The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are the latest addition to Sony’s popular line of noise-cancelling headphones. Building upon the success of its predecessor, the WH-1000XM3, these headphones have generated a lot of buzz in the audio community. With features like industry-leading noise cancellation, impressive battery life, and improved sound quality, the WH-1000XM4 headphones are poised to be a top contender in the high-end headphone market. In this article, we will delve into the details of these headphones and provide a comprehensive review of their design, features, and performance.
Table of Contents
Sony WH-1000XM4 product information
History
The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones were released in August 2020, but the story of their development goes back several years. Sony first entered the noise-cancelling headphone market in 2016 with the release of the MDR-1000X headphones. These headphones were widely praised for their excellent noise cancellation technology, but Sony knew there was room for improvement.
In 2018, Sony released the WH-1000XM3 headphones, which were a significant improvement over the MDR-1000X. These headphones featured even better noise cancellation technology, improved sound quality, and a more comfortable design. The WH-1000XM3 quickly became one of the most popular noise-cancelling headphones on the market, and Sony knew they had a winning formula.
Despite the success of the WH-1000XM3, Sony continued to push the boundaries of what was possible with noise-cancelling headphones. The company invested heavily in research and development, with a focus on improving the headphones’ noise cancellation technology.
In August 2020, Sony released the WH-1000XM4 headphones, the latest and most advanced addition to its line of noise-cancelling headphones. These headphones feature Sony’s new DSEE Extreme technology, which uses artificial intelligence to analyze music in real-time and restore detail lost in compression. The headphones also feature improved noise cancellation technology, a more comfortable design, and longer battery life.
Overall, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are the result of years of research and development, and represent the pinnacle of Sony’s noise-cancelling headphone technology.
Specification
| Year of Manufacture | 2020 |
|---|---|
| Company | Sony |
| Official Website | https://www.sony.com/ |
| Fit Type | Over-Ear |
| Item Dimensions | 7.27 x 2.94 x 9.94 inches |
| Item Weight | 9 ounces |
| Special Features | Adaptive Sound Control, Speak-to-Chat, Quick Attention Mode, Multipoint Connection |
| Driver Size | 1.57 inches |
| Frequency Response | 4 Hz-40,000 Hz |
| Impedance | 47 ohm (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned on), 16 ohm (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned off) |
| Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Bluetooth Range | Up to 30 feet |
| ANC Modes | 2 modes (Ambient Sound and Noise Cancelling) |
| Audio Codec | SBC, AAC, LDAC |
| Battery Life | Up to 30 hours (with ANC on), up to 38 hours (without ANC) |
| Charging Time | Approximately 3 hours |
| Quick Charging | 10 minutes for 5 hours of playback |
| Controls | Touch Controls (on earcups) |
| Price | $349.99 |
What is included in the delivery set?
The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones come with the following items in the delivery set:
- WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones
- Carrying Case
- USB Type-C Charging Cable
- Headphone cable for wired connection (1.2m)
- Airline adapter
- User Guide
- Warranty Card
Please note that the exact contents of the delivery set may vary depending on the region and retailer.
What about design, materials, assembly?
The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones have a sleek and modern design, with a sturdy build quality that exudes premium craftsmanship. The headphones are constructed using high-quality materials, such as synthetic leather and plastic, which not only provide durability but also contribute to the headphones’ stylish appearance.
The earcups are made of a soft and supple synthetic leather that feels comfortable against the skin, while the headband is padded with a plush foam material that provides a secure and comfortable fit. The earcups and headband are both adjustable, allowing users to customize the fit to their individual preferences.
In terms of assembly, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are expertly crafted with attention to detail. The headphones feature a foldable design that allows for easy storage and portability, while also adding to the headphones’ overall durability. The controls on the earcups are well placed and easy to use, and the headphones come with a user guide that provides detailed instructions on how to set up and use the headphones.
Overall, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are designed with both style and functionality in mind, and the quality of their materials and assembly is a testament to Sony’s commitment to producing high-quality audio products.
What about ergonomics and usability Sony WH-1000XM4?
The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are designed with ergonomics and usability in mind, making them comfortable and easy to use for extended periods of time.
