You don't have to buy Sony's flagship WH-1000XM6 headphones for great sound — save $150 and buy these instead

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Don't overlook the previous generation

The Sony WH-1000XM5 and XM6 on a table outside
(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

Since the release of the Sony WH-1000XM6 in 2025, the previous model of the beloved headphones, the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones, have moved into that price sweet-spot, offering great audio quality and noise cancelation at a reduced price.

But when there’s a new version available, why would you buy the old model? I hear ya — but there’s actually a whole bunch of similarities between the two sets of cans. I mean, they’re both some of the best noise-canceling headphones you can be. One's just a little bit newer.

If you want the comfort and stunning sound profile that comes with owning a pair of Sony’s flagship headphones — but are also conscious about your budget — then picking up the previous model is the best option.

Sony WH-1000XM6
Sony WH-1000XM6 : was $459 now $398 at Amazon

The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones sit at the top of the Sony headphones hierarchy with excellent noise canceling, supremely comfortable sound and 30 hours of battery life. They are a totally reliable pair of premium cans that come in a variety of colors to suit any style.

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Sony Sony WH-1000XM5
Sony Sony WH-1000XM5: was $398.99 now $298 at Amazon

The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are an excellent set of cans, and can often be found on sale for as low as $250! They offer great sound with reliable active noise cancelation, making them an ideal choice for anyone who needs a reliable audio companion. The 30 hours of battery life also make them a worthy choice.

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The key differences

Sony XM5 showing outer earcups placed on an outdoor table

(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

Upon first glance, the headphones look pretty much identical. It’s when you start looking a little closer that you see all of the details Sony changed to make the WH-1000XM6 a better fit. The most notable difference is that while the XM5 earcups rotate for storage, the XM6s are actually foldable, making them an easier and more compact option to throw in your bag.

The XM6s also benefit from the addition of Bluetooth LE and Auracast, and have heaps more room for EQ adjustment. While both headphones are supported by the Sony Connect app, you can certainly do more with the XM6s.

Active noise cancelation is also improved in the XM6 headphones, thanks to three additional mics. As a bonus, these also improve call quality.

Level playing field

Sony XM5 in hand

(Image credit: Future)

But that’s pretty much where the differences stop. So now we've covered that, what are the similarities? Well, with ANC turned on, both models give 30 hours of battery life. I use the WH-1000XM5 headphones every day when I’m working, and I can go weeks between charges. This obviously depends on how loud I listen to the music, but it’s great to say that even with "older" headphones, I have no concerns about them dying on me.

When I’m looking for new headphones, battery life is one of the main things I take into consideration. I’m generally super forgetful, so I've found myself on more than one occasion ready to head out the door before realising my headphones are totally out of juice. But the 30 hours of battery life mean that this happens way less often, and I can rely on the headphones to power me through my whole day.

Good to be frugal

Black and ecru (off-white) color versions against a office window

(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

In this instance, I would advise being frugal. While the sound profile of the WH-1000XM6 headphones pips the XM5s to the post for more detailed listening, there’s not a great deal in it. In fact, when listening to more electronic music, I much prefer the sound profile of the XM5 headphones.

Of course, this is personal preference, but I'd argue $150 is more than just pocket change. It's a sizeable difference in outlay and when both headphones are at full price, it’s a no-brainer to go with the previous generation.

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Ashley Thieme
Ashley Thieme
Staff writer, Reviews

Ashley is a staff writer on the the Reviews team at Tom’s Guide. She has a master’s degree in Magazine Journalism from Cardiff University and a BA in Journalism, Media and Sociology. She has written for titles including Women’s Health UK, writing health and wellness stories, and Virgin Radio UK, specializing in entertainment news and celebrity interviews. She has reported on a variety of topics including music, literature, motorsport, entertainment and health. She has previously reviewed live music events, books, and wellness products but discovering the top audio equipment on the market is what she does best. When she is not testing out the latest tech, you can find her either curled up with a cup of tea and a good fantasy novel or out hiking.

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