(checked 2026-10-10)
Wirecutter measured the strongest noise cancelling of any earbud it has tested, and SoundGuys ranks it #1. The catch is the fit: Wirecutter's testers couldn't seal the bulky buds with the included foam tips, and about 1 in 4 Amazon ratings are 1 or 2 stars.
Top complaints
- Bulky shape and hard-to-seal foam tips
None of Wirecutter's three testers got a good seal with the supplied foam tips. Sony's alternative silicone tips fit better but cut measured ANC from 30.4 dB to 23.3 dB. SoundGuys says the large size may not suit smaller ears and they're too wide for side sleeping. Amazon calls fit mixed, and low-star Walmart reviews describe pain and buds that stick far out of the ear.
- Disconnects and uneven battery drain
Amazon's review summary says connectivity is a concern, with earbuds disconnecting, and that some owners see the right earbud drain too fast or unreliable performance.
- Price hike and an awkward case
Tom's Guide lists the odd case design (hard to pocket) and the price increase over the XM5 as its only cons. SoundGuys lists price as a con at a $329.99 MSRP, and Amazon shoppers say they aren't worth the price. Walmart reviewers complain of weak case magnets and charging-pin trouble.
What owners love
- Best measured noise cancelling
Wirecutter measured 30.4 dB of airplane-band reduction with the included tips, the most of any headphone or earbud it has tested. SoundGuys measured 88%.
- Excellent sound and mics
Tom's Guide praises the well-balanced, crisp sound with LDAC. SoundGuys calls the mics excellent and a big step up from the XM5.
Source: Tom's Guide, SoundGuys review - Long battery
SoundGuys measured 9 hours 41 minutes; Tom's Guide cites 8 hours with ANC plus 24 hours from the case.
Source: SoundGuys review, Tom's Guide
- You have small ears or sleep on your side
- You can't easily return earbuds that don't fit
- You need more than IPX4 water resistance
- Maximum noise blocking on planes and trains
- Android users who want LDAC and a full-featured app
- Long listening sessions (about 8-10 hours per charge)
Scores (tap for why)
What experts say
- SoundGuys: Best overall (roundup updated 2026-09-11) and 8.4/10 in its review. The cons are the price, sound that changes with ANC off, and a size that may not suit small ears.
- Tom's Guide: Best alternative to the AirPods Pro 3, with great sound, battery and ANC. One tester still heard traffic, which Tom's Guide blames on eartip fit.
- Wirecutter (NYT): Not a pick: the best ANC Wirecutter has measured, but none of its testers could get a good seal with the supplied tips. If they fit you, you'll probably love them; buy where returns are easy.