Both Amazon and Best Buy have slashed the price of the latest-generation Sony WH-1000XM5 wireless over-ear noise-canceling headphones to $298, a 25% savings from the original $400 MSRP. The WH-1000XM5 is considered by many to be the best noise-canceling headphones under $400 (and we agree), better than the Bose QuietComfort and Beats Studio Pro. It’s also a significant improvement in noise-canceling performance over the WH-1000XM4, which it replaces.

Sony WH-1000XM5 noise cancelling headphones for $298

Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones

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The previous generation Sony WH-1000XM4 was already an excellent pair of headphones, but the XM5 can be improved on in several ways. The most noticeable upgrade is noise cancellation. The XM5 has been equipped with a second processor and twice the number of microphones to filter out ambient noise. The ear cups have also been redesigned to fit better against the ear, creating a better seal and more effective passive noise isolation.

The Sony WH-1000XM5 has also been redesigned and now looks much more elegant. Comfort has also been improved. The headband is wider to better distribute weight and apply less pressure. The earcup padding is made of a luxurious synthetic leather material that is softer and more comfortable (and, as mentioned above, seals better). These headphones can easily be worn for hours. One small downside, however, is that the XM5 no longer folds inwards, but only pivots, making it less compact.

The Sony WH-1000XM5 maintains the legendary battery life of the XM4, over 30 hours on a single charge, even with ANC enabled. And if that’s not enough, the XM5 supports fast charging via USB Type-C. 3 minutes of charging is enough for 3 hours of playtime.

I own a pair of these headphones as well as the Bose QuietComfort 35 and while both are excellent headphones, the Sony ones look, sound and feel better. For a hands-on test, check out our Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones review. Tester Kevin Lee pointed out that these are “without a doubt the headphones with the best sound and most impressive noise cancellation.”

Looking for more options? Check out the best noise cancelling headphones of 2024.