Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 vs Sony WF 1000XM5
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 and Sony WF-1000XM5 are considered the best wireless earbuds of 2024. Both will surely attract even the most critical ears, considering it will introduce the latest in technology, stellar sound quality, and many features. But how do they compare? Let’s take a closer look at some key differences and see which best suits your needs.
Price and Availability
More affordable and priced at $229, are the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2. They can be found everywhere from Amazon to Best Buy and offer a lot of value in their price point.
The Sony WF-1000XM5 is at a premium of $300, though it can be knocked down through sales to around $250. It is available through Amazon and Best Buy as well as on Sony’s website.
Winner: Google Pixel Buds Pro 2
Budget Winner: Pixel Buds Pro 2
Design, Fit, and Controls
Both earbuds feature eye catching designs aimed at comfort and a secure fit.
Pixel Buds Pro 2:
- Comes with short wings to stabilize.
- Available in bright colors such as Porcelain, Hazel, Wintergreen, and Peony.
- Sensitive touch controls with single, double, and triple tap.
Sony WF-1000XM5:
- Foam ear tips for a snug fit to improve noise canceling.
- Comes in Black, Silver, or premium Smoky Pink finish (for more money).
- Share touch controls, but gesture customizations are only up to par with the basics.
Winner: Draw
While Sony provides better noise isolation, Google’s colorful design options and secure fit cater to a broader audience.
Sound and Call Quality
Both earbuds deliver incredible audio experiences, but subtle differences set them apart:
Sony WF-1000XM5:
- Comes with 8.4mm drivers that give out clear treble, warm midrange, and full-bodied bass.
- Supports LDAC, SBC, and AAC codecs, making it a perfect earphone for high-res audio enthusiasts.
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2:
- These use larger 11mm drivers but may require manual EQ adjustments to make the sound fuller.
- Only supports SBC and AAC codecs, thus lacking high-res audio capabilities.
For phone calls, both models perform well, but the Sony XM5 edges ahead with its superior audio clarity.
Winner: Sony WF-1000XM5
Noise Canceling and Transparency Modes
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is an area where both earbuds excellently perform, though Sony has more refined implementation.
Sony WF-1000XM5:
- Works on Adaptive Sound Control, which adjusts ANC to location and activity.
- Quick Attention Mode for instant transparency.
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2
- Works with Silent Seal 2.0, that adapts to your environment, three million times every second.
- Transparency is significantly much better than the first Pixel Buds Pro model.
Winner: Sony WF-1000XM5
Sony’s smart ANC features offer a much superior noise-canceling experience.
Battery Life and Charging
The two earbuds have similar battery life
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2:
- 8 hours of playback with ANC enabled and 30 hours with the case.
- USB-C and Qi wireless charging compatible
Sony WF-1000XM5:
- Equaled the Pixel Buds Pro 2 with 8 hours of ANC playback and 30 hours with the case.
- Also compatible with USB-C and wireless charging
Winner: Tie
Both have great battery life
Software and Ecosystem Integration
Pixel Buds Pro 2:
- These integrate nicely with the Google ecosystem, so Android users will be great companions.
- Fast Pair and Find My Device from Android are awesome usability enhancing features.
Sony WF-1000XM5:
- The Headphones Connect app is available in iOS and Android.
- There are preset EQ variations and gesture customizations available.
Winner: Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 for Andriod users Cross-platform support winner is the Sony WF-1000XM5
Which Earbods Should You Buy?
If you really care for audiophile sound quality, hi-res audio support, and true best-in-class noise cancellation, it is the Sony WF-1000XM5.
Or if you’re a Google fan boy, this is a great option for sound, seamless Android integration, and a price that’s not a bad steal either, the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2.
Final Verdict:
- Best Overall: Sony WF-1000XM5
- Best Value: Google Pixel Buds Pro 2
No matter which pair you choose, you’ll be investing in some of the best wireless earbuds available in 2024!
