Headsets and headphones / Compare

Sony WH-1000XM5 vs Sony WH-1000XM6

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Product A: Sony

WH-1000XM5

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Product B: Sony

WH-1000XM6

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Every value links to where we found it.

Only differences

ASony WH-1000XM5

BSony WH-1000XM6

General

5 of 8 differ

Series

1000X4Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/headband-headphones/wh-1000xm5Read 5 October 2026Explore the 1000X series and maker launch release.

1000X3Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6Read 30 September 2026Sony's 1000X line

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

YY29541Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Guide cover explicitly identifies the regulatory model.

WH-1000XM6, YY29841Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Help Guide cover: WH-1000XM6, Model YY2984. Marketing and regulatory model identifiers both stored.

GTIN / EAN

Not available

Not available

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

12 May 20225Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2022-05-12-Sony-Electronics-Unveils-New-Immersive-Listening-Experience-with-Newest-Industry-leading-1-Noise-Canceling-WH-1000XM5-HeadphonesRead 5 October 2026Dated manufacturer announcement. Its May 20 pre-sale wording is not used as first retail proof.

15 May 20257Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2025-05-15-Sony-Introduces-the-Best-Noise-Cancellation-with-the-WH-1000XM6-HeadphonesRead 30 September 2026Launch release dated May 15, 2025.

Status

Not available

Available3Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6Read 30 September 2026Sold in the Sony Store Japan with same-day shipping on 2026-09-28

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Sony WH-1000XM415Reviewengadget.com/sony-wh-1000xm5-review-160045478.htmlRead 23 October 2026Engadget calls the WH-1000XM5 the follow-up to the WH-1000XM4.16Reviewnotebookcheck.net/Sony-WH-1000XM5-Revised-WH-1000X-headphones-arrive-nearing-the-US-400-mark-with-better-noise-cancellation-more-microphones-and-a-bulkier-design.619279.0.htmlRead 23 October 2026Notebookcheck calls the WH-1000XM5 the new generation of WH-1000X headphones and an upgrade over the WH-1000XM4.

Sony WH-1000XM54Reviewwhathifi.com/headphones/sony-wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026What Hi-Fi calls the WH-1000XM5 the previous flagship before the WH-1000XM6.

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Sony WH-1000XM617Reviewwhathifi.com/headphones/sony-wh-1000xm6Read 23 October 2026What Hi-Fi calls the WH-1000XM5 the previous flagship before the WH-1000XM6.

Not available

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

$399.995Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2022-05-12-Sony-Electronics-Unveils-New-Immersive-Listening-Experience-with-Newest-Industry-leading-1-Noise-Canceling-WH-1000XM5-HeadphonesRead 5 October 2026Pricing and availability: US MSRP 399.99.

$449.997Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2025-05-15-Sony-Introduces-the-Best-Noise-Cancellation-with-the-WH-1000XM6-HeadphonesRead 30 September 2026Pricing and availability: suggested retail price $449.99 USD.

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

Not available

€4508Press releasesony.eu/presscentre/sony-introduces-the-next-evolution-of-noise-cancelling-with-the-wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Pricing and availability: €450 suggested retail price.

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

Not available

Not available

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Black, Platinum Silver, Midnight Blue, Smoky Pink8Press releasesony.co.uk/presscentre/sonys-1000x-series-now-available-in-smoky-pinkRead 5 October 2026September 18, 2024 release explicitly distinguishes WH headphones from WF earbuds. WH has Black, Platinum Silver, Midnight Blue and newly available Smoky Pink.

Black, Platinum Silver, Midnight Blue, Sandstone3Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6Read 30 September 2026Japan page lists (B) Black, (S) Platinum Silver, (L) Midnight Blue, (T) Sandstone. English names as in Sony's global image assets. Sandstone is a 2026 addition

Segment

Music4Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/headband-headphones/wh-1000xm5Read 5 October 2026Maker music-listening headband headphone category.

Music3Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6Read 30 September 2026Listed under headphones, not under INZONE gaming headsets

Design

1 of 7 differ

Form factor

Over-ear3Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/support/wireless-headphones-bluetooth-headphones/wh-1000xm5/specificationsRead 5 October 2026Public indexed official specification cells. Direct CLI fetch returned 403 and browser direct fetch was intermittent. General features: wearing style Over Ear.

Over-ear6Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/sony/wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Public introductory product description: WH-1000XM6 over-ear headphones. Style SAMPLE Notes over-ear, not earbud.

Ear cup enclosureiClosed, open or semi-open acoustic enclosure. This does not describe how the headset folds.

Closed3Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/support/wireless-headphones-bluetooth-headphones/wh-1000xm5/specificationsRead 5 October 2026Public indexed official specification cells. Direct CLI fetch returned 403 and browser direct fetch was intermittent. Headphone type Closed, dynamic.

Closed2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6/spec.htmlRead 30 September 2026Type: 密閉 (closed)

Wearing style

Headband1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Parts and controls, pages 11-12, labels headband and left/right units.

Headband1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Parts list: headband with sliders on each side

FoldingiFlat means the ear cups rotate flat. Inward means the ear cups fold toward the headband.

Flat11Reviewwhathifi.com/headphones/wireless-headphones/quick-you-can-save-over-usd120-on-these-five-star-sony-headphones-in-this-limited-time-dealRead 8 October 2026Exact WH-1000XM5 reviewer describes cups folding flat into the carrying case, but not folding into a ball. Flat cup rotation only. This does not transfer the inward hinges of XM4 or XM6.

Flat and inward1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Putting the headset in the carrying case chapter: rotate left/right units, fold both units toward headband. Illustrations show flat and inward packing.

