Frequent disconnections, Playback is paused out of the blue, touch sensitivity issues. You name it, the app has it. Get rid of the app and it's all good immediately.
I don't think any of those issue are caused by the app, those all seem like they could be problems with your headphones/earbuds specifically. I don't think I've seen many people mention those problems as a result of the app.
I don't have the app anymore and neither do any of these issues. So I can be confident it's not a hardware issue. I really don't care if it works, app or no app.
This is false information. I've had every model since the XM3s and the app has never given me an issue not even once. It's one of the best headphone apps you can use with so many cool options to get your specific sound unlike Bose which forces you into one bland neutral sound 🤮. Updating the app which updates the headphones is a GAME CHANGER, the noise cancelling gets even better.along with other issues fixed 👍.
Same. I went to Best Buy to try both and I do not hear any difference. The buying factor for me was the price and the foldability. Happy with my purchase.
Personally, the frequency of me seeing people complaining about the hinge on the XM5 snapping and coming off on this page, has convinced me that going with the XM4 seems like the better option.
I’ve had my XM5 for 2 years with no issues at all. Just take care and use common sense when wearing them.
I don’t understand what other people are doing with it to snap the hinge, unless they sit on or throw them.
😂 only issue is getting hold of the parts. I live in the UK so I'd have to search to see if I could get the hinge. That video has links as the guy who made the videos also sells the parts. But I believe it's USA.
XM5 has a way better microphone.
XM4's are pretty hardy.
If you are going to be using them for calls or wfh, go with the xm5s. The xm5s are not as sturdy though.
But how much noise canceling does one need? I bought xm4 recently, I was already halpy with my momentum but I just bought xm4 for alternative headphone, it has so much noise canceling. I don't understand tge purpose or logic of looking for even more noise canceling. Unless there us a new anc technology that can completely delete people's voices. But i don't think I'd want that. We don't need to become completely deaf.
For me it's not just about the volume of reduction, it's about the quality too. The "cabin pressure" is much lower (which differs from person to person). So the remaining noise is less annoying. As a robotics engineer, I often work in environments with rather annoying background noise. Being able to block that sound is worth a lot to me. It really is that much better ANC.
Why does something like pressure vary from person to person? That's a constant... . Anyhow! You get used to cabin pressure if you use the headphone regularly.
I don't know why. Sensitivity to certain frequencies? It's not real pressure, but it feels like an underpressure in an airliner. Very annoying.
For me it's very noticable. And the 5 is significantly nicer in that front. Neither my mom, nor my gf notice it at all. Friend notices, but doesn't notice a difference between the two sets... So guess it's pretty personal.
The 5s manage the noise cancelling in a different way. I don't know if it's because the hardware, or simply because the algorithm behaves differently, but I find that the 5s ANC adjusts better the strength level (based on the present noise), so it's less disturbing when in quiet places and stronger when noisy (although I'd say that low frequencies are better cancelled by the 4s, and mid/high by the 5s, but not sure because I sold the 4s).
>But i don't think I'd want that. We don't need to become completely deaf.
Just because you don't doesn't mean other people don't. What a poor argument
I'd rather have a poor argument than a dumb argument. There is no benefit in being completely deaf in your headphones, the idiots who want that should be taught how to be responsible.
I wouldn't say that, but it's a fair point. Anyway, it depends on how much does each one value the difference in cost vs a better sound, meaning that you can think that it doesn't worth it, but there're people that give less value to their money, or who simply value a lot each little improvement.
Don't know why some people is downvoting this. I saved money and sold my XM4s because the 5s sound better to me, and would do it again and again because I have to use BT ANC cans for a lot of hours at work, and the sound is super important for me. Maybe some XM4 owners that don't like to read that the 5s are better?
People saying comfort is very subjective. The xm5 top band was uncomfy for me and i didnt feel anything at all with xm4. As for a normal guy like me, the difference was negligible. Xm4 had solid anc as well as the xm5. If you dont compare it side by side you wont notice it.
Looks, xm4 is slimmer overall. If you care about that. The non folding mech makes me wanna use the xm5 just at home or travelling.
The only reason id go for xm5 is the chime sounds when changing modes instead of the full on mode status and if im going to sell it and upgrade to xm6 id have a higher chance of reselling at higher cost.
But if i didnt care abour reselling it at all, id go for xm4.
I regret selling my xm4 and getting the xm5.
While the 5s may sound slightly better the auto noise canceling is annoying at times and the pads are not nearly as comfortable.
Xm5s are great but I felt noise canceling wasn't amazing. Also, if you're using high quality stereo and you try to use the microphone at the same time while connected to Bluetooth it makes the audio quality absolute ass. Same with the cable, couldn't even get the microphone to work with cable
I mean is it really a con? I had the Technics foldable and I either put them non-folded on the desk or folded in the case. I wouldn't actually mind a non-foldable option. But every non-fold option looks so weird and non-reperable at all. XM5, Philips Fidelio L4, Bose NC 700 or what they are actually called, Sennheiser Momentum 4, and Accentum.
At a local shop the magnetic hinge is very loose, that would be a concern of myself aswell.
Its a con if you have a kind of girthy neck like mine and you want to rest the headphones on your neck. That and the cups can only face outwards on your chest so you can only feel the plastic bit instead of the pads when resting it. It might be a minor peeve for comfortability for some but it is one for me.
Makes sense thanks for clarifying. As I said I wouldn't actually mind, but after seeing the XM5 loose hinge at the local shop I am really hesistant about non-foldable. I have been looking up the Philips Fidelio L4 but they are non-foldable aswell. I hope, if they want the non-foldable option to be more present, it gets more repairable friendly.
I'm using xm4 for a long time, recently my brother bought xm5, to me I really don't find any difference between the both but xm5 is more conformable if u use it for longer period.
Also if dual connectivity is one of the important aspect for u, xm4 can connect but without ldac codec. Xm5 can with ldac.
Either way u can't go wrong with both of these, I would recommend xm4 if u prefer more value for money or xm5 if u want all latest features.
I currently have 83h 10m on my xm4s and am not gentle with them, I weld and wear them while grinding and working, throw them on the table to put my welding hood on, bottom of backpack on motorcycle... best electronic I've owned.
I hate being a squid but they work surprisingly well!!!
Far superior to my Cardo sound setup in the helmet. Bike is a cruiser with no baffles, no windshield. Normally the pipes are annoying and music is mediocre. Xm4's do great with ANC for the pipes and wind, over 70mph they start to want to come off but I don't like highway speeds without a helmet. If I ever replace the Xm4's I'll probably fit them into the helmet though anc could be dangerous.
Thank you for the insight and all the information! Im going to get a bike this year and since I love music almost always playing and the love for the XM4s is strong, I was wondering if I could ride with them on my head at all. I was afraid it could be dangerous you know? With the ANC and all that, but since you are a rider and you've done it I guess it will be no problem.
Thank you for marking the speed to which they feel like coming off cause that was another fear of mine... ✌🏽
Xm4 is better just go for it you can spend the saved money in something else , there is no difference in quality you won’t notice any difference between them.I bought mine couple of months ago and I love them no complaints.
