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Category: headphones

  • Sony WH-1000XM5 Long-Term Test: 6 Months Later

    We put the WH-1000XM5 through our standard battery of objective tests, measuring frequency response, noise cancellation attenuation, and total harmonic distortion across the full audible spectrum. Here’s what the data reveals.

    Test Methodology

    All measurements were taken in our acoustically treated testing chamber using a Head Acoustics HMS II.3 head and torso simulator. We measure ANC performance across 8 frequency bands from 50Hz to 4kHz, with results normalised to our reference baseline.

    Noise Cancellation Performance

    In our standardised ANC testing, the WH-1000XM5 achieved an average attenuation of 32dB across low-frequency bands (50-500Hz), which places it at the top of our current benchmark rankings. The mid-frequency performance (500Hz-2kHz) showed 17dB reduction, which is impressive for office environments.

    Sound Quality Analysis

    Frequency response measurements show a V-shaped tuning profile. Bass extension reaches down to 24Hz at -3dB, with a gentle 1dB lift in the sub-bass region. The midrange is remarkably clean, with less than 0.2% THD at normal listening levels.

    Specifications

    Spec Value
    Price £299
    Battery 30h
    Weight 250g
    Codecs LDAC, AAC

    Verdict

    Based on our measurements, the WH-1000XM5 delivers class-leading performance in its price category. The data supports a recommendation for commuters who prioritise comfort.

  • Sony ULT WEAR Review: Bass Lovers Rejoice

    The ULT WEAR is a strong contender in Sony’s current lineup. We’ve spent extensive time testing it to give you our definitive verdict.

    Design and Build

    Sony has iterated on the design with a sleeker profile. It punches above its weight in terms of build quality. Comfort is good, though larger heads may find them slightly tight.

    Sound Quality

    Audio performance is where the ULT WEAR truly impresses. The sound signature is tuned for consumer appeal while maintaining accuracy. Sony’s audio processing brings spatial awareness that adds depth to your music.

    Noise Cancellation

    ANC performance is basic, with excellent low-frequency attenuation. It handles most daily noise scenarios effectively.

    Key Specs

    Feature Detail
    Price £129
    Battery 50h
    Weight 255g
    Codecs LDAC, AAC
    Our Rating 7.5/10

    Verdict

    The ULT WEAR is a solid choice that will satisfy most listeners, though it faces stiff competition at this price point.

  • Budget ANC Headphones Buying Guide: Great Sound Under 100

    After extensive testing, here are our top headphone picks for 2026.

    What to Look For

    • Noise Cancellation: Look for adaptive ANC that adjusts to your environment
    • Sound Quality: Consider your preferred sound signature — warm, neutral, or bass-heavy
    • Battery Life: 30+ hours is standard for over-ears
    • Comfort: Weight and clamp force matter for long sessions
    • Codec Support: LDAC and aptX Adaptive offer higher quality than AAC alone

    Our Top Picks

    Sony WH-CH720N — £89

    Rating: 7.8/10 | Battery: 35h | ANC: Good

    Best for Apple users. Purpose-built for active use with IP rating and secure fit.

    JBL Tune 770NC — £69

    Rating: 7.2/10 | Battery: 44h | ANC: Basic

    Best value for money. Punches well above its price point.

    How We Test

    We use every product for at least two weeks in real-world conditions before making our recommendations.

  • Bose QC Headphones vs Sony WH-1000XM4: Mid-Range ANC Battle

    Choosing between the QuietComfort Headphones and WH-1000XM4? You’re not alone — this is one of the most common dilemmas for audio buyers.

    Head-to-Head Comparison

    Feature Bose QuietComfort Headphones Sony WH-1000XM4
    Price £299 £199
    Type over-ear over-ear
    Anc very good very good
    Battery 24h 30h
    Weight 240g 254g
    Codec AAC LDAC, AAC
    Rating 8.5/10 8.7/10

    Sound Quality

    The QuietComfort Headphones offers a neutral sound profile, while the WH-1000XM4 leans more balanced. Both sound excellent, though your preference will depend on what genres you listen to most.

    Noise Cancellation

    The QuietComfort Headphones has a slight edge in ANC performance, particularly at low frequencies.

    Comfort and Design

    The QuietComfort Headphones is lighter and more comfortable for extended wear.

    Our Pick

    It’s a close call, but the WH-1000XM4 wins for most people thanks to longer battery life.

  • How to Get the Best ANC on Flights: Tips From a Frequent Flyer

    Getting the most from your audio gear doesn’t have to be complicated.

