Sony WH 1000XM4 Review | 93 Data compared

The Sony WH-1000XM4 remains an exceptional pair of wireless headphones that delivers high-end audio performance, outstanding noise cancellation, and all-day comfort at a great value, especially when found on sale. The review highlights its powerful, thumpy bass and warm, rich midrange that excel in genres like pop, rock, and hip-hop. Additionally, its 250-gram lightweight design and plush, breathable padding offer an incredibly comfortable fit for up to 8 hours straight, even for those wearing glasses and jewelry. Its active noise cancellation (ANC) effectively reduces external distractions by an average of 27 decibels, making it a reliable companion for daily office work or short airplane flights, while its impressive 35-hour battery life easily surpasses the manufacturer's 30-hour claim. Despite these strengths, the review notes several drawbacks, most notably its finicky and stubborn touch controls that can behave unpredictably. The headphones have a relatively loose fit, making them unstable during quick movements, dancing, or speed walking. While the Sony Sound Connect App offers great customization via an adjustable EQ, some features like multipoint device switching do not run smoothly and often require...

The Sony WH-1000XM4 wireless headphones offer exceptional, class-leading active noise cancellation that effectively targets low-to-mid range frequencies, alongside a warm, balanced, and dynamic audio profile powered by 40mm drivers. While they maintain an identical aesthetic to their predecessors, they introduce highly practical features like multipoint Bluetooth pairing to connect two devices at once, conversational awareness via "Speak-to-Chat," and an internal sensor for auto-play and pause. Though they have been superseded by the newer XM5 model, they remain the best overall value for travelers and commuters due to their travel-friendly folding design, 30-hour battery life with ANC enabled, and quick-charging capabilities. The review highlights several prominent pros, including its improved noise cancellation, DSEE Extreme audio upscaling for low-quality formats, useful touch-capacitive earcup controls, and a highly customizable companion app. On the flip side, the cons include a complete lack of water or splash resistance, substantial audio leakage that may disturb nearby people in quiet offices, and a mic quality that is not ideal for constant business conference calls. Additionally, the otherwise convenient "Speak-to-Chat" feature is highly sensitive and will accidentally pause...

The Sony WH-1000XM4 wireless over-ear headphones are a premium, highly comfortable choice that refines an already class-leading formula with innovative Edge-AI features. They feature incredibly effective active noise cancellation (ANC) that excels at blocking out high and mid frequencies like ambient speech. The audio performance is highly impressive and transparent across genres, driven by 40mm dome drivers capable of delivering precise highs and powerful bass. New smart upgrades include geo-aware Adaptive Sound Control, wearing detection, and Speak-to-Chat functionality which automatically pauses music when you speak. Additionally, they boast an excellent battery life of up to 30 hours with ANC turned on (38 hours off) and support quick charging via a USB-C port. Key Pros & Cons Pro: Class-leading active noise cancellation.Pro: High-quality, transparent musical performance across genres.Pro: Light, supremely comfortable build for extended use.Pro: Inventive local AI features like DSEE Extreme audio restoration and multi-point Bluetooth pairing.Con: Sonically identical to the older WH-1000XM3 model.Con: Lacks support for the popular Bluetooth aptX codec.Con: The premium retail price sits high at $349.99/£350.

The WhistleOut review positions the Sony WH-1000XM4 as an exceptional, highly recommended pair of over-ear wireless headphones that retain the design of their predecessor, offering extreme comfort, amazing sound quality, and excellent active noise-cancellation (ANC). Key highlights include a "chonky" 30-hour battery life, making them ideal for extended listening sessions. WhistleOutHowever, the review notes that despite the refined performance, the physical build feels largely identical to the older model. A primary drawback is the complete lack of an IP water-resistance rating, leaving the headphones vulnerable to damage if worn in the rain. WhistleOut

The Digitec review of the Sony WH-1000XM4 highlights outstanding active noise cancellation, comfortable 30-hour battery life, and a refined, balanced sound profile compared to its predecessor. Key strengths include effective isolation of ambient noise, clear mid-range audio, and convenient features like "Speak-to-Chat" and a customizable button. Conversely, the review notes significant drawbacks, specifically regarding unstable multipoint Bluetooth connectivity and overly sensitive, sometimes intrusive "Speak-to-Chat" functionality in, loud environments. Additionally, the non-replaceable battery at a premium price point is cited as a limitation for long-term ownership. galaxus.at

