Sony WH-1000XM5 vs AirPods Max | Ultimate headphone battle! | Mark Ellis Reviews

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Did the result of this battle surprise you?

[@crisalis]

I trust sony though hahaha

[@automatonpilot5040]

I can't take the touch controls. I have the xm4s and the Airpods max. I think they're basically equal other than that. Although the Airpods max disconnect and do way more weird and annoying things than my Sony's ever did. If Sony did a physical volume button, and made the ambient mode akin to the iPodmax, I would go back to Sony.

[@Mugmaster2024]

I'm going American! No question!

[@yarosav5396]

no, mx5 is much better at callings, their micro/source is superior to airpods

[@davidholt2335]

No

[@TannerBarcelos]

Just sold my AirPods Max’s and got the XM5s. Love these things however I miss a couple things - the spatial audio and the instant connect to any apple device. However, the sound , and the insane noise cancellation on the Sonys is amazing.

[@Mr102185]

Spatial Audio isn’t all that great. It’s good, but feature we don’t need. I love the AirPods Pro. The Maxs are 😆

[@ikegwuonuchisom3208]

Just to be clear, which among the two has a deeper bass

[@Mr102185]

@@ikegwuonuchisom3208 Sony XM5’s for sure.

[@Ohkeh640]

@@Mr102185do u use a certain equaliser setting as I want these headphones but I’m not good to mess around with equalisers myself and sliding up and down bass treble etc What do u use? Are there preset eqs? Also wish these folded like the previous model the case is huge ffs and ugly for the price. Also wish they had instant connect hmmmmmm

[@Mr102185]

@@Ohkeh640 Just seen your comment brother. I just leave the sound signature the way Sony intended. They sound really nice out of the box. You will be happy with these.

[@BrianJones-wk8cx]

I was bouncing between these two for months, and ended up with the AirPods Max. Spatial audio really has to be experienced to be believed. When I watch movies and television on my Apple TV with these headphones, I forget that they are actually headphones as the audio does such a superb job of dropping me right into the room on the screen. It’s actually so real it’s almost disconcerting the first time-even though it was entirely implausible, I had to take the headphones off to make sure that a serial killer wasn’t actually twitching in the room beside me. Is it worth the premium over the XM5s? Your mileage may vary, of course, but it sold me. Obviously, the XM5s are spectacular in their own right and I don’t hate them, either!

[@kevinj8190]

You might have sold me on this because I have the apple tv

[@BrianJones-wk8cx]

@@kevinj8190 while obviously I’m just a stranger on the internet, I will say that the Air Pods Max are still my preferred cans for everything from music to movies to talking to people on phone calls. Great stuff, especially if you set up the personalized Spatial Audio with an iPhone. Let me know how it turns out for you!

[@jyexe525]

Hi, does Spatial Audio works on the Apple TV platform but without the Apple TV box ?

[@BrianJones-wk8cx]

@@jyexe525 I would imagine so-I presume you’re on an Apple device of one sort or other, correct? Like a MacBook, iPhone, or iPad? I have been able to get Spatial Audio across all of my Apple devices. Haven’t tried pairing the headphones with anything else, though, all of my media consumption flows through Apple devices while my gaming is on PC, which I have a set of wired cans for.

[@jyexe525]

@@BrianJones-wk8cx thanks

[@johnhaydock1577]

Great video and comparison! I have both and when I'm travelling I always reach for the XM5. It's a lighter pair of headphones to carry and the battery life is reliable. Like you, I find the Airpod Max very needy in the charging department, and because you can't turn them off, they are a bit iffy when you go to use them in regards to how much charge is left in them.

[@doolar]

Great video Mark - I've used the Max's for over a year now, and I have the same take on the sound. I chose the Max's against the competition at the time because of the complete package for a bluetooth NC headphone - for me, as a Apple user.

[@allanrscott1130]

Total apple fan boy (and avid follower of your channel). Have had the AirPods max for a year but also recently bought the Sony xm5 (first Sony product). Both are great. Sony is my travel headset mainly because of the lightness and the real case. AirPods max are for home use. My two cents….

[@grahamlake9728]

Why have more than one? And having forked out for Apple overpriced kit why buy a Sony, unless you are missing something in the Apples!

[@Jt19702]

@@grahamlake9728 it’s really weird that you question a person on why they spend their hard earned money on what pleases them. Mind your business and count your own pockets.

[@notyourhero1685]

hey, know its been a while but u got a clear winner yet?

