Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Review: Exceptional Noise Canceling and Immersive Sound – A Game-Changer?

Posted by Reece Bithrey

Posted on

Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless review

Headphones, Sony

Bottom Line

Sony WH-1000XM4
The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are an exceptional choice for those seeking top-tier sound quality, advanced noise-canceling capabilities, and a comfortable listening experience. With impressive features like multipoint connectivity, adaptive sound control, and long battery life, these headphones offer a superior audio experience for both music enthusiasts and frequent travelers.

While the WH-1000XM4 has a higher price point and shares a similar design to its predecessor, its outstanding performance and innovative features make it a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize excellent sound quality and immersive listening. Whether you want to enjoy your favorite music, tune out distractions in a busy environment, or simply indulge in a premium audio experience, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones deliver on all fronts.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to elevate your listening experience. Invest in the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones and immerse yourself in a world of pristine sound and advanced technology.

CTA: Upgrade your audio experience today with the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones. Buy now and enjoy the pinnacle of sound quality and noise-canceling technology.

Category Rating Number
Design
4/5
Display
4.5/5
Performance
5/5
Price/Value
3.5/5
Overall
4.5/5

Introduction

Sony WH-1000XM4
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless headphones are the latest offering from Sony, building upon the success of their predecessor, the Sony WH-1000XM3. These headphones have gained a reputation for their impressive noise-canceling capabilities and top-notch sound quality. With the WH-1000XM4, Sony aimed to improve upon the already stellar performance of the previous model and address some user feedback.

One key aspect that sets the WH-1000XM4 apart is its design and comfort. Sony has made subtle changes to the earpads and headband, making them slightly more comfortable to wear over long listening sessions. Additionally, these headphones are designed to withstand different weather conditions, including rain and sweat. The Sony WH-1000XM4 is not officially labeled as rainproof or sweatproof, but according to user reports on forums like Reddit, they have proven to be quite resilient in such situations.

Overall, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are certainly worth considering for those who prioritize both comfort and durability. With their impressive noise-canceling technology, superior sound quality, and ability to withstand various environmental conditions, the WH-1000XM4 is a worthy investment for audiophiles and music enthusiasts alike.

Specifications Details
Model Sony WH-1000XM4
Wireless Connectivity Bluetooth
Noise Canceling Yes
Driver Size 40mm
Battery Life Up to 30 hours
Charging Port USB-C
Color Options Black, Silver
Weight Approximately 254 grams
App Compatibility Sony Headphones Connect
Virtual Assistant Integration Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant

Design and Comfort

Sony WH-1000XM4
The design and comfort of the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless headphones are highly praised by users. Sony has maintained the sleek and modern aesthetic of the previous model, with minimal changes in appearance. The headphones are available in black and silver color options, catering to different style preferences.

When it comes to comfort, Sony has made improvements to ensure an enjoyable wearing experience. The earpads have been slightly enlarged and the padding is softer, reducing pressure on the ears during long listening sessions. The headband has also been redesigned to provide a comfortable fit, even for extended periods of wear.

While the WH-1000XM4 is not officially labeled as rainproof or sweatproof, user feedback on platforms like Reddit indicates that these headphones can handle light exposure to rain and sweat without any significant issues. However, it’s important to note that they are not fully waterproof and should not be submerged in water.

Overall, the combination of an attractive design, comfortable fit, and some level of water resistance make the Sony WH-1000XM4 worth considering for those looking for a reliable and comfortable pair of headphones.

Noise Canceling Performance

Sony WH-1000XM4
One of the standout features of the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones is their exceptional noise-canceling capabilities. With the implementation of Sony’s Dual Noise Sensor technology, which includes two microphones on each earcup, ambient noise is effectively captured and analyzed. The HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1, coupled with a new algorithm, then applies real-time noise-canceling processing to create an immersive listening experience.

Users have praised the WH-1000XM4’s ability to effectively block out external noise, whether it’s the sound of a busy office, airplane engines, or even city traffic. The headphones excel in reducing both low-frequency and high-frequency sounds, providing a serene and focused listening environment.

Furthermore, the Sony WH-1000XM4 offers customizable noise canceling with the help of the Sony Headphones Connect app. This allows users to adjust the level of noise canceling to their preference or enable Ambient Sound mode, which lets in external sound for situations when awareness of the surroundings is necessary.

Overall, the noise-canceling performance of the Sony WH-1000XM4 is highly regarded and makes them a worthwhile investment for those seeking a truly immersive and uninterrupted listening experience.

Audio Quality

The audio quality of the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones is highly regarded among users and critics alike. Sony has equipped these headphones with powerful 40mm drivers that deliver rich and detailed sound reproduction across the entire frequency range.