The headphones feature soft and supple earpads that are designed to provide a comfortable fit and help reduce pressure on the ears. The headband is also padded with plush foam material, which helps distribute weight evenly across the head and ensures a secure fit.
In terms of usability, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones feature touch controls on the earcups that allow users to easily adjust the volume, skip tracks, and activate noise cancellation. The touch controls are intuitive and easy to use, and they provide a seamless user experience.
The headphones also come with a range of advanced features, such as Adaptive Sound Control, Speak-to-Chat, and Quick Attention Mode, which make them highly versatile and customizable. These features allow users to personalize their listening experience and easily switch between different listening modes depending on their environment and preferences.
Overall, the ergonomics and usability of the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are top-notch, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking for a comfortable and user-friendly pair of noise-cancelling headphones.
What about connection, control and software?
The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones feature Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, which provides a stable and reliable wireless connection to smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other compatible devices. The headphones also support NFC pairing, which allows for quick and easy pairing with compatible devices.
In terms of control, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones feature touch controls on the earcups that allow users to easily adjust the volume, skip tracks, and activate noise cancellation. The touch controls are intuitive and easy to use, and they provide a seamless user experience.
The headphones also come with a companion app, the Sony Headphones Connect app, which allows users to customize the headphones’ settings and features. The app features an EQ, which allows users to adjust the sound to their individual preferences, and it also allows users to control the headphones’ noise cancellation and ambient sound modes.
The Sony Headphones Connect app also features several advanced features, such as the ability to adjust the headphones’ Adaptive Sound Control settings, which automatically adjusts the noise cancellation and ambient sound modes based on the user’s activity and environment. Additionally, the app features a 360 Reality Audio mode, which provides an immersive audio experience for users listening to compatible music streaming services.
Overall, the connection, control, and software features of the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are excellent, and they provide users with a high degree of control and customization over their listening experience.
How’s the sound quality?
The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones deliver exceptional sound quality, with a rich and balanced sound signature that is well-suited for a wide range of music genres and listening preferences.
The headphones feature 40mm drivers that are designed to deliver powerful and accurate sound, with a wide frequency response range of 4 Hz-40,000 Hz. This means that the headphones can reproduce a wide range of frequencies, from deep bass tones to high treble notes, with clarity and accuracy.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones also support high-resolution audio codecs, such as LDAC, which allows for the transmission of high-quality audio over Bluetooth. This means that users can enjoy high-quality audio streaming from compatible devices, without compromising on sound quality.
In terms of sound signature, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones have a balanced sound that delivers clear and detailed highs, smooth and natural midrange, and deep and powerful bass. The headphones also feature an EQ, which allows users to adjust the sound to their individual preferences and tailor the sound signature to their liking.
The noise-cancelling technology on the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones is also top-notch, with excellent noise isolation that blocks out even the most distracting external sounds. This means that users can enjoy their music without any distractions, even in noisy environments.
Overall, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones deliver exceptional sound quality, with a balanced and detailed sound signature that is well-suited for a wide range of music genres and listening preferences.
What about the energy efficiency and battery life?
The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are highly energy-efficient, with a long battery life that allows users to enjoy their music for extended periods of time.
The headphones feature a built-in rechargeable battery that provides up to 30 hours of continuous playback with noise-cancelling turned on, and up to 38 hours of continuous playback with noise-cancelling turned off. This means that users can enjoy their music for several days on a single charge, depending on usage patterns.
The headphones also feature a quick charging function, which allows for 5 hours of playback with just 10 minutes of charging. This means that users can quickly and easily recharge their headphones, even when they are in a hurry.
In terms of energy efficiency, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones feature an auto power-off function, which automatically turns off the headphones when they are not in use, in order to conserve battery life. The headphones also feature an Adaptive Sound Control function, which automatically adjusts the noise-cancelling and ambient sound modes based on the user’s activity and environment, in order to optimize battery life.
Overall, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are highly energy-efficient, with a long battery life that provides users with several days of continuous playback on a single charge. The quick charging function and auto power-off function make it easy to keep the headphones charged and ready to use, even when on-the-go.