[@allanrscott1130]

I still use both for different reasons. If Apple just made them a but more convenient to travel i would probably use them all the time The sony xm5’s are still great

[@notyourhero1685]

Ok cool! Thanks@@allanrscott1130

[@BlackPearlTee]

The differences of sound were to great! I wanted to love XM5 given how light weight but I ran back to the store to buy max’s

[@lvloneymaker24]

The touch controls on Sony's are pretty good. It's better than just having simple buttons. You can do more with the touch functions

[@googlyeyes7.033]

Love them too! Instead of looking for button!

[@ktorrenceRX]

Only this ancient reviewer hates touch controls

[@joeburr7537]

I totally agree!! Touch controls 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼 don't get reviewer slamming that. Sony please don't change that!!!

[@KUM0]

it's only this boomer that hates the haptics, they're amazing

[@andrespinto5470]

Totally agree! Touch controls are highly intuitive and offer a lot of extra functionality. Definitely a great design idea.

[@theymstudio1387]

Currently using the Silver XM5's, and not going to lie, I am really loving them. Never owned the APM so I can't say too much. But for me, as a in-studio only headphones...they're great!

[@nunopenaspt]

I've finally got my XM5 (for 359.99 euros), and i'm loving it, so light, so comfortable, I'm using LDAC so I can get the best sound quality, and very important I can use the equalizer to my preference. I do have a pair of AirPods Max, but the trouble is that I live in Portugal, and here the temperatures can reach 109º Fahrenheit in the summer, I started to have a condensation problem on my AirPods Max, and with just a few minutes on my ears, finally after 2 months the condensation build on the drivers made it fail on the right cup, so I returned the AirPods Max, waiting for them to arrive from Apple repair service and as soon as they arrive I will sell them online. Apple please learn with other brands, going for stainless steel and aluminium is a wrong move, and that's why most of the brands go for plastic or composite materials. The Apple ones are very heavy and bulky, and like me, many people complaining about Apple AirMax, having condensation build up inside the cups and on the drivers too, making them fail over time, and thats because aluminium dissipates heat better, the difference in temperature creates condensation, and they are not water proof.

[@marcusnz232]

Here in NZ, the AirPods Max only seem to be available at full retail of almost $1000 - about twice the XM 5!

[@joyjin538]

Same thing in China!

[@meeeeeesh9]

1000 dollars!!!! At this value, I buy a mobile phone, but you buy a headset worth a thousand dollars. This, quite frankly, is a waste of your money

[@robsawalker]

Tempted by the Sonys, but think I will wait for the AirPod Max 2's... Proper case, an on/off switch, an IP rating and lighter weight would be good please Apple, that would be lovely. Great review as always thanks Mark!

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Thanks, Robsa! And I totally agree on all those wishlist items.

[@Abhishek-pj2wt]

These future not going to get 🤣🤣

[@nightcoreedits266]

Also would love for them to have usb c.

[@Sparkball]

😂Imagine having expectations like this

[@augustanuj]

Keep wishing do you think apple cares?

[@BDHO73]

We get ripped off by Apple big time in Australia. They charge around AUD899 (although you can get them for around $850) whereas the Sony is around $495 (AUD).

[@Ohkeh640]

Yeah facts I’m in aus too and that’s such a rip off!! I want the Sony as a bday gift but i hate how wide they are on the ears and the fingerprints etc I read in reviews. Also Im not the best at eq so I dno if I’ll get the best sound… but tbh I need these to wake me tf up in the morning lmao and for music of course.

[@Ohkeh640]

Do you have these?

[@tombridge1225]

Excellent video. Plenty to take in as I was able to watch the link to the XM4 & 5 comparison. Given your comments, and although I am quite deep into Apple, I think that Sony will be the favourite for my replacement. Additionally, as far as the Sony are concerned, the XM4 are in the running against the XM5's!!

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@ootje7076]

I use the XM4 on the go because they are light, fold and are cheaper plasticy so I do throw them in a bag without a case. On Android LDAC helps them sound more dynamic using Apple Music. I use the Airpod Max at home where they look nicer, are more comfortable to wear for extended periods and sound better overall. There is more than one way to optimize the soundstage for the Max. Using accessability settings for sound you can change it and even customize it in detail. This even won over some audiophile reviewers stating one of the standard options was enough. Check it out!

[@jedi7158]

Good comparison thanks! Though there are so many good headphones coming out this summer. Would love to see the comparison among XM5, the new Master and Dynamics, B&W Px7 S2.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Agreed! And I have my eyes on them 😉

[@mlee6136]

I've been on the fence between these 2 headsets. The ever on mode, weight and cost are the deciding factors for me.. Sony XM5 it is for xmas this year : ). Thank you for a great detailed video.

[@RoskovaQc]

Personnaly, first I wanted to buy the Max, but the prixe difference was so high… 450$ vs 958$ including the Protection plans… Sorry apple but 958$? I just bought a Macbook M3 Pro at 3400… I don’t have 958$ for a headset!