The WH-1000XM4 excels in providing a balanced audio experience with precise sound imaging and excellent clarity. Whether you’re listening to music, watching movies, or even making voice calls, the headphones deliver a high level of audio fidelity.

One notable feature that contributes to the audio performance is the Sony DSEE Extremeâ„¢ upscaling technology. This feature enhances the quality of compressed music files in real-time, bringing them closer to the original studio recording.

Additionally, the ability to customize the sound settings through the Sony Headphones Connect app allows users to fine-tune the audio according to their preferences. This includes adjusting the equalizer settings, choosing from various sound presets, and even optimizing the sound based on the atmospheric pressure at higher altitudes.

Overall, the Sony WH-1000XM4 provides a superior audio experience, making them a top choice for audiophiles and music enthusiasts who value excellent sound quality.

Battery Life

Sony WH-1000XM4
The battery life of the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones is impressive and ensures long hours of continuous use. With a single charge, these headphones can provide up to 30 hours of playback time, allowing you to enjoy your favorite music or podcasts throughout the day without worrying about running out of power.

Sony has also implemented a quick charging feature that adds convenience for users. With just 10 minutes of charging, the WH-1000XM4 can provide approximately five hours of playback, perfect for those times when you need a quick boost before heading out.

Furthermore, the headphones utilize a USB-C connection for charging, which not only ensures faster charging but is also more widely compatible with various devices and chargers.

Overall, the exceptional battery life of the Sony WH-1000XM4 makes them suitable for long trips, commutes, or extended listening sessions without the need for frequent charging. This feature, combined with the other impressive functionalities, makes the WH-1000XM4 a worthy investment for those considering a high-quality, long-lasting pair of headphones.

Connectivity

The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones offer a seamless and versatile connectivity experience for users. These headphones utilize Bluetooth technology to connect wirelessly to various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers. The Bluetooth range is typically around 30 feet, allowing for easy movement while listening to audio.

An important feature of the WH-1000XM4 is the ability to connect to multiple devices simultaneously. This multipoint connectivity feature enables users to seamlessly switch between different devices without the need for manual pairing. For example, you can be connected to both your smartphone and laptop, and easily switch between listening to music on one device to taking a call on the other.

Additionally, the Sony Headphones Connect app provides further customization options and control over the headphones’ settings. Through the app, users can adjust sound settings, activate features like the Adaptive Sound Control, and access firmware updates to ensure optimal performance.

Overall, the connectivity options and features of the Sony WH-1000XM4 provide a seamless and convenient user experience, making them an excellent choice for those who value easy and versatile device connectivity.

Advanced Features

The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones come equipped with a range of advanced features that enhance the overall user experience. These features contribute to the headphones’ reputation as a top-tier choice in the market.

Adaptive Sound Control

Adaptive Sound Control is a smart feature that adjusts the noise-canceling settings based on the user’s behavior and environment. Using built-in sensors, the WH-1000XM4 can detect whether the user is stationary, walking, or traveling, and adjusts the noise cancelation accordingly to optimize the listening experience.

Speak-to-Chat

The Speak-to-Chat feature is another notable addition that automatically pauses the audio when the headphones detect the user’s voice. This allows for effortless conversations without the need to remove the headphones or manually pause the music.

Virtual Assistant Integration

The WH-1000XM4 is compatible with virtual assistants such as Amazon’s Alexa and Google Assistant. By simply using voice commands, users can access information, control their music playback, manage notifications, and perform various tasks without needing to reach for their devices.

In conclusion, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones offer a range of advanced features that contribute to their overall excellence. From adaptive sound control to speak-to-chat functionality and virtual assistant integration, these headphones deliver a truly immersive, convenient, and technologically advanced experience for users.

Comparison with WH-1000XM3

Design and Comfort

The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones share a similar design and comfort level with their predecessor, the WH-1000XM3. Both models feature a sleek and modern design, with slight improvements in comfort on the WH-1000XM4, including slightly larger earpads and softer padding.

Noise Canceling Performance

The WH-1000XM4 builds upon the excellent noise-canceling performance of the WH-1000XM3. While there are no major advancements in noise-canceling technology, the WH-1000XM4 maintains the exceptional ability to block out external noise, making it ideal for immersive listening experiences.

Audio Quality

Both the WH-1000XM3 and WH-1000XM4 deliver exceptional audio quality. The WH-1000XM4 incorporates the same powerful 40mm drivers as its predecessor, resulting in rich and detailed sound reproduction.

Battery Life

In terms of battery life, the WH-1000XM4 and WH-1000XM3 offer similar performance, with up to 30 hours of playback time on a single charge. They also share the quick charging feature, providing several hours of playback with just a few minutes of charging.

