Sony’s WH-1000XM5 headphones are currently discounted to 216,00 euros on AliExpress using the promotional code FAES29, according to reporting published by ABC on September 12, 2026. The over-ear hardware, which launched as part of the company’s flagship audio lineup, faces new competition in the active noise cancellation market following the subsequent release of newer models.
Active Noise Cancellation Performance in Transit
The WH-1000XM5 utilizes two processors and eight microphones—double the microphone count of previous generations—to filter continuous, low-frequency sounds such as airplane engines, air conditioning units, and open-office background hums, as detailed by ABC. However, the hardware struggles more with nearby human voices, significantly reducing but not entirely erasing close-range speech.
Sony rates the built-in battery at up to 30 hours of continuous playback with active noise cancellation enabled, and up to 40 hours with the feature turned off.
Generational Comparison and Market Context
While the WH-1000XM5 remains a benchmark for comfort and continuous noise reduction on long journeys, newer hardware options have entered the market. TechRadar reports that the successor Sony WH-1000XM6 launched at 469 euros, featuring a redesigned 30mm driver, a QN3 processor equipped with a noise modeler, and 12 microphones to rival competing devices like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra.
The newer WH-1000XM6 model also reintroduces a foldable hinge design absent in the XM5, alongside a wider headband, Bluetooth audio transmission during charging, and improved call quality. Despite these upgrades on newer iterations, reviewers note that the older WH-1000XM5 maintains strong value for travelers seeking long battery life, LDAC high-resolution audio support, and robust active noise cancellation at a reduced price point.
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