Compare Audio-Technica ATH-R70XA Headphones vs Sony WH-1000XM5 Premium Noise Canceling Headphones

Multiple reviews explicitly mention the 3.5mm connection, often alongside the included 6.3mm adapter.

Across reviewers, ANC is consistently described as class-leading, especially for steady low-frequency noise, with improved handling of voices and higher frequencies versus older generations. The app enables meaningful ANC and ambient tuning (including adaptive sound profiles and multiple ambient levels), though some sources note you are not always directly setting a granular ANC strength slider.

The understated all-black styling is viewed positively and reads as low-key rather than flashy.

One review explicitly lists Android support.

Android support is strong, including LDAC and easy pairing features; some advanced spatial head-tracking features may require newer Android versions.

The Sony companion app is feature-rich (EQ, adaptive modes, firmware updates), but setup prompts and data permissions can feel heavy for privacy-sensitive users.

Multiple sources explicitly note there is no aptX support on the WH-1000XM5.

Bass impressions are mixed but generally controlled rather than exaggerated: some reviews heard full, extended, punchy low end, while others wanted more richness, slam, or sub-bass weight.

Bass is generally punchy and enjoyable, but the default low-end emphasis can bleed into the mids for some content; reducing Clear Bass or using EQ is a frequent recommendation.

Battery life is usually described as strong around the 30-hour class, with some measurements exceeding the rating, though a few experiences report shorter real-world runtimes versus long-life rivals.

Bluetooth stability is widely reported as reliable with minimal dropouts across phones and computers in typical real-world use.

Build impressions are mixed: some reviewers call construction excellent, solid, or sturdy enough, while others think it feels flimsy or too delicate for the price.

Build quality feedback is mixed: some find it sturdy enough for daily use, while others say it feels less premium than rivals and should be handled carefully.

Physical buttons for power and ANC or ambient toggling are simple and easy to use alongside touch controls.

The included cable is often described as long and locking, which helps studio use, but some reviewers find it too long or dislike the split-cable approach.

When discussed, the included cables are described as functional rather than premium, and some reviewers treat cable upgrades as optional rather than necessary.

The carry solution is serviceable but not premium, with some reviews noting only a soft bag while another mentions a nice little carry case.

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Charging performance is frequently praised thanks to fast top-ups that can deliver hours of listening from a few minutes on a compatible charger.

Reviews that mention clamp describe low pressure and easy wear, especially with glasses, though the looser fit can feel unusual.

Clamp is usually mild to moderate and secure, but a subset of reviewers perceive slightly stronger clamp than older models.

Codec support centers on SBC, AAC, and LDAC; reviewers who care about newer lossless-oriented ecosystems flag this as less future-proof than Snapdragon Sound style options.

Long-session comfort is one of the most consistent strengths, with many reviewers saying they could wear them for hours or forget they were on.

Long-session comfort is a major selling point thanks to light weight and soft contact materials, though fit can be polarizing for smaller heads or those sensitive to ear-cup depth.

The wired connectivity is basic but clear, with support for 3.5mm and 6.3mm use.

Visually, reviewers describe them as sleek, stylish, simple, or modern, with a professional open-back look.

The redesign is widely seen as sleeker and more modern, with mixed reactions to the larger travel footprint; finishes are often described as clean and understated.

Multiple reviews confirm the detachable dual-sided cable is reversible or easy to remove, though not everyone likes the format.

A detachable 3.5mm cable adds flexibility for airplanes and wired listening, and the analog jack is a welcome inclusion.

One review explicitly questions long-term peace of mind because the thin build feels delicate.

Earpad comments are mostly positive, describing soft, thick, or comfortable pads, though one review found them slightly shallow.

Earpads are soft and seal well, but several reviews mention heat build-up, shallow cup depth for some ears, compression over time, and pad wear affecting seal.

One review directly criticizes the swivel as insufficient for fit and seal.

The cups rotate to lie flat and adapt to head shape, helping comfort and storage, even though the frame does not collapse smaller.

EQ is a key strength: the app provides useful adjustment that can meaningfully transform the tonal balance, and many reviewers treat basic EQ as essential to getting the best sound.

Find My or device-finding support is highlighted in some reviews, especially on Android with Find My Device style features.

Reviews often describe the tuning as flat, neutral, smooth, or monitoring-oriented, emphasizing that little is overhyped.

Headband fit is mixed: some found adjustment simple, while others said the system did not work well or stayed too loose on smaller heads.

The stepless headband adjustment allows fine tuning, but the lack of notched positions and limited range can make fit less repeatable for some users.

Comments on the headband padding are mixed but generally positive on softness; one review likes the fabric support band, while another finds the leatherette pad concept poorly executed.

One review says the swivel feels weak, raising concern about sturdiness around the hinge or yoke area.

Hinge durability comes up as a worry point, with reports of failures and enough discussion to treat the joints as a potential long-term risk.

The open presentation and surrounding effect are called immersive or enveloping in the reviews that address it.

Reviews mention a 3m split cable, 6.3mm adapter, and carry bag or pouch as the key items in the box.

Most reviews mention a standard but useful bundle, typically including a carry case plus USB charging and 3.5mm audio cables.

The headphones are repeatedly described as good at separating elements or placing sounds clearly in the stereo field.