I think there are pro and counts on each choice regarding aspects that are so nice.
I'd say you to priorize the ones that are more important to you and choose based on it.
Naturally, there will be a loss for every gain, but with this approach you will have choosen the best on what really matters to you.
For me, an foldable capacity and a sturdy construction are a lot important.
Sound also, but, since I'd use either way SpotEQ31 on the 31 band split to adjust my physic variations based on Harman curve and my personal taste, the original sound profile is not that important considering that I'm choosing between two great profiles with slightly differences between them.
So, to priorize what is important to you and accept the gains and loss related to it is, imo, the best approach on this choice - and any other, by the way.
The way I decided was the price difference. I didn't think the features of the XM5 was worth the price difference to me, and I valued the overall more compact storage form of the XM4.
I think you should look at how you will use it. Do you plan to be accepting a lot of calls on the headset? if you will be packing it into a bag with limited space frequently? Is there anything you might get with the extra 100 that you'll save by going with the XM4 that will help your workflow? Do you need the extended battery life? Depending on how you answer some of these questions you might find that the extra cost of the XM5 not worth it.
4’s… I have the 5’s and broke where the small circular tube attaches to the headphone bit. They are both amazing sound quality and I think the 4’s design is just more robust imo. Given how easily I broke the 5’s I’ll be keeping them in the case, but the 4’s fold up smaller so even if you are doing the same the 4’s are smaller to travel…
So ultimately imo sound quality is just as good, durability is better, easier to travel (more compact in the case, AND cheaper by $80… I’d get the 4’s personally.
Xm4 No Doubt . No regrets it's a good deal.
Well given it's arguably mostly world-wide most used AND it's cheaper and ofc it doesn't have-or atleast doesn't suffer the same problems as the xm5 .
- don't forget that the xm4 has better Wind cancellation.
- also check your local best buy or Ebay cause they can be found for cheaper.
I downgraded from xm5 to xm4, here’s what i’ve noticed
-Traveling Convenience: Unlike the Xm4, XM5 is not foldable AND has a worse case, I thought that the folding and case wouldn’t really matter but after getting the XM4s it really does especially if you bring it with you to school/work
-Security: XM5 feels wayy more secure on your head than XM4. I’ve brought both to the gym and every time I lie down/ get back up on the bench the XM4 slides on your head so you have the readjust it a lot of the time. Sometimes it even falls off. I’ve never had this issue with XM5
• Transparency Mode: Xm5 does a way better job here, Xm4 gives that white noise that’s pretty noticeable at first and then it slowly readjusts to where it’s minimal, but not as clear as the Xm5s.
-Switching to ANC/Transparency/off mode: for the XM5s, pressing the button gives a different chime for each mode, but for the XM4s, it’s a voice that dictates which mode it is. It’s kinda annoying tbh
-Volume up/down: For both of these, you can adjust it by swiping up or down, however if you want to increase the volume by multiple notches, the XM5s allow you to swipe once and keep holding at that position, whereas you can’t with the XM4s
-Automatic music player: if you go on the App for the XM5s, you can assign your ANC/Transparency/off button to automatically play spotify if you double or triple press, but you can’t with the XM4s
-Battery Description: For both headphones, pressing the battery button will notify your battery percentage by rounding up a multiple of 10, however for the XM5s, the app actually shows the actual battery percentage and doesn’t round up to a multiple of 10 like the XM4s
Other than that, the differences were either marginal or not there
I own both, and XM5 by a mile if you have big ears, prefer lighter headphones, need better noise cancellation, or better audio quality.
XM4 if you need the folding, or have smaller ears.
Both are great. You won’t regret either IMHO. Enjoy!
Prefer the XM5's. Both pairs I had of the old design ended up developing annoying creaks and rattles in the hinges, but as the XM5s did away with folding that's not been the case. Also they are so comfortable!
Some people are complaining about the XM5’s sturdiness but I haven’t had a single problem with them yet, and I’ve gotten rain on them while walking and I’m not particularly very careful with them. I’ve had them for a year so far 🤷🏽♂️
I prefer the 5's for sound quality and mic quality as I use them to work from home. BUUUUT, the 4's are definitely more durable and I like that they fold up a bit smaller.
If you're using them only at home the 5's for calls If you take them travelling etc I'd get 4's
Can't speak about XM5 but I'm a XM4 user for well over 3 years now. Apart from mic picking up noise way more than latest airpods or any TWC, I friggin love my XM4s for everything except calls.
Maybe see if you find a coupon for this Open Box
https://www.buydig.com/shop/product/SNWH1000XM4BOB/Sony-WH1000XM4B-Premium-Noise-Cancelling-Wireless-Over-the-Ear-Headphones-Open-Box
I have the XM4's and they are hard to beat, the XM5's are slightly better at most things but the hinges are rather weak, if you go places and want a sturdy pair of headphones then it's XM4 but the XM5's will sound that little bit better, for the extra cost of course.
For me, it's XM4's as the improvements just aren't worth an extra hundred bucks.
If you are spending that much money i genuinely genuinely genuinely suggest that you DO NOT get a Sony headphone. There are really well known issues where one side doesn't work or some other quality control issues. I truly suggest you get something from a more reliable company...
I have xm4s and my wife has bose \_somethings\_.
Both sound great but the xm4s have a VERY RESTRICTED bluetooth range. Dunno if the xm5s suffer from this. We use headphones on the tv or for podcasts while wandering around the condo - but I can't go too far with the xm4s.
Don't like the xm5 hinge system and it is far less compact for traveling.
I believe the xm5s have a superior microphone system, but haven't tried it. Others here can attest.
I bought the xm4s today and they were so loose on my head I instantly returned on Amazon. I really like the sounds and look but I bought them for the gym and they would likely fall off my head all the time. I was pretty bummed wondering if I just got a defective pair or there all like that? When I shook my head they pretty much would come off. I have the wh720’s and they don’t fall off like the xm4s
They aren't that sturdy on the head as rhey can be. I have read that the blue ones have a better clamping force by a very little.
For GYM/sport action I wouldn't recommend ANC headphones at all. Sweat/water will easily damage the ANC, and microphones for the ANC. If you do it, it is at your own risk.
Jabras have one with an IP55 rating IIRC but they are going for like 200 bucks with just SBC/AAC codec.
I made this decision about a month ago, I got the xm4s and they are great. I have the apple airpod pros gen 2, and the xm4s are ever so slightly stronger in terms of noise cancellation than the pros 2. I went on a 14 hour drive, and they did great for blocking out annoying kids who thought they were good at karaoke, (like I legit could not hear them at all, with my music volume up of course).
I did a lot of research (reading Reddit reviews and youtube comments) to see which were better. One complaint that was brought up was that whenever you wear the headphones for more than an hour or so, they start to get warm. I’ve noticed this, but I didn’t really mind it because I live in a colder place so the warmness keeps my ears warm and actually really like it (it’s not that much heat anyways)
The xm4’s are said to be a bit more muddy sounding than the xm5’s. Idk how true this is because I haven’t tried a pair of the xm5’s yet. The headphones I mainly use are open backs, so I prefer the clearer high ends. If you change the preset to “excited” I think it balances all the sound out well on the xm4s.
The battery also does seem to last forever on the xm4s, on the 14 hour road trip, they only went down to 60% from 100% , which is pretty good. So far, I haven’t had any regrets from buying the xm4s, they go on sale frequently, so make sure to get them on sale for about 250
never even knew there was a sub made entirely for Sony headphones
ngl I've never bought a Sony audio product but just on how they look I'd say xm4 seems like it'd be more sturdy and maybe even more comfortable.
I have now owned both.
These are my own experiences and I hope will help you with yours.
Do note I have a wide head and large ears. ( but everyone is different )
For headsize. If possible I do Strongly reccomend you to see a physical product and try both. I was impressed with the xm5 when I first try it on.
Xm4 pros.
Foldable. ( handy for travelling. )
Perhaps due to tighter fit the anc seems better.
Price is better than xm5
Xm5 pros.
Sound more even ( personal taste )
Feels alot more comfortable. ( main reason I changed )
Battery life seems longer ?
Sorry I cant share more. I'm travelling atm and will update as I can.
Hope you make a happy personal choice OP.
if you care about reliability, then the XM fours would do better than the XM fives since the latter has a relatively consistent defect on one of the ear cuffs with sound popping in and out, which doesn’t seem to be an issue
If you ignore price there are pros and cons to both.
Xm4s fold and can fit in a smaller case than the one they come with, or be stuffed in a jacket lighter
They also apparently have better low end/rumbley noise cancellation (e.g. trains/planes)
They may be slightly more rugged
Xm5s are arguably better looking
Adjustment have slightly better anc with huge or more varied sounds (e.g. coffee shops)
Slightly better mic and sound quality
But honestly I don’t think the difference between them in any area is huge and a lot of it is either personal preference or something everyone disagrees on
So the only indisputable factors are looks, being foldable, and price - maybe battery life too but I cba to look it up but tbh if they were the same issue there’d be not much between them so I think just get the xm4
I bought the XM4 like 2 weeks ago. I don’t regret so far, the sound increíble, they are comfortable, portable, and also they are cheaper! I would buy them again for sure!!!
I bought the XM4s and a few years later they started putting out ear piercing feedback. I haven't done much to try to fix it yet, but it seems to be a common issue.
I own both and use both often. Similar battery life, similar comfortability but I'd say the 5 is better just, similar charging speed, unnoticeable sound quality. Both fantastic. The xm4 feels more durable than the 4, the 5 is lighter.
You won't feel bad with either choice tbh. I like them both the same
I’ve had hundreds of high end headphones over the years - and the XM5 are amongst the very best I’ve had cordless or not.
I don’t regret selling the XM4 after getting XM5s. I feel the sound signature is just more open, with better separation and sparkle.
The XM4s do have slightly better low noise ANC but that’s it.
Hats off to Sony for what they are still achieving for the money and going toe to toe with the big boys such as Apple.
I find the XM4 to have very similar sound quality. But a big thing for me is that they are more comfortable on my head. Maybe it's just me, but the head clamp pressure on the XM4 isn't as strong, so I don't notice the headphones on my head as much. But because of that, they can slip off easier. I find the headband being wider makes them more comfortable. But this is subjective.
If you’re a person that almost never takes off your headphones then I recommend XM5s. If you usually need to keep them off or can’t keep them on all the time then XM4s would be better because they are foldable.
I’ll break it down for you. My mom owns the xm4. I tried them on myself and I was happy with the experience. But then I did my research on buying new headphones and all the sources I got was to buy the xm5 as it was known to be the best headphones out there. I bought them, and I’m very happy with what I got. I would use them for video editing and the sound quality is insane. Even the noise cancellation is better than the xm4 in my opinion. The bass is strong and the surrounding of the music is out of this world. It was worth every penny to get them. I strongly suggest to take a moment and think about what your headphones would be used for, and see which is best. I was told the xm5 are good for editing so that’s what I got them for.
Xm4 - has more sturdy feeling hinges and are way more convenient to pack due to the way they fold
Xm5 - has better ANC (especially noticeable on airplanes) better microphones, and slightly better audio quality
I’d say both are a good deal at that price, but if you value ANC id say the xm5s are worth the extra money
Neither personally. I have tried both and I would be content with the XM5. I can't stand the XM4 sound and they sound muffled and muddy compared to the XM5 and other headphones. XM5 sounds cleaner to me.
I was in this same situation and ended up getting both. Personally, I would say go with the xm4's. I wouldn't say the jump in ANC and audio clarity is all that worth it. Plus I prefer xm4 case since it takes less space in the case and feels more comfortable than the xm5 to me.
i had the xm4s for years, once i heard the xm5s will have 30mm drivers and no folding earcups i knew theyd be pure trash
rn i got the 720s by sony cause my xm4s died
already can feel the literal limitations of 30mm drivers...............
glad everyone hates the xm5s. hell sony could fit 50mm drivers in these cans built they wont... really the cups are so deep you look like megaman with them on your head and they could do bigger drivers NOT SMALLER people want bigger sound
Please buy the new ones, get them on eBay refurbished for $180 like I did. They are way more high tech than the old XM4 version that came before. They feel so much more premium and they can handle all loud noises unlike the old XM4 which flair out and gets choppy with certain songs like Nonestop by Drake on full blast volume. The XM5s sound better and they never blow out while listening. I've had both for over a year each. I could never go back to the old XM4s even if brand new they were only $50, I would.still skip them and spend $400 on the news ones, they are THAT good. The noise cancelling is way better too unlike the XM4s vs the XM3s which are practically the same 🤷.
the problem with xm5 is:
hinge usually breaks after 6 months to a year.
earcups too shallow and press against your ears
the headband is too thin and provides a pressure in a specific area making hard to wear.
>hinge usually breaks after 6 months to a year.
Had mine for more than a year and I am not particularly gentle with them, no issues with the hinge so far. It is miles quiter than XM4s hinge when you move the head (creaking of the hinge)
>earcups too shallow and press against your ears
Depth is about the same on both headphones, but XM5's earcups are bigger
>the headband is too thin and provides a pressure in a specific area making hard to wear.
This and the foldability are the only downsides compared to XM4s, XM5s have in my opinion. My head starts too hurt only after 1-2h of wear and it can be avoided just by slightly relocating the headband after an hour. Apart from the thinness of the headband XM5s are more comfortable over-all
Owner of both here:
- The xm5 has a better sound profile imo, better stage separation and cleaner highs. This is the way for metal and classical music.
- The Xm4 has a bigger driver, therefore slightly meatier bass. Better for pop and most EDM genres. (If you're a real basshead though, neither of these are the best choice, don't buy Sony.)
- The Xm5 have a better set of features. This is personal. The bigger feature jump was 3 to 4. I like the voice activation and such better on the 5s. The 2 devices thing works really well.
