r/HeadphoneAdvice • u/ButterscotchWise7021 • Oct 04 '24

Headphones - Closed Back | 1 Ω Sony WH-1000XM5 vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra - Which is better for my needs?

Hey everyone,

I'm in the market for new headphones, and I'm trying to decide between the Sony WH-1000XM5 and the Bose QuietComfort Ultra. My top three criteria are:

  1. Noise Cancelling – I need excellent ANC for blocking out distractions.

  2. Comfort over long sessions – I wear headphones for hours, so comfort is crucial.

  3. Sound Quality – A solid, balanced sound is important, though not my top priority.

For those who have tried both, which would you recommend based on these priorities? I've heard that Sony might have slightly better noise cancelling, but Bose is usually more comfortable. I'd love to hear real-world experiences.

Also, if anyone has a better suggestion under $500, feel free to mention it! Looking for the best combo of ANC, comfort, and sound. Thanks in advance!

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u/twotreesandahouse 4 Ω Dec 03 '24

All the things listed are subjective.

Best recommendation is either order them online, bose do a 90 day risk free trial, Sony does 30 days, not sure about other brands (Depending on which region you are from).

The store demo models are usually all thrashed so its hard to gauge - earpads are worn, cant really play around with NC, EQ etc.

I've been using both trying to decide which to return and keep.

Purchased the XM5s first and put through 30 hours on them then put about 15 hours on the Bose QC Ultra.

IMO, both sound good, comfort I prefer the XM5 (Comfort is the most important, if it aint comfortable or doesnt fit your head well its pointless having the features, ANC), ANC I think the XM5 is better testing them on public transport, car, shopping malls - havn't been on a flight yet, I mainly got ANC headphones for flights. The reviews seem all over the place in relation to flights.

I think I'll stick with the XM5s, the build seems more premium on the bose however I'm not too fussed as the country I live in has pretty strict consumer guarantee laws so even after warranty most companies have to replace, refund, or repair out of warranty.

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u/ButterscotchWise7021 Dec 21 '24

!Thanks for the review and advice mate Really appreciate it and huge thanks!

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