Review Summary The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are an iterative but excellent upgrade over the previous generation, retailing at $349 and earning a high overall score of 9.1 out of 10. Visually, they look almost identical to the XM3 model, featuring smooth ear cup faces and a lightweight, durable build that comes packaged with a hard case, USB-C cable, auxiliary cable, and an airplane adapter. They offer outstanding comfort for long listening sessions due to redistributed padding and expanded ear cup surface area. Though the sound quality remains unchanged from their predecessor, it delivers a tight, defined bass response, warm mids, and detailed highs across diverse music genres. Performance is robust with reliable Bluetooth 5.0 multi-point connectivity for two devices simultaneously and a strong 30-hour battery life with active noise cancellation enabled. Several distinct pros and cons define the overall user experience. On the positive side, the headphones feature an exceptionally comfortable design, elite sound quality, and highly practical multi-point Bluetooth pairing. They also introduce a helpful, automatic ambient mode that activates when the user begins speaking. However, a notable con...

The CNN Underscored review crowns the Sony WH-1000XM4 over-ear headphones as a class-leading, "must-buy" successor that preserves the $349.99 price tag of the previous model while delivering major internal upgrades. Its key pros center on exceptional active noise cancellation (ANC), driven by a dual-chip system sensing environmental sound 700 times per second, which excels at blocking higher frequencies like human voices and birds. The audio profile is highly praised for its crisp, three-dimensional depth, enhanced by updated DSEE Extreme real-time upscaling for vocals and an adjustable companion app equalizer. Daily usability is elevated by a 30-hour battery life (with five hours of playback from a 10-minute fast charge), multipoint Bluetooth pairing for two simultaneous devices, highly reliable auto-pause sensors when removed, and a convenient "Speak to Chat" feature that pauses music when the user talks. Conversely, the review notes a few notable cons, specifically pointing out that the mostly plastic build feels less premium for a high-end $349.99 product. Additionally, call quality takes a hit outdoors where microphones struggle to filter out wind and environmental background noises compared to their...

The Sony WH-1000XM4Go to product viewer dialog for this item. headphones earn an "Outstanding" rating from PCMag for their top-tier active noise cancellation (ANC) and detailed, customizable sound profile. Key pros include exceptional audio performance with deep bass, highly responsive touch controls, and effective ANC that suppresses, rather than just masking, ambient noise. While offering high-end performance, the headphones carry a steep price tag. A noted con is that the included wired cable lacks an inline remote, restricting playback control in wired mode.

The Sony WH-1000XM4 are lightweight, 254-gram wireless headphones that offer exceptional sound quality, top-tier active noise-cancelling (ANC), and a highly comfortable fit that matches the Bose QC35 II. They feature a foldable design perfect for travel, an impressive 30-hour battery life with ANC activated, and a highly customizable companion app equipped with a full equalizer and smart adaptive ambient sound modes. A major standout feature for this fourth-generation model is the long-awaited addition of Bluetooth 5.0 multipoint connectivity, allowing users to pair two devices simultaneously. Furthermore, they support high-resolution LDAC audio on Android devices and are built with sustainability in mind, offering repairability and a reasonably priced battery replacement service through authorized centers. Despite their strengths, the headphones come with a few notable drawbacks. While the understated plastic body ensures a light feel, it lacks the premium, solid aesthetic found in heavier metal or carbon fiber competitors. Additionally, microphone call quality is average and remains hit-or-miss in noisy environments, failing to match the performance of the class-leading Bose 700. Users should also note that enabling the multipoint connection feature restricts...

