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Sony WH 1000XM3 Review | 93 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£330
  • Avg. price in US: ~$350
  • Form factor: over-ear
  • Connectivity: wireless
  • Battery life: 38 hours
  • Active noise cancellation (ANC): yes

Sony WH 1000XM3 review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

8.3

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the headphones' quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best headphones on the market.

Score components:

80.0%

8.0

Technical Score

20.0%

9.6

User score

Excellent
8.0

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the headphones' technical performance, covering key areas such as sound quality, noise cancelling, microphone performance, battery life, comfort, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

52.0%

9.7

Sound

20.0%

6.7

Features

10.0%

7.0

Design

8.0%

4.0

Connectivity

6.0%

6.5

Battery

4.0%

5.7

Calls & Controls

Excellent
9.6

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.

Score components:

70.0%

9.4

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.7
(25288)
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4.7
(17327)
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4.6
(3565)
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4.6
(1387)
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4.5
(522)
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3.7
(28)
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3.8
(27)
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4.3
(4)
United States
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4.7
(25288)
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4.7
(17327)
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4.6
(3565)
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4.6
(1387)
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4.5
(522)
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3.7
(28)
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3.8
(27)
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4.3
(4)

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

Exceptional
  • 3.8
    Gaming

    Score components:

    35.0%

    2.7

    Audio latency

    25.0%

    1.0

    Low-latency game mode

    20.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

    12.0%

    1.0

    Noise-canceling microphone

    8.0%

    6.2

    Battery life

  • 6.6
    Travel

    Score components:

    28.0%

    10

    Active noise cancellation (ANC)

    24.0%

    6.2

    Battery life

    18.0%

    4.3

    Weight

    16.0%

    1.0

    Multipoint support

    14.0%

    10

    Ambient sound mode

  • 5.3
    Calls

    Score components:

    28.0%

    1.0

    Noise-canceling microphone

    24.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

    18.0%

    1.0

    Multipoint support

    16.0%

    6.2

    Battery life

    14.0%

    10

    Companion app

  • 4.4
    Workout

    Score components:

    28.0%

    4.3

    Weight

    24.0%

    1.0

    Water resistance

    20.0%

    4.0

    IP rating

    16.0%

    6.2

    Battery life

    12.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

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Best rankings

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Sony WH-1000XM3 is a premium pair of wireless over-ear headphones featuring the HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1 for industry-leading active noise cancellation and 40mm Liquid Crystal Polymer drivers that support a wide frequency response of 4Hz to 40,000Hz. Notable characteristics include high-resolution audio support via LDAC, touch sensor controls, and a lightweight 255g design optimized for long-term comfort. Key pros include an impressive 30-hour battery life with ANC on, fast USB-C charging that provides 5 hours of playback from just 10 minutes of charge, and advanced features like Quick Attention mode and Adaptive Sound Control. However, some cons include a mediocre microphone quality for phone calls, a lack of multi-device pairing, and a default sound profile that some users find overly bass-heavy.

Technical Specifications of Sony WH 1000XM3

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the headphones' technical performance, covering key areas such as sound quality, noise cancelling, microphone performance, battery life, comfort, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

52.0%

9.7

Sound

20.0%

6.7

Features

10.0%

7.0

Design

8.0%

4.0

Connectivity

6.0%

6.5

Battery

4.0%

5.7

Calls & Controls

8.0
Sony WH 1000XM3 has a technical score of 8.02 points, which is higher than that of 94% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.

Score components:

70.0%

9.4

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.7
(25288)
amazon
4.7
(17327)
amazon
4.6
(3565)
amazon
4.6
(1387)
amazon
4.5
(522)
amazon
3.7
(28)
amazon
3.8
(27)
amazon
4.3
(4)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.7
(25288)
Amazon_logo.png
4.7
(17327)
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
(3565)
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
(1387)
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
(522)
Amazon_logo.png
3.7
(28)
Amazon_logo.png
3.8
(27)
Amazon_logo.png
4.3
(4)

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

9.6
Sony WH 1000XM3 has a user score of 9.56 points, which is higher than that of 99.4% of products in this category.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.
When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.
10
Sony WH 1000XM3 has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 71.9% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the headphones' overall rating with their cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for headphones that offer a strong balance of performance, features, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

8.3

Overall score

40.0%

8.8

Price

8.5
Sony WH 1000XM3 has a quality-to-price ratio of 8.5 points, which is higher than 93.2% of products in this category.
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology
When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Sony WH 1000XM3 supports active noise cancellation. 72.6% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
Driver type
What it is: Type of speaker driver technology used
When it matters: When the underlying sound character and driver technology matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

dynamic
Driver size
What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit
When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

Importance: MEDIUM

40 mm
Sony WH 1000XM3 uses a driver size of 40 mm, larger driver size than 28.2% of headphones and equal to 53.6% of headphones.
Number of drivers
What it is: Total number of speaker drivers per earcup
When it matters: When multi-driver designs are part of your buying criteria.