Swivelling ear cupsiEar cups can rotate relative to the headband. Tilting alone does not count.

Yes4Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/headband-headphones/wh-1000xm5Read 5 October 2026Noiseless design explicitly names seamless swivel.

Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Putting the headset in the carrying case chapter: rotate left/right units, fold both units toward headband. Illustrations show flat and inward packing.

RGB lighting

Not available

Not available

Lighting zonesiNumber of independently controllable lighting areas across both ear cups.

Not available

Not available

Drivers and sound

4 of 20 differ

Driver type

Dynamic3Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/support/wireless-headphones-bluetooth-headphones/wh-1000xm5/specificationsRead 5 October 2026Public indexed official specification cells. Direct CLI fetch returned 403 and browser direct fetch was intermittent. Headphone type Closed, dynamic.

Dynamic9Reviewavforums.com/products/headphones.32/sony-wh-1000xm6.17345/specsRead 30 September 2026Full specifications / Sony WH-1000XM6 Features / Driver Type: 30 mm Dynamic. Exact architecture explicitly named. Other review table values are not substituted for maker data.

Driver sizeiDiameter of the largest sound driver. Do not use the microphone capsule diameter.

30mm3Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/support/wireless-headphones-bluetooth-headphones/wh-1000xm5/specificationsRead 5 October 2026Public indexed official specification cells. Direct CLI fetch returned 403 and browser direct fetch was intermittent. Driver unit 30 mm.

30mm2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6/spec.htmlRead 30 September 2026Headphone specification / Driver Unit: 30 mm dome-type (CCAW voice coil). Dome does not explicitly classify driver architecture. The dynamic type comes from the AV Forums entry.

Drivers per sideiNumber of sound-producing transducers in one side, excluding microphones.

Not available

Not available

Diaphragm material

Not available

Carbon fibre composite4Reviewwhathifi.com/headphones/sony-wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Same carbon fibre composite material as the WH-1000XM58Press releasesony.eu/presscentre/sony-introduces-the-next-evolution-of-noise-cancelling-with-the-wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Driver dome uses high-rigidity carbon fibre composite.

Magnet

Neodymium3Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/support/wireless-headphones-bluetooth-headphones/wh-1000xm5/specificationsRead 5 October 2026Public indexed official specification cells. Direct CLI fetch returned 403 and browser direct fetch was intermittent. Magnet Neodymium.

neodymium2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6/spec.htmlRead 30 September 2026ネオジウム, translated

Frequency response (wired or passive)iPublished acoustic range for wired listening, or the maker’s single range when no mode is distinguished. Power state and test standard belong in the source note.

Min4 HzMax40 kHz2Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 143: 4 Hz to 40 kHz JEITA, cable connection with power on. Passive acoustic range is not separately proved.

Min4 HzMax40 kHz1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 20264 Hz - 40,000 Hz (IEC), headphone cable with the headset on

Wireless audio transmission bandiFrequency range of audio transmitted over the wireless connection, not the acoustic response of the driver. Codec, sampling rate and bitrate conditions belong in the source note. When the maker gives a range per codec, the widest range is stored and its codec goes in the source note.

Min20 HzMax40 kHz1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Specifications: A2DP transmission range at LDAC 96 kHz and 990 kbps. 44.1 kHz transmission is 20 Hz to 20 kHz. This is not acoustic driver response.

Min20 HzMax40 kHz1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026A2DP transmission range 20 Hz - 40,000 Hz with LDAC 96 kHz 990 kbps. 20 Hz - 20,000 Hz at 44.1 kHz

Impedance (passive when specified)iUse the headset-off value for a passive analog connection when the maker publishes both powered and passive values. Note the power state and test frequency.

16Ω2Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 143: cable connection with headset off, 16 ohms at 1 kHz. Powered impedance is 48 ohms.

16Ω2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6/spec.htmlRead 30 September 202616 ohm passive POWER OFF. 48 ohm at 1 kHz POWER ON.

Sensitivity (passive when specified)iUse the headset-off figure when both powered and passive values exist. The power or voltage reference, test distance and frequency belong in the source note.

100dB2Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 143: headset off, 100 dB/mW. Powered sensitivity is 102 dB/mW.

102dB2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6/spec.htmlRead 30 September 2026102 dB/mW passive POWER OFF. 103 dB/mW POWER ON.

Sensitivity referenceiPublished power or voltage reference for sensitivity. Do not assume 1 mW when the source gives only a dB value.

Per 1 mW2Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 143 explicitly publishes dB/mW.

Per 1 mW2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6/spec.htmlRead 30 September 2026Headphone specification / Sound Pressure Sensitivity: 102 dB/mW power off, 103 dB/mW power on. Stored passive per 1 mW reference.

THD (claimed)iPublished distortion figure or numerical upper bound. The source note states any less-than sign and test level.

Not available

Not available

Max input power

Not available

Not available

Max digital audio sample rateiHighest supported digital audio sample rate over a USB cable or wireless dongle. This is not the microphone rate or acoustic frequency response.

Not available

Not available

Max digital audio bit depthiHighest published digital playback bit depth over a USB cable or wireless dongle.

Not available

Not available

DAC

Not available

Not available

Personalised soundiA manufacturer-supported hearing test or ear scan creates a device sound profile tailored to the listener. Generic equalizer adjustments do not count.

Not available

Not available

Onboard EQiCustom playback EQ profiles stored in the headset and applied without the host app running. Note supported active connections. Receiver-only or software-only EQ does not count.

Yes7Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-wh-1000xm5-review-71783Read 5 October 2026App section explicitly says custom EQ saves directly to headset. Bluetooth active connection, not claimed for passive cable.

