Noise-Canceling Showdown: AirPods Max vs. Sony XM5 vs. Bose 700

In the world of high-end noise-canceling headphones, the battle for the top spot has never been more fierce. In fact, as music enthusiasts and frequent travelers continuously seek the best audio experience, it’s no surprise that the big three contenders — AirPods Max, Sony XM5, and Bose 700 — have been dominating conversations and search queries.

So, if you find yourself searching for the ultimate noise-canceling headphones, you’ve come to the right place. The demand for top-notch noise-canceling headphones has grown exponentially over the years, with people prioritizing comfort, style, and performance to enhance their listening experience.

Whether you’re a business professional looking to escape the noise during long flights or a music aficionado who appreciates crisp, immersive sound, the AirPods Max vs. Sony XM5 vs. Bose 700 debate is definitely worth considering.

In this comprehensive comparison, we will dive deep into the features, sound quality, design, and price of these three titans so you can confidently choose the headphones that perfectly align with your wants and needs.

AirPods Max vs. Sony XM5 vs. Bose 700: Side-by-Side Comparison

Best for Apple Users/ Over-Ear

Apple AirPods Max (Space Gray)

$477.00

• Apple-designed dynamic driver for high-fidelity audio
• Active Noise Cancellation
• Transparency mode
• Spatial audio with dynamic head tracking
• Designed with a knit-mesh canopy and memory foam ear cushions

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08/29/2023 04:10 pm GMT

AirPods Max vs. Sony XM5 vs. Bose 700: Product Breakdown

In this section, we’ll provide a brief product guide for each of the three noise-canceling headphones. This will give you a quick summary of each model’s key features and highlights before we compare each product in detail.

AirPods Max

The AirPods Max is Apple’s entry into the high-end noise-canceling headphones market. It features a unique and premium design with an all-metal build and a mesh headband. In addition, the headphones offer exceptional sound quality, thanks to the Adaptive EQ technology and Apple’s H1 chip.

Certainly, with adjustable active noise cancellation levels and excellent call quality, the AirPods Max is a top choice for users who prioritize design and integration with the Apple ecosystem. However, its relatively high price and lack of water resistance may be flaws for some users.

Sony XM5

The Sony XM5 is the latest addition to the popular Sony WH-1000X series. It boasts high-resolution audio playback with LDAC codec support and impressive active noise-cancellation performance.

In addition, with a foldable design, plush ear cups, and an estimated 30-hour battery life, the XM5 is an ideal choice for audiophiles and frequent travelers. Further, its water resistance rating of IPX4 adds to its versatility. However, its call quality in noisy environments may not be as good as the other two options.

Bose 700

The Bose 700 is a stylish and comfortable pair of noise-canceling headphones, featuring a unique stainless steel headband design. Further, it delivers a balanced and natural sound profile, suitable for a wide range of music genres. Its greatest feature is the exceptional call quality and noise reduction capabilities.

Subsequently, making it an excellent choice for business professionals or users who frequently make calls in noisy settings. While its battery life falls short compared to the Sony XM5, its more affordable price, and adjustable active noise cancellation levels make it an attractive option for many users.

Best for Noise Cancellation

Sony WH-1000XM5

$348.00

• Two processors control 8 microphones
• Auto NC Optimizer
• The new Sony V1 Integrated Processor
• Hands-free calling with 4 beamforming microphones
• Up to 30-hour battery life with quick charging
• Ultra-comfortable, lightweight design with soft-fit leather

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08/29/2023 03:44 pm GMT

AirPods Max vs. Sony XM5 vs. Bose 700: What’s the Difference?

In this section, we’ll explore the key differences and features between the AirPods Max, Sony XM5, and Bose 700. Subsequently, by diving into their design, sound quality, noise cancellation, battery life, and additional features, we aim to provide you with a better understanding of each model’s strengths and weaknesses.

Everyone has different needs and preferences when it comes to headphones. So, whether you’re looking for a sleek design and ear comfort, or a more robust option with excellent audio quality, diving into each product will help you decide which one to invest in.

Design

The AirPods Max feature a unique and eye-catching design, with an all-metal build and a mesh headband, providing both style and comfort. However, they are the heaviest of the three, weighing in at 384g.

In contrast, the Sony XM5 and Bose 700 have more classic designs, with the XM5 being foldable and the lightest of the three (250g). The Bose 700 has a distinctive stainless steel headband and weighs only 254g.

Sound Quality

When it comes to sound quality, all three headphones deliver excellent audio performance. First, Apple’s AirPods Max offers rich and immersive sound, with the help of Apple’s H1 chip and Adaptive EQ technology.

Next, the Sony XM5 shines with its LDAC audio codec support, providing high-resolution audio playback for audiophiles. Finaly, the Bose 700 offers a balanced and natural sound profile, making it ideal for a wide range of music genres.

Noise Cancellation

All three models boast top-notch active noise-cancellation (ANC) capabilities. The AirPods Max and Bose 700 feature adjustable ANC levels, allowing users to fine-tune their listening experience.

Certainly, the Sony XM5 offers excellent noise cancellation as well, rivaling the performance of the other two contenders. However, it is worth noting that the Sony XM5’s noise-cancellation capabilities may vary depending on the environment and fit.

