Sony WH-1000XM4 Review

Sony WH-1000XM4: The Ultimate Noise-Canceling Headphones

When it comes to noise-canceling headphones, Sony has always been at the forefront of innovation. The Sony WH-1000XM4 is the latest addition to their highly acclaimed lineup, promising to deliver an immersive audio experience with outstanding noise cancellation. Packed with advanced features and cutting-edge technology, these headphones have generated a lot of buzz in the market. In this review, we will dive deep into the WH-1000XM4 to see if it lives up to the hype.

If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Sony WF-C700N or Sony WH-CH520 or Sony WH-CH720N.

Design and Comfort

The Sony WH-1000XM4 sports a sleek and premium design that exudes elegance. The headphones are available in two color options - black and silver. The build quality is top-notch, with a sturdy construction that feels durable. The ear cups are well-padded and the headband is adjustable, ensuring a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions. The ear cups also swivel, making it easy to store the headphones in the included carrying case.

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Audio Quality

When it comes to audio quality, the WH-1000XM4 does not disappoint. These headphones deliver a rich and detailed sound signature, with a wide soundstage that allows you to fully immerse yourself in your favorite music. The bass response is punchy and well-defined, while the midrange and treble frequencies are clear and accurate. The headphones support high-resolution audio, ensuring that you can enjoy your music in its purest form.

Noise Cancellation

The highlight of the WH-1000XM4 is its exceptional noise cancellation technology. Sony has integrated their industry-leading ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) technology into these headphones, which effectively blocks out external noise and allows you to focus on your music or work. Whether you are in a noisy office or a crowded subway, the WH-1000XM4 will provide a serene listening experience. The noise cancellation can also be adjusted through the Sony Headphones Connect app, allowing you to customize the level of isolation according to your preference.

Battery Life

Another impressive feature of the WH-1000XM4 is its long battery life. With a single charge, these headphones can last up to 30 hours of continuous playback with noise cancellation enabled. Even if you forget to charge them overnight, a quick 10-minute charge will give you approximately 5 hours of playback time. This is perfect for those who are always on the go and don't want to worry about running out of battery.

Connectivity and Controls

The WH-1000XM4 supports Bluetooth 5.0, ensuring a stable and reliable wireless connection. It is also compatible with various audio codecs, including aptX, AAC, and LDAC, which provide high-quality audio streaming. The headphones have intuitive touch controls on the ear cups, allowing you to adjust the volume, skip tracks, and answer calls with a simple swipe or tap. Additionally, the headphones have a built-in microphone with excellent voice pickup, ensuring crystal-clear phone calls.

Pros

1. Exceptional Noise Cancellation

The WH-1000XM4 sets a new standard for noise cancellation in headphones. The ANC technology effectively blocks out external noise, creating a peaceful listening environment. Whether you are traveling or working in a noisy environment, these headphones will keep distractions at bay.

2. Impressive Audio Quality

Sony is renowned for their audio expertise, and the WH-1000XM4 is a testament to their commitment to delivering outstanding sound. The headphones produce a balanced and detailed sound signature, allowing you to enjoy your music to the fullest.

3. Long Battery Life

The WH-1000XM4 offers an impressive battery life of up to 30 hours, ensuring that you can enjoy your music for extended periods without worrying about running out of power. The quick charge feature is also a great addition, providing hours of playback with just a short charging time.

4. Comfortable Fit

The headphones are designed with comfort in mind. The well-padded ear cups and adjustable headband ensure a snug and comfortable fit, even during long listening sessions. The lightweight design further enhances the overall comfort.

5. Intuitive Controls and Connectivity

The touch controls on the ear cups are intuitive and responsive, allowing you to control your music and calls with ease. The Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity ensures a stable connection, while the support for various audio codecs ensures high-quality audio streaming.

Video by: Sony Europe

Cons

1. Lack of Water Resistance

One drawback of the WH-1000XM4 is the absence of water resistance. While these headphones are not designed for sports or outdoor activities, it would have been a nice addition to have some level of protection against sweat or light rain.

2. Price

The WH-1000XM4 is priced at the higher end of the spectrum, which may be a deterrent for some potential buyers. While the headphones offer exceptional features and performance, there are more affordable options available in the market for those on a tight budget.

Comparison to Competitors

When comparing the Sony WH-1000XM4 to its direct competitors in the market, such as the BOSE QuietComfort 35 II and the Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless, it becomes evident that the WH-1000XM4 stands out in terms of noise cancellation and audio quality. Sony's ANC technology is considered one of the best in the industry, providing a superior level of noise cancellation compared to its competitors. The audio quality of the WH-1000XM4 is also highly regarded, with a more balanced and detailed sound signature than its rivals. Additionally, the WH-1000XM4 offers a longer battery life compared to the BOSE QuietComfort 35 II, making it a more suitable choice for those who require extended playback time.

Conclusion

The Sony WH-1000XM4 is undoubtedly one of the best noise-canceling headphones available in the market. With its exceptional noise cancellation, impressive audio quality, long battery life, and comfortable fit, these headphones offer a premium listening experience. While the lack of water resistance and the higher price tag may be minor drawbacks, the overall performance and features of the WH-1000XM4 make it a worthy investment for audiophiles and frequent travelers. If you are looking for a top-of-the-line noise-canceling headphone, the Sony WH-1000XM4 should be at the top of your list.

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Pros & cons

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Technical specifications