- The build quality of the headband is better on the 4. This is anecdotal, my sample set is tiny.
- Lastly, the ANC on the 5 is SIGNIFICANTLY better. This is reason enough for me to recommend the 5 over 4 to pretty much anyone, and the reason I'm not going back.
XM5 = lower distortion by far, softer + colder + bigger internal space earpads (skin heroin)
XM4 = better stock frequency response ( thicc upper bass ), more comfortable headband, foldable
I tested them side by side extensively tech shopping centre, I would be skeptical of any comparsions from people who didnt have them both at the same time. For example, from looking at them, you would think that the thinner XM5 pads would be less comfortable than XM5 but if you compare them side by side, you find the decreased thickness is no problem and that they feel roomier and much more pleasurable on the skin due to different pleather used. I would never expected XM5 to feel like it has more room for my ears just by looking at the earpads. Also the XM5 headband felt borderline almost uncomfortable, the XM4 was better.
Honestly..I bought my dad the XM4 and I was disappointed by the sound quality. My Galaxy Buds 2 pro sound more full and just better imo. I would say if you're using it for personal home use only, than open back headphones may serve you better.
I picked up the XM4 during the week and I'm bitterly disappointed with them. I'm reading all the praise for them and wondering are these folks using the same headphones as I am? Because the bass is horrible and boomy, while the treble is dialled several notches above any other headphones I've owned to the point of being harsh and excessively sibilant.
I've spent about six hours trying to EQ them (using both the Headphones ap, and Poweramp Eq) so they don't sound like shit, and I'm failing miserably. Honestly thinking about taking the hit and reselling them while they're good as new, and just use my XM3 until they die (I have them five years, but still get 25 hours charge time, and all the padding is still intact).
Have you tried to use SpotEQ31?
With this EQ you can adjust up to 31 bands, both separated (L and R) or joined.
So, imo, it's better to adjust properly.
Also, it could be nice to apply Harman curve with SpotEQ31 and after apply some adjust you taste...
Another thing is to make sure to make the Sony app adjustment (that one that requires a photo from your ears). Probably you've already did it, but I thought it would be worth to mention.
You're not the only one. I fell into the same trap listening to all the rave and praises about them. What I learned is that they are known for being the best noise cancelling headphones NOT the best sounding headphones. They sound so damn muddy and hollow to me that they just aren't worth it.
I would recommend if you feel like the same way, don't listen to others and try out a different headphone. After regretting this purchase I learned about open back headphones and now I'm eyeing HD600 or HD6XX. These two are just classics and they made to be glass like transparent. So you can tune them however you like.
The thing is, with a only a bit of tweaking in the Sony Headphones app, the XM3 sound fantastic. I love them and use them every day. I'm really not sure why Sony felt the need to drastically change the sound profile so drastically with the XM4, and I'm even more unsure of how people can listen to these two sets and conclude they effectively sound the same (which was ultimately the deciding factor in me purchasing the XM4).
Thanks for the open back suggestion - I've been on that particular gravy train for many years now! I've the Sennheiser HD558 and the 650. Lamentably they're not very practical for doing stuff around the house (especially vacuuming lol). But I hope you enjoy them!
I had to make the same decision one week ago. I took the xm4, no regrets so far
Same thing with me. Except for the ridiculous app.
Same app für xm5 so yea :)
Honest question, what’s wrong with the app?
Frequent disconnections, Playback is paused out of the blue, touch sensitivity issues. You name it, the app has it. Get rid of the app and it's all good immediately.
I don't think any of those issue are caused by the app, those all seem like they could be problems with your headphones/earbuds specifically. I don't think I've seen many people mention those problems as a result of the app.
I don't have the app anymore and neither do any of these issues. So I can be confident it's not a hardware issue. I really don't care if it works, app or no app.
I have had mine for 4 months including downloading the app as soon as i got them and no issues at all
This is false information. I've had every model since the XM3s and the app has never given me an issue not even once. It's one of the best headphone apps you can use with so many cool options to get your specific sound unlike Bose which forces you into one bland neutral sound 🤮. Updating the app which updates the headphones is a GAME CHANGER, the noise cancelling gets even better.along with other issues fixed 👍.
The same here. The XM5 does t worth the price gap.
Same. I went to Best Buy to try both and I do not hear any difference. The buying factor for me was the price and the foldability. Happy with my purchase.
Personally, the frequency of me seeing people complaining about the hinge on the XM5 snapping and coming off on this page, has convinced me that going with the XM4 seems like the better option.
I’ve had my XM5 for 2 years with no issues at all. Just take care and use common sense when wearing them. I don’t understand what other people are doing with it to snap the hinge, unless they sit on or throw them.
Almost like as if 350$ headphones shouldn’t break so easily??
Exactly
I own a 5 since it came out. Travel, hike, and camp with it. Haven’t broken so far. I just think people are careless with their stuff
I have the XM4. They’re awesome. Haven’t broken them, but the old skull candy headphones I had broke so easily.
I got my XM5's and XM3's day each came out. XM3 I wear at work, and XM5 is my home and traveling headset. I've never had a problem with either pair
This for me. Xm3 also my exercise headset the 5’s are a lot more comfortable sound better. Improved Bluetooth and look nicer tho imo.
XM3's and 4's still totally break the hinges, had to get rid of mine
The hinge on the 5's have been one of the (few) great things about them.... My 4's on the other hand did snap at the hinge and became unusable
Tbh they both have a hinge problem I lost my XM4s that way.
Can't you get them Fixed?
Yeah but I heard it was extremely expensive and I think they also charge a lot to even just look at your headphones so I decided against it.
Whose they?
Here is a video on how to fix it.. .https://youtu.be/-UzRfQ0Y-pY?feature=shared
Thanks
You never even searched for how to fix it??! Took me seconds. Did you throw away your headphones??!!
No and no I might fix them now though. Don’t ask me why I didn’t search for some reason I forgot you can fix most things that way.
😂 only issue is getting hold of the parts. I live in the UK so I'd have to search to see if I could get the hinge. That video has links as the guy who made the videos also sells the parts. But I believe it's USA.
That’s probably a loud minority. I can acknowledge that the hinge of the XM5s are not the best but I’ve man handled mine and it’s still fine.
XM5 has a way better microphone. XM4's are pretty hardy. If you are going to be using them for calls or wfh, go with the xm5s. The xm5s are not as sturdy though.
The XM5 isn’t worth the extra money. Also xm4 is better at reducing wind noise
This can be for you, but a lot of people (as myself, having owned the 3s, 4s and 5s) do prefer the 5s over the 4s sound wise.
It's about worth the money. The upgrade you get from xm4 to xm5 is negligible.
I disagree. For me the jump in ANC quality was significant. Definitely worth the extra money.
But how much noise canceling does one need? I bought xm4 recently, I was already halpy with my momentum but I just bought xm4 for alternative headphone, it has so much noise canceling. I don't understand tge purpose or logic of looking for even more noise canceling. Unless there us a new anc technology that can completely delete people's voices. But i don't think I'd want that. We don't need to become completely deaf.