Importance: LOW

1
Sony WH 1000XM3 uses 1 drivers, equal to 96% of headphones.
Lowest frequency
What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=10 Hz

4 Hz
Sony WH 1000XM3 reaches a lowest frequency of 4 Hz, lower lowest frequency than 97.2% of headphones and equal to 2.1% of headphones.
Show more
Noise-canceling microphone
What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls
When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Sony WH 1000XM3 does not support a noise-canceling microphone. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
Can be used as a headset
What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.
When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Sony WH 1000XM3 is headset-ready, 84.7% is not. 15.3% of headphones can be used as headsets.
Number of microphones
What it is: Total number of built-in microphones
When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

4
Sony WH 1000XM3 has 4 microphones, more microphones than 88.2% of headphones and equal to 5% of headphones.
Boom microphone
What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity
When it matters: When you need stronger voice clarity for gaming, streaming, or work calls.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony WH 1000XM3 does not include a boom microphone. 15.6% of headphones have a boom microphone.
Microphone SNR
What it is: Signal-to-noise ratio of the microphone
When it matters: When call clarity matters and you want your voice picked up more cleanly instead of buried in background hiss.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >80 dB

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Connectivity
What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)
When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

Importance: HIGH

wireless
Sony WH 1000XM3 supports wireless connectivity, more flexible connectivity than 52.6% of headphones and equal to 47.4% of headphones.
supports both wireless and wired connectivity.
Bluetooth version
What it is: Version of Bluetooth technology supported
When it matters: When wireless stability, efficiency, and feature support matter more than treating Bluetooth as a box-check spec.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5.0

4.2
Sony WH 1000XM3 uses Bluetooth version 4.2, newer Bluetooth version than 67.6% of headphones and equal to 3.2% of headphones.
Maximum Bluetooth range
What it is: Maximum wireless operating distance from source device
When it matters: When you move around rooms and want fewer dropouts from your source device.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

10 m
Sony WH 1000XM3 offers a Bluetooth range of 10 m, higher Bluetooth range than 2.6% of headphones and equal to 79.9% of headphones.
Audio latency
What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode
When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <60 ms

210 ms
Sony WH 1000XM3 has audio latency of 210 ms, higher audio latency than 86.7% of headphones and equal to 0.2% of headphones.
Multipoint support
What it is: Supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices
When it matters: When you switch often between a phone and a laptop during the day.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Sony WH 1000XM3 does not support multipoint. 65.1% of headphones support multipoint.
Show more
Ambient sound mode
What it is: Allows external sounds to pass through for awareness
When it matters: When you need to stay aware of traffic, voices, or announcements.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Sony WH 1000XM3 supports ambient sound mode. 23.2% of headphones support ambient sound mode.
EQ support
What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer
When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Sony WH 1000XM3 supports EQ customization. 76.8% of headphones support EQ.
Companion app
What it is: Dedicated mobile app for customization and updates
When it matters: When software customization, updates, and extra controls matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Sony WH 1000XM3 works with a companion app. 55.7% of headphones support companion apps.
Adjustable ANC levels
What it is: Allows adjustment of noise cancellation intensity levels
When it matters: When you move between quiet rooms, offices, streets, and public transport and do not want one ANC setting for every situation.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=4

N/A
Voice assistant support
What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant
When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

Importance: LOW

yes
Sony WH 1000XM3 supports voice assistants. 39.2% of headphones support voice assistants.
Show more
Battery life
What it is: Playback time on a single charge
When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >45 hours

38 hours
Sony WH 1000XM3 offers battery life of 38 hours, higher battery life than 61.4% of headphones and equal to 0.8% of headphones.
Battery life with ANC
What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled
When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >40 hours

30 hours
Sony WH 1000XM3 offers battery life with ANC of 30 hours, higher battery life with ANC than 43.2% of headphones and equal to 8.8% of headphones.
Charging time
What it is: Time required for a full battery charge
When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=2 hours

3 hours
Sony WH 1000XM3 needs 3 hours to charge, higher charging time than 66% of headphones and equal to 21.3% of headphones.
Quick charge
What it is: Provides quick playback time with short charging period
When it matters: When a short top-up needs to deliver useful playback before you leave.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Sony WH 1000XM3 supports quick charge. 31% of headphones support quick charge.
Battery capacity
What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery
When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=720 mAh

1,000 mAh
Sony WH 1000XM3 has a battery capacity of 1000 mAh, higher battery capacity than 85.8% of headphones and equal to 5.2% of headphones.
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Brand name
What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.
When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Sony
Form factor
What it is: Overall design type of the headphones (over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, etc.)
When it matters: When comfort, portability, and isolation depend on the overall headphone style.