Connectivity

Both models offer Bluetooth connectivity and multipoint connectivity, allowing users to easily switch between multiple devices. The Sony Headphones Connect app is also available for both models, providing additional customization options.

Conclusion

While the WH-1000XM4 does not feature significant advancements over the WH-1000XM3, it improves on an already excellent foundation. Factors such as design, comfort, noise-canceling performance, audio quality, battery life, and connectivity are comparable between the two models. Those seeking the latest features and slight enhancements may lean towards the WH-1000XM4, while others may find the WH-1000XM3 still a compelling option, especially at a potentially lower price point.

Pros Cons
Excellent Sound Quality Expensive Price
Superior Noise Cancelation No Official Rain or Sweat Resistance
Comfortable and Stylish Design Similar Design to Previous Model
Long Battery Life Pressure on Head for Extended Wear
Versatile Connectivity Requires App for Full Customization
Advanced Features

Pros

Excellent Sound Quality

The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones deliver exceptional audio quality with detailed and balanced sound reproduction, making them a great choice for music enthusiasts and audiophiles.

Superior Noise Cancelation

The noise-canceling performance of the WH-1000XM4 is highly regarded, effectively blocking out external noise and creating a immersive listening experience.

Comfortable and Stylish Design

The WH-1000XM4 features a sleek and modern design. The comfortable fit, soft padding, and adjustable headband make them suitable for long listening sessions.

Long Battery Life

With up to 30 hours of playback time on a single charge, the WH-1000XM4 offers extended usability without needing frequent recharging.

Versatile Connectivity

The headphones support Bluetooth connectivity and multipoint connectivity, allowing for seamless connection to multiple devices.

Advanced Features

The WH-1000XM4 incorporates advanced features such as Adaptive Sound Control, Speak-to-Chat, and virtual assistant integration, enhancing the overall user experience.

In summary, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones offer excellent sound quality, superior noise cancelation, a comfortable design, long battery life, versatile connectivity options, and a range of advanced features.

Cons

Expensive Price

One potential drawback of the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones is their higher price point compared to other wireless headphones in the market. The premium features and advanced technology contribute to the higher cost.

No Official Rain or Sweat Resistance

While the WH-1000XM4 headphones are reported to handle light exposure to rain and sweat, they do not have an official rainproof or sweatproof rating. Users should exercise caution to prevent potential damage from excessive moisture.

Similar Design to Previous Model

The WH-1000XM4 shares a similar design to its predecessor, the WH-1000XM3, with few noticeable changes in appearance. Some users may prefer more significant design updates.

Pressure on Head for Extended Wear

Despite improvements in comfort, some users may experience slight pressure on the crown of their head during long listening sessions, impacting long-term wear comfort.

Requires App for Full Customization

To access all the advanced features and customization options, users need to download and use the Sony Headphones Connect app, which may not be convenient for those who prefer a more streamlined user experience.

While the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones offer exceptional features and performance, potential drawbacks include the higher price point, limited official rain or sweat resistance, similarity in design to the previous model, possible pressure on the head during extended wear, and reliance on an app for full customization. It is important for buyers to consider these factors when deciding whether to purchase the WH-1000XM4.

Comparison with Similar Products

When choosing the right headphones, it’s essential to consider alternatives to the Sony WH-1000XM4. Here’s a comparison with two other top contenders in the market:

Specification Sony WH-1000XM4 Bose QuietComfort 35 II Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless
Noise Cancelling Yes Yes Yes
Audio Quality Exceptional Superb Impressive
Battery Life Up to 30 hours Up to 20 hours Up to 17 hours
Bluetooth Version 5.0 4.2 5.0
Weight Approximately 254 grams Approximately 235 grams Approximately 305 grams
Multipoint Connectivity Yes Yes Yes
Sensor-based Features Speak-to-Chat N/A N/A

Bose QuietComfort 35 II

The Bose QuietComfort 35 II is renowned for its exceptional noise-canceling technology, providing a serene listening experience. With plush ear cushions and a lightweight design, it’s comfortable to wear for extended periods. The battery life of up to 20 hours ensures long listening sessions. You can learn more about the Bose QuietComfort 35 II here.

Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless

For audiophiles seeking premium sound quality, the Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless is a strong contender. These headphones offer rich and detailed audio reproduction thanks to their audiophile-grade drivers. With an elegant design and genuine leather ear cups, they provide a luxurious feel. The Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless also comes with active noise cancellation. Learn more about the Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless here.

Ultimately, finding the perfect headphones depends on your personal preferences and priorities. Consider factors such as sound quality, comfort, noise cancellation, and price to make an informed decision. Explore these alternatives to find the headphones that best suit your needs and elevate your audio experience.

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment