Sony WH-1000XM5 Reviews: Where Every Penny is Worth

For RM1799, the packaging for the Sony WH-1000XM5 Smoky Pink headphones offers an eco-friendly, recycled design that reflects Sony’s commitment to sustainability. Upon opening the box, you’re immediately greeted by the chic Smoky Pink carrying case, setting the tone for the wow factor that follows. As you unzip the case, the all-pink headphones are neatly nestled inside, creating excitement even before you put them on.

Inside the case, you’ll find a small compartment that holds two essential cables: one is an audio cable for wired listening, and the other is a USB-C charging cable to keep your headphones powered up. 

Pairing the headphones with your iOS or Android device is quick and seamless. Simply press and hold the power button for 2 seconds, activate Bluetooth on your smartphone, and the headphones will automatically pair, saving the device name for future connections.

For an enhanced listening experience, download the Sony Headphones Connect app. From there, you can personalize audio settings, adjust noise-canceling levels, and fine-tune the sound according to your preferences.

Stylish Smoky Pink Design

Sony’s Smoky Pink design is a bold, new color choice that brings a fresh, modern vibe to the WH-1000XM5 series. As the first unique color introduced by Sony, this soft, muted pink offers more versatility than typical vibrant shades. Despite being labeled as “Pink,” the Smoky Pink tone easily complements a wide range of outfits, making it ideal not just for gym wear, but also for casual and even formal attire.

The WH-1000XM5 goes beyond being just a high-performance audio device—it’s also a statement fashion accessory. Whether you’re dressing up for a business meeting, relaxing in casual wear, or hitting the gym, the Smoky Pink headphones add a stylish edge. Plus, their photogenic look makes them perfect for sharing on Instagram and social media, letting you showcase your sense of style and taste in premium audio gear.

High-Quality Audio

To fully enjoy the sound quality of the 1000XM5, start by downloading the “Sony Headphones Connect” app. This app allows you to customize your listening experience with various settings, including Ambient Sound Control, device settings, and an Equalizer. Through the Equalizer, you can fine-tune your audio to enjoy deep bass, clear midranges, and crisp highs, allowing you to make every track sound exactly how you like it.

The 1000XM5 also features Sony’s proprietary DSEE Extreme (Digital Sound Enhancement Engine) technology. This AI-powered function enhances compressed audio files by accurately reproducing the frequency responses lost during compression. It restores the sound to its original quality, ensuring you hear music the way it was meant to be heard.

To understand the difference DSEE Extreme makes, try comparing it with the feature on and off. You’ll particularly notice its impact on female vocals, tambourines, high hats, and brass instruments. With DSEE Extreme enabled the notes become more crisp and clear, especially in soundtracks like those by Enya or Enigma, where high-pitched female vocals stand out. It can feel as though you’re sitting in a live concert, but all that depth and clarity are coming straight from your 1000XM5 headphones.

Comfort and Lightweight Design

At first glance, the 1000XM5 headphones might seem a bit large, but their design serves a purpose—to effectively seal out air and noise, allowing you to immerse yourself in your music without interruptions. One key feature is the well-padded cushions that surround the ear cups. These cushions ensure long-lasting comfort, so you can enjoy extended listening sessions without any discomfort or distractions.

Despite weighing 250g, the XM5 headphones feel surprisingly lightweight when worn. Whether you’re walking briskly, jogging, or even moving your head quickly, the headphones stay securely in place, providing a snug fit that doesn’t shift or slip. 

These headphones are also perfect for reading, studying, or writing in crowded places. They help you focus by canceling out the surrounding noise, allowing you to concentrate on your work or enjoy your favorite music in peace.

Battery Life and Quick Charging 

What I love about Sony headphones is the worry-free battery life. With up to 30 hours of playtime on a single charge, I can enjoy uninterrupted music throughout the day. Whether I’m working at a café or on the go, I don’t need to constantly think about recharging. The long battery life means I can keep the headphones on until my work is finished without any interruptions.

As for charging, it’s impressively fast. With just a quick 3-minute charge, you get up to 3 hours of playback time, which is perfect for those moments when you’re in a rush and need a quick boost. Fully charging the headphones takes around 3.5 hours, ensuring they’re ready for another full day of use. This fast-charging feature is incredibly convenient, especially for those with busy schedules, making sure you can always count on your headphones when you need them most.

Intelligent Features

Yes, the Sony 1000XM5 headphones come equipped with advanced voice control features, making them incredibly user-friendly. They are compatible with popular voice assistants like Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and Siri, allowing you to control your headphones with simple voice commands. With voice control, you can effortlessly manage your music, ask for information, check the weather, set reminders, and even control smart home devices—all without lifting a finger. Whether you’re on the go, busy with tasks, or simply want to keep your hands free, voice control adds a layer of convenience to your daily routine.

Another standout feature is Sony’s Speak-to-Chat technology. This intelligent function automatically pauses your music when you start speaking, allowing you to have conversations without needing to remove your headphones or press any buttons. Once you’re done speaking, the headphones will resume playing your music after a short pause. This feature is particularly useful in social settings or work environments, where you might need to quickly talk to someone or take a call without manually stopping your music. It’s an intuitive solution that enhances both convenience and seamless interaction with your surroundings, making the 1000XM5 headphones perfect for multitasking or staying engaged while listening to your favorite tunes.

Eco-Friendly Packaging

Sony is deeply committed to sustainability and one way they demonstrate this is through eco-friendly packaging for their products, including the 1000XM5 headphones. The packaging is made from recyclable and sustainable materials, reflecting Sony’s efforts to reduce their environmental footprint. By using less plastic and more paper-based materials, Sony aims to minimize waste and contribute to a greener planet. 

This commitment to sustainability is appealing to environmentally conscious consumers who want to make more responsible choices without compromising on quality. With Sony, you’re not just investing in premium technology, but also supporting a brand that prioritizes the health of the environment. Through these initiatives, Sony is setting an example for eco-friendly practices in the tech industry, making it easier for customers to enjoy innovative products while being mindful of the planet.

Should you purchase Sony 1000XM5 Headphones?

The Sony 1000XM5 headphones offer a perfect blend of style, performance, and smart technology, making them an exceptional choice for anyone who values both aesthetics and superior sound quality. The Smoky Pink model, in particular, stands out with its sleek, fashionable design, appealing to those who want their headphones to complement their style. Whether you’re a fashion-forward individual looking for an accessory that makes a statement or an audiophile who prioritizes immersive sound, these headphones have something for everyone.

Beyond the elegant design, the 1000XM5 delivers unparalleled audio performance with industry-leading noise cancellation, crystal-clear sound, and intelligent features like voice control and adaptive sound settings. This combination ensures that every listening experience is tailored to your preferences, whether you’re relaxing at home, commuting, or working in a noisy environment.

On top of that, their lightweight build and long-lasting battery life make them practical for all-day use, while the eco-friendly packaging aligns with Sony’s commitment to sustainability. For those seeking a balance between fashion, technology, and environmental consciousness, the 1000XM5 Smoky Pink headphones are a perfect choice—delivering both style and substance without compromise.