Comparison & Review
What are similar headphones in features and cost?
Two similar headphones to the Sony WH-1000XM4 in terms of features and cost are:
- Bose QuietComfort 35 II: These headphones are also noise-cancelling over-ear headphones with a similar price range to the Sony WH-1000XM4. They feature Alexa and Google Assistant voice control, Bluetooth connectivity, and up to 20 hours of battery life. The Bose QuietComfort 35 II also comes with an app that allows users to adjust noise cancellation levels, as well as a range of other features.
- Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless: These headphones are also noise-cancelling over-ear headphones with a similar price range to the Sony WH-1000XM4. They feature Bluetooth connectivity, Alexa voice control, and up to 17 hours of battery life. The Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless also comes with an app that allows users to adjust the EQ, noise cancellation levels, and other settings.
Compare with similar items
| Specification | Sony WH-1000XM4 | Bose QuietComfort 35 II | Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year of Manufacture | 2020 | 2017 | 2019 |
| Company | Sony | Bose | Sennheiser |
| Official Website | www.sony.com | www.bose.com | sennheiser.com |
| Fit Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Item Dimensions | 7.27 x 2.94 x 9.94 inches | 3.2 x 6.7 x 7.1 inches | 7.8 x 6.7 x 1.9 inches |
| Item Weight | 9 ounces | 8.32 ounces | 10.5 ounces |
| Special Features | Adaptive Sound Control, Speak-to-Chat, Quick Attention Mode, Multipoint Connection | Alexa and Google Assistant voice control, App control, Bose AR | Alexa voice control, App control |
| Driver Size | 1.57 inches | Not specified | 1.77 inches |
| Frequency Response | 4 Hz-40,000 Hz | 20 Hz-20,000 Hz | 6 Hz-22,000 Hz |
| Impedance | 47 ohm (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned on), 16 ohm (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned off) | Not specified | 100 ohm |
| Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 4.1 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Bluetooth Range | Up to 30 feet | Up to 33 feet | Up to 33 feet |
| ANC Modes | 2 modes (Ambient Sound and Noise Cancelling) | 3 levels of noise cancellation | 3 modes (Max, Anti-Wind, and Anti-Pressure) |
| Audio Codec | SBC, AAC, LDAC | SBC, AAC | SBC, AAC, aptX |
| Battery Life | Up to 30 hours (with ANC on), up to 38 hours (without ANC) | Up to 20 hours | Up to 17 hours |
| Charging Time | Approximately 3 hours | 2.25 hours | Approximately 3 hours |
| Quick Charging | 10 minutes for 5 hours of playback | 15 minutes for 2.5 hours of playback | Not specified |
| Controls | Touch Controls (on earcups) | Physical Controls | Physical Controls |
| Price | $349.99 | $299.00 | $399.95 |
How do Sony WH-1000XM4 users describe their experience with these headphones?
Users generally have a very positive experience with the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones, with many citing the headphones’ excellent noise-cancelling capabilities, comfortable fit, and advanced features as some of their favorite aspects.
Users report that the noise-cancelling technology on the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones is top-notch, with excellent noise isolation that blocks out even the most distracting external sounds. Users also appreciate the headphones’ Adaptive Sound Control feature, which automatically adjusts the noise-cancelling and ambient sound modes based on the user’s activity and environment, in order to optimize the listening experience.
Many users also report that the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are comfortable to wear for extended periods of time, with soft and supple earpads and a padded headband that helps distribute weight evenly across the head.
Users also appreciate the advanced features on the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones, such as Speak-to-Chat and Quick Attention Mode, which allow users to easily switch between different listening modes and interact with their surroundings without having to take off the headphones.
Overall, users have a very positive experience with the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones, with many citing them as one of the best noise-cancelling headphones on the market today.
