Sony WF-1000XM5 vs AirPods Pro 3: which earbuds for your phone?
Sony WF-1000XM5 vs Apple AirPods Pro 3 on rated battery, water rating, multipoint and phone fit. Research comparison from maker spec pages, not a listening test.
Research guide based on published sources, not hands-on testing. Our methodology · How links work
The short answer
Your phone decides this one. With an iPhone, AirPods Pro 3 ($249 from Apple) add hearing-health features, heart-rate sensing and an IP57 rating. With Android, the Sony WF-1000XM5 keeps all its features, adds multipoint pairing, and has the same 8-hour rated battery with noise cancelling on. Its rating is lower: IPX4 equivalent.
This comparison uses the Sony and Apple spec pages, checked 16 October 2026. We have not tested either pair.
Spec snapshot
| Sony WF-1000XM5 | AirPods Pro 3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Rated battery, noise cancelling on | Up to 8 h | Up to 8 h |
| Rated battery, noise cancelling off | Up to 12 h | Not the headline figure; up to 24 h total with case |
| Water rating | IPX4 equivalent (earbuds) | IP57 (earbuds and case) |
| Multipoint | Yes | Switches automatically between Apple devices on the same account |
| Wireless case charging | Yes | Yes |
| Extras | Sony app EQ and settings | Heart-rate sensing, Hearing Test, Hearing Aid and Hearing Protection (iPhone) |
| Price | Check live retailer price | $249 from Apple |
Sources: Sony WF-1000XM5 specifications, Apple AirPods Pro specs.
When the Sony wins
On Android, or when you switch between a laptop and a phone that are not both Apple devices. Multipoint keeps both connected. The WF-1000XM5 came out in 2023, so look for a discount.
When AirPods Pro 3 win
With an iPhone. The hearing features and the IP57 rating are real differences, and $249 is Apple’s own price, not a sale price.
Related
Tools for this decision: Upgrade or keep calculator, Used vs new calculator.
FAQ
Do AirPods Pro 3 work with Android?
As basic Bluetooth earbuds, yes. Apple's hearing features and most of the ecosystem extras need a recent iPhone, so Android users pay for features they cannot use.
Which is more water resistant?
Apple lists IP57 for the AirPods Pro 3 earbuds and case. Sony lists the WF-1000XM5 earbuds as IPX4 equivalent, which covers splashes. Neither is meant for swimming.
Which has the better battery?
They are level with noise cancelling on: up to 8 hours each, by the makers' own ratings. Sony rates 12 hours with noise cancelling off. Apple rates up to 24 hours in total with the case.
Product details
Specifications below are manufacturer claims. Availability, regional versions and prices can change; check the exact model before buying.
Sony WF-1000XM5
Noise-cancelling earbuds with multipoint connections and wireless case charging.
- Battery
- Up to 8 hours playback with noise cancelling on; 12 hours off
- Device connections
- Multipoint connection
- Protection
- Earbuds IPX4 equivalent
- Case charging
- Case supports wireless charging
Try the fit and check phone compatibility. The earbuds have splash resistance; they are not designed for swimming.
Manufacturer detailsApple AirPods Pro 3
Apple's current noise-cancelling earbuds, with heart rate sensing and hearing health features.
- Battery
- Up to 8 hours with noise cancellation, up to 24 hours with the case
- Water and dust
- IP57, earbuds and case
- Extras
- Heart rate sensing during workouts, Hearing Test, Hearing Aid and Hearing Protection features
- Apple price
- $249
Many features need a recent iPhone. On Android they work as basic Bluetooth earbuds.
Manufacturer details