[@johnw65uk]

Apple headphones just make anyone look like a cyberman , cool in dr who, ridiculous in tescos.

[@The_Calm_Chaos]

Yes, I realise it's a subjective thing, but I can't agree with people who say the Max's look good. I think they look ridiculous.

[@sittingaloneinvip]

@@The_Calm_Chaos same that’s why i got the xm5 and i’m soooo happy omfg

[@vilpertzon]

As an Apple user the auto pairing and connect feature of the max is too good to pass. So I am waiting for the Max2s. Also the fact that you dont have to turn them off or on is also a nice feature. Makes it so much convinient to pick up and use

[@RagavJanardhan]

I don't understand, when i turn on my xm4s they automatically connect to my device that is playing music, is that not auto pairing? Also I don't have to turn off the headphones, just no point in having it on when not in use

[@vilpertzon]

@@RagavJanardhan no. That is regular pairing. Auto pairing connects automatically to a device which you use. You can have like 10 devices and it connects automatically to the device you use.

[@RagavJanardhan]

@@vilpertzon Ah, the xm4s will do that for the first device but the second device it connects to is random I think

[@vilpertzon]

@@RagavJanardhan yeah it will do it with 2 devices. Its not enough nowdays.

[@grahamlake9728]

So pressing a button to connect with the xm5 is too much effort for you Apple people?

[@LS____98]

Awesome comparison! If you're an Apple Ecosystem person then the Airpods Max is a perfect choice. However, the unavailability of turning it off serves as an inconvenience in my opinion. I hope Apple works on it with the Airpods Max 2.

[@jyexe525]

Hi, do you know if Spatial Audio works with a movie on Apple TV platform if I don’t have the Apple TV box ?

[@jennifergala]

Airpodmax with orchestral music especially audiophile recordings is unbeatable. Anc is amazing and spatial audio from apple tv is like seating in a theater. I love the case it fits on my purse.

[@norbertemodi1677]

I ordered both at the same time and I’ve sent back the Airpods Max because it had a far worse call quality than the Sony XM5. When I made calls sitting on a train, people could not understand what I was saying when I used the Airpods Max and they heard people around me much better then me. With the Sony they heads me perfectly. So I can’t understand how you can say that the Airpods Max have a better call quality…

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Because we both have different opinions on this, Norbert, which is fine (I respect yours).

[@biobak123]

The buttons and touch controls on my XM5 work flawlessly and fast!

[@ManuelAMartinez]

I purchased both and returned the APM for the following reasons. Weight of APM made a difference after a couple of hours of work. Noise canceling better on Sony M5 specially on a plane. APM ear pressure during noise canceling reminded me of my Bose days. Not shutting off became a problem if I just left APM out. Phone would ring and try to connect. Or if on a call, and my son used iPad to watch a video it would connect to iPad. It was a problematic at times.

[@terriersforever23]

I own both but love my AirPods max better don’t need to adjust and equalisers or anything on the AirPods max they just work.also like the control on the maxs better too just so simple.

[@ssun8]

My airpod max stopped working after a year despite one repair already so instead of spending the money to fix it, I bought the XM5 and it's been holding up well with little issues thus far after a few months

[@peps1926]

airpod max way better. tried both on in store. Sonys were great but felt much cheaper and flimsy compared to airpods. Also air pods were more comfortable.

[@davidholt5545]

When complaining about the "always on" feature I think it may be helpful to say that it enables "find my" for the headphones which could be useful if you happen to misplace them or leave them behind somewhere.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Doesn’t excuse it at all I’m afraid, mate.

[@JuanTowerz]

I tried xm4/5 and max in Best Buy demos, the AirPod Max won by far to my ears.

[@thesadergames]

I have the XM5's and I actually love the swiping on the headphones rather than buttons to change songs, pause, etc! It makes it so simple

[@GeorgeCrosley]

My hunch about the never-off Air Pod Max is that it's because they're on the Find my Phone connection and need to send a constant signal. It is frustrating, and I'd like to be able to disable it to get battery life up near the Sonys.

[@InfamousHp]

I suspect you’re 100% right about this, however actual usage hrs vs XM5 is almost the same. It’s just a pain in the ass you have to be mindful to charge these once a wk regardless if you used them or not.

[@faraazhamza6044]

Great video as usual. I think for anyone who owns and consumes media/content on an Apple device, the AirPods Max is a no-brainer. The integration with iOS, Spatial Audio when watching content and listening to music and the overall build and comfort make it a far more exciting and intuitive experience. Pop the headphones on and Apple does the rest. I tried both the XM5 and AirPods Max, and one thing I noticeably hated about the XM5 is the app. Functional yes, but feels like it belongs on an old Android phone. To summarise, Apple device owners, get the APM. For anyone else, grab the XM4s or Bose, will save you a lot of money.