Importance: HIGH

over-ear
Weight
What it is: Total weight of the headphones
When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <150 g

255 g
Sony WH 1000XM3 weighs 255 g, heavier than 64.2% of headphones and equal to 0.6% of headphones.
Acoustic design
What it is: Type of acoustic design (open-back, closed-back, semi-open)
When it matters: When you need the right balance of isolation, leakage, and soundstage.

Importance: HIGH

closed-back
Clamp force
What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head
When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

3.6
Sony WH 1000XM3 has a clamp force of 3.6, lower clamp force than 60.6% of headphones and equal to 7.9% of headphones.
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Sony WH 1000XM3 vs the average headphone

  • Active noise cancellation
    Sony WH 1000XM3 supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
    What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology
    When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

    Importance: HIGH

    Sony WH 1000XM3 supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
  • Hi-Res Audio certification
    Sony WH 1000XM3 has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
    What it is: Certified for high-resolution audio playback
    When it matters: When official support for high-resolution playback matters to you.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony WH 1000XM3 has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
  • EQ customization
    Sony WH 1000XM3 supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
    What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer
    When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sony WH 1000XM3 supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
  • Spatial audio support
    Sony WH 1000XM3 supports spatial audio, the average headphone does not. 30.7% of headphones support spatial audio.
    What it is: Supports immersive surround sound playback
    When it matters: When movies, games, and immersive mixes are part of your listening.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sony WH 1000XM3 supports spatial audio, the average headphone does not. 30.7% of headphones support spatial audio.
  • 14 Hz lower bass extension
    Sony WH 1000XM3 has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (4 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
    What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
    When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <=10 Hz

    Sony WH 1000XM3 has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (4 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.4 Hz vs 18 Hz
  • More flexible connectivity
    Sony WH 1000XM3 offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
    supports both wireless and wired connectivity.
    What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)
    When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

    Importance: HIGH

    Sony WH 1000XM3 offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.wireless vs wired
  • 20,000 Hz higher treble extension
    Sony WH 1000XM3 has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (40,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
    What it is: Highest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
    When it matters: When treble extension and overall frequency reach matter to you.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=24000 Hz

    Sony WH 1000XM3 has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (40,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.40000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
  • On-device controls
    Sony WH 1000XM3 includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
    What it is: Physical controls available directly on headphones
    When it matters: When you need playback, volume, or call controls to be easy to reach without pulling out your phone.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sony WH 1000XM3 includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
  • Foldable design
    Sony WH 1000XM3 has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
  • 4 mm more spacious earcup height
    Sony WH 1000XM3 offers more spacious earcup height than the average headphone (64 mm vs 60 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup height of 60 mm.
  • Active noise cancellation
    Sony WH 1000XM3 supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
  • Hi-Res Audio certification
    Sony WH 1000XM3 has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
  • Spatial audio support
    Sony WH 1000XM3 supports spatial audio, the average headphone does not. 30.7% of headphones support spatial audio.
  • 14 Hz lower bass extension
    Sony WH 1000XM3 has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (4 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
  • 20,000 Hz higher treble extension
    Sony WH 1000XM3 has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (40,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
  • 2.5 dB/mW higher sensitivity
    Sony WH 1000XM3 has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (104.5 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
  • 66.7% higher battery capacity
    Sony WH 1000XM3 has a higher battery capacity than the average headphone (1,000 mAh vs 600 mAh). The average headphones have a battery capacity of 600 mAh.
  • USB-C charging
    Sony WH 1000XM3 uses USB-C charging, the average headphone does not. 29.4% of headphones use USB Type-C.
  • 8 hours longer battery life
    Sony WH 1000XM3 has a higher battery life than the average headphone (38 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.
  • Rechargeable battery
    Sony WH 1000XM3 has a rechargeable battery, the average headphone does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
  • More flexible connectivity
    Sony WH 1000XM3 offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
  • On-device controls
    Sony WH 1000XM3 includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
  • 3 more microphones
    Sony WH 1000XM3 has more microphones than the average headphone (4 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
  • Wind noise reduction
    Sony WH 1000XM3 reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
  • EQ customization
    Sony WH 1000XM3 supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.

Total
Overall
Design
Sound
Battery
Connectivity
Calls & Controls
Features
  • 17% higher weight
    Sony WH 1000XM3 is heavier than the average headphone (255 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
  • 4 mm tighter earcup width
    Sony WH 1000XM3 has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (39 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.
  • 0.7 % higher distortion
    Sony WH 1000XM3 has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
  • 1 hours longer charging time
    Sony WH 1000XM3 has a higher charging time than the average headphone (3 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.
  • 82.5 ms higher audio latency
    Sony WH 1000XM3 has a higher audio latency than the average headphone (210 ms vs 127.5 ms). The average headphones have audio latency of 127.5 ms.
  • 1 hours longer charging time
    Sony WH 1000XM3 has a higher charging time than the average headphone (3 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.
    What it is: Time required for a full battery charge
    When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <=2 hours

