What are the best Sony noise-canceling headphones for office work?

Question

Which Sony noise-canceling headphones are actually worth it for an open office environment where people wont stop talking near my desk? Ive spent the last three days reading reviews and Im getting nowhere. Everyone keeps recommending the WH-1000XM5, but then I read that they dont fold up and the case is huge which is super annoying since I commute from Brooklyn every day and my backpack is already stuffed. Plus some folks say the hinge design is fragile. Then I looked at the older XM4s because they fold, but are they gonna feel outdated by now? My budget is around 300 bucks and I need to pull the trigger by Friday before my next big project sprint starts. Which one should I actually buy?

ThomasHab · Accepted Answer

Over the years Ive tested a ton of gear in loud open offices, and tbh buying older models isnt always settling. If you want something that folds up nicely for the train and still destroys chatty coworkers, look at the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Over-Ear Noise-Canceling Headphones. They sound amazing, the ANC blocks out annoying high pitched voices way better than cheap alternatives, and they wont snap in half when your backpack gets shoved under a subway seat. Plus you save some cash for coffee. Just grab them before Friday and thank me later when your focus finally comes back.

Williewenda · Answer

Honestly id skip the hype and grab the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Over-Ear Noise-Canceling Headphones instead of the newer ones since youre commuting from Brooklyn.

Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Over-Ear Noise-Canceling Headphones: They fold up small, fit easily in a crowded bag, and the ANC is still top tier for killing office chatter. Plus they cost way less than 300 bucks.

Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones: Amazing sound and mics, but that huge case is a total pain on the train and the hinge worries me too. Make sure to grab the XM4s before Friday so you can survive that sprint. You wont regret saving the money.

Dread_hmEt · Answer

Jumping in here because that hinge issue on the newer ones is legit something to worry about if your bag takes a beating on the subway. Before you drop cash on Friday, do you actually care about multipoint Bluetooth switching between your laptop and phone, or are you just gonna stay plugged into one device all day?