Our pickSony WH-1000XM5

AirPods Pro 2

4.3
$249
  • Pocketable
  • Seamless Apple integration
  • Great transparency mode
  • Shorter battery than over-ears

Sony WH-1000XM5

4.5
$348
  • Superior ANC
  • Longer battery
  • Over-ear comfort
  • Bulkier

Quick picks

Best for Apple usersAirPods Pro 2
Best overallSony WH-1000XM5
Earbuds vs over-ears: pick AirPods Pro 2 for portability and Apple integration, Sony for the best ANC and battery.
AirPods Pro 2 on AmazonSony on Amazon

This is really an earbuds-versus-over-ear decision more than a direct spec fight. Here’s how to choose.

The short version

The Sony WH-1000XM5 wins on raw noise cancellation and battery. The AirPods Pro 2 win on portability and how well they fit into the Apple ecosystem.

When to pick each

  • AirPods Pro 2 — you want something pocketable, use an iPhone, and value a natural transparency mode.
  • Sony WH-1000XM5 — you want the best possible ANC and can carry a larger case.