    Sony WH 1000XM3 has a higher charging time than the average headphone (3 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.3 hours vs 2 hours
  • 82.5 ms higher audio latency
    Sony WH 1000XM3 has a higher audio latency than the average headphone (210 ms vs 127.5 ms). The average headphones have audio latency of 127.5 ms.
    What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode
    When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: <60 ms

    Sony WH 1000XM3 has a higher audio latency than the average headphone (210 ms vs 127.5 ms). The average headphones have audio latency of 127.5 ms.210 ms vs 127.5 ms
  • 0.7 % higher distortion
    Sony WH 1000XM3 has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
    What it is: Percentage of harmonic distortion in audio output
    When it matters: When cleaner sound reproduction matters at louder volumes.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: <=1%

    Sony WH 1000XM3 has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.1 % vs 0.3 %
  • 17% higher weight
    Sony WH 1000XM3 is heavier than the average headphone (255 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
    What it is: Total weight of the headphones
    When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <150 g

    Sony WH 1000XM3 is heavier than the average headphone (255 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.255 g vs 218 g
  • 3.67x more expensive
    Sony WH 1000XM3 is more expensive than the average headphone (£330 vs £90).
    Sony WH 1000XM3 is more expensive than the average headphone (£330 vs £90).£330 vs £90
  • 4 mm tighter earcup width
    Sony WH 1000XM3 has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (39 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.
    What it is: Internal width of the earcup cavity
    When it matters: When earcup fit affects comfort and pressure around your ears.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sony WH 1000XM3 has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (39 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.39 mm vs 43 mm
Total
Overall
Design
Sound
Battery
Connectivity

Graphic comparison of Sony WH 1000XM3 and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.7
25288 Reviews
amazon
4.7
17327 Reviews
amazon
4.6
3565 Reviews
amazon
4.6
1387 Reviews
amazon
4.5
522 Reviews
amazon
3.7
28 Reviews
amazon
3.8
27 Reviews
amazon
4.3
4 Reviews
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.7
25288 Reviews
Amazon_logo.png
4.7
17327 Reviews
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
3565 Reviews
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
1387 Reviews
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
522 Reviews
Amazon_logo.png
3.7
28 Reviews
Amazon_logo.png
3.8
27 Reviews
Amazon_logo.png
4.3
4 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

What customers like about Sony WH 1000XM3?

  • Industry-leading active noise cancellation (ANC) that excels at blocking low-frequency engine drones
  • Excellent battery life of approximately 30 hours with a fast-charging feature (5 hours of play from 10 minutes of charging)
  • Lightweight and comfortable design with plush earpads suitable for long listening sessions
  • Dynamic sound signature with deep, powerful bass and clear highs
  • Highly customizable audio experience via the Sony Headphones Connect app, including a full graphic equalizer
  • Useful 'Quick Attention' mode allows ambient sound in by simply covering the right earcup with a palm
  • Includes a high-quality, compact hard-shell carrying case and a USB-C charging port

What customers dislike about Sony WH 1000XM3?

  • Subpar microphone quality for phone calls, often described as sounding distant or muffled
  • Touch controls can be finicky or unresponsive, especially in cold weather (reported 'ghost touches')
  • Lacks Bluetooth multipoint connectivity, meaning it cannot connect to two devices (like a phone and laptop) simultaneously
  • Default sound profile may be too bass-heavy or 'muddy' for users preferring a neutral or audiophile sound
  • Non-breathable earcup material can cause ears to get warm or sweaty during extended use
  • The included USB-C charging cable is considered excessively short by many users
  • Cannot be used wirelessly while charging; active features (ANC) require battery power even when used in wired mode

Expert reviews

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cnet.com
22/11/2019
Sony WH-1000XM3 review: The best noise-canceling headphones - CNET

The Sony WH-1000XM3 is a top-notch wireless noise-canceling headphone that excels in design, comfort, and audio performance, making it a highly recommended choice for frequent travelers. Shaving off 20 grams from its predecessor, this iteration features a more contoured, oval-shaped headband and softer ear cup padding that places its comfort level neck-and-neck with top competitors....Read more

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head-fi.org
22/04/2019
Sony WH-1000XM3 Reviews

According to Head-Fi user reviews, the Sony WH-1000XM3 headphonesGo to product viewer dialog for this item. are lauded as a top-tier travel choice, featuring industry-leading active noise cancellation (ANC), a 25-30 hour battery with USB-C charging, and a comfortable, lightweight design. Users praise the companion app's equalizer for optimizing sound and note a wide, detailed...Read more

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techgearlab.com
01/08/2019
Sony WH-1000XM3 Review | Tested & Rated - TechGearLab

