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Sony WH-1000XM5 vs Apple AirPods Max vs Drop Panda

Name: Sony WH-1000XM5
Brand: Sony
Price: 399 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 9.2

Table of content

Connectivity Comparison
Basic Information Comparison
Technical Specifications Comparison
Usage Comparison

Features Comparison
Audio Performance Comparison
Physical Characteristics Comparison
Performance Ratings Comparison

Connectivity Comparison

Connection Type 📶

The primary method used to connect the headphones to audio devices, indicating whether they use wired connections, wireless technology, or both options.

For all*

Wireless

These headphones connect to devices without cables using Bluetooth or other wireless technologies for freedom of movement.
Battery Life 🔋

The number of hours the wireless headphones can operate on a single charge, typically measured during standard usage with default settings.

Sony WH-1000XM5

30 hours

The battery life of Sony WH-1000XM5 is 30 hours. Click to see all.

Apple AirPods Max

20 hours

The battery life of Apple AirPods Max is 20 hours. Click to see all.

Drop Panda

30 hours

The battery life of Drop Panda is 30 hours. Click to see all.
Battery Life Type 🔋

Classification of battery performance based on duration range, providing an easy-to-understand category for the headphones' operational time between charges.

For all*

Standard (20-30 Hours)

Over-ear headphones with standard 20-30 hour battery life provide reliable daily use with a balance of features and performance.
Multipoint Connection 🔗

Indicates whether the headphones can connect to multiple devices simultaneously, allowing seamless switching between sources without reconnection.

Sony WH-1000XM5

Yes
Apple AirPods Max

Yes
Drop Panda

No
Bluetooth Codecs Supported 📡

Bluetooth codecs determine audio transmission quality in wireless headphones, affecting sound quality, latency, and compatibility with different source devices.

For all*

SBC

Over-ear headphones with SBC codec use the standard Bluetooth audio transmission format supported by all Bluetooth audio devices.
AAC

Over-ear headphones with AAC codec support deliver high-quality wireless audio especially optimized for Apple devices.

Sony WH-1000XM5

LDAC

The Bluetooth codecs supported by Sony WH-1000XM5 are LDAC. Over-ear headphones with LDAC codec support deliver exceptional Hi-Res wireless audio up to 990kbps on compatible Sony and Android devices. Click to see all.

Drop Panda

AptX

The Bluetooth codecs supported by Drop Panda are AptX. Over-ear headphones with aptX codec support deliver better wireless audio quality with reduced latency on compatible devices. Click to see all.

AptX HD

The Bluetooth codecs supported by Drop Panda are AptX HD. Over-ear headphones with aptX HD codec support deliver high-resolution wireless audio with 24-bit depth for audiophile-quality listening. Click to see all.

AptX Adaptive

The Bluetooth codecs supported by Drop Panda are AptX Adaptive. Over-ear headphones with aptX Adaptive support intelligently balance audio quality and connection stability based on wireless conditions. Click to see all.

LDAC

The Bluetooth codecs supported by Drop Panda are LDAC. Over-ear headphones with LDAC codec support deliver exceptional Hi-Res wireless audio up to 990kbps on compatible Sony and Android devices. Click to see all.

Basic Information Comparison

Brand 🎧

Brand name or manufacturer of the over-ear headphones, identifies the company that designed and produced the headphones.

Sony WH-1000XM5

Sony

The brand of Sony WH-1000XM5 is Sony. Sony over-ear headphones combine advanced noise cancellation with premium sound quality and comfortable ergonomic designs. Click to see all.

Apple AirPods Max

Apple

The brand of Apple AirPods Max is Apple. Apple over-ear headphones feature premium build quality and seamless integration with Apple devices through specialized chips for instant pairing. Click to see all.

Drop Panda

Drop

The brand of Drop Panda is Drop. Drop over-ear headphones offer community-driven designs with audiophile-grade performance at value prices through collaborative development with audio enthusiasts. Click to see all.
Price 💲

Current market price of the over-ear headphones, representing the cost to purchase new from authorized retailers.