Yes11Reviewrtings.com/headphones/learn/how-to-eq-your-headphonesRead 8 October 2026Companion Apps section names WH-1000XM6 explicitly: equalizer settings remain active after disconnecting the app and connecting to another device. This establishes headphone memory, not only an app EQ control.

Custom EQ bandsiNumber of bands in the custom playback equalizer. Microphone EQ bands are excluded.

513Reviewandroidcentral.com/accessories/audio/headphones/sony-wh-1000xm5-reviewRead 8 October 2026Exact WH-1000XM5 review audio/app section explicitly describes a five-band custom equalizer. No preset count is inferred because named factory tunes are not individually enumerated.14Maker product pagesony.com/electronics/support/articles/00286844Read 8 October 2026Readable current maker general EQ guide names five frequency controls plus a separate Clear Bass control, and warns menus vary by model. Exact WH-1000XM5 five-band scope is established by the independent own-model Android Central review. Generic preset list is not transferred.

104Reviewwhathifi.com/headphones/sony-wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Ten-band equaliser5Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-wh-1000xm6-review-read-before-buying-137397Read 30 September 202610-band equalizer in the Sound Connect app

EQ presets

Not available

Not available

Volume limit

Not available

Not available

Spatial audio

1 of 3 differ

Spatial audio supportiNamed headset or host spatial-audio systems that the maker or reviewer explicitly supports. A platform feature may require compatible hardware, software or a separate licence.

360 Reality Audio2Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 107: app-supported 360 Reality Audio ear analysis and playback on supported services. Not a bundled paid licence.

360 Reality Audio, 360 Upmix for Cinema1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026360 Reality Audio / Head Tracking chapters: compatible 360 Reality Audio content/services and head tracking setup. 360 Upmix for Cinema settings chapter separately names cinema feature.

Spatial audio licence includediA paid spatial-audio licence is bundled or embedded. Compatibility with a separately purchased app does not count.

Not available

Not available

Head tracking

Yes7Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-wh-1000xm5-review-71783Read 5 October 2026App section: spatial audio head tracking after software update, Android 13 or later. Not original launch firmware.

Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026360 Reality Audio / Head Tracking chapters: compatible 360 Reality Audio content/services and head tracking setup. 360 Upmix for Cinema settings chapter separately names cinema feature.

Noise cancelling

2 of 10 differ

Active noise cancelling

Yes4Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/headband-headphones/wh-1000xm5Read 5 October 2026Advanced noise cancelling section.

Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Using the noise canceling function and Listening to ambient sound chapters: NC/AMB button cycles NC/Ambient Sound, customizable using Sound Connect.

ANC typeiFeedforward uses outside microphones. Feedback uses inside microphones. Hybrid uses both. Voice-call noise filtering is separate.

Hybrid4Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/headband-headphones/wh-1000xm5Read 5 October 2026Manual pages 11-12 identify both internal and external ANC microphones.

Not available

ANC microphonesiTotal microphones used for active playback noise cancellation across both sides. Do not substitute the total physical or voice microphone count.

84Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/headband-headphones/wh-1000xm5Read 5 October 2026Multi Noise Sensor technology: four per cup, eight controlled ANC microphones total.

124Reviewwhathifi.com/headphones/sony-wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 202612 mics in total, six per earcup: four outside, two inside7Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2025-05-15-Sony-Introduces-the-Best-Noise-Cancellation-with-the-WH-1000XM6-HeadphonesRead 30 September 2026QN3 optimizes 12 microphones in real time.

Adaptive ANCiNoise cancellation automatically changes with the environment or fit. Manually choosing a level does not count.

Yes4Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/headband-headphones/wh-1000xm5Read 5 October 2026Auto NC Optimizer adapts cancellation to fit and environment.

Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Auto NC Optimizer constantly optimizes noise canceling to the wearing condition and environment

ANC levelsiNumber of adjustable cancellation strength steps. Off and transparency modes are excluded.

Not available

Not available

ANC attenuation (claimed)

Not available

Not available

Transparency mode

Yes4Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/headband-headphones/wh-1000xm5Read 5 October 2026Speak-to-Chat and NC/AMB ambient playback sections.

Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Using the noise canceling function and Listening to ambient sound chapters: NC/AMB button cycles NC/Ambient Sound, customizable using Sound Connect.

Adjustable transparency

Yes4Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/headband-headphones/wh-1000xm5Read 5 October 2026Manual page 107 explicitly supports adjusting Ambient Sound Mode.

Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Ambient Sound Mode level is adjusted in the Sound Connect app (ambient sound control)

Conversation detectioniAudio pauses or lowers automatically when the wearer speaks. Voice assistant activation does not count.

Yes4Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/headband-headphones/wh-1000xm5Read 5 October 2026Speak-to-Chat: starts ambient mode and pauses music when the wearer speaks.

Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Speak-to-Chat

Wind noise reduction

Yes4Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/headband-headphones/wh-1000xm5Read 5 October 2026Advanced call quality: physical wind noise reduction structure around voice microphones.

Yes4Reviewwhathifi.com/headphones/sony-wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026The outer microphones are covered by a mesh redesigned to further reduce wind noise

Measured

6 of 21 differ

Frequency response notesiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Bass and treble are emphasized relative to the source target. The midrange from 300 Hz to 1050 Hz is lower.7Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-wh-1000xm5-review-71783Read 5 October 2026Objective measurement section uses B&K 5128 artificial head and source target. No numerical bass/treble error is inferred from the plot.

Warm tuning with very emphasized bass. Narrow dips in the mid and high treble. Minor left/right driver matching issues.6Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/sony/wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Public Audio Reproduction Accuracy: warm response, narrow mid/high treble dips, minor left/right matching issues. Public Sound Profile descriptors 5 dB/-1 dB separately noted.