The TechGearLab review evaluates the Sony WH1000XM3Go to product viewer dialog for this item. as an exceptional pair of high-end wireless headphones that provide a premium listening experience. The primary pros highlighted are its top-tier sound quality, which combines crisp treble, hearty midrange, and powerful bass, and an elite active noise cancellation system that effectively...Read more

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phonearena.com
02/11/2018
Sony WH-1000XM3 headphones review - PhoneArena

The PhoneArena Sony WH-1000XM3 Review highlights these wireless over-the-ear headphones as a premium choice targeted at frequent travelers and professionals who require high-quality audio paired with elite active noise cancellation (ANC). Scoring an 8.5 out of 10 rating, the headphones excel by offering a deep, rich, and all-encompassing sound stage, which can be further customized...Read more

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techradar.com
29/10/2018
Sony WH-1000XM3 review

The Sony WH-1000XM3 is a premium pair of wireless, flagship noise-cancelling headphones that refines its predecessor with a lighter 260-gram body, a more comfortable headband cushion, and deeper earcups. Charging is updated to a USB Type-C port, which provides up to 30 hours of battery life and a Quick Charge mode delivering 5 hours of playback from a 10-minute charge. The audio...Read more

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pcmag.com
23/10/2018
Sony WH-1000XM3 Review - PCMag

The Sony WH-1000XM3 headphones deliver top-tier audio performance with excellent active noise cancellation (ANC), featuring a lightweight, comfortable design for long sessions, according to PCMag. The accompanying app provides significant utility through customizable ANC controls and an adjustable EQ to fine-tune the dynamic sound profile. PCMagHowever, the review highlights high...Read more

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techadvisor.com
30/11/2019
Sony WH-1000XM3 Review: The Best Gets Better

The Sony WH-1000XM3 headphones provide unmatched, industry-leading noise cancellation that effectively silences ambient environments like office chatter or a thundering train. The audio quality matches this standard with an exceptional sound profile that leans slightly toward a clear, well-separated bass response without muddying the mid or treble frequencies. Built to last, the...Read more

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whathifi.com
13/08/2020
Sony WH-1000XM3 review

Sony WH-1000XM3 Review Summary The Sony WH-1000XM3 wireless headphones offer a clear, spacious, and class-leading sonic performance that introduces an open soundstage with enhanced dynamic subtlety and a rich, deep bass that never compromises natural tonal balance. Driven by the advanced QN1 chip, these over-ears combine a DAC, noise-cancelling, and an analogue amplifier into a...Read more

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headphonereview.com
20/02/2019
Sony WH-1000XM3 Headphones Review", "Sony WH-1000XM3 Review

Review Summary The Sony WH-1000XM3 over-ear headphones are highly praised as an exceptional, travel-friendly product that rivals and arguably surpasses the long-standing Bose QuietComfort 35. Pros include an incredibly robust battery life of 30 hours with active noise cancellation (ANC) enabled—extending up to 38 hours with ANC off—as well as industry-leading noise-cancelling...Read more

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majorhifi.com
06/02/2019
Sony WH-1000XM3 Review

The Sony WH-1000XM3 is a wireless over-ear headphone priced at $348 that features Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity, a 30-hour battery life, and support for high-quality audio codecs like AAC, SBC, aptX, aptX HD, and LDAC. A major pro of this headset is its strong active noise cancellation, which effectively phases out office chatter and daily distractions. It also improves on its...Read more

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engadget.com
18/09/2018
Sony WH-1000XM3 headphones review: Goodbye, Bose

The Engadget Sony WH-1000XM3 Review highlights these $350 wireless headphones as a major triumph that successfully challenges Bose's long-standing dominance in the premium noise-canceling market. Rebuilt from the ground up, the over-ear cans feature the standalone QN1 chip, which provides 32-bit audio processing and delivers an exceptionally fun sound stage filled with thumping bass...Read more

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theverge.com
11/09/2018
Sony 1000X M3 review: supreme noise-canceling

The Sony WH-1000XM3 headphones are lauded as the new, supreme king of active noise cancellation, featuring a redesigned, comfortable fit with deeper padding and a lighter structure. Key advantages include the dedicated QN1 processor's superior silencing capabilities, USB-C charging with quick-charge capabilities, and a 30-hour battery life. Conversely, the review notes significant...Read more

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themasterswitch.com
19/10/2023
Sony WH-1000XM3 Headphone Review | The Master Switch

The Sony WH-1000XM3 ($240) wireless, noise-canceling headphones deliver an assured, confident, and highly engaging audio performance highlighted by warm, tight, and punchy bass, energetic high-end elements, and exceptional vocals. A dedicated HD Noise Canceling Processor QN1 separates the cancelation technology from the internal amplifier, resulting in a highly adaptive and fluid...Read more

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jakubjirak.medium.com
04/11/2022
Sony Hi-Res Headphones WH-1000XM3 Review: It's Time For A Change

