Sony WF-1000XM5 Wins
Winner
Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds in black

Sony WF-1000XM5

9.4

Audiophiles who demand the absolute best sound quality from earbuds

VS
Nothing Ear 3 wireless earbuds

Nothing Ear (3)

8.6

Style-conscious buyers who want solid ANC at a mid-range price

Marcus Rivera
Marcus Rivera

Score Comparison

Criteria
Sony WF-1000XM5
Nothing Ear (3)
Overall Score
9.4
8.6
Sound Quality
9.6
8.7
Noise Cancellation
9.4
8.5
Fit & Comfort
9.2
8.7
Features
9.5
8.6
Call Quality
9.2
8.4

Pricing & Features

Specification
Sony WF-1000XM5
Nothing Ear (3)
Price
$299
$179

Making Your Decision

Sony WF-1000XM5 logo

When to Choose Sony WF-1000XM5

Audiophiles who demand the absolute best sound quality from earbuds

Sony WF-1000XM5 sets the standard for premium earbuds with audiophile-grade sound, exceptional ANC, and a refined design. Worth the price for serious listeners.

Strengths

  • Best-in-class sound quality with LDAC
  • Industry-leading noise cancellation
  • Comfortable smaller design than XM4
  • Excellent app with EQ and features

Limitations

  • Most expensive in-ear option
  • Battery life shorter than competitors
  • No wireless charging on base model
Nothing Ear (3) logo

When to Choose Nothing Ear (3)

Style-conscious buyers who want solid ANC at a mid-range price

Nothing Ear (3) refine the formula with better ANC and a premium aluminum case. The Super Mic is niche but the core experience is excellent.

Strengths

  • Premium aluminum case design
  • Super Mic system for crystal-clear calls
  • 45dB Smart ANC (improved from Ear 2)
  • Better fit with redesigned stems

Limitations

  • $30 price increase over Ear (2)
  • Super Mic feature feels like a gimmick
  • Battery life unchanged at 5.5 hours

Ready to Get Started?

Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds in black

Sony WF-1000XM5

Score: 9.4
Nothing Ear 3 wireless earbuds

Nothing Ear (3)

Score: 8.6