Dyson OnTrac vs Sony WH-1000XM5: High Quality Headphones Comparison
By Elisabeth Christ
Updated September 2024
In today’s audio market, the Dyson OnTrac and Sony WH-1000XM5 represent two distinctive takes on wireless headphones, combining both artistry and function. Dyson, known for innovative engineering, brings a luxurious and highly customizable approach with the OnTrac, while Sony, a leader in audio technology, continues to refine its iconic WH-1000XM series. Whether you’re drawn to Dyson’s bold design or Sony’s refined performance, this comparison will take you through the essential aspects to see which headphones rise above in terms of style, comfort, sound, and features. Let’s dive into the world of elite audio technology and see which one suits your needs.
Key Takeaways
The Dyson OnTrac delivers top-tier customization, with up to 2,000 color combinations and interchangeable ear cushions, along with advanced noise cancellation that reduces up to 40dB. It offers an extended 55-hour battery life with ANC but lacks multipoint connectivity. Meanwhile, Sony WH-1000XM5 excels in operational efficiency with refined ANC powered by QN1 and V1 processors, superior soundstage, and support for SBC, AAC, and LDAC codecs. It also features multipoint connectivity, 360 Reality Audio, and a fast-charge option, providing 3 hours of playback in just 3 minutes.
Dyson OnTrac
High-end Headphone with Exceptional Battery Life
✓ Up to 55 hours of battery life
✓ Customizable ear cap designs and cushion colors
✓ Advanced noise cancellation
✓ Frequency range of 6Hz to 21kHz
Sony WH-1000XM5
Premium Headphones with Impressive Noise-Cancelling
✓ Sony QN1 and V1 chipsets
✓ Wide soundstage
✓ Auto-pause feature
✓ 24 - 30 hours battery life
#1 Design & Comfort
Dyson OnTrac
The Dyson OnTrac exudes luxury with its eye-catching, customizable design that offers up to 2,000 color combinations. With swappable ear cushions and outer caps, this $500 investment gives you the option to truly personalize your headphones. However, its premium build comes at a weight of 451g, which might feel hefty for some. Crafted from sleek materials like microfiber and available in striking hues such as aluminum and cinnabar, it commands attention but lacks substantial protection from the elements.
On the other hand, Sony’s WH-1000XM5 opts for a minimalist and sleek aesthetic with soft vegan leatherette that feels indulgent to the touch. At just 250g, these headphones are incredibly lightweight and prioritize comfort with deep and wide padding. Despite their lighter construction, Sony's design still holds its own in sophistication, offering a balance between style and practicality with fold-flat portability and ergonomic earcups.
#2 Noise Cancellation
Sony WH-1000XM5
The Dyson OnTrac takes an ambitious leap in noise-canceling technology, claiming to reduce up to 40dB of unwanted sound. Powered by eight microphones that sample surrounding audio 384,000 times per second, it promises a superior ANC experience. However, while it performs well in minimizing low-frequency sounds, the OnTrac has been described as somewhat lacking in spaciousness, with a more constrained soundstage.
Sony’s WH-1000XM5, on the other hand, continues its legacy of industry-leading noise cancellation with the help of Sony's QN1 and V1 chipsets. These advanced processors deliver an immersive, spacious soundstage while blocking out distractions effortlessly. Whether you're in a bustling airport or a quiet café, the WH-1000XM5 adapts and outperforms expectations, with more refined ANC and call clarity that leaves other competitors struggling to keep up.
#3 Features
Dyson OnTrac
Dyson packs its OnTrac headphones with features like wear detection, which automatically pauses playback when you remove the headphones. With support for SBC, AAC, and LDHC codecs, you’ll enjoy a balanced, if not slightly neutral, sound profile with crisp vocals and smooth mids. Though not supporting aptX Lossless, the three EQ presets—Enhanced, Bass Boost, and Neutral—offer some flexibility, although the Bass Boost can muffle the overall audio slightly.
Sony WH-1000XM5
Sony counters with a more robust feature set, including 360 Reality Audio and customizable EQ settings through its dedicated app. Its Speak-To-Chat mode and ambient noise control are intuitive and practical, letting you switch between immersive audio and environmental awareness effortlessly. With refined soundstage and optimized ANC, the WH-1000XM5 delivers a sound experience that is both deep and dynamic, making it a top choice for audiophiles.
#4 Battery Life
Dyson OnTrac
When it comes to battery endurance, Dyson leads the charge with an impressive 55 hours of playback with noise cancellation enabled, allowing for uninterrupted listening even on the longest of trips. A USB-C connection provides a simple charging solution, although there is no option for multipoint connectivity, limiting the versatility slightly.
Sony’s WH-1000XM5, while offering slightly less playback time at 31 hours with ANC on, remains highly efficient. Turn off ANC, and it skyrockets to over 53 hours, just shy of Dyson’s stamina. Furthermore, the XM5 includes a quick-charge feature that grants three hours of listening with just a 3-minute charge—ideal for those moments when you’re in a rush but need your headphones powered up fast.
#5 Connectivity
Sony WH-1000XM5
For connectivity, the Dyson OnTrac sticks to the basics with Bluetooth and a 3.5mm-to-USB-C cable, providing solid, if somewhat limited, options. While it supports Bluetooth 5.2, multipoint connectivity is absent, which may inconvenience those who frequently switch between devices.
Sony’s WH-1000XM5 takes the lead here with Bluetooth 5.2, SBC, AAC, and LDAC support, ensuring a seamless connection whether you're on iOS or Android. While it too skips aptX Lossless, its compatibility with Fast Pair and Find My Device ensures that staying connected and keeping track of your headphones is easy and reliable.
Dyson OnTrac vs Sony WH-1000XM5
Final Thoughts
Dyson OnTrac vs Sony WH-1000XM5
If you value a bold design and cutting-edge noise cancellation with a generous battery life, the Dyson OnTrac could be the ideal choice for you, especially if personalization matters. However, if you’re looking for all-around performance with top-notch ANC, superior sound quality, and a lighter, more comfortable build, the Sony WH-1000XM5 is hard to beat. Both headphones have their merits, but your choice will ultimately depend on whether you prioritize luxury aesthetics or refined functionality.
Finding yourself liking headphones? You might want to check these guides out:
Dyson OnTrac vs Apple AirPods Max
The Willmood Headphones
Beats Solo 4 vs Studio Pro
Beats Solo 3 vs 4: Battle of the Beats
Sennheiser Momentum 4 vs Accentum
Sennheiser Momentum 4 vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra
Don't miss out on tech
Subscribe to our newsletter to stay up to date on the latest tech trends and guides on the best gadgets around.
