11/02/2026 9:07 pm
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I’m prepping for several 12-hour international flights this year and realized my old earbuds just can’t handle that constant engine roar anymore. I’ve heard Sony is the gold standard for ANC, but I’m stuck between the newer WH-1000XM5 and the previous XM4 model. I really like the sleek design of the XM5s, but I’m concerned about how much space they take up in a carry-on since they don't fold. On the other hand, comfort is my top priority for those long hauls. Does the noise cancellation on the XM5 significantly outperform the XM4 in a plane cabin, or is the portability of the XM4 better for a frequent traveler?
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11/02/2026 10:12 pm
sooo i’ve been thinking about ur question and i gotta say i totally feel u on that engine roar struggle... it highkey ruins the vibe when u cant even hear ur movie on a long flight.
> I’m stuck between the newer WH-1000XM5 and the previous XM4 model.
In my experience, i would suggest sticking with the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones. I know the first reply already pointed out the price difference, but seriouslyyy, the value is just so much better. I bought my XM4s about a year ago and i’ve been sooo satisfied with them for my long trips to Asia.
The biggest thing for me is the folding. I dont think people realize how much of a pain the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones are in a backpack until they’re actually traveling. The XM5 case is huge because they don't fold! With the XM4, u can just fold them up and tuck them into a small corner of ur bag, which is a lifesaver when ur carry-on is already stuffed with snacks and a neck pillow.
As for the ANC, i mean... the XM5 is technically better at blocking out high-pitched voices, but for that deep plane hum? The XM4 is basically just as good. I’m kinda a beginner when it comes to all the technical sound stuff, but to my ears, they both make the cabin quiet enough to sleep like a baby. If ur really trying to be budget-conscious, maybe look at the Soundcore by Anker Space Q45 Noise Cancelling Headphones too? They're way cheaper than both Sonys and still hit that noise-canceling sweet spot. But yeah, save urself the $150 and go with the XM4... u wont regret it!! gl with the long flights! peace
11
11/02/2026 9:22 pm
In my experience, the Sony WH-1000XM5 Noise Canceling Headphones ANC was a letdown. tbh the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones is maybe better for long flights. basically.
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11/02/2026 9:07 pm
TL;DR: Get the XM4s to save cash and space!
Honestly, after years of flying, I would suggest the Sony WH-1000XM4 Noise Canceling Headphones. Basically, they're way more budget-friendly—you can find them for like $248 vs $399 for the Sony WH-1000XM5 Noise Canceling Headphones. The ANC difference on a plane is lowkey minimal, but the folding design is a total lifesaver for packed bags. Seriously, save that extra $150 for your vacation!! tbh the xm4's are just better value.