Bass amountiReviewer’s bass deviation from its stated target. Positive is more bass. Target and test method belong in the source note.

Not available

5dB6Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/sony/wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Test bench 2.3. Very Emphasized (5 dB)

Treble amountiReviewer’s treble deviation from its stated target. Positive is more treble. Target and test method belong in the source note.

Not available

-1dB6Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/sony/wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Test bench 2.3. Balanced (-1 dB)

Deviation from targetiReviewer’s full-range error from its target curve. Do not substitute a regional bass or treble error.

Not available

Not available

Consistency between fittingsiReviewer’s standard deviation across repeated fittings. Test rig and fitting procedure belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Harmonic distortioniIndependently measured harmonic distortion, with test level and method in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Sound leakageiIndependently measured leakage at 30 cm. Playback level and method belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Measured noise isolationiIndependently measured attenuation. Positive values mean more noise reduction. ANC state, rig and frequency bands belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Noise isolation (measured, best)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Passive isolation (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic quality notesiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Speech samples reject background noise in office, street and wind conditions.7Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-wh-1000xm5-review-71783Read 5 October 2026Automated recorded-speech samples in ideal, office, street and wind conditions. No numeric SNR inferred.

Very good. Voice sounds full-bodied and intelligible, and background noise is separated well. Voice can lose intelligibility in very harsh conditions.6Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/sony/wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Public Our Verdict / Microphone: full-bodied intelligible voice, good background separation. Very harsh noise can reduce intelligibility.

Mic low-frequency extensioniMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic high-frequency extensioniMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic speech-to-noise ratioiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Measured latencyiEnd-to-end latency measured by a reviewer for a specific connection, platform and codec. Firmware, method and operating mode belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth latency (measured, worst)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

2.4 GHz latency (measured, worst)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Measured battery lifeiReviewer’s continuous playback test. State the connection, ANC and lighting where known. Unknown settings stay omitted and are described in the source note.

ASony WH-1000XM5

Connection	ANC	Hours (h)
Bluetooth	Yes	31.88
Bluetooth	No	53.1

Source7Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-wh-1000xm5-review-71783Read 5 October 2026Standard continuous playback test: ANC on 31 h 53 min, off 53 h 6 min. Bluetooth codec, firmware and unit colour unspecified. Current method peaks music at 75 dB SPL, linked /how-we-test/. Unknown lighting omitted. Different volume/settings explain why off runtime exceeds maker AAC 40 h. No numerical result transferred to other Sony models.

BSony WH-1000XM6

Connection	ANC	Hours (h)
Bluetooth	Yes	31.75

Source6Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/sony/wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Continuous 31.75-hour battery life with ANC enabled. Sound Guys measured 37 h 14 min in its own test

Battery life (measured, max)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

53.1h=CalculatedFrom Measured battery life

31.75h=CalculatedFrom Measured battery life

Clamping forceiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Weight (measured)iIndependently weighed headset. A review that repeats the maker’s number does not qualify. Cable and microphone inclusion belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Microphone

5 of 16 differ

MicrophoneiMain microphone used for speech. Secondary internal microphones may be described in the source note.

Built-in1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Parts and controls, pages 11-12, identifies integrated voice/call microphone.

Built-in1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Location/function of parts chapter identifies built-in microphones on headset units. No cable or detachable boom.

Microphone element

Not available

MEMS2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6/spec.htmlRead 30 September 2026MEMS

Microphone pickup patterniUse the maker’s exact named pattern. Unidirectional does not establish whether the capsule is cardioid, supercardioid or hypercardioid.

Omnidirectional2Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Pages 88 and 91 call chapters explicitly state omnidirectional microphones.

Omnidirectional2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6/spec.htmlRead 30 September 2026Microphone specification / Direction: omnidirectional. This is microphone capsule pattern, not AI beamforming array pickup width.

Voice microphonesiTotal microphones used for voice pickup or beamforming across both sides. ANC-only microphones are excluded.

44Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/headband-headphones/wh-1000xm5Read 5 October 2026Advanced call quality: four beamforming microphones for voice, distinct from eight ANC mics.

65Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-wh-1000xm6-review-read-before-buying-137397Read 30 September 20266-mic beamforming array for voice calls7Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2025-05-15-Sony-Introduces-the-Best-Noise-Cancellation-with-the-WH-1000XM6-HeadphonesRead 30 September 2026Six-microphone AI beamforming system for calls.

Total microphonesiEvery physical microphone across the headset, including call, ANC and calibration microphones. Shared microphones count once. Excludes microphones in charging cases or receivers, and vibration sensors. Use an explicitly published physical total, never a sum of overlapping role counts.

Not available

1213Reviewwhathifi.com/headphones/sony-wh-1000xm6Read 8 October 2026The exact reviewer explicitly states total mic count 12, with six physical microphones per earcup: four outside and two inside. Sony independently states that QN3 processes twelve microphones for noise cancellation and uses a six-microphone call beamforming system. The total is the directly published physical count, not an addition of ANC and voice roles.

Mic frequency responseiAcoustic microphone response, not its digital sampling rate. Connection-specific ranges belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Mic sensitivityiPublished microphone sensitivity. Reference such as dBV/Pa or dBFS, frequency and distance belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Mic signal-to-noiseiPublished microphone signal-to-noise ratio. Minimum or typical conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Mic sample rateiExplicitly published digital microphone capture or speech sampling rate. State the audio route in the source note, or say it is unpublished. Internal capture does not prove the effective rate on every connection. Acoustic bandwidth, playback rate and generic microphone-chip capability do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

Mic noise reductioniProcessing that removes noise from transmitted speech. Playback ANC and a directional microphone alone do not count.

