Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless vs Sony WH-1000XM5

This is the audiophile versus the all-rounder, and it is one of the most genuinely difficult calls in the headphone world. Sennheiser's Momentum 4 Wireless are what you buy when music is not just background noise but something you actively care about. The sound has a clarity and honesty that lets you hear recordings the way they were meant to be heard, with texture and detail that Sony smooths over in pursuit of a more universally pleasant signature. The battery life is also extraordinary, lasting so long that you start to wonder if the percentage indicator is broken. Sony's WH-1000XM5 fight back with noise cancelling that is smarter and more effective, adapting to your environment in ways that Sennheiser's ANC does not quite match. They are also meaningfully lighter, which translates to better comfort during those endless workday listening sessions. The app experience and feature set are also richer, with more tweaks and customization options. Both sound great, but Sennheiser sounds special. Both cancel noise, but Sony cancels more. If you listen critically and want headphones that respect the music, Sennheiser is your match. If you need the best all-round package for work, travel, and everything in between, Sony remains king.