Sony WH-1000XM5

399 USD

The price of Sony WH-1000XM5 is 399.

Apple AirPods Max

549 USD

The price of Apple AirPods Max is 549.

Drop Panda

399 USD

The price of Drop Panda is 399.
Price Range 💸

A classification of over-ear headphones by price bracket, making it easier to filter and compare products within specific budget categories.

For all*

Premium

Premium over-ear headphones deliver exceptional sound quality and craftsmanship with luxury materials in the $200-$300 range.
Primary Use Case 🏢

Primary Use Case refers to the optimal situation or environment for using the headphones, tailored to maximize specific listening experiences based on design features and sound characteristics.

Sony WH-1000XM5

Commuting/Travel

The primary use case for Sony WH-1000XM5 is Commuting/Travel. Commuting and travel headphones prioritize noise cancellation Click to see all.

Apple AirPods Max

Home Listening

The primary use case for Apple AirPods Max is Home Listening. Home listening headphones prioritize comfort and sound quality over portability Click to see all.

Drop Panda

Home Listening

The primary use case for Drop Panda is Home Listening. Home listening headphones prioritize comfort and sound quality over portability Click to see all.
Made In 🌎

Country where the headphones are primarily manufactured , which can influence perceptions of quality , design philosophy , and craftsmanship.

Sony WH-1000XM5

Japan

Sony WH-1000XM5 is made in Japan. Japanese-made headphones feature meticulous engineering and premium components with exceptional build quality Click to see all.

Apple AirPods Max

China

Apple AirPods Max is made in China. Chinese-made headphones offer competitive pricing and modern manufacturing techniques Click to see all.

Drop Panda

China

Drop Panda is made in China. Chinese-made headphones offer competitive pricing and modern manufacturing techniques Click to see all.

Technical Specifications Comparison

Connectivity 🔗

The method by which headphones connect to audio sources , including wired connections , wireless technologies , and hybrid options that support multiple connection types.

For all*

Bluetooth

These headphones connect wirelessly to devices using Bluetooth technology for cable-free audio streaming.

Sony WH-1000XM5

Wired (3.5Mm)

Sony WH-1000XM5 connects to audio sources via Wired (3.5Mm). These headphones connect with standard 3.5mm audio jacks compatible with most smartphones Click to see all.

Apple AirPods Max

Wired (Lightning)

Apple AirPods Max connects to audio sources via Wired (Lightning). These headphones connect directly to iPhones and iPads via Lightning port for optimized digital audio performance. Click to see all.

Lightning Connector

Apple AirPods Max connects to audio sources via Lightning Connector. These headphones connect directly to Apple devices via the Lightning port for digital audio transmission. Click to see all.

Drop Panda

Wired (3.5Mm)

Drop Panda connects to audio sources via Wired (3.5Mm). These headphones connect with standard 3.5mm audio jacks compatible with most smartphones Click to see all.
Driver Type 🔊

The technical mechanism used to produce sound , representing the fundamental technology that converts electrical signals into audible soundwaves.

Sony WH-1000XM5

Dynamic

Sony WH-1000XM5 uses Dynamic driver technology. These headphones use traditional dynamic drivers that create sound through a moving coil mechanism for balanced audio performance. Click to see all.

Apple AirPods Max

Dynamic

Apple AirPods Max uses Dynamic driver technology. These headphones use traditional dynamic drivers that create sound through a moving coil mechanism for balanced audio performance. Click to see all.

Drop Panda

Planar Magnetic

Drop Panda uses Planar Magnetic driver technology. These audiophile headphones use flat diaphragms with embedded conductors for detailed Click to see all.

Usage Comparison

For whom 👥

The primary user demographic for whom the headphones are designed , reflecting use case priorities and feature emphasis.

For all*

Audiophiles

Over-ear headphones for audiophiles deliver exceptional sound quality with high-resolution audio reproduction for discerning listeners.

