Focal
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi Wireless
Headphones
$699List price
Explore this product Your shortlist, side by side
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi Wireless vs Sony WH-1000XM5
Find the differences that matter for your next decision.
Sony
Sony WH-1000XM5
Headphones
$399List price
Explore this product What matters most to you?
Start with all rankable specifications, or focus on a particular use.
Your starting point
Buy the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi Wireless.
- Leads 2 of 3 rankable overall specs; Sony WH-1000XM5 takes 1.
- Charging time: 1.5 hours vs 3.5 hours full charge
How we reached this
We compare the published specifications relevant to your priority. Each rankable specification counts once; your selected requirements can rule a product out. This is a guide to the numbers, not a laboratory performance score.
Warranty: 2 years vs 1 year
Sony WH-1000XM5 is $300 cheaper. Pay the difference only if charging time matters to you.
The trade-off to know
Check first: the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi Wireless weighs over 300 g. Tick them under deal-breakers if that rules it out.
Look at the differences ↓Refine your requirements
Your other devices
What would rule one out?
Side by side
The differences, in detail.
Start with the key specs, then explore as much as you need.
| What you’re comparing | Focal Bathys Hi-Fi Wireless | Sony WH-1000XM5 |
|---|---|---|
| WeightDesign | 350 g (12.3 oz) | 250 g (8.8 oz) |
| FoldableDesign | No (swivels flat) | No (swivels flat into case) |
| Carrying caseDesign | Rigid black/silver carrying case included | Collapsible hard-shell zip travel case included |
| Active Noise CancellingAudio | Yes (Silent, Soft, and Transparent modes with 8 microphones) | Yes (Dual Processor V1 + HD QN1 with 8 microphones) |
| Battery lifeConnectivity & Battery | 30 hours (Bluetooth ANC) / 35 hours (Jack) / 42 hours (USB-DAC) | 30 hours (ANC on) / 40 hours (ANC off) |
Showing 5 of 14 specifications. Missing values stay unlisted. About the sources
Both sides of the decision
What you gain. What you give up.
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi Wireless
Reasons to choose it
- True high-fidelity audiophile sound with patented Aluminum/Magnesium M-dome drivers
- Built-in USB-DAC mode supports uncompressed 24-bit/192kHz playback
- Exquisite French design with backlit ear cup logos and genuine leather
Worth considering
- High luxury price point
- Heavier build at 350 grams
Sony WH-1000XM5
Reasons to choose it
- Industry-leading active noise cancellation with Auto NC Optimizer
- Exceptional 30-hour battery life with ANC enabled
- Lightweight, pressure-relieving soft fit leather design
Worth considering
- Headband does not fold into compact ball (swivels flat only)
- Touch sensor gestures can occasionally misfire in rain
Beyond the spec sheet
Living with your choice.
Explore the ownership details available for this pair.
Comfort, Clamp & Travel Fit Check
Ergonomic factors that affect daily comfort, glasses wearers, and luggage space.
Folding & Travel Packability
Focal
Standard folding earcups
Sony
Swivels flat only (larger case, does not fold inward)
Clamp Force & Glasses Comfort
Focal
Standard headphone clamp
Sony
Balanced clamp force (~4.4 N, synthetic leather)
Weight & Crown Pressure
Focal
Standard headphone weight
Sony
250g (featherweight on crown)
Everyday ownership notes
Documented ergonomic quirks, hardware annoyances, and maintenance realities reported by real owners.
Focal: What to watch for
Sony: What to watch for
- Ergonomics
Non-folding headband takes up significantly more backpack space.
- Software / Apps
Auto-NC Optimizer cannot be manually locked to maximum.
- Hardware Quirk
Matte plastic coating shows greasy finger smudge marks easily.
Know what’s behind the comparison
Published specs. Visible sources.
Clinchmark compares manufacturer specifications and other published information. We have not independently lab-tested these products. Editorial assessments and unknown values are identified in the specification details.
Catalog snapshot: September 1, 2026. Prices, availability, and provider terms can change.
Still weighing it up?
Which is cheaper, the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi Wireless or the Sony WH-1000XM5?
Sony WH-1000XM5 costs $300 less at list price.
What is the biggest catch with the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi Wireless or Sony WH-1000XM5?
Both has this deal-breaker: does not fold. Takes a bigger slot in a carry-on.
Which is better for flights & commutes, the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi Wireless or the Sony WH-1000XM5?
Too close to call on flights & commutes from the spec sheets. Only weight is rankable here. Active Noise Cancelling: Yes vs Yes Transparency mode: Yes vs Yes
What cannot be compared from spec sheets?
Of the 14 specs tracked here, 11 are descriptive and cannot be ranked on numbers alone. Spec sheets also cannot measure subjective factors like build quality, real-world performance, or comfort.