The number of users reporting almost identical hinge issues with their Sony WH-1000XM5 keeps rising.
A concerning trend is emerging among Sony WH-1000XM5 headphone users, as a growing number of Reddit posts shed light on a potential quality control issue. These accounts highlight a worrying pattern of the headphones’ hinges breaking in the exact same spot, often during normal use.
One user even created a poll on the r/SonyHeadphones subreddit among Sony WH-1000XM5 headphone users. This found that 36 out of 175 respondents experienced the same issue.
A Common Hinge Problem
There are multiple posts on Reddit sharing similar experiences of the same issue.
In one, a user shared a disheartening image of the headphones with a broken hinge and expressed dissatisfaction with Sony’s warranty service.
The repair center allegedly attempted to charge a staggering $370 for the fix, leaving the user disillusioned and vowing never to purchase another Sony product.
Responses to the post unveil a spectrum of experiences. One user lamented a similar hinge problem, describing how the headphones unexpectedly popped out of the socket during everyday use.
Another user shares their own photo of their Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones, which were broken at the same spot as others. In this case, they mentioned that Sony declined their warranty.
A lot of the respondents also shared their experiences of their headphones breaking the same way, while others expressed their concern about the product.
User Reactions and Speculations
While a lot of XM5 users are voicing their concerns, there are also a significant number of users who believe this is a user-related issue rather than Sony’s.
Opinions diverge on user responsibility, as some emphasize the importance of handling the headphones gently.
Some people speculate that these can be caused by specific uses that can put pressure on the hinges, such as when the owners wear their headphones around their necks.
However, this was contradicted by users expressing disappointment in experiencing breakages despite gentle use.
The negative sentiment also extended to potential buyers. Some users reconsider their purchase after seeing multiple posts detailing problems with the build, while others warn potential buyers from making ‘the same mistake’.
How Sony Has Handled the Issue So Far
Sony has yet to release a statement over the possible quality control issues of the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones.
Multiple accounts also share that Sony does not cover the broken hinges as part of their warranty policy.
In a separate Reddit post, a user shares their dismay over Sony’s response to a broken pair that is only six months old. The company reportedly redirected the user to a third-party repair company, asserting that physical damage isn’t covered under warranty.
Others have reported that Sony has tried to charge them $370 to fix or replace the broken headphones. Considering that the headphones come at almost $400, this infuriated the users as the replacement fee was too close to the original price.
I am one of them 🙁
Sadly mine broke after 4 months of usage and i am still not over it
saving money for next gen. But again if sony can be a little lenient on the repair cost i will be the first in line to get it fixed
I have also suffered from this same problem. I’m a very careful user of my headphones and the hinge broke in perfectly normal use. There is clearly a fault with the hinge and the way it works. It is shocking that a brand like SONY would not accept its responsibility and would try to place the blame on customers who have spent a lot of money relying on the SONY brand. Come on SONY, step up.
Happened to me just yesterday. I’m furious that this seems to be a widespread issue that Sony is doing nothing to remedy.
Class Action Lawsuit when?