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Sony noise cancelling headphones, ranked.
The Sony WF-1000XM5 is the Sony to beat.
The verdict in 10 seconds
Best all-rounder
Sony WF-1000XM5Superb sound and strong quiet, as long as they fit youSuits you if
- You commute or fly often and want the drone of engines and traffic quieted
- Sound quality matters most to you and you like adjusting the sound in an app
- You use an Android phone and switch between two devices
Most dependable
Sony WH-1000XM6Superb noise cancelling and rich sound, with a snug fit and premium priceSuits you if
- You commute or fly often and want the world to go quiet
- You take lots of calls from noisy places
- You like fine-tuning your sound and settings in an app
Easiest to live with
Sony WH-1000XM5Superb noise cancelling and sound, with comfort and durability caveatsSuits you if
- You commute or fly often and want serious quiet
- You take lots of calls, even in noisy places
- You switch between a phone and a laptop all day
The short version
Sony is about level with the other brands we cover for noise cancelling headphones. Its best is the Sony WF-1000XM5, which suits you if you commute or fly often and want the drone of engines and traffic quieted.
We researched 34 expert reviews, analyzed 56,122 owner ratings and comments across 21 sources for every Sony model we cover, and cross-checked them into one verdict, so you don't have to.
See the evidence
Sony in numbersAverage score 77 · experts 88 · owners 72 · reliability 68
Averages across the 3 Sony models we've scored. Other brands: 76.
Quick answers
Is Sony a good noise cancelling headphones brand?
It's a solid choice, about level with the other big names.
Based on: Sony averages 77 across 3 models; other brands average 76.Which Sony noise cancelling headphones is the best?
The Sony WF-1000XM5. It suits you if you commute or fly often and want the drone of engines and traffic quieted.
Based on: Highest Product Review score among Sony models (79).Which Sony noise cancelling headphones is the most reliable?
The Sony WF-1000XM5. It's the least likely to give you trouble.
Based on: Reliability 81; problems mentioned by 8% of owners.What is the best alternative to Sony?
The Apple AirPods Pro 3 from Apple. It suits you if you use an iPhone and other Apple devices.
Based on: Highest-scoring model from another brand (82).