AirPods Max vs Sony WH-1000XM5 2026: Which Premium Headphones Win?

Sony WH-1000XM5 ($349) wins on noise cancellation, battery life (30 hours vs 20 hours), lighter weight (250g vs 385g), multipoint dual-device connection, and value at $200 less than AirPods Max. AirPods Max ($549) wins for iPhone users who want seamless automatic device switching across Apple devices, Spatial Audio with head tracking in Apple apps, and premium aluminum build quality. Both headphones sound excellent; Sony supports LDAC high-res audio. The right choice depends entirely on whether you're in the Apple ecosystem: if you're an iPhone user who values seamless device switching, AirPods Max are worth the premium; for everyone else, Sony delivers better ANC and battery at a significantly lower price.