QC Headphones Headphones
Over-ear · ANC · 24h · AAC · BT 5.3
MSRP
WH-1000XM5 Headphones
Over-ear · ANC · 30h · LDAC · BT 5.2
MSRP
Our verdict
The WH-1000XM5 Headphones takes the performance lead with a 10% higher overall score, driven by its more shader cores, more of memory, and higher TFLOPS of compute power. In gaming benchmarks at 1440p, it delivers roughly 0% more frames per second across demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Alan Wake 2.
However, the QC Headphones Headphones tells a compelling value story. At $250 versus the WH-1000XM5 Headphones's $300 price tag, it costs 20% less while delivering performance that's only 10% behind. Its of memory is still more than enough for 1440p and even 4K gaming in most titles.
Our recommendation: for the majority of gamers targeting 1440p or even 4K with upscaling enabled, the QC Headphones Headphones is the smarter purchase. The WH-1000XM5 Headphones only makes sense if you need the absolute maximum performance for native 4K ray tracing, professional 3D rendering, or AI workloads where the extra VRAM and compute power provide a tangible advantage.
Performance winner
WH-1000XM5 Headphones
10% faster overall
Best value for money
QC Headphones Headphones
2% better value per dollar
QC Headphones Headphones best for
Value for money
2% better value per dollar
Audio
Battery
Comfort
Connectivity
Noise Cancellation
Frequently asked questions
Is the WH-1000XM5 Headphones worth $50 more than the QC Headphones Headphones?
It depends on your needs. The WH-1000XM5 Headphones scores 90 overall vs 82 for the QC Headphones Headphones. If you need the extra performance for demanding tasks, the premium is justified. For most users gaming at 1440p or below, the QC Headphones Headphones offers better value.
Which GPU is better for 1440p gaming, the QC Headphones Headphones or WH-1000XM5 Headphones?
The WH-1000XM5 Headphones delivers higher frame rates at 1440p, but both GPUs handle 1440p gaming well. The WH-1000XM5 Headphones provides more headroom for ray tracing and future titles, while the QC Headphones Headphones still maintains smooth gameplay in current games.
Can the QC Headphones Headphones handle 4K gaming?
The QC Headphones Headphones can handle 4K gaming in less demanding titles and with upscaling technologies like DLSS or FSR. For native 4K at ultra settings in demanding games, the WH-1000XM5 Headphones is the better choice with its higher performance ceiling.
Which should I buy, the QC Headphones Headphones or WH-1000XM5 Headphones?
Choose the QC Headphones Headphones if you want the best value for money and primarily game at 1080p or 1440p. Choose the WH-1000XM5 Headphones if you need maximum performance, play at 4K, or do professional workloads like video editing and 3D rendering.
Related comparisons
QC Headphones Headphones VS Powerbeats Pro 2 Earbuds
Score 82 VS 82
WH-1000XM5 Headphones VS Powerbeats Pro 2 Earbuds
Score 90 VS 82
QC Headphones Headphones VS Elite 10 Gen 2 Earbuds
Score 82 VS 82
WH-1000XM5 Headphones VS Elite 10 Gen 2 Earbuds
Score 90 VS 82
QC Headphones Headphones VS AirPods Max USB-C Headphones
Score 82 VS 84
WH-1000XM5 Headphones VS AirPods Max USB-C Headphones
Score 90 VS 84
QC Headphones Headphones VS Px7 S3 Headphones
Score 82 VS 84
WH-1000XM5 Headphones VS Px7 S3 Headphones
Score 90 VS 84