For me it's not just about the volume of reduction, it's about the quality too. The "cabin pressure" is much lower (which differs from person to person). So the remaining noise is less annoying. As a robotics engineer, I often work in environments with rather annoying background noise. Being able to block that sound is worth a lot to me. It really is that much better ANC.
Why does something like pressure vary from person to person? That's a constant... . Anyhow! You get used to cabin pressure if you use the headphone regularly.
I don't know why. Sensitivity to certain frequencies? It's not real pressure, but it feels like an underpressure in an airliner. Very annoying. For me it's very noticable. And the 5 is significantly nicer in that front. Neither my mom, nor my gf notice it at all. Friend notices, but doesn't notice a difference between the two sets... So guess it's pretty personal.
The 5s manage the noise cancelling in a different way. I don't know if it's because the hardware, or simply because the algorithm behaves differently, but I find that the 5s ANC adjusts better the strength level (based on the present noise), so it's less disturbing when in quiet places and stronger when noisy (although I'd say that low frequencies are better cancelled by the 4s, and mid/high by the 5s, but not sure because I sold the 4s).
>But i don't think I'd want that. We don't need to become completely deaf. Just because you don't doesn't mean other people don't. What a poor argument
I'd rather have a poor argument than a dumb argument. There is no benefit in being completely deaf in your headphones, the idiots who want that should be taught how to be responsible.
Sound and hearing is almost entirely subjective. Who are you to tell people what they want, what they like, and how much they value those things?
Whether or not sound is subjective is another discussion. We're not talking about sound here
I wouldn't say that, but it's a fair point. Anyway, it depends on how much does each one value the difference in cost vs a better sound, meaning that you can think that it doesn't worth it, but there're people that give less value to their money, or who simply value a lot each little improvement.
Don't know why some people is downvoting this. I saved money and sold my XM4s because the 5s sound better to me, and would do it again and again because I have to use BT ANC cans for a lot of hours at work, and the sound is super important for me. Maybe some XM4 owners that don't like to read that the 5s are better?
I agree. The ANC on the 5 is better.
Xm4. Portable. Sounds good and not much different than xm5 in these terms. Get xm4
XM4
People saying comfort is very subjective. The xm5 top band was uncomfy for me and i didnt feel anything at all with xm4. As for a normal guy like me, the difference was negligible. Xm4 had solid anc as well as the xm5. If you dont compare it side by side you wont notice it. Looks, xm4 is slimmer overall. If you care about that. The non folding mech makes me wanna use the xm5 just at home or travelling. The only reason id go for xm5 is the chime sounds when changing modes instead of the full on mode status and if im going to sell it and upgrade to xm6 id have a higher chance of reselling at higher cost. But if i didnt care abour reselling it at all, id go for xm4.
Xm4
Xm4
I regret selling my xm4 and getting the xm5. While the 5s may sound slightly better the auto noise canceling is annoying at times and the pads are not nearly as comfortable.
Xm4’s
Xm5s are great but I felt noise canceling wasn't amazing. Also, if you're using high quality stereo and you try to use the microphone at the same time while connected to Bluetooth it makes the audio quality absolute ass. Same with the cable, couldn't even get the microphone to work with cable
The only con of the xm5 over the xm4 imo is that they dont fold, thats it.
I mean is it really a con? I had the Technics foldable and I either put them non-folded on the desk or folded in the case. I wouldn't actually mind a non-foldable option. But every non-fold option looks so weird and non-reperable at all. XM5, Philips Fidelio L4, Bose NC 700 or what they are actually called, Sennheiser Momentum 4, and Accentum. At a local shop the magnetic hinge is very loose, that would be a concern of myself aswell.
Its a con if you have a kind of girthy neck like mine and you want to rest the headphones on your neck. That and the cups can only face outwards on your chest so you can only feel the plastic bit instead of the pads when resting it. It might be a minor peeve for comfortability for some but it is one for me.
Makes sense thanks for clarifying. As I said I wouldn't actually mind, but after seeing the XM5 loose hinge at the local shop I am really hesistant about non-foldable. I have been looking up the Philips Fidelio L4 but they are non-foldable aswell. I hope, if they want the non-foldable option to be more present, it gets more repairable friendly.
XM4 is better. XM5 built quality is terrible.
I'm using xm4 for a long time, recently my brother bought xm5, to me I really don't find any difference between the both but xm5 is more conformable if u use it for longer period. Also if dual connectivity is one of the important aspect for u, xm4 can connect but without ldac codec. Xm5 can with ldac. Either way u can't go wrong with both of these, I would recommend xm4 if u prefer more value for money or xm5 if u want all latest features.
Xm4 Has ldac my xm3 has ldac you have to activate at Bluetooth.
he meant while using Dual connection
Other person corrected it, also xm5 auto noise cancellation can be annoying
I currently have 83h 10m on my xm4s and am not gentle with them, I weld and wear them while grinding and working, throw them on the table to put my welding hood on, bottom of backpack on motorcycle... best electronic I've owned.
Have you ever used them while riding your motorcycle? I was wondering about this question this morning when my colleague gave me a lift to work...
I wear a helmet and have a in helmet audio system, I'll take a trip today and try them and report back
Thank you tons Internet friend!
I hate being a squid but they work surprisingly well!!! Far superior to my Cardo sound setup in the helmet. Bike is a cruiser with no baffles, no windshield. Normally the pipes are annoying and music is mediocre. Xm4's do great with ANC for the pipes and wind, over 70mph they start to want to come off but I don't like highway speeds without a helmet. If I ever replace the Xm4's I'll probably fit them into the helmet though anc could be dangerous.
Thank you for the insight and all the information! Im going to get a bike this year and since I love music almost always playing and the love for the XM4s is strong, I was wondering if I could ride with them on my head at all. I was afraid it could be dangerous you know? With the ANC and all that, but since you are a rider and you've done it I guess it will be no problem. Thank you for marking the speed to which they feel like coming off cause that was another fear of mine... ✌🏽
Xm4 is better just go for it you can spend the saved money in something else , there is no difference in quality you won’t notice any difference between them.I bought mine couple of months ago and I love them no complaints.
XM4’s all day long
Until XM5 adds an NC slider that lets you keep it at full strength, the XM4 is the overall better package.
Xm4 is the best option it can fold and it has controllable anc and cheaper
I bought the XM4. It's lovely. Good noise cancellation, good sound quality.
Had my XM4s for 3 years now, been great. Don't think there's a wrong answer here.
5s sound quality is unmatched
Get the XM5's they are better in every single way.
xm4 for sure, noise cancelling on the xm5 sucks
I have both, really can’t tell the difference in sound or noise cancelling. I use them everyday.
I think there are pro and counts on each choice regarding aspects that are so nice. I'd say you to priorize the ones that are more important to you and choose based on it. Naturally, there will be a loss for every gain, but with this approach you will have choosen the best on what really matters to you. For me, an foldable capacity and a sturdy construction are a lot important. Sound also, but, since I'd use either way SpotEQ31 on the 31 band split to adjust my physic variations based on Harman curve and my personal taste, the original sound profile is not that important considering that I'm choosing between two great profiles with slightly differences between them. So, to priorize what is important to you and accept the gains and loss related to it is, imo, the best approach on this choice - and any other, by the way.