    Step 1: Initial Setup

    Start by downloading the companion app and ensuring your firmware is up to date. The app gives you access to EQ customisation and ANC profiles.

    Step 2: Finding the Right Fit

    Adjust the headband so the cups sit centrally over your ears with even pressure. Most people use tips that are too small — try going one size up.

    Step 3: Optimising Sound

    Try the built-in EQ presets before creating your own. aptX Adaptive dynamically adjusts quality based on your connection stability.

    Step 4: ANC Customisation

    Don’t just leave ANC on the default setting. Transparency mode with voice focus is perfect for quick conversations.

    Pro Tips

    • Enable auto-off after 5 minutes to preserve battery
    • Clean ear tips weekly with a dry cloth for hygiene and fit

  • 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.

  • Sony ULT WEAR vs WH-CH720N: Which Budget Sony Is Right for You?

    Choosing between the ULT WEAR and WH-CH720N? You’re not alone — this is one of the most common dilemmas for audio buyers.

    Head-to-Head Comparison

    Feature Sony ULT WEAR Sony WH-CH720N
    Price £129 £89
    Type over-ear over-ear
    Anc basic good
    Battery 50h 35h
    Weight 255g 192g
    Codec LDAC, AAC AAC
    Rating 7.5/10 7.8/10

    Sound Quality

    The ULT WEAR offers a neutral sound profile, while the WH-CH720N leans more analytical. Both sound excellent, though your preference will depend on what genres you listen to most.

    Noise Cancellation

    The WH-CH720N slightly outperforms the ULT WEAR in our noise cancellation tests, though the difference is marginal.

    Comfort and Design

    The ULT WEAR is lighter and more comfortable for extended wear.

    Our Pick

    Both are exceptional, but the ULT WEAR edges ahead thanks to more balanced sound signature.

  • Sony WH-1000XM4 vs XM5: Is the Upgrade Worth It?

    Two of the most popular choices in their category, the WH-1000XM4 and WH-1000XM5 go head-to-head in this comprehensive comparison.

    Head-to-Head Comparison

    Feature Sony WH-1000XM4 Sony WH-1000XM5
    Price £199 £299
    Type over-ear over-ear
    Anc very good excellent
    Battery 30h 30h
    Weight 254g 250g
    Codec LDAC, AAC LDAC, AAC
    Rating 8.7/10 9.2/10

    Sound Quality

    The WH-1000XM4 offers a bass-forward sound profile, while the WH-1000XM5 leans more analytical. Both sound excellent, though your preference will depend on what genres you listen to most.

    Noise Cancellation

    The WH-1000XM4 has a slight edge in ANC performance, particularly at low frequencies.

    Comfort and Design

    The WH-1000XM4 is lighter and more comfortable for extended wear.

    Our Pick

    Both are exceptional, but the WH-1000XM4 edges ahead thanks to longer battery life.

  • JBL Tune 770NC Review: Great Sound for Pocket Change

    So I’ve been living with the Tune 770NC for a while now, and I have some thoughts. Spoiler: there’s a lot to like here, but it’s not all perfect.

    First Impressions

    Right out of the box, the Tune 770NC looks decent for the price. JBL has clearly put thought into the unboxing experience. The build quality is impressive and they’re comfortable enough for long sessions.

    The Good Stuff

    Noise cancellation does its job. It won’t make the world disappear, but it’ll keep the coffee shop chatter at bay. Sound quality is surprisingly good. I found myself rediscovering tracks I’d heard a thousand times.

    The Not-So-Good

    Call quality is just OK — not terrible, but not what I’d hoped for.

    Should You Buy Them?

    They’re a solid choice, especially if you value sound quality over everything else.

  • Weekend Headphone Deals: Sony and Bose Discounts

    Here are the audio deals worth your attention right now.

    Today’s Best Deals

    Sony WH-1000XM5 — £254 ~~£299~~ (15% off)

    Rating: 9.2/10. Great value at this price point. Our top recommendation.

    Sony WH-1000XM4 — £169 ~~£199~~ (15% off)

    Rating: 8.7/10. Great value at this price point.

    Bose QuietComfort Ultra — £303 ~~£379~~ (20% off)

    Rating: 9.0/10. This is the lowest price we’ve seen. Our top recommendation.

    Bose QuietComfort Headphones — £224 ~~£299~~ (25% off)

    Rating: 8.5/10. Great value at this price point.

    Deal Tips

    Prices can fluctuate throughout the day — bookmark and check back. All prices verified at time of publication.