AI4Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/headband-headphones/wh-1000xm5Read 5 October 2026Advanced call quality: AI-trained speech noise reduction algorithm.

AI4Reviewwhathifi.com/headphones/sony-wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Beamforming AI removes external noise on calls

Flip to mute

Not available

Not available

Mute button

Not available

Yes8Press releasesony.eu/presscentre/sony-introduces-the-next-evolution-of-noise-cancelling-with-the-wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Tactile button mic mute. App setup required, see footnotes 3 and 4.

Mute indicatoriPublished indication of microphone mute. mechanical_marker is a visible physical marker showing the microphone's mute-switch position. LED options require an electronic light. The in-line controller option is for a mute light on a cable remote.

Not available

Voice prompt10Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026About the voice guidance chapter: Mic Off and Mic On prompts announce microphone state during a call. Call-functions chapter also documents an optional notification sound every seven seconds while muted.

Sidetone

Yes2Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Pages 89 and 92: wearer voice heard via headset microphones during a call.

Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Frequently asked questions / You hear your own voice: headset microphones pick up surroundings and voice during calls via Sidetone function.

Adjustable sidetone

Not available

Not available

Foam microphone windscreeniA foam cover for the voice microphone. An internal metal mesh pop filter does not count.

Not available

Not available

Connectivity

6 of 20 differ

Audio connectionsiConnections that carry playback audio. Charging or firmware USB alone does not count as USB audio.

Analog, Bluetooth1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Bluetooth setup chapters for Android, iPhone, Windows and Mac. Analog playback added separately only where the guide proves it.2Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Pages 64 and 143-144: headphone cable and Bluetooth audio. No USB audio.

Bluetooth, Analog1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Bluetooth pairing and Using the supplied headphone cable chapters. USB charging section only, no USB audio path.

Analog source plugsiAnalog plug(s) supplied for the source device, including adapters. The headset-side jack is listed separately.

3.5 mm TRS3Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/support/wireless-headphones-bluetooth-headphones/wh-1000xm5/specificationsRead 5 October 2026Public indexed official specification cells. Direct CLI fetch returned 403 and browser direct fetch was intermittent. Gold-plated L-shaped stereo mini plug. Passive stereo TRS cable, not TRRS microphone cable.

3.5 mm TRS2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6/spec.htmlRead 30 September 2026Gold-plated L-shaped stereo mini plug. Analog microphone unavailable.

Cable connector on headsetiConnection used by the playback cable at the headset. A fixed cable is not replaceable through a headset jack.

3.5 mm2Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 64 headphone cable input jack and connection diagram. Standard stereo mini plug is confirmed by maker specifications.

3.5 mm2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6/spec.htmlRead 30 September 2026Detachable single-sided cable, stereo mini jack on the headset

Longest included cableiLength of the longest supplied cable, including charging and dongle cables. Individual cable lengths are listed in Cables included.

1.2m2Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 9 package list: approximately 1.2 m headphone cable and 0.2 m USB cable.

1.2m2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6/spec.htmlRead 30 September 2026Approx. 1.2 m, gold-plated L-shaped stereo mini plug

Headset USB plug or portiUSB plug or port on the headset or its included wired audio adapter. A charging-only USB port can appear here.

USB-C1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Parts and controls, pages 11-12, USB Type-C charging port.

USB-C1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Charging the headset chapter: USB Type C port with supplied USB-A to C cable.

Audio over USB-C cableiPlayback through a USB-C cable or included wired USB-C audio adapter. A charging-only USB-C port does not count.

No1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Charging, pages 18-19: music playback and Bluetooth operations cannot be performed while connected to USB power. The USB port is for charging.

No4Reviewwhathifi.com/headphones/sony-wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026You still can't listen via a wired USB-C connection

Passive wired listeningiAnalog playback works with the headset powered off or its battery empty. An active analog converter that needs headset power does not count.

Yes2Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 64 explicitly allows music when the headset is off. Built-in mic is unavailable through the supplied cable, which uses the phone mic.

Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026You can listen to music even if the headset is turned off. Noise canceling then does not work

Wireless receiveriDedicated wireless audio receiver or dongle. A wired USB sound card does not count.

Not available

None1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Checking package contents chapter includes headset, USB cable, headphone cable, carrying case, documents. Bluetooth pairing requires host. Wireless dongle not included.

Wireless receiver connectoriPhysical USB connector on the receiver. Supplied extension cables and adapters are explained in the source note. Both means two native connector types.

Not available

Not available

Wireless range (claimed)iMaker’s advertised wireless range. Connection and indoor or outdoor conditions belong in the source note. Measured distance is not stored here.

10m1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Specifications: approximate 10 m line-of-sight. Obstacles and host conditions affect range.

10m1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Specifications / Communications: System Bluetooth 5.3, maximum line-of-sight range approximately 10 m.

Bluetooth

5.21Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Specifications chapter, communication system: Bluetooth 5.2.

5.31Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Specifications / Communications: System Bluetooth 5.3, maximum line-of-sight range approximately 10 m.

Bluetooth codecsiNamed Bluetooth audio codecs supported by this exact model. Host, firmware and operating-mode restrictions belong in the source note.

SBC, AAC, LDAC1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Specifications chapter: exact supported A2DP codecs, not Bluetooth version capabilities.

SBC, AAC, LDAC, LC31Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026SBC/AAC/LDAC on Classic Audio. LC3 on compatible LE Audio devices, selected with Sound Connect.

LE AudioiLE Audio playback support. Bluetooth Low Energy for app control alone does not count.

Not available

Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Compatible LE Audio host required, app connection setting differs from Classic Audio.

AuracastiAuracast broadcast audio support. Required phone, firmware and app conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Broadcast reception is enabled using Sound Connect on supported phones.

Bluetooth multipointiCan remain connected to multiple Bluetooth source devices at once. Mixing Bluetooth with a proprietary dongle is a separate field. A maker's dual connection to two Bluetooth devices at once counts.

Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Connecting the headset to 2 devices simultaneously chapter. Streams switch, rather than mix.

Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Connecting headset to 2 devices simultaneously chapter: two Bluetooth devices at same time. Audio switches between rather than mixes.

Multipoint devicesiNumber of Bluetooth source devices connected at once, not the number remembered for later pairing.

21Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Connecting the headset to 2 devices simultaneously chapter, two Bluetooth source devices.

21Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Connecting headset to 2 devices simultaneously chapter: two Bluetooth devices at same time. Audio switches between rather than mixes.

Paired devices remembered

81Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Android pairing, page 29: up to eight paired devices. The oldest registration is replaced when another is paired.

81Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026The headset can be paired with up to 8 devices

Mixes 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth audioiPlays both wireless audio streams at the same time. Automatic switching or Bluetooth standby does not count.

Not available

Not available

Fast pairing

Google Fast Pair, Microsoft Swift Pair4Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/headband-headphones/wh-1000xm5Read 5 October 2026Fast Pair and Swift Pair dedicated sections.

Google Fast Pair, Microsoft Swift Pair1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Help guide covers Microsoft Swift Pair. Google Fast Pair is backed by the Sound Guys review5Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-wh-1000xm6-review-read-before-buying-137397Read 30 September 2026If the Fast Pair/Swift Pair doesn't work

Base station

Not available

Not available

Latency

1 of 2 differ

Low latency modeiA selectable mode intended to reduce audio delay. A low-latency connection without a distinct mode does not count.

Not available

Yes10Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Current exact-model Help Guide, About the sound quality mode and Supported codecs chapters: named Low latency setting uses LE Audio. Compatible LE Audio host and current headset firmware/Sound Connect app required. GMAP switches automatically only with a compatible host and game. No numeric latency inferred.

Claimed latencyiMaker’s claimed delay for the stated connection and mode. Minimum claims and host restrictions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Compatibility

1 of 3 differ

Compatible platformsiPlatforms with a documented audio path. This does not imply every connection or microphone function works. Platform editions must be checked individually.

Android, iOS, Windows, macOS1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Individual Bluetooth setup chapters explicitly name Android, iPhone, Windows and Mac. No console path inferred.

Android, iOS, Windows, macOS1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Separate pairing chapters explicitly Android smartphone, iPhone, Windows 10/11 computer, Mac computer. No console capability inferred.

Connection per platformiOnly explicitly documented playback paths for the exact model. Microphone support is separate. Leave unknown microphone support omitted. An Xbox and a PlayStation edition of one headset can connect differently, so it is per variant.

ASony WH-1000XM5

Platform	Connection	Microphone works
Android	Bluetooth	Yes
iOS	Bluetooth	Yes
Windows	Bluetooth	Yes
macOS	Bluetooth	Yes

Source10Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Exact YY2954 guide. Android and iPhone pairing/call chapters and printed pages 38, 42, 45 and 95 computer calling. Windows/Mac voice requires HFP/HSP and compatible application input/output selection, not the A2DP music endpoint. No analog voice or console support inferred.

BSony WH-1000XM6

Not available

Official licence

Not available

Not available

Battery and charging

2 of 13 differ

Battery capacityiRated capacity of one headset battery. Do not use case, receiver or total multi-battery capacity.

Not available

Not available

Swappable batteryiBattery can be exchanged by the user as part of normal operation. Service or recycling disassembly does not count.

No10Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Charging chapter printed page 19 directs battery replacement to the nearest Sony dealer. It is not a battery exchanged during normal operation.

No10Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Charging chapter: built-in rechargeable battery replacement is referred to Sony support or a Sony dealer. This is service replacement rather than a user battery swap.

Batteries includediNumber of headset batteries supplied, including the one already installed.

Not available

Not available

Claimed battery lifeiMaker’s maximum playback time per stated connection, codec, ANC, spatial audio and lighting settings. Name the spatial processing mode and other conditions in the source note. Unknown settings stay omitted.

ASony WH-1000XM5

Connection	ANC	Hours (h)
Bluetooth	Yes	30
Bluetooth	No	40
Analog	Yes	28
Analog	No	38

Source2Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 20 table visually checked. Bluetooth rows are AAC music playback, ANC on 30 h and ANC/ambient off 40 h. LDAC 26/36 h and SBC 28/38 h are omitted because the table cannot distinguish codecs. Analog powered playback is ANC on 28 h and ANC/ambient off 38 h. Page 21 notes EQ, DSEE Extreme and other features shorten runtime.

BSony WH-1000XM6

Connection	ANC	Codec	Hours (h)
Bluetooth	Yes	AAC	30
Bluetooth	No	AAC	40
Bluetooth	Yes	SBC	30
Bluetooth	No	SBC	40
Bluetooth	Yes	LC3	30
Bluetooth	No	LC3	40
Bluetooth	Yes	LDAC	26
Bluetooth	No	LDAC	36
Analog	Yes	Not available	28
Analog	No	Not available	38

Source12Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026The exact current WH-1000XM6/YY2984 Help Guide on printed pages 29 to 30 gives music playback after a full charge. AAC and SBC each allow up to 30 hours with ANC on or 40 hours with ANC and Ambient Sound Mode off. LC3 over compatible LE Audio has the same 30/40-hour claims. LDAC allows 26 hours with ANC on or 36 hours with both noise-control modes off. Powered analog playback allows 28 hours with ANC on or 38 hours with both modes off. Each named codec is retained in its own row. Sony warns that Equalizer, DSEE Extreme, Speak-to-Chat, Service Link, and other changes to default app modes reduce these maxima. Playback volume and LDAC bitrate are unspecified. Communication durations are excluded. The 25 to 35°C footnote attaches to the quick-charge estimates, so it is not assigned as a continuous-runtime test condition.