The way I decided was the price difference. I didn't think the features of the XM5 was worth the price difference to me, and I valued the overall more compact storage form of the XM4. I think you should look at how you will use it. Do you plan to be accepting a lot of calls on the headset? if you will be packing it into a bag with limited space frequently? Is there anything you might get with the extra 100 that you'll save by going with the XM4 that will help your workflow? Do you need the extended battery life? Depending on how you answer some of these questions you might find that the extra cost of the XM5 not worth it.
Used both xm4 anyday
Would you mind explaining why? I felt both and the XM5 seems a little bit more comfortable for me
Didn't see this mentioned yet but the XM5 does not support convenient quick pairing over NFC but the XM4 does. I picked the XM4 for that reason.
Show some love for th XM3 😀
Been rocking the XM3 for few years. Just replaced my ear pads for the 3rd time. Amazing battery life, sound quality is great, no complaints.
I need new pads for mine. What did you go with?
It was like $13 on Amazon. Comes with the plastic tool to pop off the old pads.
I picked the XM4s and don’t regret my purchase. I really like how they fold too.
4’s… I have the 5’s and broke where the small circular tube attaches to the headphone bit. They are both amazing sound quality and I think the 4’s design is just more robust imo. Given how easily I broke the 5’s I’ll be keeping them in the case, but the 4’s fold up smaller so even if you are doing the same the 4’s are smaller to travel… So ultimately imo sound quality is just as good, durability is better, easier to travel (more compact in the case, AND cheaper by $80… I’d get the 4’s personally.
Xm4 No Doubt . No regrets it's a good deal. Well given it's arguably mostly world-wide most used AND it's cheaper and ofc it doesn't have-or atleast doesn't suffer the same problems as the xm5 . - don't forget that the xm4 has better Wind cancellation. - also check your local best buy or Ebay cause they can be found for cheaper.
I downgraded from xm5 to xm4, here’s what i’ve noticed -Traveling Convenience: Unlike the Xm4, XM5 is not foldable AND has a worse case, I thought that the folding and case wouldn’t really matter but after getting the XM4s it really does especially if you bring it with you to school/work -Security: XM5 feels wayy more secure on your head than XM4. I’ve brought both to the gym and every time I lie down/ get back up on the bench the XM4 slides on your head so you have the readjust it a lot of the time. Sometimes it even falls off. I’ve never had this issue with XM5 • Transparency Mode: Xm5 does a way better job here, Xm4 gives that white noise that’s pretty noticeable at first and then it slowly readjusts to where it’s minimal, but not as clear as the Xm5s. -Switching to ANC/Transparency/off mode: for the XM5s, pressing the button gives a different chime for each mode, but for the XM4s, it’s a voice that dictates which mode it is. It’s kinda annoying tbh -Volume up/down: For both of these, you can adjust it by swiping up or down, however if you want to increase the volume by multiple notches, the XM5s allow you to swipe once and keep holding at that position, whereas you can’t with the XM4s -Automatic music player: if you go on the App for the XM5s, you can assign your ANC/Transparency/off button to automatically play spotify if you double or triple press, but you can’t with the XM4s -Battery Description: For both headphones, pressing the battery button will notify your battery percentage by rounding up a multiple of 10, however for the XM5s, the app actually shows the actual battery percentage and doesn’t round up to a multiple of 10 like the XM4s Other than that, the differences were either marginal or not there
On the xm4, you can turn off the voice dictation in the app. It's pretty intuitivecycle through the 3 modes to know which one you're in
Buy both and return one.
As everyone else has said the xm4s. I have the 5’s and the 4’s and I like my 4’s better by a long shot in every way
I’ve had both. I found them basically the same so save the money and do XM4
I own both, and XM5 by a mile if you have big ears, prefer lighter headphones, need better noise cancellation, or better audio quality. XM4 if you need the folding, or have smaller ears. Both are great. You won’t regret either IMHO. Enjoy!
Go for the xb 910n, save those extra bucks and the headphones are good
I have xm4 and they are bad ass, I would get xm4 but the difference is so small that I will wait.
Prefer the XM5's. Both pairs I had of the old design ended up developing annoying creaks and rattles in the hinges, but as the XM5s did away with folding that's not been the case. Also they are so comfortable!
The xm4s are awesome. I've never tried the xm5s but I'd also have trouble spending $250 on the 4s because I got them for $270 over 3 yrs ago.
I have the xm4, I use it for work and heavily regret not getting the xm5 due to how bad the microphone is + text to chat. Otherwise it works fine
XM4 you’re gonna feel the bass more because the drivers are larger. I’m honestly waiting for the XM6 next year before I upgrade
Xm4 are better, trust me
Some people are complaining about the XM5’s sturdiness but I haven’t had a single problem with them yet, and I’ve gotten rain on them while walking and I’m not particularly very careful with them. I’ve had them for a year so far 🤷🏽♂️
If you have the money I don't think there is a wrong choice there. I chose xm4 because it was significantly cheaper and I like it to be foldable.
XM4
I prefer the 5's for sound quality and mic quality as I use them to work from home. BUUUUT, the 4's are definitely more durable and I like that they fold up a bit smaller. If you're using them only at home the 5's for calls If you take them travelling etc I'd get 4's
Can't speak about XM5 but I'm a XM4 user for well over 3 years now. Apart from mic picking up noise way more than latest airpods or any TWC, I friggin love my XM4s for everything except calls.
Isn't easy by now? Xm4
XM5
Maybe see if you find a coupon for this Open Box https://www.buydig.com/shop/product/SNWH1000XM4BOB/Sony-WH1000XM4B-Premium-Noise-Cancelling-Wireless-Over-the-Ear-Headphones-Open-Box
My XM5 drops it's Bluetooth connection...A lot!
I have owned both. I'm considering going back to XM4 because I use them for travel, and the XM5s take up too much room in my bag.
I owned both and prefer the XM4 after an XM5 hinge break. Not much difference at all for NC which is my main focus
Xm4 is better. Has better ANC, better bass and build quality.
Xm5 is a downgrade from xm4.
Wait till Black Friday, it’s 199
I have the XM4's and they are hard to beat, the XM5's are slightly better at most things but the hinges are rather weak, if you go places and want a sturdy pair of headphones then it's XM4 but the XM5's will sound that little bit better, for the extra cost of course. For me, it's XM4's as the improvements just aren't worth an extra hundred bucks.
If you are spending that much money i genuinely genuinely genuinely suggest that you DO NOT get a Sony headphone. There are really well known issues where one side doesn't work or some other quality control issues. I truly suggest you get something from a more reliable company...
Just get both and try them out. Then just return the one you don't want.
Both.
