Apple AirPods 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation) vs Sony WH-1000XM5
Apple AirPods 4 with ANC deliver impressive noise cancellation in a lightweight, open-fit design ideal for all-day wear and Apple ecosystem users. Sony WH-1000XM5 over-ears offer industry-leading ANC, superior 30-hour battery life, and lossless LDAC codec support for audiophiles willing to invest significantly more. Sound quality favors Sony's larger drivers and extensive codec support, while Apple excels in comfort and portability at half the price. Choose AirPods 4 for casual listening and iPhone integration; select WH-1000XM5 if you prioritize premium audio quality, extended battery, and multipoint connectivity across devices. Sony justifies its $220 premium for serious listeners, but AirPods 4 represent exceptional value for mainstream consumers.
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple AirPods 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation) | Sony WH-1000XM5 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 4.3 g (per bud) | 250 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 5 hrs buds (ANC on), up to 30 hrs total with case | 30 hours ANC on |
| Charging | USB-C, Qi wireless, Apple Watch charger | USB-C, 3 min = 3 hours quick charge |
| Drivers | Custom Apple low-distortion driver with high-dynamic-range amplifier | 30mm dynamic carbon fiber composite |
| Features | Active Noise Cancellation in an open-fit (non-tip) design, Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness, Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking, H2 chip, Find My (case speaker, no Precision Finding U1), Voice Isolation for calls | Industry-leading ANC, Speak-to-Chat, Adaptive Sound Control, Multipoint pairing, DSEE Extreme upscaling |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | SBC, AAC, LDAC |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.2 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IP54 (buds and case) | None |
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple AirPods 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation)
Pros
- First open-fit AirPods with active noise cancellation
- Much more comfortable than Pro for users who dislike silicone tips
- Smaller, lighter case with USB-C and wireless charging
- Adaptive Audio, Spatial Audio, and Conversation Awareness
- Cheaper than AirPods Pro 2
Cons
- ANC is weaker than tip-sealed earbuds like AirPods Pro 2
- No swappable ear tips means fit may not suit everyone
- AAC only — no hi-res or lossless codecs
- No Precision Finding (no U1 chip in case)
- No wireless charging on the cheaper non-ANC variant (this model has it)
Sony WH-1000XM5
Pros
- Class-leading active noise cancellation
- Excellent call quality with beamforming mics
- Lightweight, comfortable for long sessions
- LDAC hi-res Bluetooth support
Cons
- No longer folds flat for travel
- No IP rating against sweat or rain
- Expensive at launch
- Mediocre wired/USB audio quality
Related Comparisons
Explore more in headphones, see all Apple products or all Sony products. View full details for the Apple AirPods 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation) or the Sony WH-1000XM5.