Sony makes some of the best noise-cancelling wireless headphones in the market, and this remains true with the new Sony WH-1000XM5. Not only does it offer even better active noise cancellation (ANC), it also sports a new design, though with a slightly higher asking price too.

Its predecessor, the WH-1000XM4, retailed at RM1,599 when it was first launched in Malaysia. As for the WH-1000XM5, it costs slightly more with a RM1,799 price tag; a RM200 price difference. Of course, you do get quite a number of upgrades for that kind of money.

One of which is superior ANC performance, thanks to the WH-1000XM5’s addition of another processor (V1) that complements the QN1 noise cancellation processor. These two hardware control eight microphones, and a specially designed 30mm driver unit further enhances the noise-cancelling capability of the headphones.

Aside from that, the WH-1000XM5 also sports a newer, more modern-looking design, though it cannot be folded anymore for easier storage. Nonetheless, we do like the fresh new look, and Sony promises that the new “synthetic soft fit leather” allows users to wear the headphones all day, free of discomfort.

Oh, battery life remains the same at up to 30 hours, though it now supports fast charging that gives three hours of use in just three minutes of charging.

The Sony WH-1000XM5 is now available for pre-order in Malaysia for RM1,799 until 5 June in Black or Silver; early birds will receive a complimentary STM Myth 18L backpack worth RM399. Deliveries of the headphones are expected to begin from 8 June onwards.