The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are the successor to the Sony WH-1000XM3 Wireless. This generation has some improvements, including a longer continuous battery life, additional touch-sensitive control features, and multi-device pairing. Like their predecessor, they have an outstanding noise isolation performance thanks to their noise cancelling (ANC) feature and a comfortable, premium-looking design. Overall, these decently versatile headphones are a solid choice for many different listeners, and even though Sony replaced them with the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless, they're still worth checking out as a comparable alternative.
Our Verdict
The Sony WH-1000XM4 are decent for neutral sound. Their bass-heavy sound delivers intense thump, punch, and boom to mixes, making them a great choice for genres like EDM and hip-hop. However, this extra bass also bloats vocals and instruments. While you can customize their sound profile to your liking using their companion app's graphic EQ and presets, it can be tricky to tackle the excess high-bass to low-mid. The lowest EQ band starts at 400Hz, which falls just after the bump in bass. However, the Clear Bass slider in the EQ can help reduce bass. Still, they have a closed-back design and don't create a wide or natural-seeming passive soundstage.
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Graphic EQ and presets.
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Poor passive soundstage.
The Sony WH1000XM4 are great for commuting and travel. While they aren't the most portable headphones, their hard carrying case helps protect them while you're on the go. They have over 37 hours of continuous battery life, and you can comfortably wear them for long listening sessions without much fatigue. Also, their ANC can block out bass-heavy sounds like the rumble of engines as well as mid-range sounds like commute chatter, meaning you can enjoy your music without distraction.
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Comfortable fit.
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Incredible ANC performance.
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Over 37-hour continuous battery life.
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Bulky design.
The Sony WH1000XM4 aren't the best choice for sports use. They're comfortable and well-built but don't stay on your head during more intense exercises. Plus, their closed-back design isn't the most breathable, and since they trap in some heat, you're prone to sweating more than usual with them on.
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Comfortable fit.
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Can fall off your head with moderate movement.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 are good for office use. Thanks to their ANC feature, these headphones block out a lot of distracting background noises, like chatter from nearby coworkers, so you can focus on your work. They last over 37 hours continuously, and their comfortable fit isn't fatiguing over long periods at your desk. That said, they leak a bit of audio at loud volumes, so you'll want to keep the volume low to avoid bothering your coworkers.
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Comfortable fit.
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Incredible ANC performance.
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Over 37-hour continuous battery life.
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Bulky design.
The Sony WH1000XM4 are compatible with Bluetooth-enabled PCs, but their latency is likely too high to be suitable for wireless gaming. You also can't use them wirelessly with PlayStation or Xbox consoles.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 are decent for wired gaming. Thanks to their 1/8" TRS cable, you can connect them to your PC, PlayStation, and Xbox consoles, but you can't use the microphone using this connection. That said, they have a comfortable fit for long gaming sessions, and their bass-heavy sound profile adds an extra punch to explosions and action-packed scenes.
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Comfortable fit.
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Audio-only wired connection.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 are fair for phone calls. Unfortunately, their integrated microphone doesn't have the best recording quality, so your voice sounds thin and muffled. Your voice can also be drowned out by background noise if you call from a noisy environment. Their noise cancelling system can help block out a lot of ambient noise around you. By default, the headphones enable 'Talk-Through' mode when you're on a call, regardless of whether you were using the ANC previously. You can cycle back to ANC by pressing the custom button on the left ear cup.
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Comfortable fit.
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Passable microphone recording quality.
- 7.4 Neutral Sound
- 8.1 Commute/Travel
- 7.2 Sports/Fitness
- 7.7 Office
- 5.8 Wireless Gaming
- 7.4 Wired Gaming
- 6.6 Phone Calls
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Updated Nov 25, 2024:
Several Sound tests have been updated following TB 1.8. There have also been text changes made throughout the review, including the usages and product comparisons to match these results.
- Updated Nov 19, 2024: We've converted this review to Test Bench 1.8, which updates our target curve and Sound tests. You can read more about this in our changelog.
- Updated Apr 04, 2024: We've retested ANC Wind Handling with updated methodology.
- Updated Apr 04, 2024: The following test groups have been updated following Test Bench 1.7: Noise Isolation - Full Range, Noise Isolation - Common Scenarios, and ANC Wind Handling. There have also been text changes made throughout the review, including to the usages and product comparisons to match these results.
- Updated Apr 04, 2024: We've converted this review to Test Bench 1.7, which updates our Noise Isolation test. We've also expanded the scope of this test to include Common Scenarios in addition to Voice Handling and Wind Handling.
- Updated Dec 13, 2023: We've updated this review to indicate that our tests were carried out with firmware update 2.5.0.
- Updated Dec 06, 2023: We've made minor changes to this review's text to keep it up to date and accurate.
- Updated Nov 03, 2023: While the test results haven't changed, we've updated the review text for greater clarity and consistency.
- Updated Nov 02, 2023: The following test groups have been updated following TB 1.6: Wired Connection, Bluetooth Connection, and Wireless Connection (Dongle). There have also been text changes made throughout the review, including to the usages and product comparisons to match these results.
