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Sony WF-1000XM5 vs Apple AirPods Pro (3rd generation)

The Sony WF-1000XM5 is the better pick for Android users and anyone who wants high-resolution audio, LDAC, and a choice of voice assistants. The AirPods Pro 3rd generation is the better pick for iPhone owners, with tighter iOS integration, a stronger IP57 dust and water rating, and a UWB case for finding it. Both deliver strong active noise cancellation and up to 8 hours of playback. Owner feedback on the Sony is mixed on fit and bass, so try the ear tips before committing.

  • Choose the Sony WF-1000XM5 if you use Android, want LDAC and 360 Reality Audio, or want Google Assistant, Alexa and Siri on one pair.
  • Choose the Apple AirPods Pro (3rd generation) if you use an iPhone and want IP57 durability, hands-free Siri, and a case you can locate precisely.

Prices

  • Sony WF-1000XM5: $144.12 at Reebelo USA (checked today)
  • Apple AirPods Pro (3rd generation): $80.00 at eBay (checked today)
  • Difference: the Apple AirPods Pro (3rd generation) is $64.12 cheaper than the Sony WF-1000XM5 today
Sony
Sony WF-1000XM5

Sony WF-1000XM5

3.8(370 ratings)
$144.12at Reebelo USAChecked 15 h ago
See all prices and details
Visit Reebelo USA
Pros
  • LDAC and 360 Reality Audio support
  • Strong active noise cancellation with dual processors
  • Works with Google Assistant, Alexa and Siri
  • Multipoint pairing for two devices
  • IPX4 splash resistance
Cons
  • Owners report loose fit and earbuds falling out
  • Some reviewers find bass weak and sound unsatisfying
  • Only IPX4, no dust rating
  • App setup is involved for full features
Apple
Apple AirPods Pro (3rd generation)

Apple AirPods Pro (3rd generation)

$80.00at eBayChecked 51 min ago
See all prices and details
Visit eBay

Store links may earn us a commission.

Pros
  • IP57 dust and water resistance
  • Tight integration with iPhone, iPad and Mac
  • Precise case finding with the Ultra Wideband chip
  • Hands-free Siri
  • Up to 8 hours of playback
Cons
  • No LDAC or other high-resolution codec
  • Full features depend on Apple devices
  • White only
  • Fewer third-party assistant options

What separates them

Sony WF-1000XM5Apple AirPods Pro (3rd generation)
Best ecosystemWorks fully on Android and iOS through the Sony Headphone Connect appDeepest features on iPhone, iPad and Mac
Water and dust ratingIPX4, splash resistant onlyIP57, dust tight and survives submersion
High-resolution codecsLDAC, LC3, AAC and SBCAAC and SBC over Bluetooth
Voice assistantsGoogle Assistant, Amazon Alexa and SiriSiri, with hands-free activation
Battery with caseUp to 8 hours per charge, about 24 hours total with the caseUp to 8 hours per charge, with a USB-C case
Fit and tipsFour ear tip sizes, but some owners report a loose fit and stiff tipsSilicone tips in multiple sizes, generally reported as secure
Find my caseNo precise case locatingSecond-generation Ultra Wideband chip for precise finding
ControlsTouch controls for volume and play/pauseStem press and swipe controls

Price history

$199.99$129.99
Oct 27Nov 10
  • Sony WF-1000XM5: lowest $129.99 on Nov 5 at Walmart; $144.12 on Nov 10.
  • Apple AirPods Pro (3rd generation): lowest $199.00 on Oct 30 at Amazon; $199.00 on Nov 10.

Prices at every store

Sony WF-1000XM5

  • eBayNew

    In stockSold by adrockcarter (100% positive, 38 ratings)Returns: Set by the eBay seller; the eBay Money Back Guarantee covers an item that doesn't arrive or isn't as described.

    $180.00+ $5.58 shippingChecked 15 h ago
    Visit eBay
  • Swiftronics USANew

    In stock

    $189.99+ $14.99 shippingChecked 15 h ago
    Visit Swiftronics USA
  • Reebelo USANew

    Availability unknown

    $144.12Checked 15 h ago
    Visit Reebelo USA
  • Microless.comNew

    Availability unknownShips from abroad · duties may apply

    $193.42Checked Nov 3
    Visit Microless.com

Also available at

  • eBayCheck price at eBay
  • WalmartCheck price at Walmart

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All 33 stores and price history →

Apple AirPods Pro (3rd generation)

  • Best BuyNew

    In stock

    $239.00Free shippingChecked 57 min ago
    Visit Best Buy
  • eBayNew

    Availability unknownSold by kozmarket (0% positive, 0 ratings)Returns: Set by the eBay seller; the eBay Money Back Guarantee covers an item that doesn't arrive or isn't as described.

    $80.00+ $10.05 shippingChecked 51 min ago
    Visit eBay
  • eBayPre-owned

    Availability unknownSold by rich_759109 (0% positive, 0 ratings)Returns: Set by the eBay seller; the eBay Money Back Guarantee covers an item that doesn't arrive or isn't as described.

    $90.00+ $5.86 shippingChecked 51 min ago
    Visit eBay
  • AmazonNew

    Availability unknown

    As an Amazon Associate, Deal.ai earns from qualifying purchases.

    $199.00Free shippingChecked 23 h ago
    Visit Amazon

Store links may earn us a commission. Some prices via Klarna.

All 3 stores and price history →

Specs compared

SpecSony WF-1000XM5Apple AirPods Pro (3rd generation)
ColorBlack, Smoky PinkWhite
ConnectivityWirelessBluetooth, Proprietary, USB-C
Wireless TechnologyBluetoothBluetooth
Impedance48 ohms16 ohm
Noise CancelingYes—
With MicrophoneYes—
With Charging CaseYes—
With Touch ControlsYes—
StyleIn-ear—
Wireless TypeBluetooth—
UseSports—
Assistant SupportGoogle Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Siri—
Show all 40 specsShow fewer specs
SpecSony WF-1000XM5Apple AirPods Pro (3rd generation)
Height2.1″ tall—
Width3.3″ wide—
Depth3.8″ deep—
shapeNew ( 90 Day Warranty )—
size1—
actual_colorSilver—
Water-ResistantYes—
Water ResistanceIPX4—
Stated Battery LifeUp to 8 hours/ 24 hours with the case—
WirelessYes—

What reviewers say

Sony WF-1000XM5

  • 3.8 / 5370 ratings

Reviewers are split. Many praise the audio quality, noise cancelling and foam ear tips, and call it a clear upgrade over the previous model; others find the sound disappointing, the fit loose and the earbuds inferior to other Sony models.

What people mention
  • Sound qualityMixedSome call the audio excellent, while others say it is not clear or satisfying and the bass is weak.
  • Noise cancellingMixedMany rate it industry-leading, but some say the LinkBuds S cancels more noise.
  • FitCriticisedOwners report a loose fit and earbuds falling out, though the foam tips help some.
  • ComfortMixedSome find them comfortable for long wear; others say they are less comfortable than the LinkBuds S.
Reviews
  • The Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones for 2026
  • Best Headphones We've Tested - CNET
  • The Best Wireless Headphones for 2026
  • Best Wireless Earbuds of 2026 - CNET
  • Best Travel Headphones for 2026 - CNET - - Weight
  • The Best Noise-Cancelling Wireless Earbuds for 2026

Questions and answers

Which is better for running and workouts?
The AirPods Pro 3rd generation. Its IP57 rating handles sweat, dust and brief submersion, while the Sony is only IPX4. Some Sony owners also report the earbuds working loose during movement.
Which has better noise cancellation?
Both are strong. The Sony uses two dedicated processors and is widely rated among the best in its class. The AirPods Pro rely on the H2 chip and adapt well to changing surroundings. Try both if cancellation is your top priority.
Do the Sony earbuds work with an iPhone?
Yes, through Bluetooth and the Sony Headphone Connect app. You lose LDAC and some Apple-specific conveniences, but noise cancellation, touch controls and assistant support still work.
Which lasts longer on a charge?
They are close. Both are rated up to 8 hours of playback per charge. Total time with the case favors the Sony at roughly 24 hours.
Is the step up to the AirPods Pro worth it for an iPhone owner?
Yes, if you value dust and water protection, hands-free Siri and precise case finding. The Sony makes more sense if you want LDAC or switch between Android and iOS.
Which fits more securely?
The AirPods Pro are generally reported as more secure. The Sony includes four tip sizes, but a share of owners say the fit is loose and the tips are stiff.

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MicrophoneYes—
BluetoothYes—
Battery Time (in use) (h)12.0—
NFCNo—
Frequency Response (min) (Hz)20.0—
Buttons & ControlsVolume, Play/Pause—
Weight (oz)1.8—
Voice AssistantGoogle Assistant, Amazon Alexa—
FoldableNo—
Type of HeadphoneIn-Ear—
Manufacturer ColorBlack—
Speaker Configuration2.0 (stereo)—
IP-ClassIPX4—
Construction & ElementsDynamic—
Detachable CableNo—
Battery Time with Noise Cancelling (h)8.0—
Frequency Response (max) (Hz)20000.0—
Bluetooth CodecLDAC, SBC, LC3, AAC—
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