Sony WH-1000XM5 vs Sony WH-1000XM6

The WH-1000XM5 is the safer buy for most people: it folds flat, has a proven eight-mic noise cancelling setup, and a large base of owner reviews to check. The WH-1000XM6 is the newer model with a folding hinge, a lighter build and a longer rated battery, but it has far fewer owner reports to judge reliability. Pick the XM5 for a known quantity; pick the XM6 if you want the newer design and folding portability.

• Choose the WH-1000XM5 if you want a well-reviewed, proven noise cancelling headphone with a large pool of owner feedback and a 3.5 mm cable in the box.
• Choose the WH-1000XM6 if you want the newer Sony design with a folding hinge, a lighter body and a longer rated battery life.