Some Sony WF-1000XM5 design changes (glossy finish, cheap looks, mesh filter) & new pairing mechanism criticized

The successor to the popular WF-1000XM4 true wireless earbuds, the WF-1000XM5, offers better sound quality and improved noise cancelation.

In addition to this, the earbuds feature a new design with a more ergonomic form that is said to improve the fit and seal, as well as a 6mm driver that helps deliver richer bass and clearer treble.

However, it appears that some are disappointed with the earphones design changes.

According to reports (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9), multiple users are unhappy with the design changes on the new earbuds. As per the claims, the company has altered the shape of the earbuds, but the case shape still remains the same.

This difference in the design structure not only creates gaps between the buds and the case but gives it an odd appearance as well.

The gaps have raised concerns about the earphones not fitting firmly in the case, potentially leading to accidental drops.

On the other hand, some people believe that the form modification was done on purpose to make it easier to remove the buds from the magnets.

Another cosmetic change that users dislike is the new grill, which they believe is too basic in comparison to the older XM3 headphones.

Along with this, the company has also come under criticism for the new glossy finish on the earbuds, with some users considering it cheap-looking and unappealing.

I love my xm4s so I’ll be good for a while. Would have upgraded for the size though if they would have kept the matte finish.
Source

It looks like they changed the bud shape but kept the case shape so there’s gaps. Odd.
Source

The transition from a premium to a more basic design has left some disappointed, especially considering the increased price of the WF-1000XM5 compared to its predecessors.

A few individuals also do not like the newly introduced pairing mechanism.

As compared to the previous approach of holding both earbuds’ touch controls for 7-8 seconds, one now needs to press a button on the casing to complete the process.

However, a section of users (1,2) like the design changes introduced on the new earbuds as well as its sound quality.

They also find the new design much more practical and have claimed that they couldn’t use the XM3 and XM4 models comfortably.

That said, we’ll keep an eye on the criticism about the design changes and new paring mechanism on the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds and update you when something noteworthy comes up.

Note: There are more such stories in our dedicated Accessories section, so make sure that you follow them as well.

Featured image source: Sony WF-1000XM5.

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