Jakub Jirák's review highlights the Sony WH-1000XM3 as a top-performing headset for daily use, specifically praising the intuitive touch controls and the deeply customizable Sony Headphones Connect app. The review notes that the app allows for significant hardware control, including remapping the physical button and managing noise cancellation. Medium·Jakub JirakHowever, the...Read more

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loudersound.com
10/02/2021
Sony WH-1000XM3 Bluetooth noise-cancelling headphones review

The Sony WH-1000XM3 over-ear Bluetooth headphones deliver an exceptional audio experience, featuring 40mm Liquid Crystal Polymer drivers that create a vast spatial soundstage and highly effective, rock-friendly playback. Powered by the advanced QN1 noise-cancelling processor—which is four times more efficient than its predecessor—the headphones offer best-in-class noise isolation...Read more

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expertreviews.co.uk
22/01/2021
Sony WH-1000XM3 review: Bose dethroned - Expert Reviews

The Expert Reviews review gives the Sony WH-1000XM3 a perfect 5 out of 5 rating and awards them a "Best Buy" status, hailing them as the best wireless active noise-cancelling (ANC) headphones on the market. The main pros detailed in the review are their brilliant, dynamic sound quality—which outperforms the Bose QuietComfort QC35 II with deeper bass and clearer treble—and their...Read more

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rtings.com
13/11/2020
Sony WH-1000XM3 Wireless Headphones Review

The Sony WH-1000XM3 WirelessGo to product viewer dialog for this item. are versatile, comfortable over-ear headphones featuring exceptional active noise cancellation, a 27-hour battery life, and a customizable sound profile via a companion app. While delivering detailed mids and treble, the headphones are designed for longevity and convenience in noisy environments. However, the...Read more

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computerbase.de
18/05/2020
Sony WH-1000XM3 Review: Effective ANC Meets Excellent Sound

The ComputerBase forum review highlights the Sony WH-1000XM3 as a highly capable audio device featuring an incredibly effective Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) system and very good sound quality. Key strengths highlighted in the official evaluation include a generous battery runtime of nearly 30 hours, lightweight build materials, and a highly comfortable fit that collectively...Read more

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computerbild.de
23/11/2021
Sony WH-1000XM3 Headphones Review - COMPUTER BILD

The Sony WH-1000XM3 is highly rated as an exceptional travel headphone due to its lightweight design, weighing only 255 grams, and enhanced ear padding that provides top-tier wearing comfort. The over-ear headphones boast a powerful 31-hour battery life, charge via a reversible USB-C port, and come packaged with a cable and an airplane adapter for older onboard entertainment...Read more

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hifi.de
25/11/2021
Sony WH-1000XM3: Just as good as the XM4?

The HIFI.DE review of the Sony WH-1000XM3Go to product viewer dialog for this item. gives the over-ear noise-cancelling headphones an overall score of 8.7 out of 10, concluding that it remains one of the best ANC choices on the market. The pros highlight its excellent sound quality (rated 8.4), high-quality workmanship, and top-tier comfort (rated 9.0) even during long listening...Read more

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computerbase.de
18/05/2020
Sony WH-1000XM3 ANC Headphones Review - ComputerBase

Here is a summary of the Sony WH-1000XM3 review based on the provided text: The Sony WH-1000XM3 is a highly effective, comfortable over-ear travel headphone that balances excellent active noise cancellation (ANC) with a very good, warm sound profile. Weighing just 255 grams, it features soft urethane foam and synthetic leather ear pads that ensure a comfortable fit even during long...Read more

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chip.de
19/12/2018
Sony WH-1000XM3 Review - CHIP

The Sony WH-1000XM3 is hailed as a top-tier over-ear headphone, primarily due to its exceptional Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) capabilities, which effectively eliminate low-frequency noises and minimize background hiss. The device offers superior wearing comfort, featuring a thicker headband pad, enlarged ear cups, and reduced clamping pressure, allowing for comfortable, long-term...Read more

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kopfhoerer.de
28/11/2018
Sony WH-1000XM3 review on kopfhoerer.de

The Sony WH-1000XM3 is a premium closed-back, over-ear Bluetooth headphone that excels in active noise cancellation (ANC), establishing a market-leading position for isolating ambient sound. It features 40mm drivers with liquid crystal polymer diaphragms and a dedicated HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1 chip, delivering a warm, detailed, and powerful sound profile well-suited for...Read more

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frandroid.com
17/12/2019
Sony WH-1000XM3 Review: Our Full Verdict

The Sony WH-1000XM3 is highly praised for its significant improvements in comfort and build quality compared to its predecessors. Weighing 255 grams (an 8% reduction from the M2), it features a more heavily padded, narrower headband that closely fits the head, and comfortable earcups that easily accommodate users with glasses. Its active noise cancellation (ANC) is outstanding,...Read more

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cnetfrance.fr
18/10/2018
Sony WH-1000XM3: The New Benchmark for Noise-Canceling Headphones