Battery life (claimed, max)

40h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

40h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Battery life with ANC (claimed)

30h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

30h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Battery life without ANC (claimed)

40h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

40h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Charging port

USB-C1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Charging, pages 18-19: supplied USB-A to USB-C cable.

USB-C1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Charging the headset chapter: USB Type C port with supplied USB-A to C cable.

Full charge timeiPublished time to fully charge a depleted headset. In-use charging can take longer.

210min1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Charging, pages 18-19: approximate time explicitly defined as empty battery to full capacity. Hours converted to minutes.

210min1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Approx. 3.5 hours

Quick charge timeiCharge duration in the maker’s quick-charge claim. Read together with Quick charge playback.

3min2Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 20: 3 minutes using USB PD charger with 9 V/2.3 A or more output.

3min1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Charging the headset chapter: 3 minute charging gives approximately 3 hour music playback with compatible USB PD adapter. Conditions qualified in quick playback note.

Quick charge playbackiPlayback gained from Quick charge time. Charger power, codec, volume and ANC conditions belong in the source note.

3h2Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 20: approximately 3 h from 3 min at 25-35 C using USB PD 9 V/2.3 A or more. Ordinary USB charging gives about 1 h from 3 min.

3h1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026About 3 hours after 3 minutes with a USB PD adaptor of 9 V/2.3 A or more. About 1 hour with a 5 V/1.5 A adaptor

Use while charging

No1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Charging, pages 18-19: connecting USB power turns the headset off and prevents music playback. Passive cable use is not claimed here.

Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026You can use the headset while charging. Charging stops at about 80% while in use

Charging dock or stand

Not available

Not available

Controls

1 of 6 differ

Controls

Buttons, Touch2Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Pages 11-12 power and NC/AMB buttons and touch panel.

Buttons, Touch1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Location/function of parts and Controlling the audio device chapters: Power/NC/AMB buttons, left, right touch sensor control panel.

Volume control

Touch2Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Pages 1-2 and control chapter: swipe up/down on touch panel. Active Bluetooth control only.

Touch1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Swipe up and down on the touch sensor control panel

Game and chat mixiBalances separate game and chat audio streams. Mixing Bluetooth and dongle source volume alone does not count. Supported platforms belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Remappable controlsiOn-device button, touch or dial functions can be reassigned. Changing EQ alone does not count.

Yes10Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Printed page 72: NC/AMB button double/triple presses can be assigned to Quick Access through Sound Connect. Pages 98-102 allow voice-assistant touch-panel assignment. Service, language and region requirements apply.

Yes10Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Using Quick Access chapter: Sound Connect assigns services separately to double and triple presses of the NC/AMB button. Availability varies by region.

Wear detection

Yes2Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Pages 15-17 and 107: wearing sensor pauses/resumes playback and can power off after removal.

Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Wearing the headset chapter: auto-stop/resume by wearing sensor, can change using Sound Connect.

Voice assistant

Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Google app, Siri1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Guide pages 97-106: Google Assistant and Alexa use configured headset integration, Google app on Android/Siri on iPhone use held touch sensor, not Hey Siri wake phrase. Assistant/app compatibility depends on region and smartphone. Current Sony Google Assistant support restricts headset integration to Android, not iOS.

Google Assistant, Siri, Tencent Xiaowei1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Google Assistant and Siri are device functions. Tencent Xiaowei is for mainland China models only.

Comfort and build

2 of 11 differ

Headband type

Padded7Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-wh-1000xm5-review-71783Read 5 October 2026Usage section explicitly discusses padding on the headband.

Padded8Press releasesony.eu/presscentre/sony-introduces-the-next-evolution-of-noise-cancelling-with-the-wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Soft-fit wider headband with vegan leather.

Headband material

Not available

Vegan leather8Press releasesony.eu/presscentre/sony-introduces-the-next-evolution-of-noise-cancelling-with-the-wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Design section: headband infused with vegan leather.

Frame material

Not available

Not available

Ear cup material

Not available

Not available

Ear pad material

Soft fit leather4Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/headband-headphones/wh-1000xm5Read 5 October 2026All day comfort section uses maker wording Soft fit leather. Whole frame composition not inferred.

Not available

Replaceable ear pads

Yes9Maker product pagesony.com/electronics/support/wireless-headphones-bluetooth-headphones/wh-1000xm5/articles/00282460Read 8 October 2026Exact Sony article 00282460, modified November 21, 2024. Public indexed maker article was read in full. Direct requests were unavailable. Sony recommends authorized service but expressly provides a customer replacement procedure with approved replacement pads and disassembling tool.

Yes5Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-wh-1000xm6-review-read-before-buying-137397Read 30 September 2026Review: earpads peel out and snap back onto hooks.

Ear pad attachmentiHow a replacement ear pad attaches to the ear cup, not how the decorative outer cover attaches. A press-fit or snap-on pad counts as clip.

Clip9Maker product pagesony.com/electronics/support/wireless-headphones-bluetooth-headphones/wh-1000xm5/articles/00282460Read 8 October 2026Six claws hold each pad plate. Install by aligning two pegs and clicking all six claws into the hooks.