Instrument separation and resolution are mixed: some note better layering than prior models, while more critical listeners find micro-detail and separation behind the best-sounding competitors.

LDAC is a major upside for Android users seeking higher-bitrate Bluetooth audio, though the best results may require device-side settings and it is not an Apple ecosystem feature.

At higher volumes, many reviews report the XM5 stays controlled with little obvious distortion, though perceived balance can shift with louder playback.

Noise reduction on calls is generally excellent and can suppress wind and background noise well, though a few tests mention occasional artifacts such as white-noise or slightly hollow rendering.

Call pickup is a standout strength, with multiple reviews calling it best-in-class or close, keeping voices clear in busy streets, airports, and office settings.

Midrange and vocals are a recurring strength, with multiple reviews calling them clear, forward, or easy to hear, though one reviewer felt the mids could verge into shout or honk.

Midrange clarity is improved with EQ and can sound full and engaging, yet some sources describe the mids as partially masked by bass or slightly recessed out of the box.

One review explicitly lists iOS, Android, macOS, and Windows, and another says they suit everyday listening, mixing, mastering, and gaming.

Multipoint pairing is commonly praised for easy switching between two devices, but some note feature tradeoffs depending on settings and codec choices.

As an open-back design, passive isolation is weak; reviewers note outside sound gets in and the headphones are poor for recording around microphones or noisy environments.

Passive isolation is strong for an ANC headphone and improves overall attenuation, but seal quality matters; glasses or worn pads can noticeably reduce isolation and ANC impact.

Most reviewers recommend them for mixing, mastering, or critical listening, though several add caveats about bass preferences, fit, or build.

Reviews frame these as home or studio headphones rather than portable ones, with explicit warnings against bus or commuting use.

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Premium-feel reactions are split: one review says they feel premium, while another says the materials do not look luxurious.

Preset EQ profiles are often described as effective and noticeably different from one another, making quick tuning convenient.

Reviews explicitly mention replaceable velour pads.

Reviews explicitly note that replacement earpads and headband parts are available.

Wear detection and smart sensing (auto pause, quick-attention hand cup, adaptive behaviors) are widely praised for day-to-day convenience.

Smudge and fingerprint behavior is mixed: some finishes resist prints well, while other soft-touch materials can show grease and handling marks.

One review praises the simplicity of a no-app, no-button wired design: plug them in and play.

Pairing and onboarding are usually straightforward, especially with platform quick-pair features, though app sign-in and tutorials add friction for some.

Sound leakage is a major, repeatedly confirmed trait of the open-back design; people nearby can hear what you are playing.

Reviews consistently describe the sound as natural, clear, and strong overall, with several calling it expertly tuned or great-sounding, though one reviewer found it only a fine fit for their tastes. The directly relevant wired-use review rates the sonic performance as expertly tuned.

Overall sound quality is commonly rated very good for consumer ANC headphones, but several reviewers argue the default tuning benefits from EQ, and some listeners wanting a more analytical presentation may prefer alternatives. Wired sound can be close to wireless when the headset is powered on, but passive wired listening (powered off) is commonly described as noticeably worse.

Reviewers repeatedly praise a spacious, open presentation, with several calling the stage wonderful, extended, or wider than expected.

Soundstage impressions vary by reviewer: some hear a spacious presentation, while others call it more intimate or two-dimensional; spatial processing can change the perception.

Spatial audio features (such as 360 Reality Audio and related processing) are available via the app and compatible services, but value depends on your ecosystem and content sources.

Fit stability is mixed: one reviewer says they stay on well despite light clamp, while another says they slowly slip on a smaller head.

Sony highlights recycled and sustainability-minded materials in the build and packaging, which some reviewers call out as a positive.

Touch gestures are generally responsive and convenient, but several reviews mention occasional misreads, accidental triggers when adjusting the headphones, or inconsistent recognition.

Ambient or transparency mode is useful but divisive: some find it natural enough for quick chats, while others describe it as muffled or underwater-like and not as convincing as top competitors.

Reviewers repeatedly say these are bad picks for commuting or public listening because of their open-back leakage and studio-oriented use.

Treble is usually described as clear, crisp, and smooth rather than piercing, though a few reviews note it is restrained or intentionally smooth instead of bright.

Treble is usually described as detailed and clean, but there are mixed notes about either roll-off in the upper treble or occasional sharpness at higher volumes depending on track and tuning.

USB-C is used for charging, but several reviews emphasize it cannot be used for wired digital audio playback.

Value takes context: several reviewers think the performance justifies the price, but they also stress the need for a suitable use case and, sometimes, amplification.

Voice assistant features (Siri, Google Assistant, Alexa depending on device) are supported via gestures or settings, and are commonly treated as a solid bonus feature.

Several reviews say the 470-ohm design needs proper power or a headphone amp, and can sound under-driven or require higher volume to open up.

The XM5 reaches satisfying loudness for most listeners.

There is no IP rating, and multiple reviews advise against using the XM5 in rain, heavy sweat, or workouts where moisture exposure is likely.

Nearly every review highlights how exceptionally light they feel, often framing that as a major comfort advantage.

At roughly 250g, the XM5 is widely considered lightweight for the category and less fatiguing than heavier competitors.