Sony WH-1000XM5

Commuters

Sony WH-1000XM5 is designed for Commuters. Over-ear headphones for commuters feature effective noise cancellation and portable designs to create peaceful listening environments during travel. Click to see all.

Apple AirPods Max

Apple Users

Apple AirPods Max is designed for Apple Users. Over-ear headphones for Apple users feature seamless integration with iOS devices and Apple-specific features like spatial audio. Click to see all.

Commuters

Apple AirPods Max is designed for Commuters. Over-ear headphones for commuters feature effective noise cancellation and portable designs to create peaceful listening environments during travel. Click to see all.
Purpose 🏃

Specific activities or use cases where the headphones excel , highlighting optimal usage scenarios based on design and features.

Sony WH-1000XM5

Travel

Sony WH-1000XM5 is best for Travel. Over-ear headphones for travel feature noise cancellation and foldable designs to block ambient sounds during flights and commutes. Click to see all.

Critical Listening

Sony WH-1000XM5 is best for Critical Listening. Over-ear headphones for critical listening deliver accurate sound reproduction with high detail resolution for analyzing audio nuances. Click to see all.

Apple AirPods Max

Casual Listening

Apple AirPods Max is best for Casual Listening. Over-ear headphones for casual listening prioritize comfort and balanced sound for everyday enjoyment of music without fatigue. Click to see all.

Travel

Apple AirPods Max is best for Travel. Over-ear headphones for travel feature noise cancellation and foldable designs to block ambient sounds during flights and commutes. Click to see all.

Office Use

Apple AirPods Max is best for Office Use. Over-ear headphones for office use combine noise isolation with comfortable designs to maintain focus in workplace environments. Click to see all.

Drop Panda

Critical Listening

Drop Panda is best for Critical Listening. Over-ear headphones for critical listening deliver accurate sound reproduction with high detail resolution for analyzing audio nuances. Click to see all.

Features Comparison

Noise Cancellation 🔊

Indicates whether the headphones feature active noise cancellation (ANC) technology that electronically reduces ambient sounds and external noise.

Sony WH-1000XM5

Yes
Apple AirPods Max

Yes
Drop Panda

No
Microphone Quality 🎙️

Rates the performance of the built-in microphone for making calls, voice recordings, or gaming communication, based on clarity and noise rejection.

Sony WH-1000XM5

Good For Calls

The microphone quality of Sony WH-1000XM5 is Good For Calls. Headphones with good call microphones provide clear voice reproduction with effective noise filtering Click to see all.

Apple AirPods Max

Excellent For Calls

The microphone quality of Apple AirPods Max is Excellent For Calls. Headphones with excellent call microphones deliver crystal-clear voice reproduction with superior noise cancellation Click to see all.

Drop Panda

Good For Calls

The microphone quality of Drop Panda is Good For Calls. Headphones with good call microphones provide clear voice reproduction with effective noise filtering Click to see all.
Detachable Cable 🔗

Detachable cable feature allows users to replace cables when damaged, upgrade to better quality cables, or switch between different cable lengths and styles.

Sony WH-1000XM5

Yes
Apple AirPods Max

No
Drop Panda

Yes
Equalizer Options 🎚️

Equalizer Options describe the available sound customization tools, allowing users to adjust frequency response based on personal preference or listening material.

Sony WH-1000XM5

App-Based Custom EQ

The equalizer options provided by Sony WH-1000XM5 are App-Based Custom EQ. Click to see all.

Apple AirPods Max

App-Based Custom EQ

The equalizer options provided by Apple AirPods Max are App-Based Custom EQ. Click to see all.

Drop Panda

None

The equalizer options provided by Drop Panda are None. These headphones come without any equalizer options and deliver the sound as intended by the manufacturer. Click to see all.

Audio Performance Comparison

Sound Signature 🎵

The overall tonal balance and audio characteristics of the headphones, describing how they present different frequencies and the listening experience they deliver.