[@farminglol]

What doesn't make me mind using the app as much is that you only need it once. Configure them and turn off touch controls and you're never using it again.

[@DezTessler]

I'm not sure the look of the app is suuuuper important.

[@josir1994]

@@DezTessler of course it's important, like how icons look definitively premium when they are all stuck on the top unlike peasants' icon down there

[@SwagyP]

@@josir1994 well not really , people buy headphones for their performance not the look of an app, if it's functional that's all that matters since you'll hardly use it in comparison to how much you'll use the headphones

[@josir1994]

@@SwagyP please sense the sarcasm in my comment

[@notme6753]

I'm not an apple user so I went with the XM5 and wow... They are amazing and very comfortable

[@Elmeatbolio]

I initially bought the Sonys, the case broke straight away and they felt way to flimsy. I swapped for AirPod max and for me they are so much better however I would have liked a bit moss bass.

[@peterreime3146]

I think you are confusing Ambient Mode with Call Quality at the end. Whilst the APM certainly have a superior Ambient Mode, easily the best on the market, then XM5s have a much better call quality with your voice sounding a lot more natural whilst the APM have a slightly tinny sound to them.

[@Romaoplays]

Just got the xm4 for 250€ (210€ with detaxe!). Thank you for all your videos, they helped a lot with the choice

[@tylersmith2799]

Interesting that you don't like the touch controls. When you jump over to the earbuds realm you can't even find an apple product (any Airpods, beats) with volume control. I tried all of the popular ones and settled on the Bose Quietcomfort and one of the main reasons was because it has the swipe touch input for volume control. They also have great ANC, which is nice, but the touch control seemed nice. It is annoying if I take them out and it thinks I'm trying to do a long touch though, so I understand the accidental touches issue.

[@bphilbac]

I’ve watched a lot of reviews on both headphones. What I’ve learned is there are a lot of different opinions, some like the AirPods, some swear by the Sonys. I believe you have to decide for yourself which one to choose. I appreciate the reviewers but just too much inconsistency.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Surely that’s just each reviewer’s opinion (as you say yourself) - not ‘inconsistency’?!

[@bphilbac]

@@MarkEllisReviews You’re right, too many different opinions.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

@@bphilbac erm… that’s called ‘life’ and ‘human beings’, dude - totally normal.

[@bphilbac]

@@MarkEllisReviews The problem is that a lot of folks take these opinions as gospel and go out a purchase these items based on opinions. Then they realize that what they got is not what they wanted. I mean it’s all good but consumers need to be smart enough to use their own judgement.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

@@bphilbac I totally agree. Which is why you should gather a range of opinions and then use your knowledge of your own wants and desires to make the right purchase. We’re never going to live in a world where every review offers the same opinion on a product - that has never and will never happen because everyone has different opinions. I’m a little perplexed you’ve only just worked this out.

[@reifortes_86]

Phenomenal production quality as always with your videos!! 👏 I've never owned a pair of AirPods Max, but I would love to experience the ANC on them one day. I currently have the XM5s and I can say that the ANC is a hit or miss mostly due to the automatic optimising feature on this pair of cans.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Thank you!

[@imtiyazazhar5878]

@@MarkEllisReviews I really can't decide between XM4, XM5, and Airpods Max...........

[@MarkEllisReviews]

@@imtiyazazhar5878 What’s your main requirement?

[@imtiyazazhar5878]

@@MarkEllisReviews ANC and Sound Quality (Note: I'm using an Android)

[@MarkEllisReviews]

@@imtiyazazhar5878 save yourself some money and get the XM4s 👍

[@infektdubstep]

I think the always-on feature on the airpods is actually amazing. I really love that they are on and connected as soon as I put them on my head. On my old Sony XM3s there was always a noticeable delay when taking them out of the case, and then finding the right button to turn them on. Personally, I'm willing to sacrifice a bit of battery life for this convenience!

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Fair enough! Glad it works for you.

[@philorgneopolotin8762]

Other benefit is if you ever lose them or if anyone ever steals them, you can track it at any point without them having any way to turn them or the AirPods tracking off. It’s actually a pretty decent benefit I don’t think enough people mention. There’s no way to turn them off unless they’re 100% dead, so no matter where they are or who has them, you can track them

[@Carokas42]

that’s an argument but it still wouldn’t hurt they could be powered off. like i almost always have my ipad on standby but still it’s good it can be turned of if i really need to safe some battery

[@Mardoxx7]

I still can't believe there are people defending the fact that you can't turn these off hahhhah

[@pblogic007]

@@Mardoxx7 I just don't see why it matters. They go into such a low power state, who cares? It's a nonsense complaint.