Battery Life

In terms of battery life, the Sony XM5 takes the lead with an impressive 30 hours of playback with ANC enabled. Although the AirPods Max and Bose 700 offer 20 hours of battery life — which is still respectable — they do fall short compared to the Sony XM5. However, all three headphones support fast charging. This subsequently gives users hours of playback after a short charging period.

Comfort and Fit

Comfort is a key factor when it comes to headphones, as they are often worn for extended periods. The AirPods Max features a mesh headband and memory foam ear cups that provide a comfortable fit, though some users may find them a bit heavy.

On the other hand, the Sony XM5 has soft, plush ear cups and a padded headband, offering a comfortable fit for most users. Finally, the Bose 700 has a unique design with a stainless steel headband that evenly distributes weight across the head, along with soft ear cups that provide a snug and comfortable fit.

Call Quality

Call quality is another important aspect to consider, especially for users who make a lot of calls using their headphones. The AirPods Max excels in this area with its excellent call quality and noise reduction, making it a great choice for users who need clear and uninterrupted calls.

Similarly, the Sony XM5 also performs well in call quality, but some users have reported some difficulties in noisy environments. Lastly, the Bose 700 is known for its exceptional call quality and noise reduction capabilities. This, therefore, makes it an excellent choice for business professionals or users who often make calls in noisy settings.

Additional Features

All three models offer transparency or ambient sound modes, multi-device connectivity, and voice assistant support. However, the Sony XM5 has an advantage with its IPX4 water resistance rating and foldable design, making it more suitable for an active lifestyle and easier to carry around.

In conclusion, the AirPods Max, Sony XM5, and Bose 700 each offer a unique set of features and capabilities catering to different preferences and needs. However, by examining the design, sound quality, noise cancellation, battery life, and additional features of each model, you can confidently decide which pair of noise-canceling headphones are the perfect match for you.

Best Design

Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700

$299.00

• 11 levels of active noise cancelation
• Built-in beamforming microphone that adapts to noisy and windy environments
• Lightweight stainless steel headband and tilted earcups
• Up to 20 hours of wireless battery life on a single charge

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08/29/2023 11:09 am GMT

AirPods Max vs. Sony XM5 vs. Bose 700: Must-Know Facts

• AirPods Max excels in seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem
• Sony XM5 offers the longest battery life of the three, with 30 hours of playback
• Bose 700 stands out for its exceptional call quality and noise reduction
• AirPods Max has a unique, premium design, but is the heaviest option
• Sony XM5 supports high-resolution audio playback with LDAC codec
• Bose 700 uses a balanced sound profile that works well with various music genres
• All three models offer adjustable active noise cancellation levels
• Sony XM5 is the only option with a water resistance rating (IPX4)
• AirPods Max is the most expensive option, while Bose 700 is the most affordable of the three
• Comfort and fit vary among the models, with each offering different design elements for user preferences

AirPods Max vs. Sony XM5 vs. Bose 700: Which One Is Better? Which One Should You Use?

In this section, we will discuss the pros and cons of each model — AirPods Max, Sony XM5, and Bose 700 — allowing you to determine which one is better suited for your specific needs and wants. In short, think of this as a decision-making exercise that will help you categorize your options. Further, since these three models are on the higher end of the pricing spectrum, it’s important to consider your options and make an informed decision.

AirPods Max Pros

• Unique and premium design with a metal build
• Exceptional sound quality with Adaptive EQ technology
• Highly effective and adjustable active noise cancellation
• Comfortable fit with memory foam ear cups and a mesh headband
• Excellent call quality and noise reduction
• Seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem

AirPods Max Cons

• Heaviest of the three models
• Expensive compared to the other two options
• No water resistance rating
• Non-foldable design

Sony XM5 Pros

• High-resolution audio playback with LDAC codec support
• Excellent active noise cancellation performance
• Foldable design for easy portability
• Impressive 30-hour battery life with ANC enabled
• Water resistance rating of IPX4
• Comfortable fit with plush ear cups and padded headband

Sony XM5 Cons

• Noise-cancellation performance may vary depending on fit and environment
• Occasional difficulties with call quality in noisy environments
• The price is still relatively high compared to the Bose 700

Bose 700 Pros

• Balanced and natural sound profile suitable for various music genres
• Exceptional call quality and noise reduction capabilities
• Adjustable active noise cancellation levels
• Comfortable fit with a stainless steel headband and soft ear cups
• Unique and stylish design
• Slightly more affordable than the other two options

Bose 700 Cons

• Non-foldable design
• Battery life falls short compared to the Sony XM5
• No water resistance rating

After considering the pros and cons of the AirPods Max, Sony XM5, and Bose 700, it becomes clear that each model has its unique strengths and weaknesses. Thus, your final choice will depend on your specific preferences and needs. For instance, if you favor premium design, seamless integration with Apple devices, and excellent call quality, the AirPods Max may be the best option. On the other hand, if you value high-resolution audio playback, impressive battery life, and a foldable design, the Sony XM5 is an excellent choice. Lastly, if you’re looking for a comfortable and stylish pair of headphones with exceptional call quality and a more affordable price, the Bose 700 could be the perfect fit.