Sony WH-1000XM5

Balanced

The sound signature of Sony WH-1000XM5 is Balanced. Balanced over-ear headphones offer a sound profile where no single frequency range dominates, creating a natural listening experience. Click to see all.

Apple AirPods Max

Balanced

The sound signature of Apple AirPods Max is Balanced. Balanced over-ear headphones offer a sound profile where no single frequency range dominates, creating a natural listening experience. Click to see all.

Drop Panda

Neutral

The sound signature of Drop Panda is Neutral. Neutral over-ear headphones reproduce sound without coloration, delivering audio that closely matches the original recording with accurate frequency response. Click to see all.
Active Noise Cancellation Performance 🔊

Active noise cancellation (ANC) technology effectively blocks unwanted ambient noise by creating opposing sound waves, providing a quieter listening environment for music and calls.

Sony WH-1000XM5

Excellent

The active noise cancellation performance of Sony WH-1000XM5 is Excellent. Over-ear headphones with excellent noise cancellation provide superior isolation from external sounds for immersive listening experiences. Click to see all.

Apple AirPods Max

Excellent

The active noise cancellation performance of Apple AirPods Max is Excellent. Over-ear headphones with excellent noise cancellation provide superior isolation from external sounds for immersive listening experiences. Click to see all.

Drop Panda

N/A

The active noise cancellation performance of Drop Panda is N/A. These over-ear headphones rely on passive noise isolation from their physical design rather than active electronic noise cancellation technology. Click to see all.
Soundstage 🎤

Soundstage refers to the perceived width, depth, and height of the audio presentation, creating a sense of space and instrument placement in the listening experience.

For all*

Wide

Wide soundstage headphones create spacious audio with excellent instrument separation for an immersive listening experience that mimics live performances.

Physical Characteristics Comparison

Weight ⚖️

Physical weight of the over-ear headphones in grams, indicating how heavy they will feel when worn.

Sony WH-1000XM5

250 grams

The weight of Sony WH-1000XM5 is 250. Click to see all.

Apple AirPods Max

385 grams

The weight of Apple AirPods Max is 385. Click to see all.

Drop Panda

350 grams

The weight of Drop Panda is 350. Click to see all.
Weight Category 🏋️

Classification of over-ear headphones based on their weight range, providing a quick reference for comfort expectations.

Sony WH-1000XM5

Light

The weight category of Sony WH-1000XM5 is Light. These light over-ear headphones offer comfortable extended wear while maintaining good sound quality for everyday listening. Click to see all.

Apple AirPods Max

Medium

The weight category of Apple AirPods Max is Medium. These medium weight over-ear headphones balance comfort and sound quality with a moderate weight that suits most users. Click to see all.

Drop Panda

Standard

The weight category of Drop Panda is Standard. These standard weight over-ear headphones offer the industry's typical balance between comfort and performance for everyday listeners. Click to see all.
Comfort Level 🛀

Describes how comfortable the headphones feel during extended wearing periods, considering factors like padding quality, weight distribution, and clamping force.

Sony WH-1000XM5

Very High

The comfort level of Sony WH-1000XM5 is Very High. These over-ear headphones offer exceptional comfort for extended wear sessions with premium padding and ergonomic designs. Click to see all.

Apple AirPods Max

High

The comfort level of Apple AirPods Max is High. High comfort level over-ear headphones feature plush padding with ergonomic design for extended listening without fatigue. Click to see all.

Drop Panda

High

The comfort level of Drop Panda is High. High comfort level over-ear headphones feature plush padding with ergonomic design for extended listening without fatigue. Click to see all.
Earcup Design 👂

Indicates whether the headphones have open-back (more natural sound, leaks audio) or closed-back (better isolation, contained sound) earcup construction.

For all*

Closed-Back

These headphones have sealed earcups that prevent sound leakage and provide better isolation from external noise.
Build Quality 🔨

Build Quality indicates the durability and materials used in the headphone construction, affecting longevity and premium feel during daily use.