[@benwalker7327]

Just bought the xm5 today and there are everything u say there are but better. Thank u help me with my purchase.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Glad I could help!

[@Medz1100]

I have both and prefer the AirPods Max simply because the ear cups are larger. With the Sony’s I can feel my ears touch the back of the cups. Also, the AirPods Max sound as good if not better and if you’re in the Apple ecosystem as I am it’s a no brainier. I also like to be aware as I work. I work from home and want to hear if someone knocks at the door etc. The AirPods transparency mode is superb. And like you say Mark, Spacial Audio is something you need to experience. It’s on another level. I’m not even going to mention “the case”….🤔

[@Mr102185]

But the AirPods Max can’t play Lossless Audio. That’s a major deal breaker.

[@git_conded6180]

@@Mr10218597% of people wouldn’t tell the difference in lossless audio

[@andrewgrant788]

Great review but I came to the opposite conclusion. I don’t care about the lightening connector charging because I have so many lightening cables. I do care about build quality and comfort and interchangeable ear cups after my experience with Bose QC headphones which did not really hold up that well. The Sonys don’t look any better than the Bose headphones in that regard. The killer feature of the AirPods Max though is how easily they switch between my iPhone, iPad and iMac. This review didn’t really explore the differences in pairing multiple Apple devices with the Sonys but my Bose headphones were a pain to switch between three devices. The AirPods Max are amazingly in this regard.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Thanks for offering your opinion!

[@thecrowfliescrooked]

Well owning these I can tell you switching between multiple devices is a piece of cake. It doesn't matter if it's hooked up to Google Chromecast or an iPad or an Android. You will have to have the app controlling that on one of those devices.

[@andrewgrant788]

@@thecrowfliescrooked So to switch between devices you need to use the app? Bose had an app to do that too. I found it slow and a bit flaky though. For example if I used the app on my phone to switch the second BT connection between my iPad and Mac, it would drop the connection to the phone and leave the headphones connected to the iPad and the Mac. That was really irritating particularly since I didn't have a Bose app on my Mac and on the iPad, the Bose app was fixed in full screen portrait mode which makes no sense on a 12.9" iPad in a keyboard case. It sounds like the Sony app is a lot better.

[@thecrowfliescrooked]

@@andrewgrant788 yes. I understand. And for some reason it does default to your last connected device. But once you use the app to switch it's quite quick and seamless.

[@zoltankurucsai1296]

Great Vid! I agree on some points but there are things i like about the headphone that you dont :) I own a Xm5, to me it is one of the most uncomfortable headphones i had, because of my small head... The pads rest on the top of my ears, this results in bad sealing, if i push the pads on my head the noise cancelling is many times better, if i release the pressure it starts to feel like noise is comming in, even though noise cancelling is on. There where a few points i have a different opinion, first is the call, I only heard the APM on other vids, but in traffic the XM5 was noticable better, and maybe the transperancy mode is better than ambient, but cancelling out the noise that the person on the other side hears is also important. As a homeoffice worker i think it is good to know, that whatever happens around me, dog bark etc. It wont bother the meeting. The other thing is the touch controls, on the XM3 it was unrealiable, but on the XM5 it works well, and if i work or work out, a swiping motion is faster and easier than a button press. I need to find the button, while on the touch control i dont have to be that accurate.

[@davidecampanello5211]

Thanks Mark. Well done. Just wat I needed but.. I'm still undecided. Halifax, Nova Scotia says hello.

[@migo4316]

At a certain price point sound is expected to be good but to me comfort is not negotiable. AirPods Max sound phenomenal but the clamping force makes reach for a painkiller before the end of the first song you listen to on them. XM4 on the other hand are lighter with no big clamping force. but your ear sits on the padding and the mesh of the ear cups, which turned my ears into a volcano. Bose qc series are my pick forever and ever as they sound good enough I can wear them for hours and completely forget they're there

[@stevewright1539]

I e tried the last three Sony XM models and none of them sounded good to me to the point I always went back to Bose Quiet Comforts. Until I bought the Max. It is a preferred sound signature thing but they have been my favorite headphones for well over a year. The other features are icing.

[@DavidNYC83]

I have the APM and the XM5s. I use the APM for my home use. Mainly connected to my Apple TV so I can watch tv without disturbing anyone. I use my XM5s for the gym and have and everywhere else in between. I honestly prefer the XM5s for the weight.

[@michaelboys2602]

Great video, Mark. I have to say I am sold on the airpods max. I tried the XM5s but to me, they didn’t sound as good, they were not as comfy and the ambient sound mode is just pitiful compared to the maxes.

