Side by side
WH-1000XM6 vs WH-1000XM5
Quick verdict
The WH-1000XM6 is the better headphone; the WH-1000XM5 still makes sense if you find it clearly cheaper.
| Criterion | Winner | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Noise cancelling | WH-1000XM6 | Stronger, newer QN3 chip |
| Calls | WH-1000XM6 | 12 mics, clearer calls |
| Travel | WH-1000XM6 | Folds flat, smaller case |
| Battery | Tie | Both up to 30 h |
| Value | Depends | XM5 if clearly cheaper |
At a glance
| Feature | WH-1000XM6 | WH-1000XM5 |
|---|---|---|
| Noise-cancelling processor | QN3 (newer, faster) | QN1 |
| Microphones | 12 | 8 |
| Folding design | Yes, folds flat and inwards | No, earcups only swivel flat |
| Battery life (ANC on) | Up to 30 hours | Up to 30 hours |
| Carry case | Smaller case with magnetic clasp | Larger case with zip |
| Release year | 2025 | 2022 |
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Which one should you buy?
Mister Magelo’s verdict
The WH-1000XM6 is the better headphone: stronger noise cancelling, clearer calls and a design that folds again for travel. The WH-1000XM5 is still very good and makes sense if you find it clearly cheaper. If you already own the XM5, the upgrade is a nice-to-have, not a must.
Independent recommendation · Retailers can’t pay for rankingChoose WH-1000XM6 if…
- you want the strongest noise cancelling Sony offers
- you make a lot of calls in noisy places
- you travel often and want headphones that fold small
Choose WH-1000XM5 if…
- you find it at a clearly lower price
- you mainly listen at home or in the office
- very good noise cancelling is enough for you