For all*

Premium

Premium build quality over-ear headphones feature high-end materials like metal and leather with exceptional attention to detail.

Performance Ratings Comparison

Sound Quality Score 🎵

Expert and user assessment of audio reproduction quality , reflecting fidelity , accuracy , and overall listening experience on a scale of 1-10.

Sony WH-1000XM5

9.2

Expert and user assessment of audio reproduction quality , reflecting fidelity , accuracy , and overall listening experience on a scale of 1-10. (25%) Better sound quality over-ear headphones deliver more accurate, detailed, and balanced audio reproduction for a more enjoyable listening experience. Click to see all.

Apple AirPods Max

8.9

Expert and user assessment of audio reproduction quality , reflecting fidelity , accuracy , and overall listening experience on a scale of 1-10. (25%) Better sound quality over-ear headphones deliver more accurate, detailed, and balanced audio reproduction for a more enjoyable listening experience. Click to see all.

Drop Panda

9.2

Expert and user assessment of audio reproduction quality , reflecting fidelity , accuracy , and overall listening experience on a scale of 1-10. (25%) Better sound quality over-ear headphones deliver more accurate, detailed, and balanced audio reproduction for a more enjoyable listening experience. Click to see all.
Comfort Score 🛁

Assessment of physical comfort during extended wear , considering factors like weight , padding , clamping force , and heat buildup.

Sony WH-1000XM5

9.5

Assessment of physical comfort during extended wear , considering factors like weight , padding , clamping force , and heat buildup. (20%) More comfortable over-ear headphones have better padding, weight distribution, and design for extended wear without causing fatigue or pain. Click to see all.

Apple AirPods Max

8.5

Assessment of physical comfort during extended wear , considering factors like weight , padding , clamping force , and heat buildup. (20%) More comfortable over-ear headphones have better padding, weight distribution, and design for extended wear without causing fatigue or pain. Click to see all.

Drop Panda

8.4

Assessment of physical comfort during extended wear , considering factors like weight , padding , clamping force , and heat buildup. (20%) More comfortable over-ear headphones have better padding, weight distribution, and design for extended wear without causing fatigue or pain. Click to see all.
Build Quality Score 🔨

Evaluation of construction durability , material quality , and overall craftsmanship on a scale of 1-10.

Sony WH-1000XM5

9

Evaluation of construction durability , material quality , and overall craftsmanship on a scale of 1-10. (15%) Higher build quality over-ear headphones feature premium materials and construction, resulting in better durability, feel, and longevity. Click to see all.

Apple AirPods Max

9.5

Evaluation of construction durability , material quality , and overall craftsmanship on a scale of 1-10. (15%) Higher build quality over-ear headphones feature premium materials and construction, resulting in better durability, feel, and longevity. Click to see all.

Drop Panda

9

Evaluation of construction durability , material quality , and overall craftsmanship on a scale of 1-10. (15%) Higher build quality over-ear headphones feature premium materials and construction, resulting in better durability, feel, and longevity. Click to see all.
Value For Money 💸

Rating that reflects the perceived value of the headphones in relation to their cost , balancing performance against price.

Sony WH-1000XM5

8.5

Rating that reflects the perceived value of the headphones in relation to their cost , balancing performance against price. (20%) Better value over-ear headphones offer an optimal balance of quality, features, and performance relative to their price point. Click to see all.

Apple AirPods Max

7

Rating that reflects the perceived value of the headphones in relation to their cost , balancing performance against price. (20%) Better value over-ear headphones offer an optimal balance of quality, features, and performance relative to their price point. Click to see all.

Drop Panda

8

Rating that reflects the perceived value of the headphones in relation to their cost , balancing performance against price. (20%) Better value over-ear headphones offer an optimal balance of quality, features, and performance relative to their price point. Click to see all.
Buy It For Life 📏

Assessment of long-term durability and timelessness , indicating whether headphones represent a lasting investment rather than a temporary purchase.

