Sony WH-1000XM5 VS Bose QuietComfort 45
The two kings of noise-cancelling headphones — which one blocks out the world better?
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Our Pick: Sony WH-1000XM5 — Superior ANC, better sound quality, multipoint, and more features at a similar price
Full Specs Comparison
| Spec | Sony WH-1000XM5 | Bose QuietComfort 45 |
|---|---|---|
| Driver Size | 30 mm | 40 mm |
| Frequency Response | 4 Hz – 40,000 Hz | 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz |
| ANC Technology | Dual Noise Sensor (8 mics total) | TriPort acoustic + ANC |
| Transparency Mode | Yes (Ambient Sound Mode) | Yes (Aware Mode) |
| Battery Life (ANC on) | 30 hours | 24 hours |
| Battery Life (ANC off) | 40 hours | N/A (ANC always on) |
| Charging | USB-C, 3 min = 3 hrs playback | USB-C, 15 min = 3 hrs playback |
| Multipoint Bluetooth | Yes (2 devices) | Yes (2 devices) |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.2 | 5.1 |
| Codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC (hi-res) | SBC, AAC |
| Hi-Res Audio | Yes (LDAC) | No |
| Foldable | No (flat for travel) | Yes (folds compact) |
| Weight | 250 g | 238 g |
| Price (MSRP) | $349 | $279 |
Sony WH-1000XM5
- ✓ Best ANC in class — industry benchmark
- ✓ LDAC hi-res audio codec
- ✓ 30+ hr battery
- ✓ Excellent call quality (8 microphones)
- ✓ Speak-to-chat auto pause
- ✗ Doesn’t fold — less portable
- ✗ $70 more expensive
- ✗ Ear cups can get warm on long sessions
Bose QuietComfort 45
- ✓ More comfortable for extended wear
- ✓ Folds compact for travel
- ✓ $70 cheaper
- ✓ Excellent call quality
- ✓ Reliable Bose sound signature
- ✗ No LDAC (no hi-res audio)
- ✗ ANC slightly behind Sony
- ✗ 6 hours less battery
- ✗ No speak-to-chat
Final Verdict
Both are excellent — but the Sony WH-1000XM5 leads in almost every technical spec: better ANC, 6 more battery hours, LDAC hi-res audio, and superior microphone array for calls. The Bose QC45 wins on comfort (lighter, softer cups) and folds more compactly. If you fly frequently and care about maximum noise cancellation, Sony is the clear pick. If you wear headphones for 8+ hours daily and comfort is paramount, Bose is worth it.