Jabra Elite 10 vs. Sony WF-1000XM5: Which wireless earbuds are best for you?

This article is part of our series Battle of the Brands, in which we compare category-leading products to their counterparts to determine which are actually worth your money.

The Sony WF-1000XM5currently stand as our pick for the best true wireless earbuds overall, though the all-new Jabra Elite 10 might have something to say about that.

These are two top-tier models that pack adaptive active noise cancellation (ANC), dynamic sound with 3D audio capabilities and lots of special features into sharp-looking designs. They also come with adequate battery life and Bluetooth multipoint to go along with their hefty price tags.

I’ve spent weeks testing both pairs of buds and can officially state the market’s top offering. Is it Jabra’s latest gem or Sony’s universally acclaimed flagship? Let’s find out which is better.

Jabra Elite 10 vs. Sony WF-1000XM5 at a glance

Quick comparison

Sony’s sound quality is unbeatable across the board

The WF-1000XM5 are a hi-fi beast loaded with upscale audio technologies. Sony’s all-new QN2e and V2 chipsets deliver 24-bit audio processing while lowering distortion for clean audio reproduction. The Dynamic Driver X unit widens frequency range to hear details and vocals more clearly. Signature features like Equalizer make adjusting frequencies a breeze to create personalized sound profiles, or you can use Find Your Equalizer to have the buds automatically tailor audio to your hearing.

LDAC produces hi-res audio at a faster bit rate when streaming from popular music streaming services. Speaking of which, Sony’s 360 Reality Audio supports Tidal to enjoy spacious sound on optimized music tracks. However, it’s the Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE) that deserves the most recognition, as this upscaling feature greatly improves clarity and resolution on heavily compressed MP3 files and lo-fi recordings.

Sound is terrific on the Elite 10. They have superb frequency range with impactful bass that enlivens the soundstage on all digital streaming platforms. The inclusion of LE Audio increases streaming quality with minimal latency. Listening with ANC on gives the low end a tiny boost. You can raise or lower frequencies in the Sound+ app by manually adjusting them or selecting from six presets that complement their categories. What you really want to know about is Jabra’s 3D audio format: Spatial Sound. It lacks the clarity and depth present on 360 Reality Audio, but it demonstrates the most accurate head detection of any spatial audio buds out there.

TL;DR: While the Elite 10 sound great and have better spatial audio head tracking, nothing compares sonically to the WF-1000XM5.

ANC is equally excellent, though ambient listening goes to Jabra

The WF-1000XM4 had outstanding noise cancellation, and the WF-1000XM5 up the ante with additional mics, dual processing and wind-resistant grilles that block out close to 95% of incidental sounds. Meanwhile, the Elite 10 feature an updated version of Jabra’s ANC technology, which is two times stronger than the company’s standard version and does a stellar job of eliminating unwanted sounds across the frequency spectrum. Some high frequencies (e.g., a crying baby, whistles) make their way onto the Elite 10’s soundstage, but that’s no different than the WF-1000XM5. The good news is that both models make these distractions sound like background effects on songs.

Sony’s 20-level Ambient Sound mode is powerful and provides extensive control over how much noise you want to hear or block out. I don’t know what black magic Jabra performed on its HearThrough mode, but to hear this five-level setting pull in noises and vocals more clearly than its competitor is astounding.

TL;DR: The Elite 10 and WF-1000XM5 are prime noise cancelers. However, Jabra offers the better ambient listening experience.

Chic, compact and charge-friendly models

These are two of the most attractive wireless earbuds available with sufficient playtimes. The WF-1000XM5 look more lavish, with a nice oval design, a matte finish and luxe details like flush metal grilles. Their charging case is slimmer and smaller than the previous version and holds up to 36 hours (eight to 12 hours per charge).

The Elite 10 are Jabra’s most high-end-looking buds since the Elite Active 75t. It’s all in the details, from the glossy multifunctional button to the suede-like exterior to the teardrop shape. They come with IP54 certification for dust and waterproof protection, while the WF-1000XM5 are IPX4 rated for sweat and water resistance. Jabra’s charging case is similarly constructed, with a soft-touch finish and sturdy exterior. These buds also hold a serviceable amount of playtime at six to eight hours per charge and up to 36 hours with the charging case.

Wireless charging and quick charging are available on both models, with stronger quick charging on the WF-1000XM5. A three-minute charge gets you one hour of use on Sony’s buds, while Jabra’s buds require a five-minute charge to net the same listening time.

TL;DR: Both models are durable, handsome and long-lasting.

The WF-1000XM5 are the better calling headset

It took Sony numerous tries, but the company finally developed grade-A calling buds with the WF-1000XM5. All credit goes to the new mic array that captures vocals precisely and reduces background noise. The wind-resistant grilles reduce harsh noise produced in gusty conditions. This level of performance also carries over to voice assistance.

I’m shocked by the Elite 10’s disappointing call quality, especially since they perform well for voice commands. Jabra’s mics can distinguish between background noise and the caller’s speaking voice, but they fail to block out external sounds.

TL;DR: Use Sony’s buds for calls and digital assistance, but only use Jabra’s buds for the latter.

Bottom line

It was a tough battle, but in the end, the WF-1000XM5 still wear the true wireless crown. There’s no competing with Sony’s multitude of sound technologies, specifically DSEE, which is so clutch for enhancing audio on poorly engineered tracks. Smarter and stronger ANC places them among the best noise-canceling earbuds money can buy, 360 Reality Audio is a better spatial audio alternative than Spatial Sound and Tidal optimization livens up the buds’ soundscape. Other notables, such as their improved design and solid connectivity, complete the package.

Despite the loss, the Jabra Elite 10 should not be overlooked. They deliver the brand’s best ANC and sound to date. Spatial Sound might be one of the weaker 3D audio formats out there, but Jabra’s head-tracking technology is superior. The updated design is also the perfect combination of sleek and sturdy. If only call quality were better.

Whichever you choose, there’s plenty of performance to enjoy. Just know that the Sony WF-1000XM5 are the more well-rounded option.