When it comes to premium wireless headphones, Sony continues to set the standard with its innovative audio solutions. Today, we pit two of its standout offerings against each other: the Sony ULT Wear Wireless Over Ear Noise Cancelling Headphones and the flagship Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Over Ear Noise Cancelling Headphones. Both are stellar choices, but they cater to slightly different audiences. Whether you’re a bass enthusiast or a dedicated audiophile, this guide will help you decide which model suits your needs best.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Sony ULT Wear | Sony WH-1000XM5 |
|---|---|---|
| Price (NZD) | $399.00 (incl. GST) | $599.00 (incl. GST) |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.2 | 5.2 |
| Noise Cancelling | Yes | Yes |
| Battery Life (ANC On/Off) | 30 hours / 50 hours | 30 hours / 40 hours |
| Weight | 255g | 250g |
| Colors Available | Black, Forest Grey, Off White | Black, Silver |
| Portability (Fully Foldable) | Yes | No |
Both headphones share several key features, such as Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity and active noise cancelling (ANC), but their differences lie in performance, design, and target audience. Let’s dive deeper into what makes each model shine.
Design and Build Quality
Sony headphones are known for their clean, minimalist design, and both models stay true to this aesthetic. With smooth, oval-shaped earcups and soft memory foam ear pads, they’re built for comfort and style. The ULT's are just slightly bulkier.
Sony ULT Wear
The Sony ULT Wear prioritizes portability with its foldable design, making it ideal for commuters or travelers. It features a shiny Sony logo on the headband for a touch of style. While lightweight at 255g, it’s slightly heavier than the Sony WH-1000XM5.
Sony WH-1000XM5
The Sony WH-1000XM5, on the other hand, has a sleeker and more sophisticated build. It’s crafted with premium materials that enhance durability without adding extra weight. At just 250g, it’s one of the lightest headphones in its class. However, it sacrifices portability as the earcups do not fold, though a sturdy carrying case is included for protection.
CL Verdict: Draw
While the Sony ULT Wear’s foldable design is more convenient for travel, the Sony WH-1000XM5’s premium feel and stylish build make it a standout choice for users who value sophistication, both are excellent options.
Comfort for Long Listening Sessions
Sony ULT Wear
The extra 5g weight of the Sony ULT Wear might seem negligible, but it can become noticeable during prolonged use. Additionally, its snug fit may lead to some heat buildup over extended sessions.
Sony WH-1000XM5
Thanks to its lighter frame and ergonomically optimized design, the Sony WH-1000XM5 feels virtually weightless on your head. This makes it the better option for marathon listening sessions, whether you're working or enjoying a long-haul flight.
CL Verdict: Sony WH-1000XM5
Sound Quality
Sony WH-1000XM5: Premium Sound
The Sony WH-1000XM5 is a masterclass in sound engineering. Featuring Sony’s DSEE Extreme engine, it upscales compressed tracks to near high-resolution quality. The audio is crystal clear, with a balanced profile that delivers tight, punchy bass, clear mids, and sparkling highs. Whether you’re listening to a podcast or a classical symphony, the WH-1000XM5 ensures a detailed, immersive experience.
Sony ULT Wear: Built for Bass Lovers
The Sony ULT Wear, with its bass-forward profile, is a treat for fans of EDM, hip-hop, and other bass heavy genres. However, its focus on low-end frequencies can sometimes overpower mids and highs, leading to a less refined listening experience. It also features a unique bass toggle button, allowing users to switch between standard, power bass, and deep bass modes. While this adds versatility, the boosted bass can feel exaggerated in some cases, and may mask mid-range details on certain tracks.
CL Verdict: Sony WH-1000XM5
Its balanced and nuanced sound profile makes it the superior choice for music lovers seeking versatility across genres.
Noise Cancelling and Features
Both headphones are equipped with Sony’s V1 Processor, which powers their active noise cancelling capabilities. While the ULT Wear performs admirably, the WH-1000XM5 sets the standard with industry leading noise isolation. Whether you’re in a noisy café or on a bustling plane, the XM5 delivers unparalleled quiet.
Unique Features
- Sony WH-1000XM5: Features like Speak-to-Chat (which pauses music when you talk), on-head detection, and multipoint connectivity make it a tech-lover’s dream.
- Sony ULT Wear: Its standout feature is the bass adjustment button, catering to users who love tweaking their audio experience.
CL Verdict: Sony WH-1000XM5
Advanced noise cancelling and smart features make it the go-to choice for those who value convenience and cutting-edge tech.
Battery Life
Battery performance is a critical factor when choosing headphones, and both models impress in this area.
- Sony ULT Wear: Offers up to 50 hours of playback without ANC and 30 hours with ANC enabled, making it a long lasting companion for extended trips.
- Sony WH-1000XM5: Delivers 40 hours without ANC and 30 hours with ANC, which is more than sufficient for most users.
CL Verdict: Sony ULT Wear
The extended playback time without ANC gives it a slight edge for users prioritizing battery life.
Portability
The Sony ULT Wear’s foldable design gives it a significant advantage for users who need to stash their headphones in a bag. The Sony WH-1000XM5’s carrying case is protective but bulkier.
CL Verdict: Sony ULT Wear
Value
When comparing price to performance:
- The Sony ULT Wear shines as an affordable mid-range option without compromising on essential features. At $399 at the time of writing, it offers excellent noise cancellation, impressive battery life, and a fun, bass-heavy sound profile. Its foldable design further enhances its value for travelers or students on a budget.
- The Sony WH-1000XM5, priced at $599 at the time of writing, delivers a premium listening experience with superior sound quality, advanced features, and class-leading noise cancelling.
CL Verdict: It Depends
- For value-conscious buyers or those looking for great performance at a lower price point, the Sony ULT Wear offers fantastic bang for your buck.
- For users willing to invest in cutting edge audio technology and premium features, the Sony WH-1000XM5 justifies its higher cost.
Who Should Choose What?
-
Sony ULT Wear ($399):
- Best for: Bass enthusiasts and budget-conscious users.
- Why buy: Offers great value, extended battery life, and a travel-friendly design.
- Ideal for: Casual listeners, commuters, and younger audiences seeking a fun sound signature.
-
Sony WH-1000XM5 ($599):
- Best for: Audiophiles and tech enthusiasts.
- Why buy: Superior sound quality, advanced features, and premium noise cancelling.
- Ideal for: Professionals, frequent travelers, and anyone who demands top-tier performance.
Final Thoughts
Both the Sony ULT Wear and Sony WH-1000XM5 are exceptional headphones, but they cater to different needs. If you’re looking for an affordable, bass heavy option with excellent battery life, the ULT Wear is your go to choice. For those willing to invest in superior audio quality, comfort, and features, the WH-1000XM5 is unmatched.
Explore these headphones and more at Computer Lounge. Whether you prioritize value or top-tier performance, Sony’s lineup has something for everyone.
