Sony WH-1000XM5 Premium Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones, Black | Auto NC Optimizer, Up to 30 Hrs of Battery, Carrying Case, Crystal Clear Calls, Touch Control, Multipoint Connection

What it is

Environmental noise is one of the strongest predictors of whether deep work is possible at home or in an open office, and active noise cancellation addresses it directly rather than asking people to concentrate harder. The XM5 remains the benchmark for cancellation quality and call clarity, with around thirty hours of battery and multipoint connection so it can hold a laptop and phone at once. It is the most expensive item across the whole store.

Why HOS selected it

It is the benchmark against which every other noise cancelling option in this category is measured.

Key features

• Active noise cancellation with auto optimization
• Up to 30 hours of battery life
• Multipoint connection and a carrying case

Who it is for

Remote workers, open-plan offices, and shared households with unavoidable background noise.

What it will not do

This is a premium price point, and wearing headphones all day is not comfortable for everyone.

Buying considerations

• Consider whether passive earmuffs would meet your need at lower cost
• Check comfort over long sessions if you wear glasses
• Confirm you need call quality as well as cancellation