[@xDubFreak]

This is the best and most unbiased comparison of these headphones I‘ve seen so far. Great video.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

That means everything - thank you!

[@antonvandermerwe9852]

Thanks Mark. Excellent review. Today was my first day on the road with my iPhone 13 Mini 128 GB Starlight. Brilliant. I still use EarPods and AirPods, mostly because I find them less fatiguing than over ears. Then for call I use a few Logitech products. Can’t beat their mics. There might be many that are also waiting for AirPods Max “2”, without the bra case.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@grahamlake9728]

Apple, limited to aac!

[@pimpstick9988]

I have both and let me tell you now Sony just blows airpod max out of the water with performance. Apple looks hood aesthetic wise but Sony minimalistic futuristic look is perfect imo.

[@celticlofts]

I travel a lot so the XM4s are my go to headphones for their amazing comfort, sound quality and the ANC which is fantastic. The battery life is great too.

Great comparison! I own both and have a hard time deciding which one I should keep. Just like you said it boils down to your personal use-cases (which also makes me switch between them a lot, haha). They are both really good and one can't really go wrong with either of them.

[@joseleal4876]

Does owning an iPhone make one choice better than the other? Which would you consider sound better?

@@joseleal4876 I’d say the AirPods Max both work and sound better on the iPhone. On Android the XM5 sounds better with LDAC codec and some EQ (they are very bass heavy out of the box). If noise cancelling and phone calls are important, the XM5 performs better regardless device (especially calls).

[@joseleal4876]

@ thanks a lot for the info, I appreciate it.

[@grahamlake9728]

The APM is twice the price of any of the competitors!

[@limoreshakar6686]

Great review very straightforward and precise . Appreciate it .

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Glad it was helpful!

[@rafaelzitonon]

I truly appreciate your videos! And I also find Sony’s sounds more enjoyable than AirPods. Why not eq the Sony’s when comparing them with AirPods, if the AirPods eqs itself automatically?

[@grahamlake9728]

It can only eq to what Apple want you to have! Usually a scooped out middle and woods bass as the uninitiated seem to like this!

[@jerrybao1934]

I mean why would someone test noise cancellation in a quiet space...

[@MarkEllisReviews]

I’m not sure. Is this a trick question?

[@kamii_999]

I just picked up some XM5s over the weekend and after a few days use I started getting headaches from the Noise Cancelling 🙃 so looks like I'm returning them.

[@bmwbandit]

You get use to it and the headaches go away I had it with my AirPod pros but just turn the noise canceling off

[@johnleftwich650]

I have no experience with Apple AirPods Max however I got my XM5stheree days ago. The longest listening session I've had is 2 hours and I experienced no discomfort wearing them. At this point I am a happy camper with my XM5s.

[@RamonVaqueroImage]

Big fan of you throwing once again the Apple case :D Good detailed review. I'm still using big wired headphones - and small AirPods wireless- . Is there any sonic advantage with wired headphones?

[@bryony4781]

Huh, this is the first comparison I've seen where the airpods actually come out on top. I've gone for the Sony's! I prefer the design and the sound qual seems to be better. Also just can't justify the extra £100 for Apple branding.

[@slipperyanklez9641]

But they didn’t come out on top? The xm5’s did overall

[@Ronniezim]

I've had my AirPods Max for ~ 8 months, and have had a number of durability issues. The mesh headband isn't holding up..at all. I've had serious connection issues, which I believe to be due to a design flaw, and the ear pads get nasty (but these can be cleaned easily enough!). I LOVE the always on feature, love the easy switching between devices, etc. BUT...If these last me another year, I will be very surprised. Definitely an out of character product from Apple.

[@lennypearce3247]

I have used my APM daily for over a year now and I have experienced none of these issues, you might be somewhat of a rough user and perhaps the other issues are model specific.

[@Ronniezim]

@@lennypearce3247 I baby all of my tech and take exceptional care of them. There’s an issue with these headphones regarding both condensation and dust / particles creating connection problems between the headset and the ear cups. Apple has acknowledged these problems to me over the phone. I know people who have literally had over 10 replacement pairs. I like the headphones and will likely buy another pair once improvements are made, but they have objective flaws which are detrimental to durability and longevity. If you haven’t had any problems, I’m somewhat envious, but I’d STRONGLY encourage you to periodically remove your headband from the cups using a sim removal tool to clean everything and to minimize corrosion of the connection points. The mesh not holding up is another common problem and while not serious relative to literal issues inhibiting headphone operation, it’s still disappointing and not to my expectation with apple hardware.

