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Best alternatives to the Sony WF-1000XM5
The Sony WF-1000XM5 is already among the best we've found; the Apple AirPods Pro 3 comes closest.
The verdict in 10 seconds
Strongest all-rounder
Apple AirPods Pro 3Superb noise blocking and comfort, best enjoyed with an iPhoneSuits you if
- You use an iPhone and other Apple devices
- You commute, travel, or work somewhere loud and want real quiet
Most dependable
Soundcore Sleep A30Tiny, comfortable sleep earbuds that quiet snoring well, but priceySuits you if
- You sleep next to a snorer or a noisy pet
- You're a side sleeper who finds regular earbuds uncomfortable
Easiest to live with
Sennheiser Momentum 4 WirelessSuperb battery and comfort, rich sound, but noise cancelling isn't class-bestSuits you if
- You want long listening sessions and rarely want to think about charging
- You care most about rich, balanced sound you can tweak to taste
The short version
If the Sony WF-1000XM5 isn't quite right, start with the Apple AirPods Pro 3: it suits you if you use an iPhone and other Apple devices. The Sony WF-1000XM5 is still a great fit if you commute or fly often and want the drone of engines and traffic quieted.
We researched 142 expert reviews, analyzed 237,040 owner ratings and comments across 30 sources for 13 noise cancelling headphones, and cross-checked them into one verdict, so you don't have to.
Quick answers
What is the best alternative to the Sony WF-1000XM5?
The Apple AirPods Pro 3. It suits you if you use an iPhone and other Apple devices.
Based on: Product Review score 82 vs 79 for the Sony WF-1000XM5, across 12 alternatives.Is there a more reliable alternative to the Sony WF-1000XM5?
Not really. The Sony WF-1000XM5 is about as dependable as anything we cover.
Based on: Reliability 81 for the Soundcore Sleep A30 vs 81.What is the best alternative to the Sony WF-1000XM5 from another brand?
The Apple AirPods Pro 3. It suits you if you use an iPhone and other Apple devices.
Based on: Highest-scoring model not made by Sony (82).Is there a cheaper alternative to the Sony WF-1000XM5?
Yes, the Apple AirPods Pro 3. It usually costs less and suits you if you use an iPhone and other Apple devices.
Based on: Typical prices: Sony WF-1000XM5 $248–$330; Apple AirPods Pro 3 $179–$249.Every alternative, ranked
How each one compares with the Sony WF-1000XM5- 01
EXPOWNREL82Apple AirPods Pro 3
Superb noise blocking and comfort, best enjoyed with an iPhone
- 02
EXPOWNREL81Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds
Best-in-class quiet in a bulky earbud with only average battery life
Higher score (+2)Happier ownersExperts rate it higherSony WF-1000XM5 vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds → - 03
EXPOWNREL79Bose QuietComfort Headphones
Supremely comfortable everyday quiet, but calls and battery lag behind
Happier ownersSony WF-1000XM5 vs Bose QuietComfort Headphones → - 04
EXPOWNREL79Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro
Excellent sound and quiet, at their best with a Samsung phone
Happier ownersSony WF-1000XM5 vs Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro → - 05EXPOWNREL79
Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless
Superb battery and comfort, rich sound, but noise cancelling isn't class-best
- 06EXPOWNREL79
Soundcore Sleep A30
Tiny, comfortable sleep earbuds that quiet snoring well, but pricey
Happier ownersSony WF-1000XM5 vs Soundcore Sleep A30 → - 07
EXPOWNREL78Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Superb noise blocking and all-day comfort, at a premium price
Happier ownersSony WF-1000XM5 vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones → - 08
EXPOWNREL78Sony WH-1000XM6
Superb noise cancelling and rich sound, with a snug fit and premium price
- 09
EXPOWNREL75Sony WH-1000XM5
Superb noise cancelling and sound, with comfort and durability caveats
- 10
EXPOWNREL73Apple AirPods Max
Superb sound and quiet for Apple fans, if you can handle the weight
Happier ownersSony WF-1000XM5 vs Apple AirPods Max → - 11
EXPOWNREL68Sonos Ace
Supremely comfortable, strong noise cancelling, with some software quirks
Different trade-offsSony WF-1000XM5 vs Sonos Ace → - 12
EXPOWNREL65Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro
Strong noise cancelling and loads of features, but durability worries
Different trade-offsSony WF-1000XM5 vs Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro →