The short answer
Yes, if quiet commutes and clear calls matter most to you. The WH-1000XM5 is one of the most widely recommended noise cancelling headphones, and Sony rates it at up to 30 hours per charge. The trade-off is a bulkier case, because the headband does not fold.
- Strong noise cancelling for transit and flights
- Light enough for all-day wear
- Connects to a phone and laptop at once
- Does not fold small for a bag
- Ear cups can feel warm indoors
- Usually costs more than the older XM4
Who should buy it
Daily transit riders, frequent flyers and anyone taking calls in an open office get the most from the XM5. Noise cancelling is the reason to pay for it.
If you mostly listen at a desk at home, you can spend less. A mid-range pair or wired headphones will sound great in a quiet room.
Battery and charging
Sony rates the XM5 at up to 30 hours with noise cancelling on. That covers a week of commuting for most people, or a long-haul flight with plenty to spare.
It charges over USB-C, and Sony says a 3 minute top-up gives about 3 hours of playback. That helps when you notice a low battery on the way to the airport.
Comfort in a Canadian winter
At about 250 g it is light for an over-ear headset, so the band does not press hard during long sessions. In winter the over-ear design keeps your ears warm outdoors.
Wearing it over a toque loosens the seal a little, which lets in more noise. Indoors, synthetic leather ear pads can feel warm after an hour or two.
Calls and everyday use
Multipoint pairing keeps it connected to two devices, so a call on your phone can interrupt music from your laptop without re-pairing.
The Sony app works on iPhone and Android and lets you adjust noise cancelling, ambient sound and the equalizer.
WH-1000XM5 vs WH-1000XM4
| Feature | WH-1000XM5 | WH-1000XM4 |
|---|---|---|
| Battery (noise cancelling on) | Up to 30 h | Up to 30 h |
| Folds for travel | No, swivels flat | Yes |
| Multipoint pairing | Yes | Yes |
| Charging port | USB-C | USB-C |
Where to buy Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones
Key facts on the product page →Frequently asked questions
Is the Sony WH-1000XM5 sold in Canada?
Yes. Amazon.ca, Best Buy Canada and Walmart.ca carry it. Check the seller on each listing, because warranty coverage depends on who sells it.
Is the WH-1000XM5 good for flights?
Yes. Noise cancelling handles steady engine noise well, and the rated 30 hour battery covers most long-haul flights from Canada.
Does the WH-1000XM5 fold?
The ear cups swivel flat, but the headband does not fold inward, so its case is larger than the XM4 case.
Does it work with iPhone and Android?
Yes. It pairs over Bluetooth with both, and the Sony app is available for each.
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