[@Inphenitee]

I also haven’t experienced a single one of these issues with my APM, and after 1 year, they are basically brand new cans still. Perhaps you got a bad set of them.

[@mkltattoos]

I worried about the mesh headband but I put a silicone cover on it and have had no issues. It's a bummer that you've run into these problems.

[@Streamlined955]

I hate how the Sony cups don’t swivel like the AirPods Max and the case has to be the size of a small backpack. The fact that the APM are easier to travel with and get louder make me prefer the Apple headphones.

[@pallavmishra]

I got my Air Pods Max for just $10 so wouldn’t complain a bit. Got them by redeeming an Amazon Gift Card. Could have gone with an M5 but I already have an M4.

[@whateverinbetween9444]

in some coutries such as vietnam they’re at the same price, I personally purchased an airpods max.

[@mannyg.forever5730]

The Airpods Max are faulty. When the ANC is on, there's random popping and crackling noises on bass heavy songs. When the ANC is off, theres no issues. Because of that I have to return them and will try the Sony's XM5's.

[@sittikornflukesama]

Do you hate the touch control? I really love it 😆 it feels premium for me. Like B&O, the brand is luxury, and they mostly use touch control for headphones.

[@sanblackfilms]

Loved this video!!! Really loved the comparison

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Thank you!

[@1292liam]

great shirt mate

[@dielreis]

XM5, no doubt. My currently Edifier I charge once a week, using something about 35h to 40h in that period. I use a ordinary USBC cable that can be easily found or, I carry myself an USBC that charges everything. I can´t bear the idea of buy an headphone that would be useful for many years that uses a lightning port now that the main product of Apple (iPhone) will come with USBC. Other observation, if you have to charge more often the AirPods Max, so the battery life will drop soon because of to many cycles.

[@thomasmosch8113]

If you take an audiogramm from your acoustician and enter the result into the health app, you will have the absolute correction, not to be beaten by any EQ setting

[@jazrivvaz1282]

Anyone have a long term opinion on the XM5s after a few months? I want to avoid one of those "I wish I'd known before buying" pet peeves

[@mhsvz6735]

Excellent review, thank you! Subscribed.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Welcome onboard!

[@sandeepsinghsandhu8418]

i have sony 1000 xm5s and i have tried airpod max too. I feel xm5 are more comfortable to wear and the sound quality and noise cancelling is really phenomenal. I really feel these were my best 500 dollar investment ever.

[@Ronnieleec]

I couldn’t stand touch controls for Xm4s. The XM5s don’t fold. I travel and so I will stick with my Max, AirPod Pros. FYI I have a soft cinch bag that I slip my Maxs in to protect in my backpack for travel, saves weight and works great. I wish they were usb c.

[@dandresaldi]

Amazing unbiased review, I own APM and sometimes I want to change them, basically because they never turn off and also because they have to be on to use with a cable, this is ridiculous!!! I have "audiophile" headphones and my main use of the APM is more general, I also have Sony XM3 that I use for playstation but I used them for everything before and they are amazing. Based on that I'm thinking about selling APM to buy XM5 because its pointless to have 2 or 3 headphones because one can't make it all, as I said my purpose of this is not audiophile because that's a different story but here's something interesting: I also awn AirPods Pro and honestly they are amazing, APM are just a bit ahead in sound and cancelling to a degree that owning both makes no sense for the price and practicality.

[@rsman5753]

Which one's are best for NOT building up condensation in the ear cups after a few hours of usage??

[@DagmaraKrakow]

I hated the AirPods max case at first but then realized it’s a blessing in disguise as I also dislike the big hard cases for other headphones because they are so bulky and won’t fit into my purse. So I got myself a bag made from thin fabric and throw AirPods max in there with their ridiculous case and off they go into my purse. As a result they are well protected and a much lighter package than the Sonys in their solid case.

[@grahamlake9728]

Or…you could just drop the Sony into the same fabrics bag and it would sound better. It would still take up less space in your purse as the headband and cups are smaller and much lighter!

[@genefactor007]

Another stellar review, Mark! I recently purchased a pair of Air Pods Max's thanks to the price drop and so far I'm really enjoying them. APM has more bass than I was expecting which was a pleasant surprise. I also enjoy just how clear the sound is. I will say I'm not a fan of the always on feature and HATE the 'case'. However having done so much research on the APM, I purchased a 'smart charging' hard shell case in preparation of the purchase. I always figured I'd buy the XM5 due to my love for the much older XM2's which I own. But being so deep into the Apple ecosystem, the Air Pods Max was just the logical choice for me, one I'm happy to say, seem to have been the right one.

[@milkflavored]

Thanks for sharing. This helped me make my decision. If you don't mind, what case did you purchase? Would you still suggest it?

[@carrs01]

Great video Mark. Is discounting for the Air Pods Max mean v2 on the horizon? Though firmly in the Apple Eco System I will consider the MX5’s for my music listening. My air pods pro for calls and you tube. If Apple do address the cons in the Max’s then things will get a lot more interesting I think.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

I think we might see them next year - not convinced they're a 2022 product.

[@samsstuff1482]

Here in Finland both of these sell right now for 499€. So, to me, XM5s sound way too expensive and Apple only little bit on the expensive side. I have auditioned some much much more costly cans (Meze Liric at 2000€ was one of them) but never have I’ve done any A-B comparisons between Sony and Apple, so my mind isn’t made up yet. So thanks, now I have something to compare my findings when I get a chance to do a proper comparison myself. 👍

[@MarkEllisReviews]

No problem!

[@liliane4228]

Great review, have you tried Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2?

[@smallpp688]

ive got both and i keep coming back to the xm5

[@asdf51501]

I have the AirPods Max and the Sony XM4s. Personally, I like the fact that the XM4s fold down into a nice case, so those will be my travel headphones. I use the Apple unit mainly for listening to audiobooks in bed at night. Why those? Because they do not have touch sensitive controls. I can't tell you how many times I accidentally paused playback on the XM4s, or switched off noise cancelling, or caused the playback to jump forwards or backwards, just by moving around. I find the Apple more comfortable, in that I can keep them on my head for longer without overheating or having them become otherwise uncomfortable. Sound quality? I have no complaints either way.

[@weverage]

Agree! I do the same!

[@Abdullah-uv9nk]

you can turn touch controls off in their app

[@SVThailand]

As a commercial pilot since 1991 i am a headphone expert. The standard in noise cancelling for pilots has been for Bose, forever. The Apple phones are made with the same style as most traditional pilot headsets. That makes them quite.

[@ManitMonsur]

Great review! Thank you

[@theparadoxray]

You can listen to Dolby Atmos on iPhone using XM5 by going to Bluetooth settings and mark XM5 as headphone. (No spatial audio though). For the voice call, if you take both headphones out on the street, you will find the XM5 nearly eliminate all car / bus / truck noises and the conversation still clear for the other side of the call. AirPods Max couldn’t do that. Give it a go. Comfort for me, XM5 is way better, I got a wider head and have glasses, the AirPods Max pressure on both sides of the ears gives me headaches whereas I can wear the XM5 for hours.

[@roos-marijn]

Two questions: 1. How is the noise cancelling for high tones? I live right above a train yard(? Is that the word) and so I hear a lot of shrill shrieky, squeaky noises that I want to shut out. 2. Do the Aipods Max have a cable to connect them directly? I know the Sonys do. I play a lot of rhythm games on my phone and that doesnt go well with the delay that comes with a Bluetooth connection.

[@owenboxall598]

5 is fantastic gets uncomfortable on top of head after three hours needs more padding

[@Alexander-dz3tf]

Which one is better for working out?

[@lavayuki]

The Apple ones are crazy expensive, which is the one thing that deters me. I am an Apple user and have the airpod pro 2 earbuds, but for headphones Sony seem better value. Also I think the Apple ones look really strange, I really don't like that weird square design and metal uncomfortable looking headband.

[@sagarVerma1995]

Apple vs Sony I need both

[@jeremythornton2464]

I waited until The Max was a lot cheaper simply the eco system benefits and the fact Sonys are too similar from 3 4 and 5 generations ( fit is everything). How about fitting headphones like shoes the option for different size pads

[@RonaldBrown59]

Great comparison, thanks for sharing.

[@thedetective8150]

XM5s get very uncomfortable after an hour or more of use from the headband causing pain on top of my head. Sony needs to fix that on the next version

[@Pokpak_Manoban]

can u do a review of the Sennheiser Momentum 4?? I would really love to hear your opinion about it

[@MarkEllisReviews]

It’s on the way 😉

[@Pokpak_Manoban]

@@MarkEllisReviews really??!!! I'm excited!!

[@tiffanyroberson9773]

You can replace the ear pads on the xm5s too, they’re just more solidly installed so they don’t just pop off. Also, this review just makes it sound like you don’t know how or where the touch controls are and what they do 😂 Right ear cup, my dude. If you cover it most or all of the way with a hand or arm, you can activate ambient mode until you uncover it

[@isaiaha4126]

Where do you find them for under $400? Preowned/refurbished pair?

[@spiderjuan9603]

if price wasnt in the picture which one is the better choice?

[@rowanwhile]

I own both. Sound quality of the airpod max is better imo.. But I use the XM5 for connecting to everything not apple because they.... just... work. (and still sound great.)