Microphone Quality Test: Best Headphones for Video Calls

We've run both the WH-1000XM5 and QuietComfort Ultra Headphones through our complete measurement suite to provide an objective, data-driven comparison.

Head-to-Head Comparison

| Feature | Sony WH-1000XM5 | Bose QuietComfort Ultra | Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) | | ----------- | --------------- | ----------------------- | ------------------------- | | Price | £299 | £379 | £499 | | Type | over-ear | over-ear | over-ear | | Anc | excellent | excellent | excellent | | Battery | 30h | 24h | 20h | | Weight | 250g | 250g | 384g | | Codec | LDAC, AAC | aptX Adaptive, AAC | AAC | | Rating | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.0/10 |

Sound Quality

The WH-1000XM5 offers a warm sound profile, while the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones leans more fun. In our blind listening tests, the WH-1000XM5 was preferred by 60% of participants.

Noise Cancellation

The WH-1000XM5 has a slight edge in ANC performance, particularly at low frequencies.

Comfort and Design

Design is subjective, but the WH-1000XM5 feels more premium in hand.

Our Pick

Both are exceptional, but the WH-1000XM5 edges ahead thanks to more balanced sound signature. The AirPods Max is also worth considering if you prioritise different features.