Clip5Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-wh-1000xm6-review-read-before-buying-137397Read 30 September 2026Pads peel out of the chassis and snap back on hooks

Ear pad openingiUsable opening inside an ear pad, excluding the outer cushion. Depth is the internal space between pad surface and driver cover.

Not available

Not available

Ear tips included

Not available

Not available

Dust and water rating

Not available

Not available

User-replaceable parts

Ear pads9Maker product pagesony.com/electronics/support/wireless-headphones-bluetooth-headphones/wh-1000xm5/articles/00282460Read 8 October 2026Only ear pads are covered by this maker-authorized customer procedure. Battery dealer service is not user replacement.

Ear pads10Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Location and function of parts chapter, pages 13 to 14: remove the right earpad and reattach its five tabs until they click. Pads are removable without opening the housing.

Software

0 of 3 differ

Companion app

Sony | Sound Connect1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026App chapter page 107. Headphones Connect was renamed Sound Connect in October 2024, as shown on the current guide landing page or maker product page.

Sony | Sound Connect1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026What you can do with Sony Sound Connect / Installing Sony Sound Connect chapters: Sony Sound Connect mobile application from Google Play and App Store.

App platforms

Android, iOS1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Installing the app chapter: Google Play and Apple App Store smartphone apps.

Android, iOS1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026What you can do with Sony Sound Connect / Installing Sony Sound Connect chapters: Sony Sound Connect mobile application from Google Play and App Store.

User firmware updates

Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026App capabilities page 107: update headset software.

Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Keeping software up to date chapter: headset software update using Sound Connect application.

Dimensions and weight

1 of 2 differ

Headset weightiPublished headset mass without detachable cable or microphone when stated. A fixed cable remains included. Any unqualified maker weight is identified in the source note.

250g(8.8 oz)1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Specifications: approximate published mass. Detachable cable inclusion is not stated in this guide.

254g(9 oz)1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Approx. 254 g2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6/spec.htmlRead 30 September 2026Approx. 254 g without cable

Headset dimensionsiBody size with headband upright and ear cups in their normal wearing position. Width is across the head, height is top to bottom, and depth is front to back. Folded or flat-swivel dimensions are not substituted.

Not available

Not available

Certifications

0 of 3 differ

Hi-Res Audio

Hi-Res Audio, Hi-Res Audio Wireless4Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/headband-headphones/wh-1000xm5Read 5 October 2026Enjoy High-Resolution Audio with and without wires section explicitly names both certifications. LDAC conditions apply.

Hi-Res Audio, Hi-Res Audio Wireless1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Wired: High-Resolution Audio needs the headset turned on. Wireless certification from What Hi-Fi8Press releasesony.eu/presscentre/sony-introduces-the-next-evolution-of-noise-cancelling-with-the-wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Explicit Hi-Resolution Audio and High-Resolution Audio Wireless support.

Communication certifications

Not available

Not available

FCC ID

Not available

Not available

Other certifications

Not available

Not available

In the box

2 of 3 differ

In the box

Wireless Noise Canceling Stereo Headset, USB Type-C cable (USB-A to USB-C), Headphone cable, Carrying case2Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 9: WH-1000XM5 case bundle only. WH-1000XM5SA carrying-pouch bundle is excluded.

Wireless Noise Canceling Stereo Headset, USB Type-C cable (USB-A to USB-C), Headphone cable, Carrying case, Documents1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Checking the package contents chapter: headset, USB Type C cable USB-A to C, headphone cable, carrying case, documents.

Cables includediSupplied playback, charging, dongle and adapter cables. A permanently attached headset cable is included and named as fixed.

ASony WH-1000XM5

Type	Length (m)	Count
USB-A to USB-C charging cable	0.2	1
Headphone cable	1.2	1

Source2Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 9: one cable of each named type, approximate maker lengths. Exact XM5 case bundle.

BSony WH-1000XM6

Type	Length (m)	Count
USB-A to USB-C	Not available	1
Headphone cable, 3.5 mm L-shaped plug	1.2	1

Source1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Cable length from the Sony Japan spec page

Carrying caseiSupplied carrying case or pouch. A retail carton does not count as a carrying case.

Hard12Reviewwhathifi.com/headphones/wireless-headphones/sony-xm6-too-pricey-their-five-star-predecessors-are-half-price-right-nowRead 8 October 2026Explicit usual original WH-1000XM5 rigid hard case. The later XM5SA package includes a soft case and is excluded from this reference package. No accessory bought separately is counted.

Hard6Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/sony/wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Travel verdict: hard protective case with magnetic clasp.

Links

Not compared

Product page

www.sony.co.uk/electronics/headband-headphones/wh-1000xm54Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/headband-headphones/wh-1000xm5Read 5 October 2026Exact XM5 product page, not XM6 or WF earbuds.

electronics.sony.com/audio/headphones/headband/p/wh1000xm6-b7Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2025-05-15-Sony-Introduces-the-Best-Noise-Cancellation-with-the-WH-1000XM6-HeadphonesRead 30 September 2026Pricing and availability: explicit US manufacturer product hyperlink electronics.sony.com/audio/headphones/headband/p/wh1000xm6-b.

Spec sheet

Not available

www.sony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6/spec.html2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6/spec.htmlRead 30 September 2026Japanese maker WH-1000XM6 specification table, explicit exact model fields including passive electrical values.

Manual

helpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdf1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm5/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Official complete English help guide.

helpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/index.html1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Sony Help Guide, model YY2984. The printable PDF is at print.pdf in the same folder

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

Not available

Not available

Warranty

None of 1 known

Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Both are also in the API. Back to all headsets and headphones.