The CNET France Review of the Sony WH-1000XM3Go to product viewer dialog for this item. crowns these headphones as the new benchmark in the active noise-canceling market, outclassing competitors like Bose at its launch. The review highlights substantial engineering upgrades over the previous generation, specifically fixing older flaws to justify its premium launch price of €379.99....Read more

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lesnumeriques.com
05/09/2018
Sony WH-1000XM3 Noise-Canceling Headphones Review

The Les Numériques review awards the Sony WH-1000XM3Go to product viewer dialog for this item. a perfect 5 out of 5 stars, praising it as a near-flawless evolution of its predecessor. Structurally, the headphones feature a lighter, narrower headband design (255g) coupled with wider, plush memory-foam ear cushions that deliver a highly comfortable fit. Key strengths include a major...Read more

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clubic.com
14/10/2019
Sony WH-1000XM3 Review: The Best Noise-Canceling Headphones?

The Sony WH-1000XM3 is an exceptional premium circum-aural Bluetooth headset praised for delivering a near-flawless audio performance across all music genres, especially when leveraging high-resolution codecs like LDAC, AptX, and AptX HD. Its standout feature is an incredibly effective, adaptive active noise cancellation system that effortlessly silences ambient household sounds,...Read more

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audioduvillage.fr
30/09/2018
Sony WH-1000XM3 Review [Express] - Audio Du Village", "Sony WH-1000XM3 Quick Review - Audio Du Village

Comprehensive Review Summary The Sony WH-1000XM3 is highlighted as a major success that outpaces competitors like Bose by quickly addressing previous design and performance flaws. On the positive side, the headphone features a more modern, streamlined aesthetic that shifts from textured to smooth plastic, along with a more padded, comfortable, and lighter 255-gram headband...Read more

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lalibre.be
22/10/2018
Sony WH-1000XM3 Noise-Cancelling Headphones Review - La Libre

The review from La Libre evaluates the Sony WH-1000XM3, a wireless Bluetooth closed-back headphone priced at 380 € that excels primarily in its "bubble-like" active noise cancellation (ANC). Tested in public transit environments like subways and trains, the internal processor is highly praised for dramatically dampening background noises and heavily reducing louder external sounds....Read more

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elespanol.com
18/10/2018
Sony WH-1000XM3 Review: The Kings of Noise Cancellation

The Sony WH-1000XM3 wireless headphones stand out as market leaders due to their exceptional, intelligent noise-canceling technology powered by the HD QN1 processor, which actively customizes the sound isolation based on the user's head size, hair, and eyewear. Key advantages highlighted in the review include their highly effective noise reduction performance in noisy environments...Read more

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dday.it
26/11/2018
Sony 1000X Series 3 Headphones Review", "Sony WH-1000XM3 Headphones Review

The Sony WH-1000XM3 is a premium wireless, noise-canceling headphone that offers significant upgrades over its predecessors, addressing previous flaws in comfort and phone call quality. Pros highlighted in the review include a redesigned oval, more spacious ear cup structure that reduces ear pressure and cartilage pain during long sessions. It features doubled microphones that...Read more

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wired.it
04/01/2019
Sony WH-1000XM3 review: goodbye noise

The Sony WH-1000XM3 wireless over-ear headphones deliver exceptional active noise cancellation powered by the QN1 processing chip, which effectively reduces harsh environments like construction sites, planes, and trains into a faint hum. Priced around €380, these headphones offer top-tier audio quality with well-balanced bass and crisp high notes, backed by an impressive battery...Read more

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socialandtech.net
27/11/2019
Sony WH-1000XM3 Review: Are these the best ANC headphones?

The Sony WH-1000XM3 headphones provide an exceptional Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) experience, earning them the Best Noise Cancelling Headphone award at the EISA Awards. Driven by the dedicated HD Noise Cancelling QN1 processor, the ANC functionality is four times more effective than prior models and blocks out environmental sounds without compromising overall music playback....Read more

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smartworld.it
02/01/2019
Sony WH-1000XM3 Review: The Best of the Best

The SmartWorld review crowns the Sony WH-1000XM3 as the reigning king of noise-canceling headphones, praising its industry-leading active noise cancellation (ANC) powered by the new QN1 processor. The reviewer highlights excellent sound quality across genres, clear mic performance during phone calls, and an outstanding battery life that surpasses 30 hours in wireless mode (and over...Read more

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simonerescio.it
23/03/2019
Sony WH-1000XM3 review, top of the line in name, trash in reality

The review expresses deep disappointment with the Sony WH-1000XM3 headphones, calling them "over-the-ear trash in reality" despite being a highly praised "top-tier" model online. The user purchased the device for €349 after being influenced by overwhelmingly positive YouTube comparison videos, but ultimately initiated a return after five days of testing across various settings,...Read more

