Apple's AirPods Pro 3 beat Sony's best earbuds on this key feature

Sony has long dominated the premium noise canceling earbud market with their WF-1000X series. These earbuds have consistently set the standard for what active noise canceling should be, earning top spots on every best-of list since their debut. The company’s reputation for exceptional ANC performance has made them the go-to choice for travelers, commuters, and anyone seeking peace in a noisy world. But Apple just changed everything.

With the release of the AirPods Pro 3, Apple has delivered a masterclass in active noise canceling technology, handily surpassing Sony’s flagship offering. This isn’t marketing hype–we put both the AirPods Pro 3 and Sony WF-1000XM5 through rigorous testing in our SoundGuys lab, and the results speak for themselves.

ANC test results

The chart above shows our noise canceling measurements for the AirPods Pro 3 compared to the Sony WF-1000XM5. The data is clear: the AirPods Pro 3 deliver superior noise blocking across nearly the entire frequency spectrum. The gap is especially noticeable in the low to mid-range frequencies, around 100Hz-2kHz, where the AirPods achieve up to 12dB more attenuation than Sony’s earbuds. For real-world use, this means the AirPods are dramatically more effective at silencing everything from rumbling subway cars to nearby conversations and office noise.

Our comprehensive testing reveals that the AirPods Pro 3 reduce the loudness of external noise by an impressive 90%, while the Sony WF-1000XM5 manages 87%. While a 3% difference might not sound like much, it can make a noticeable improvement in challenging environments where every bit counts, like airplanes or busy streets. However, it’s worth noting that Sony’s all-foam ear tips still provide superior passive isolation compared to Apple’s hybrid foam-silicone tips.

The Sony WF-1000XM5 launched in 2023 with a premium price tag of $298 at Amazonand represented Sony’s absolute best. Meanwhile, the AirPods Pro 3 retail for $249 at Amazon — fifty dollars less — while delivering superior noise canceling performance. You’re paying less and getting more.

That said, with the WF-1000XM5 now over two years old, it’s about time for Sony to release the WF-1000XM6. If history is any indication, Sony could make a serious comeback and retake the crown sooner than we think. Let us know what you think in the comments down below.