The Sony WH-1000XM4 review highlights superior active noise cancellation (ANC), specifically outperforming the AirPods Max in reducing low-frequency sounds. Key comfort features include larger ear-cup openings and improved padding that reduces direct ear pressure. Medium· However, the headset has notable drawbacks, including significant heat retention from the ear cushions that can cause sweat. Additionally, the narrow headband design offers less comfort than competitors, and the ANC struggles to isolate high-frequency sounds like wind or train tracks. Medium

The Sony WH-1000XM4 wireless noise-cancelling over-ear headphones are highly praised for delivering a sonic masterclass, offering an exceptionally dynamic, detail-rich sound with a sensational sense of timing and enthusiasm across all musical genres. Despite being superseded by the newer XM5 model, they remain a top-tier choice that stands out as a high-value bargain at their discounted price point. Key feature upgrades highlighted in the review include the advanced DSEE Extreme audio processing engine, a convenient "Speak to Chat" conversational tool, wearing detection sensors, and the long-awaited multipoint Bluetooth pairing to connect two devices simultaneously. Additionally, they provide a comfortable, lightweight design that folds down compactly for travel, up to 30 hours of battery life with noise cancellation active, and real-time noise-cancelling adjustments tailored to the user's face and surrounding environment. Pros and Cons The review highlights distinct strengths and weaknesses for these headphones: Dynamic sound: Delivers clear, detail-rich audio across a wide soundfield. Precise timing: Possesses a great sense of rhythm, pace, and agility. Clever features: Includes smart upgrades like wearing detection and multipoint connectivity. No IP rating: Lacks officially...

Review Summary The Sony WH-1000XM4 over-ear wireless headphones offer class-leading active noise cancellation (ANC) and superb audio quality powered by 40mm dynamic drivers. Retaining the successful 30-hour battery life and intuitive touch controls of their predecessor, this model introduces key feature upgrades including multipoint pairing, wear-detection auto-pause, and "Speak-to-Chat" voice recognition. The audio performance is highly dynamic across multiple genres, utilizing DSEE Extreme technology to upscale compressed files in real time and supporting Sony’s high-resolution LDAC codec on Android devices. Furthermore, the smart ANC uses an adaptive chip to calibrate profiles based on the user's head shape, glasses, and ambient environment. Despite being named the undisputed kings of noise-cancelling headphones, the WH-1000XM4 have a few distinct drawbacks. Their most critical flaw is a complete lack of water resistance or an official IP rating, making them risky to use in heavy rain or during intense workouts. Additionally, the microphone quality is merely average, resulting in mediocre vocal clarity during conference and phone calls. There is also a surprising omission of aptX or aptX HD Bluetooth codec support. However, if you have...

The SoundGuys review highlights the Sony WH-1000XM4Go to product viewer dialog for this item. as a top-tier headset featuring exceptional active noise cancellation (ANC) that reduces environmental noise by 84%, along with excellent sound quality supporting LDAC and SBC codecs. Key functional upgrades include Bluetooth multipoint connectivity, convenient folding hinges, and smart proximity wear-sensors for auto-pausing music. SoundGuysConversely, the review notes a high price point and acknowledges that the gesture-based touch controls can be temperamental in practical use. Other drawbacks mentioned include slightly shallower ear cups that affect long-term comfort and a custom button that forces users to choose between controlling voice assistants or ANC modes. SoundGuys

According to the RTINGS review, the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless headphones are exceptional for commuting and office use, featuring an incredible active noise cancelling (ANC) system that effectively blocks ambient noise. These over-ear headphones offer a comfortable, durable design with over 37 hours of battery life, a warm, customizable sound profile, and multi-device pairing. RTINGS.comHowever, they are not ideal for sports, as their design is not very stable and tends to trap heat. Additional drawbacks include a disappointing, thin-sounding microphone, slight audio leakage at high volumes, and high latency for wireless gaming, along with limited mic functionality when connected via wire. RTINGS.com

