Sony WH-1000XM6 vs WH-1000XM4: Which Headphones Are Worth Buying?

Explore the key differences and features of Sony WH-1000XM6 and WH-1000XM4 to find out which headphones deliver superior noise cancellation and sound quality.

Introducing the Sony WH-1000XM6

Sony WH-1000XM6 stands out as a remarkable pair of over-ear headphones, blending the best features of their predecessors while boosting sound quality and active noise cancellation (ANC). With crisp touch controls, ultra-comfortable fit, and a wealth of functionalities, these headphones have plenty to love — even if they come with a higher price tag.

Pros of Sony WH-1000XM6

• Class-leading active noise cancellation (ANC)
• Exceptional sound quality
• Enhanced, responsive touch controls

Cons of Sony WH-1000XM6

• Considerably pricier than XM4
• Battery life remains almost unchanged
• Still no water resistance

Meet the Sony WH-1000XM4

Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones offer excellent noise cancellation and impressive sound quality packaged in a lightweight, comfortable design. Features like multipoint pairing, DSEE Extreme upscaling, conversation detection, and a wear sensor keep them relevant even several years after their release.

Pros of Sony WH-1000XM4

• Fantastic reduced price
• 40mm drivers delivering great audio
• Features have stood the test of time

Cons of Sony WH-1000XM4

• No water resistance
• Call quality could be better
• ANC not as powerful as XM6

Sony WH-1000XM6 vs WH-1000XM4: Price and Availability

Released in May 2025, the Sony WH-1000XM6 came nearly five years after the WH-1000XM4. Priced at $449, they are significantly more expensive than the original XM4, which launched at around $190. As of now, XM4 models can be found for about $249, nearly half the price of the XM6.

Both models are available in black, midnight blue, or platinum silver, with the silver version tested for both.

Sony WH-1000XM6 vs WH-1000XM4: Specifications at a Glance

Sony WH-1000XM6 vs WH-1000XM4: Features Breakdown

When Sony launched WH-1000XM4 in 2020, their feature set was impressive—leading the class with excellent ANC, wear sensors, and multipoint connectivity. However, XM6 has substantially upped the ante.

New features exclusive to XM6:

• Auracast compatibility
• Scene-based listening adjusting ANC based on surroundings
• Cinematic listening transforming stereo audio into immersive 3D sound

Though these features are exciting, the real headline is ANC. The XM6’s superior noise cancellation performance is in a different league, powered by the advanced QN3 HD noise cancellation processor and an impressive array of twelve microphones—seven more than the XM4.

The XM4’s ANC still does a solid job on low-frequency noise and sharp sounds, but the XM6 delivers near silence even in busy, noisy environments—like a vacuuming session—making them ideal for true noise isolation.

Both models share features like ambient sound modes with adjustable levels, LDAC support, DSEE for high-quality Bluetooth streaming, and touch controls. The XM6 improves touch sensitivity, making volume adjustment smoother with simple slide-and-hold gestures.

Battery life remains tied at 30 hours with ANC active, which, while sufficient, feels dated compared to competitors offering double that. Still, XM6 charges while in use, which is handy.

Sony WH-1000XM6 vs WH-1000XM4: Sound Quality

For years, the WH-1000XM4 have been among the best-sounding headphones, delivering detailed and expressive audio with a slightly V-shaped sound signature—great for genres like EDM and hip-hop. The bass is punchy and highs crisp without overshadowing clear midrange vocals.

XM6 builds upon this foundation, offering an even more balanced sound profile “out of the box,” thanks to collaboration with top mastering engineers. The soundstage is wider, allowing instruments and vocals more breathing room, resulting in a more immersive listening experience.

Cinematic mode on XM6 further enhances movie viewing by converting stereo into a richer surround sound format, an experience not available on the XM4.

On calls, the XM6 again outshines XM4 with six beamforming microphones paired with AI noise suppression, delivering crystal-clear voice quality even in noisy settings. The XM4, with fewer mics, can’t quite match this clarity.

Sony WH-1000XM6 vs WH-1000XM4: Design and Build

A major difference between the two is design and build quality. While XM6 impresses with a return to foldable hinges like the XM4, their look and feel are quite distinct.

The XM6 features much sturdier metal hinges compared to the plastic ones on the XM4, enhancing durability and reducing worry about breakage. Both fold to fit into their respective cases, with the XM6’s magnetic closure case giving a more premium but bulkier feel than the thin zippered case of the XM4.

The XM6 looks larger and doesn’t have the movable frame connecting the hinge to the earcup like XM4, which made the latter appear slimmer. The headband on XM6 is sleeker, more comfortable, and reminiscent of the XM5’s premium feel—definitely a design win for the XM6.

Water resistance is still absent in both models, sadly, but the XM6’s improved controls and sturdier design make it a better-crafted headphone.

Sony WH-1000XM6 vs WH-1000XM4: Value for Money

Comparing these headphones by price alone is tough. The XM6 retails at $449, while the XM4 launched around $190 and now sells for roughly $249.

• The XM4 is a proven, feature-rich headphone with a sound profile many love.
• However, it’s showing signs of aging, with less impressive ANC compared to newer models like the XM6, Bose QuietComfort Ultra, and even the XM5.
• The XM6 justifies its higher price with better noise cancellation, improved microphone system, refined sound, and a sleeker, sturdier design.

If active noise cancellation and sound quality are your top priorities and budget isn’t a concern, the XM6 provides more bang for your buck. But if you want solid performance at a budget-friendly price, the XM4 remains a strong contender.

Sony WH-1000XM6 vs WH-1000XM4: Final Verdict

The launch of the Sony WH-1000XM6 marks the end of an era. They’ve done enough to firmly surpass their predecessor.

The XM4 still offers excellent value for those on a budget, but for top-tier noise cancellation, stunning sound, and crystal-clear calls, the XM6 are the clear winners.

They might be pricey, but their performance and premium design could very well transform your listening experience. Whether you’re buying new or upgrading from the XM4, the Sony WH-1000XM6 is a fantastic choice.

“XM6 really deliver near silence even in busy, noisy environments — making them ideal for true noise isolation.”

Frequently Asked Questions

• Are Sony WH-1000XM6 better than WH-1000XM4?
  Yes, the XM6 improve upon the XM4 in noise cancellation, sound quality, microphone system, and design.
• Is the battery life better in XM6 compared to XM4?
  No, both offer around 30 hours with ANC enabled.
• Do either WH-1000XM6 or WH-1000XM4 have water resistance?
  No, neither model is water resistant.
• Can I use WH-1000XM6 for phone calls in noisy environments?
  Absolutely. XM6 have advanced microphones and AI noise suppression for crystal-clear calls.
• Is it worth upgrading from WH-1000XM4 to WH-1000XM6?
  If you want the best ANC and sound with improved design and mic quality, yes. Otherwise, the XM4 still performs well.

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