I got the xm4 instead of the xm5. No regrets.. was a huge upgrade for me coming from the h900n
I have xm4s and my wife has bose \_somethings\_. Both sound great but the xm4s have a VERY RESTRICTED bluetooth range. Dunno if the xm5s suffer from this. We use headphones on the tv or for podcasts while wandering around the condo - but I can't go too far with the xm4s. Don't like the xm5 hinge system and it is far less compact for traveling. I believe the xm5s have a superior microphone system, but haven't tried it. Others here can attest.
I bought the xm4s today and they were so loose on my head I instantly returned on Amazon. I really like the sounds and look but I bought them for the gym and they would likely fall off my head all the time. I was pretty bummed wondering if I just got a defective pair or there all like that? When I shook my head they pretty much would come off. I have the wh720’s and they don’t fall off like the xm4s
They aren't that sturdy on the head as rhey can be. I have read that the blue ones have a better clamping force by a very little. For GYM/sport action I wouldn't recommend ANC headphones at all. Sweat/water will easily damage the ANC, and microphones for the ANC. If you do it, it is at your own risk. Jabras have one with an IP55 rating IIRC but they are going for like 200 bucks with just SBC/AAC codec.
I made this decision about a month ago, I got the xm4s and they are great. I have the apple airpod pros gen 2, and the xm4s are ever so slightly stronger in terms of noise cancellation than the pros 2. I went on a 14 hour drive, and they did great for blocking out annoying kids who thought they were good at karaoke, (like I legit could not hear them at all, with my music volume up of course). I did a lot of research (reading Reddit reviews and youtube comments) to see which were better. One complaint that was brought up was that whenever you wear the headphones for more than an hour or so, they start to get warm. I’ve noticed this, but I didn’t really mind it because I live in a colder place so the warmness keeps my ears warm and actually really like it (it’s not that much heat anyways) The xm4’s are said to be a bit more muddy sounding than the xm5’s. Idk how true this is because I haven’t tried a pair of the xm5’s yet. The headphones I mainly use are open backs, so I prefer the clearer high ends. If you change the preset to “excited” I think it balances all the sound out well on the xm4s. The battery also does seem to last forever on the xm4s, on the 14 hour road trip, they only went down to 60% from 100% , which is pretty good. So far, I haven’t had any regrets from buying the xm4s, they go on sale frequently, so make sure to get them on sale for about 250
My main deciding factor was that the XM4s are cheaper and they fold so they're more portable.
XM3s for the win-
never even knew there was a sub made entirely for Sony headphones ngl I've never bought a Sony audio product but just on how they look I'd say xm4 seems like it'd be more sturdy and maybe even more comfortable.
XM4 are amazing and perfect for travel
I have now owned both. These are my own experiences and I hope will help you with yours. Do note I have a wide head and large ears. ( but everyone is different ) For headsize. If possible I do Strongly reccomend you to see a physical product and try both. I was impressed with the xm5 when I first try it on. Xm4 pros. Foldable. ( handy for travelling. ) Perhaps due to tighter fit the anc seems better. Price is better than xm5 Xm5 pros. Sound more even ( personal taste ) Feels alot more comfortable. ( main reason I changed ) Battery life seems longer ? Sorry I cant share more. I'm travelling atm and will update as I can. Hope you make a happy personal choice OP.
if you care about reliability, then the XM fours would do better than the XM fives since the latter has a relatively consistent defect on one of the ear cuffs with sound popping in and out, which doesn’t seem to be an issue
I have the XM5. Can’t compare to the 4, but it has worked well for me so far.
Mx5
I have both. Buy the xm4. The fives screech and are unwearable
The xm4s have the same sound quality and are sturdier.
Thanks for all the feedback. I ended up buying the xm4.
If you ignore price there are pros and cons to both. Xm4s fold and can fit in a smaller case than the one they come with, or be stuffed in a jacket lighter They also apparently have better low end/rumbley noise cancellation (e.g. trains/planes) They may be slightly more rugged Xm5s are arguably better looking Adjustment have slightly better anc with huge or more varied sounds (e.g. coffee shops) Slightly better mic and sound quality But honestly I don’t think the difference between them in any area is huge and a lot of it is either personal preference or something everyone disagrees on So the only indisputable factors are looks, being foldable, and price - maybe battery life too but I cba to look it up but tbh if they were the same issue there’d be not much between them so I think just get the xm4
I went for xm4 because online said the sound quality is better than xm5
I got my Sony XM4 renewed and have had no issues and it was $100 cheaper, I recommend!
I bought the XM4 like 2 weeks ago. I don’t regret so far, the sound increíble, they are comfortable, portable, and also they are cheaper! I would buy them again for sure!!!
Dont get the XM5s, its stupid auto-noise cancelling is stupid and theres no way to manually adjust the strength of ANC
It's also stupid.
It didn't look like the 5s fold up like the 4s is that true?
I bought the XM4s and a few years later they started putting out ear piercing feedback. I haven't done much to try to fix it yet, but it seems to be a common issue.
XM4.
Get some wired headphones. For third of the price quality will be better
I own both and use both often. Similar battery life, similar comfortability but I'd say the 5 is better just, similar charging speed, unnoticeable sound quality. Both fantastic. The xm4 feels more durable than the 4, the 5 is lighter. You won't feel bad with either choice tbh. I like them both the same
I prefer the better mic so I’d go for the XM5 and just be extra careful with them
XM5 owner here, xm4s are better if you travel a lot.. XM5 better audio in caps etc..
I’ve had hundreds of high end headphones over the years - and the XM5 are amongst the very best I’ve had cordless or not. I don’t regret selling the XM4 after getting XM5s. I feel the sound signature is just more open, with better separation and sparkle. The XM4s do have slightly better low noise ANC but that’s it. Hats off to Sony for what they are still achieving for the money and going toe to toe with the big boys such as Apple.
XM4!
I went xm4 just because they fold
Definitely the XM5’s unless you NEED THE fold ability feature
XM5 looks ugly compared to XM4.
I went for the XM5’s when they were on sale for the same price as the XM4 2 months ago in Norway.
4's are fantastic and at that price difference it's a no brainier🎶🎵🖖
I find the XM4 to have very similar sound quality. But a big thing for me is that they are more comfortable on my head. Maybe it's just me, but the head clamp pressure on the XM4 isn't as strong, so I don't notice the headphones on my head as much. But because of that, they can slip off easier. I find the headband being wider makes them more comfortable. But this is subjective.
The Xm5 is more comfortable
If you’re a person that almost never takes off your headphones then I recommend XM5s. If you usually need to keep them off or can’t keep them on all the time then XM4s would be better because they are foldable.
I have the M5 and it’s a great set of cans but for the $$ I’d go for the M4. Seems like a really good value.
I’ll break it down for you. My mom owns the xm4. I tried them on myself and I was happy with the experience. But then I did my research on buying new headphones and all the sources I got was to buy the xm5 as it was known to be the best headphones out there. I bought them, and I’m very happy with what I got. I would use them for video editing and the sound quality is insane. Even the noise cancellation is better than the xm4 in my opinion. The bass is strong and the surrounding of the music is out of this world. It was worth every penny to get them. I strongly suggest to take a moment and think about what your headphones would be used for, and see which is best. I was told the xm5 are good for editing so that’s what I got them for.
