Sony WH-1000XM5

The Sony is comfortable. The smart noise-cancelling has become even better thanks to the well-sealing ear cups. It reproduces music clearly and powerfully. However, the precise bass should be more restrained. Sony's 360 Reality Audio surround sound is good, but limited to a few music tracks and suppliers.

The IMTEST comparison test shows that although more expensive doesn't necessarily mean better, the red pencil is clearly noticeable, especially with a very affordable model like the Soundcore Space Q45. There is a lack of sound quality, but savings are also noticeable in the microphones and ANC...

Modern over-ear headphones are good sound all-rounders. The Technics EAH-A800 won the test thanks to their long battery life, great sound and a powerful app. The solid Space One from Soundcore deliver a lot of headphones for little money.

Sony's WH-1000XM5 noise-cancelling headphones impress in the practical test with phenomenal active noise cancellation. Compared to the already very good predecessor, the technology takes another significant step forward and reduces ambient noise of any kind to a whisper. The wearing comfort is also great; we were able to wear the headphones for many hours in the test without any complaints...