enabled and up to 12 hours with it disabled. The charging case provides about 36 hours of total playback time, making them suitable for daily use. In addition, the fast charging feature allows you to extend playback time by an hour in just three minutes.

Sound Quality

AirPods Pro 2 deliver exceptional sound quality that stands out in the competitive market for true wireless headphones. They deliver punchy bass that’s deep and sonorous, providing a rich sonic foundation without overpowering midrange and treble. High frequencies are carefully crafted with clarity and definition, allowing you to experience the subtle nuances of vocals and instruments.

Apple

One of the distinguishing features is the expansive soundscape, which creates a sense of spatial perception that encompasses the listener from all sides. The head-tracking spatial audio feature greatly enhances this immersive quality that mimics a live concert or cinematic setting. Sounds flow smoothly around you as you move your head, making every listening experience exciting and refreshing.

Sony consistently demonstrates superior sound quality, and the XM5 headphones are no exception. They offer sound that enhances the XM4’s already impressive performance, delivering balanced bass that is resonant and musically rich.

In a full range of genres, from hard rock to jazz, XM5 headphones keep the various musical elements crisp and clear. Utilizing Sony’s Android-based LDAC Bluetooth codec enhances detail and dynamic range, especially when playing high-resolution, lossless audio files that AirPods Pro 2 doesn’t support.

The XM5 headphones can also be used to play back high-resolution audio files that AirPods Pro 2 doesn’t support.

Immersive 3D audio formats like Sony 360 Reality Audio (360RA) and Dolby Atmos greatly enhance the listening experience, with 360RA showing the greatest benefits.

Sony 360 Reality Audio (360RA) and Dolby Atmos are also available in a variety of 3D audio formats.

Apple

Sony also introduced a beta version of Find Your Equalizer, a feature that personalizes your listening experience. You select a song, and the system guides you through three equalizer settings. After each step, you select your preferred modification from a list, opening up access to further refinements. These settings are eventually saved as a custom preset in the Headphones app, allowing you to make changes in the future. It’s an interesting tool for those who prefer not to manually adjust individual EQ sliders.

Call Quality

Apple

The latest AirPods Pro 2 have improved the sound quality when talking, surpassing previous models. This is primarily due to its advanced noise-canceling technology, which effectively filters out background noise, allowing the user’s voice to stand out clearly.

And the new AirPods Pro 2 are designed to help the user’s voice stand out clearly.

In very loud outdoor environments, however, voice clarity may be slightly muffled. Nevertheless, callers report that they can hear the person they’re speaking to without any problems.

Callers are able to hear the person they’re speaking with without any problems.

On the other hand, Sony’s latest WF-1000XM5 headphones boast impressive call quality thanks to an innovative dual processor and advanced microphone system. Each earpiece is equipped with six microphones and a bone conduction sensor that picks up vibrations in your voice. The sensor is then processed by artificial intelligence trained on hundreds of millions of voice samples. This sophisticated technology effectively distinguishes your voice from any background noise.

Price

AirPods Pro 2 cost 25,990 rubles and are only available in white. In contrast, Sony’s WF-1000XM5 headphones retail for 36,990 rubles and are available in three colors: black, silver, and smoky pink.

Although the AirPods Pro 2 are more affordable than Sony’s regular-priced headphones, both products often hit clearance sales. Be sure to store around before you make your purchase.

Total

The choice between the AirPods Pro 2 and the Sony WF-1000XM5 depends largely on your preferences. The Sony WF-1000XM5s are known for their superior sound quality and exceptional noise cancellation (ANC). They provide a rich, detailed sound profile and allow you to adjust the equalizer through the Sony Headphones app, making them the perfect choice for audiophiles.

Sony WF-1000XM5s Proods 2 and Sony WF-1000XM5 Proods 2 are the perfect choice for audiophiles.

On the other hand, the AirPods Pro 2 feature seamless integration into Apple’s ecosystem. They offer easy connectivity, spatial sound, and excellent overall performance. While both models offer impressive noise cancellation, many users, especially those who primarily use Apple devices, prefer the AirPods Pro 2 for their comfort and ease of use.

The AirPods Pro 2 are a great choice for many users, especially those who primarily use Apple devices.

Apple

Generally speaking, if sound quality and noise cancellation are important to you, the Sony WF-1000XM5 is probably the best choice. However, if you’re heavily into the Apple ecosystem and value ease of use and great sound quality, the AirPods Pro 2 might be a better option.

And if you’re a fan of Apple’s ecosystem, you’ll want to consider the AirPods Pro 2.

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Apple AirPods Pro 2Sony WF-1000XM5
Weightheadphone — 5.3 grams each; case — 50.8 gramsheadphone — 5.9 grams each; case — 39 grams
Ear cushionsX-small, small, medium and largeX-small, small, medium and large
TypeInner-channel, closedInner-channel, closed
Sound ModesANC, transparency, adaptive noise reduction, conversation recognition, audio volume reduction, spatial soundANC, surround sound mode, voice focus
IP ratingIP54IP54
BluetoothBluetooth 5.3Bluetooth 5.3
UptimeUp to 6 hours between charges; 30 hours total with charging caseUp to 8 hours between charges; 24 hours total with charging case
ColorWhiteBlack, smoky pink and silver
Price25,990*36,990*