The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones remain a top-tier choice for budget-conscious buyers, offering roughly 85 percent of the features found on newer flagships like the XM5 and XM6 for a fraction of the cost. Priced frequently between $198 and $228 on Amazon, these headphones deliver remarkable value, pairing an impressive 30-hour battery life with ANC enabled, multi-device multipoint pairing, and unique NFC connectivity,,. Key audio strengths include powerful low-end bass that blends cleanly with crisp mids and highs, robust noise cancellation capable of silencing everyday domestic disruptions, and access to Sony's proprietary sound technologies like DSEE, LDAC hi-res streaming, and 360 Reality Audio via the Sound Connect app,,. However, the reviewer highlights clear downsides compared to more modern iterations, specifically identifying the headphones' call quality as a failure. Audiophiles may also find the heavily bass-leaning frequency range less appealing than the more tonally balanced audio signature delivered by the XM5 and XM6 models,. Furthermore, the XM4 lacks the superior noise reduction of the modern Adaptive NC Optimizer found on newer generations. There is also long-term uncertainty regarding the device's shelf life,...

The Sony WH-1000XM4 builds on its predecessor's success by making incremental but highly practical internal upgrades to what was already a top-tier pair of over-ear, noise-canceling headphones. Externally, the headphones remain nearly identical to the previous model, though they introduce softer padding, slightly larger earpads, and a shaved-down headband to reduce pressure during long listening sessions. The biggest advancements lie in its enhanced processing power, driven by a new Bluetooth system-on-a-chip that refines noise cancellation and sound quality, specifically by restoring high-range details lost in compressed streaming audio. Key smart additions include an earcup sensor that automatically pauses playback when the headphones are removed, and a hands-free "Speak-to-Chat" mode that pauses audio and activates transparency mode as soon as the wearer begins speaking. The review highlights several prominent pros, including exceptional sound quality with a well-defined bass, top-notch noise cancellation that muffles ambient sound better than before, and improved voice calling clarity via precise voice pickup technology. Users will also benefit from a solid 30-hour battery life with quick-charging capabilities, and highly requested multipoint Bluetooth pairing to connect to two...

Review Summary The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones deliver class-leading, outstanding audio quality and industry-leading active noise cancellation (ANC), making them an exceptional all-rounder for everyday listening, travel, and media editing. Priced highly competitively upon release—frequently found on sale around £149 / $193—they offer superb value for money. Key strengths include a massive 30-hour battery life with ANC enabled (extendable up to 200 hours with ANC turned off), reliable dual-device Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, and a proximity sensor that automatically pauses music when removed. Additionally, the Sony Sound Connect app unlocks highly tailored features like the Personal Noise Cancelling Optimizer and 360 Spatial Sound Personalizer. Despite their premium performance, the headphones have a few minor drawbacks. The narrow headband design can cause slight discomfort during exceptionally long photo or video editing sessions compared to dedicated studio monitors. They are also significantly larger and heavier than in-ear options, and charging can be picky, sometimes requiring the short proprietary USB-C cable included in the box to register a charge. Furthermore, fast-charging requires a separate 1.5A charger that is not included. Finally, the closed-back design prevents...

The Sony WH-1000XM4 review published by amirm on the Audio Science Review (ASR) forum evaluates this closed-back, noise-canceling headphone based on standardized GRAS 45CA fixture measurements and subjective listening tests. The primary pros identified in the review center around the headphone's structural build and exceptional active features. The reviewer praises the high-quality physical feel, lightweight construction, and high efficiency of the unit. Its active noise cancellation (ANC) performs remarkably well, effectively eliminating repetitive low-frequency noise like laboratory analyzer hums. Additionally, the headphone is packed with convenient smart features, including an automated proximity sensor inside the cup that pauses music when the headset is removed. Conversely, the major cons revolve heavily around its acoustic performance, particularly in passive mode (with the electronics switched off). The reviewer finds the passive frequency response deeply colored and "horrific," featuring a massive, unpleasant hump between 100 and 200 Hz alongside a severe 24 dB deviation from the preference target that renders it completely muffled and unlistenable without correction. While turning the headphone on triggers an internal digital signal processor (DSP) that drastically improves the frequency...

The Galaxus review identifies the Sony WH-1000XM4 as a premier choice for noise cancellation, offering a refined sound profile with clearer mid-tones, reduced bass, and excellent ANC, alongside a 30-hour battery life. However, the intense, high-pressure noise cancellation can cause initial nausea for some users, and the device is limited by a non-replaceable battery that restricts its total lifespan.