Sony WH-1000XM5

8.7

Assessment of long-term durability and timelessness , indicating whether headphones represent a lasting investment rather than a temporary purchase. (20%) More durable over-ear headphones are built to last longer, offering better long-term value despite potentially higher upfront costs. Click to see all.

Apple AirPods Max

8.2

Assessment of long-term durability and timelessness , indicating whether headphones represent a lasting investment rather than a temporary purchase. (20%) More durable over-ear headphones are built to last longer, offering better long-term value despite potentially higher upfront costs. Click to see all.

Drop Panda

8.5

Assessment of long-term durability and timelessness , indicating whether headphones represent a lasting investment rather than a temporary purchase. (20%) More durable over-ear headphones are built to last longer, offering better long-term value despite potentially higher upfront costs. Click to see all.
Score 🏆

Comprehensive evaluation combining all performance metrics into a single rating , weighted according to relative importance for typical users.

Sony WH-1000XM5

9.3

The overall Score of Sony WH-1000XM5 is 9.3. Click to see all.

Apple AirPods Max

8.7

The overall Score of Apple AirPods Max is 8.7. Click to see all.

Drop Panda

8.6

The overall Score of Drop Panda is 8.6. Click to see all.

Alternatives to Sony WH-1000XM5

Technics EAH-F70N

Known for

⚖️ is lighter than Sony WH-1000XM5

Sony WH-1000XM5 Signature Edition

Known for

⚖️ is lighter than Sony WH-1000XM5

🎵 has better sound quality than Sony WH-1000XM5

🔨 has higher build quality than Sony WH-1000XM5

📏 is more durable than Sony WH-1000XM5

Sony WH-1000XM3

Known for

⚖️ is lighter than Sony WH-1000XM5

💸 offers better value for money than Sony WH-1000XM5

Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2

Known for

⚖️ is lighter than Sony WH-1000XM5

🔨 has higher build quality than Sony WH-1000XM5

Sony WH-1000XM4

Known for

⚖️ is lighter than Sony WH-1000XM5

💸 offers better value for money than Sony WH-1000XM5

Bowers & Wilkins PX8

Known for

⚖️ is lighter than Sony WH-1000XM5

🔨 has higher build quality than Sony WH-1000XM5

📏 is more durable than Sony WH-1000XM5

⚖️ is lighter than Sony WH-1000XM5

📏 is more durable than Sony WH-1000XM5

Bose QuietComfort Ultra

Known for

⚖️ is lighter than Sony WH-1000XM5

🔨 has higher build quality than Sony WH-1000XM5

Bose NCH 700

Known for

⚖️ is lighter than Sony WH-1000XM5

🔨 has higher build quality than Sony WH-1000XM5

Sony WH-1000XM5 vs Apple AirPods Max vs Drop Panda

Table of content

Connectivity Comparison

Connection Type 📶

Battery Life 🔋

Battery Life Type 🔋

Multipoint Connection 🔗

Bluetooth Codecs Supported 📡

Basic Information Comparison

Brand 🎧

Price 💲

Price Range 💸

Primary Use Case 🏢

Made In 🌎

Technical Specifications Comparison

Connectivity 🔗

Driver Type 🔊

Usage Comparison

For whom 👥

Purpose 🏃

Features Comparison

Noise Cancellation 🔊

Microphone Quality 🎙️

Detachable Cable 🔗

Equalizer Options 🎚️

Audio Performance Comparison

Sound Signature 🎵

Active Noise Cancellation Performance 🔊

Soundstage 🎤

Physical Characteristics Comparison

Weight ⚖️

Weight Category 🏋️

Comfort Level 🛀

Earcup Design 👂

Build Quality 🔨

Performance Ratings Comparison

Sound Quality Score 🎵

Comfort Score 🛁

Build Quality Score 🔨

Value For Money 💸

Buy It For Life 📏

Score 🏆