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tnt-audio.com
15/02/2021
SONY WH-1000X M3 Headphones Review - TNT-Audio

The TNT-Audio review by Piero Canova highlights the Sony WH-1000XM3 as an exceptional, highly-engineered wireless over-ear headphone that shines remarkably well in professional and travel environments. On the positive side (pros), the reviewer praises its excellent ergonomic comfort and lightweight build, making it highly suitable for multi-hour video conferences without causing...Read more

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ilfattoquotidiano.it
27/12/2018
Sony WH-1000XM3: top-tier music thanks also to noise cancellation

Sony WH-1000XM3 Review Summary The Sony WH-1000XM3 over-ear wireless headphones offer exceptional audio quality and industry-leading active noise cancellation (ANC), driven by a dedicated integrated processor. The design is lighter and more comfortable than the previous generation, featuring a thicker, more padded faux-leather headband and plush ear cushions. Audio performance...Read more

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tomshw.it
27/02/2019
Sony WH-1000XM3 Review - Tom's Hardware

The Sony WH-1000XM3 wireless over-ear headphones deliver exceptional active noise cancellation (ANC) and outstanding battery life, earning the Tom's Hardware Award. Designed for long-duration isolation, this third-generation model improves on its predecessor by shedding 22 grams, adding a softer headband cushion, and adopting a USB-C port. Its standout features include a phenomenal...Read more

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andreagaleazzi.com
19/12/2018
SONY WH-1000XM3 Noise Cancelling HEADPHONES Review

The Sony WH-1000XM3 wireless over-ear headphones are highly praised in this review, with the author declaring them the best noise-canceling headphones he has ever tested and his new personal reference model. The audio quality is exceptionally high, allowing the listener to distinguish specific instruments and subtle nuances that were not noticeable even on the previous generation...Read more

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androidworld.nl
03/11/2018
Sony WH-1000XM3 review: hours of comfortable listening with an absolute winner

The Sony WH-1000XM3 is a premium over-ear headphone praised for its outstanding active noise-cancelling performance and highly durable battery life. The design combines hard and soft plastic, shifting from the leather-like material of its predecessor to provide a high-quality feel, though it is prone to finger smudges on the touch-sensitive earcups. Comfort is significantly upgraded...Read more

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hifi.nl
26/04/2019
Review: Sony WH-1000XM3, the new NC king

Review Summary The Sony WH-1000XM3 is a premium, highly durable noise-cancelling headphone engineered primarily to compete with industry leaders like Bose. It features an exceptionally effective adaptive noise-cancelling system that uses built-in sensors to adjust to environmental activities like walking or sitting, as well as an automatic calibration system that measures fit,...Read more

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nwtv.nl
03/01/2019
Sony WH-1000XM3 Review

The NWTV review of the Sony WH-1000XM3 awards the over-ear headphones a perfect 5/5 score, praising them as a fantastic device that delivers high quality across all areas. Visually similar to older iterations, this generation introduces a silver color option to replace the previous gold look. On the positive side (pros), the reviewer highlights the excellent build quality that feels...Read more

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tweakers.net
05/01/2019
In-depth and independent Sony WH-1000XM3 reviews", "Thorough and independent Sony WH-1000XM3 reviews

The Sony WH-1000XM3 is highly praised for its exceptional Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), which users and editors agree is highly effective at blocking out ambient sounds, such as airplane noise or office distractions. The headphones offer great comfort with plush, large ear cushions that distribute pressure evenly, allowing for hours of fatigue-free listening. Users also...Read more

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tjitze.nl
12/12/2018
Sony WH-1000XM3 - The best noise-cancelling headphones?

Direct Answer: The Tjitze Zijlstra Review concludes that the Sony WH-1000XM3 is the absolute best active noise-cancelling (ANC) headphone on the market despite its steep €380 price tag. Detailed Review Summary The reviewer highly praises the headphones for their unparalleled active noise cancellation, powered by the dedicated QN1 processor, which successfully eliminates local train...Read more

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deedylicious.nl
29/09/2020
In your own bubble with the Sony WH-1000XM3 headphones

In this personal review, Wendy Pronk (writing for DeedyLicious) shares her enthusiastic experience using the Sony WH-1000XM3 wireless noise-canceling headphones, declaring them the "best buy ever". As a highly sensitive person (HSP) who struggles to naturally filter out environmental stimuli, she highly praises the active noise cancellation (ANC) for creating a peaceful "personal...Read more

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id.nl
22/09/2020
Tested: Sony WH-1000XM3 vs WH-1000XM4

The ID.nl review finds the Sony WH-1000XM4 a significant upgrade over the XM3, offering 15% better active noise cancellation (ANC), improved sound with a wider soundstage, and smart features like Multipoint Bluetooth, while keeping the same 30-hour battery. However, pros of the XM4 are balanced against cons, including the removal of Qualcomm aptX/aptX HD support, a reliance on AAC...Read more

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