Pros and cons of headphones Sony WH-1000XM4
| Positive Aspects | Negative Aspects |
|---|---|
| Excellent noise-cancelling technology | Expensive compared to other headphones in the market |
| Comfortable fit for extended wear | Ear cups may feel too shallow for some users |
| Advanced features such as Adaptive Sound Control, Speak-to-Chat, and Quick Attention Mode | Touch controls can be a bit finicky at times |
| High-quality sound with a balanced and detailed sound signature | May not be suitable for users who prefer a more bass-heavy sound |
| Long battery life with quick charging function | Voice prompts can be a bit annoying for some users |
| Sleek and modern design with premium build quality | No built-in equalizer |
| Good Bluetooth connectivity with support for high-resolution audio codecs | The included carrying case is not very protective |
| Intuitive app with a range of customizable settings | The headphone cable is not detachable |
| Excellent noise isolation that blocks out even the most distracting external sounds | May not fit well for users with larger heads or ears |
Conclusions
The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are an excellent pair of noise-cancelling over-ear headphones that deliver exceptional sound quality, comfort, and advanced features. The headphones feature top-notch noise-cancelling technology, a balanced and detailed sound signature, and a long battery life with quick charging function. They also have a sleek and modern design with premium build quality, intuitive touch controls, and an app with customizable settings. While the headphones are on the expensive side, they are widely considered to be one of the best noise-cancelling headphones on the market today. Overall, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a comfortable, high-quality pair of noise-cancelling headphones with advanced features and intuitive controls.
Our Review
Sony WH-1000XM4. Basic questions, basic answers
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Are Sony WH-1000XM4 better than Sony WH-1000XM3?
The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are an improvement over the previous generation Sony WH-1000XM3 headphones in several ways. Here are some of the key differences:
1. Improved noise-cancelling: The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones feature an updated noise-cancelling algorithm that is more effective at blocking out external sounds, especially at higher frequencies.
2. Better voice detection: The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones have better voice detection capabilities, which allows for more seamless integration with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
3. Improved ambient sound mode: The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones have an improved ambient sound mode that allows for more natural sound reproduction and better awareness of your surroundings.
4. Multipoint Bluetooth pairing: The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones have the ability to pair with multiple devices at once, making it easier to switch between different devices without having to constantly disconnect and reconnect.
5. Speak-to-Chat feature: The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones have a new feature called Speak-to-Chat, which automatically pauses playback and turns off noise-cancelling when you start speaking, making it easier to have a conversation without having to take off the headphones.While the improvements are noticeable, some users may still prefer the Sony WH-1000XM3 headphones for their lower price point and similar sound quality. However, for those who prioritize advanced noise-cancelling technology and improved features, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are the better choice.
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How do I Connect my Sony WF-1000XM4 to my Mac?
To connect your Sony WF-1000XM4 earbuds to your Mac, you can follow these steps:
Make sure that your earbuds are fully charged and turned on.
On your Mac, click on the Apple menu in the top-left corner of the screen and select “System Preferences.”
Click on “Bluetooth” in the System Preferences window.
Make sure that Bluetooth is turned on, and your Mac is discoverable to other devices.
Press and hold the touch panel on the left earbud of your WF-1000XM4 earbuds until you hear a voice prompt saying “Bluetooth pairing.”
On your Mac, look for “WF-1000XM4” in the list of available devices and click on it to connect.
Once your earbuds are connected, you should see “Connected” next to the “WF-1000XM4” in the list of available devices on your Mac.
That’s it! Your Sony WF-1000XM4 earbuds should now be connected to your Mac and ready to use.
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5 comments
As the author of this article, I would like to invite feedback, thoughts, and comments from our readers. We strive to provide the most informative and unbiased reviews of products like the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones, and we welcome any feedback or insights that our readers may have. If you have any experiences or opinions about these headphones or any other noise-cancelling headphones, we would love to hear from you. Your comments and feedback are important to us, and we appreciate your input in helping us provide the best content possible.
I love that these headphones are over-ear and provide a comfortable fit for extended use. Perfect for my long runs and workouts!
Wow, this review is super detailed! I’m definitely considering these headphones now. Thanks for the info!
The long battery life and adaptive sound control make these headphones perfect for my frequent travels. No more worrying about running out of battery or being disturbed by ambient noise.
The Bluetooth range on these headphones is great, but I wish they had support for Bluetooth 5.1 or higher. Maybe in the next version.