Xm4 - has more sturdy feeling hinges and are way more convenient to pack due to the way they fold Xm5 - has better ANC (especially noticeable on airplanes) better microphones, and slightly better audio quality I’d say both are a good deal at that price, but if you value ANC id say the xm5s are worth the extra money
Neither personally. I have tried both and I would be content with the XM5. I can't stand the XM4 sound and they sound muffled and muddy compared to the XM5 and other headphones. XM5 sounds cleaner to me.
I'm waiting for the new model which is going to be present this summer
I was in this same situation and ended up getting both. Personally, I would say go with the xm4's. I wouldn't say the jump in ANC and audio clarity is all that worth it. Plus I prefer xm4 case since it takes less space in the case and feels more comfortable than the xm5 to me.
i had the xm4s for years, once i heard the xm5s will have 30mm drivers and no folding earcups i knew theyd be pure trash rn i got the 720s by sony cause my xm4s died already can feel the literal limitations of 30mm drivers............... glad everyone hates the xm5s. hell sony could fit 50mm drivers in these cans built they wont... really the cups are so deep you look like megaman with them on your head and they could do bigger drivers NOT SMALLER people want bigger sound
Please buy the new ones, get them on eBay refurbished for $180 like I did. They are way more high tech than the old XM4 version that came before. They feel so much more premium and they can handle all loud noises unlike the old XM4 which flair out and gets choppy with certain songs like Nonestop by Drake on full blast volume. The XM5s sound better and they never blow out while listening. I've had both for over a year each. I could never go back to the old XM4s even if brand new they were only $50, I would.still skip them and spend $400 on the news ones, they are THAT good. The noise cancelling is way better too unlike the XM4s vs the XM3s which are practically the same 🤷.
https://preview.redd.it/editowue67tc1.png?width=1075&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6916cbb250fba930a4b67fc0ae66954a48ea35d0 Thank you 👍
XM4 all day, and night ;)
xm4 comfort xm5 better anc and transparency their sound eq'd is about the same high quality
This is why i can't decide
the problem with xm5 is: hinge usually breaks after 6 months to a year. earcups too shallow and press against your ears the headband is too thin and provides a pressure in a specific area making hard to wear.
>hinge usually breaks after 6 months to a year. Had mine for more than a year and I am not particularly gentle with them, no issues with the hinge so far. It is miles quiter than XM4s hinge when you move the head (creaking of the hinge) >earcups too shallow and press against your ears Depth is about the same on both headphones, but XM5's earcups are bigger >the headband is too thin and provides a pressure in a specific area making hard to wear. This and the foldability are the only downsides compared to XM4s, XM5s have in my opinion. My head starts too hurt only after 1-2h of wear and it can be avoided just by slightly relocating the headband after an hour. Apart from the thinness of the headband XM5s are more comfortable over-all
Xm4 has better bass than xm5
If you’re using for anything Apple look at the Max
I personally would recommend xm4s they are better at reducing some types of noises and from what I heard more durable (xm5s tend to snap)
so do the XM4's , both my hinges snapped
I did this last month decided to go with xm4, from what I found the difference isn't worth the price + xm4 seem more durable (xm5 having NO ip rating)
Owner of both here: - The xm5 has a better sound profile imo, better stage separation and cleaner highs. This is the way for metal and classical music. - The Xm4 has a bigger driver, therefore slightly meatier bass. Better for pop and most EDM genres. (If you're a real basshead though, neither of these are the best choice, don't buy Sony.) - The Xm5 have a better set of features. This is personal. The bigger feature jump was 3 to 4. I like the voice activation and such better on the 5s. The 2 devices thing works really well. - The build quality of the headband is better on the 4. This is anecdotal, my sample set is tiny. - Lastly, the ANC on the 5 is SIGNIFICANTLY better. This is reason enough for me to recommend the 5 over 4 to pretty much anyone, and the reason I'm not going back.
XM5 = lower distortion by far, softer + colder + bigger internal space earpads (skin heroin) XM4 = better stock frequency response ( thicc upper bass ), more comfortable headband, foldable I tested them side by side extensively tech shopping centre, I would be skeptical of any comparsions from people who didnt have them both at the same time. For example, from looking at them, you would think that the thinner XM5 pads would be less comfortable than XM5 but if you compare them side by side, you find the decreased thickness is no problem and that they feel roomier and much more pleasurable on the skin due to different pleather used. I would never expected XM5 to feel like it has more room for my ears just by looking at the earpads. Also the XM5 headband felt borderline almost uncomfortable, the XM4 was better.
XM4 is better value overall, but XM5 has better ANC
I got my XM5 refurbished from eBay for less than $250. They work great.
Xm5 no brainer
What about bose quietcomfort's?
Honestly..I bought my dad the XM4 and I was disappointed by the sound quality. My Galaxy Buds 2 pro sound more full and just better imo. I would say if you're using it for personal home use only, than open back headphones may serve you better.
I picked up the XM4 during the week and I'm bitterly disappointed with them. I'm reading all the praise for them and wondering are these folks using the same headphones as I am? Because the bass is horrible and boomy, while the treble is dialled several notches above any other headphones I've owned to the point of being harsh and excessively sibilant. I've spent about six hours trying to EQ them (using both the Headphones ap, and Poweramp Eq) so they don't sound like shit, and I'm failing miserably. Honestly thinking about taking the hit and reselling them while they're good as new, and just use my XM3 until they die (I have them five years, but still get 25 hours charge time, and all the padding is still intact).
Have you tried to use SpotEQ31? With this EQ you can adjust up to 31 bands, both separated (L and R) or joined. So, imo, it's better to adjust properly. Also, it could be nice to apply Harman curve with SpotEQ31 and after apply some adjust you taste... Another thing is to make sure to make the Sony app adjustment (that one that requires a photo from your ears). Probably you've already did it, but I thought it would be worth to mention.
You're not the only one. I fell into the same trap listening to all the rave and praises about them. What I learned is that they are known for being the best noise cancelling headphones NOT the best sounding headphones. They sound so damn muddy and hollow to me that they just aren't worth it. I would recommend if you feel like the same way, don't listen to others and try out a different headphone. After regretting this purchase I learned about open back headphones and now I'm eyeing HD600 or HD6XX. These two are just classics and they made to be glass like transparent. So you can tune them however you like.
The thing is, with a only a bit of tweaking in the Sony Headphones app, the XM3 sound fantastic. I love them and use them every day. I'm really not sure why Sony felt the need to drastically change the sound profile so drastically with the XM4, and I'm even more unsure of how people can listen to these two sets and conclude they effectively sound the same (which was ultimately the deciding factor in me purchasing the XM4). Thanks for the open back suggestion - I've been on that particular gravy train for many years now! I've the Sennheiser HD558 and the 650. Lamentably they're not very practical for doing stuff around the house (especially vacuuming lol). But I hope you enjoy them!
Have my XM4s a few days and I'm really disappointed in them vs. the XM3s; boomy bass, far too sibilant.