- Updated Nov 02, 2023: We've converted this review to Test Bench 1.6 , which updates how we measure latency. We've updated and renamed the following test groups: Wired Connection, Bluetooth Connection, and Wireless Connection (Dongle). We've also added new codec latency measurements and provided an audio sample of recorded latency.
- Updated Nov 01, 2022: Made minor text changes to ensure clarity and relevance.
- Updated Sep 19, 2022: We've added a note to Noise Isolation regarding user reports of a high-pitched noise coming from one driver when using the ANC. However, the scoring of this test hasn't changed.
- Updated Sep 15, 2022: We ordered the WLA-NS7 transmitter to try these headphones with compatible BRAVIA TVs. We have updated the Virtual Soundstage text to reflect these results, but the scoring of the box hasn't changed.
- Updated Jun 08, 2022: We've changed App Support's Surround Support from 'No' to 'Yes'. These headphones are compatible with 360 Reality Audio, and it's accessible via the app. However, you have to be subscribed to compatible platforms to use it. We have updated our review to reflect this change.
- Updated Apr 13, 2022: Thanks to user feedback, we've retested whether the ANC switches to 'Talk-Through' mode when taking a call. By default, the headphones enter this mode when you're on a call. However, you can cycle back to 'ANC On' via the custom button. We've updated the following boxes: 'Phone Calls', 'Controls', and 'Noise Isolation'.
- Updated Feb 21, 2022: Retested the headphones' noise isolation, sound, and mic recording quality with firmware version 2.5.0.
- Updated Feb 07, 2022: Added Sony's 360 Reality Audio feature to Virtual Soundstage.
- Updated Sep 14, 2021: We've updated the 'Phone Call' verdict and 'Noise Isolation' text to reflect ANC turning off during calls.
- Updated Aug 25, 2021: Updated review for accuracy and clarity.
- Updated Jun 29, 2021: Converted to Test Bench 1.5.
- Updated May 26, 2021: We've retested these headphones using firmware 2.5.0. We have also tested these headphones for 'Breathability'.
- Updated Sep 16, 2020: Review published.
- Updated Sep 11, 2020: Early access published.
- Updated Sep 03, 2020: Our testers have started testing this product.
- Updated Sep 03, 2020: The product has arrived in our lab, and our testers will start evaluating it soon.
- Updated Aug 20, 2020: We've purchased the product and are waiting for it to arrive in our lab.
Differences Between Sizes And Variants
The Sony WH-1000XM4 come in two different color variants: 'Black' and 'Silver'. We tested the Silver model, and you can see its label here. These headphones also come in 'Midnight Blue', which are exclusive to Best Buy, and in a limited edition 'Silent White' color scheme to celebrate Sony's 75th anniversary. The 'Silent White' variant and their included accessories, like their carrying case and cables, are stark white with gold accents. They were only available from May through August 2021.
If you encounter another variant, please let us know in the forums, and we'll update our review.
Compared To Other Headphones
The Sony WH-1000XM4 are premium noise cancelling headphones and are the successor of the Sony WH-1000XM3 Wireless. They're also the previous generation of the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless. They're more comfortable and portable than the XM5, have more voice prompt options, and have a comparable bass-heavy default sound profile. Compared to their rival, the Bose QuietComfort 45/QC45 Wireless, they aren't as comfortable or neutral-sounding but have a better ANC performance and more robust customization options.
If you're looking for other headphones, see our recommendations for the best noise cancelling headphones, the best closed-back headphones, and the best travel headphones.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are more customizable than the Bose QuietComfort 45/QC45 Wireless. The Sony are better built, and their ANC does an even better job blocking background noise. They also have a longer continuous battery life. However, the Bose are more comfortable and have a flatter sound profile, which some users may prefer.
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Wireless and the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are both high-end headphones, and depending on your needs, you may prefer either pair. Both headphones have fantastic ANC systems, so you'll get top-tier noise isolation from either pair. The Bose are more comfortable and have a better-performing mic. They also support aptX Adaptive, which is a codec that automatically adjusts its performance based on your audio content, so you'll be able to listen to audio in higher quality or, if you're streaming video, reduce lip sync mismatch. The Sony headphones support passive playback and LDAC codec, allowing you to stream higher-quality audio than with the default SBC codec.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless have a slight edge over the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless due to the better noise isolation on the Sony. While both are premium headphones, the Sony are a bit more comfortable; their ANC blocks out more ambient sound, and they support LDAC, which is a Bluetooth codec for streaming high-quality audio. They also have a virtual soundstage feature to help make your audio seem more immersive and spacious. However, the Sennheiser are no slouch: they also have a much longer continuous battery life, and they support aptX Adaptive, which is a Bluetooth codec that dynamically adapts to your audio content to give you either lower latency or better audio quality. If you want USB audio, only the Sennheiser boast that feature, but their ANC isn't as strong as the Sony.
The Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless are the next generation of the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless. There have been a couple of changes in design and performance. As a result, the XM5 have a better microphone performance, and the ANC system attenuates noise slightly differently. You can still expect significant ambient sound isolation from either pair of headphones, though. However, there are a couple of drawbacks. The XM5's build isn't as flexible as the previous generation, and the ANC has a harder time blocking out the low rumble of bus engines. Unfortunately, their automatic adaptive ANC system can't be turned off, and some users originally reported issues with the ANC adjusting each time they moved their heads, though this issue may have been corrected in firmware 1.1.3.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are better over-ears than the Sony WH-CH720N Wireless. The WH-1000XM4 are more comfortable and better built, and their ANC can block out significantly more ambient noise across the range. They also support LDAC, which is good if you want to stream high-res audio. However, the WH-CH720N have a better overall mic performance.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are better headphones than the Apple AirPods Max Wireless if you care about customizability. The Sony have a companion app that offers many customization features, including a graphic EQ and presets. They also come with a 1/8" TRS cable if you want to use them wired, and are more comfortable. Both headphones offer a fantastic ANC performance, though the Sony still edge in front of the pack in this regard, as they can block out a bit more sound than the Apple.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are better over-ear headphones than the Beats Studio3 Wireless. While both headphones are comfortable, the Sony are better built and their ANC does a significantly better job of cutting down ambient noise around you. They also have a longer-lasting continuous battery life, and their companion app offers a graphic EQ and presets to help adjust their sound to your liking. However, the Beats have a W1 chip, so you can seamlessly pair them with other Apple devices.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are better over-ears than the Anker Soundcore Space Q45 Wireless. The Sony are more comfortable and are better built. Their ANC system also blocks out significantly more ambient noise across the entire frequency spectrum and in different scenarios like offices and on a plane.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are more feature-packed than the Bose QuietComfort Headphones Wireless. The Sony have a virtual soundstage feature to help immerse you in your audio, have more robust customization features via their companion software, and support LDAC, which is Sony's codec for high-resolution audio. Their ANC also does an even better job of blocking background noise, and they have a longer continuous battery life. However, the Bose are more comfortable and better built.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless have more features than the Sony WH-1000XM3 Wireless. The WH-1000XM4 support multi-device pairing, have a longer continuous battery life, and offer some additional talk-through control options. However, the WH-1000XM3 offer more consistent audio delivery.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are better over-ears than the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 Wireless. The Sony are more comfortable and have a virtual soundstage to help immerse you in your audio. Their ANC system offers a significantly better noise isolation performance, and they have more customization features, thanks to their companion app. That said, the Bowers & Wilkins are better built and support aptX Adaptive codec so that you can stream high-quality audio, or achieve lower latency for streaming video.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are, by most measures, better headphones than the Skullcandy Crusher Evo Wireless. However, if you want the haptic bass slider, only the Skullcandy cans have them. Otherwise, both are well-made headphones, but the Sony have noise cancelling and fully customizable EQs. Of course, they're more costly and don't get quite as thumpy as the Skullcandy.
The Bose QuietComfort 35 II/QC35 II Wireless 2018 are more comfortable headphones than the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless. On the other hand, the Sony have a graphic EQ and presets available in their companion app to help you customize the sound to your liking. The Sony are also better built, have longer battery life, have a better noise isolation performance, and leak less noise. Depending on your listening habits, you may prefer one over the other.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless have better noise isolation than the JBL Live 770NC Wireless. The Sony headphones support more codecs, like the high-resolution LDAC codec and AAC. Both have excellent app support, including equalizers to adjust their sound to taste. The Sony are better built and comfier, meaning they're likely the better choice for most people. However, the JBL have a notably longer battery life and more comprehensive controls.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are better headphones than the Sennheiser ACCENTUM Wireless. The Sony are more comfortable, are more premium in build, and have a significantly better noise isolation performance. You can also use them wired via analog, which some users may prefer. The Sennheiser have a longer continuous battery life, though, and support aptX, which can help give you better sound quality than the default SBC codec.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are slightly better headphones for most uses than the Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless. The Sony are more comfortable, have a significantly better noise isolation performance, and have a longer continuous battery life. However, the Sennheiser have a flatter sound profile out of the box, which some users may prefer.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are better over-ear headphones than the Sony WH-XB900N Wireless. Although both headphones are comfortable and can be customized using the Sony | Headphones Connect app, the WH-1000XM4 feel better built and come with a hard case to help protect the headphones when you're on the go. They have a more consistent bass and treble delivery, and their ANC is able to reduce more ambient noise around you. Their continuous battery life is longer-lasting too. However, the WH-XB900N's integrated mic offers a better recording quality performance.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are better headphones than the Bose 700 Headphones Wireless for some listeners. The Sony have a better noise isolation performance and a longer continuous battery life. They offer more talk-through controls that is ideal for users who want to stay aware of their environment while listening. That said, the Bose's integrated microphone performs better than the Sony's.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are better for most uses than the Sony WF-1000XM4 Truly Wireless. The WH-1000XM4 are over-ear headphones that are more comfortable and their ANC can significantly block out more noise around you. They also have a much longer continuous battery life. However, the WF-1000XM4 are smaller, are more portable, and have a stable fit.
The Apple AirPods Pro Truly Wireless and the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless have different strengths, and you may prefer one over the other. The Apple headphones have a more stable fit and are more compact and portable, making them easier to take on the go. However, the Sony are over-ears with a more comfortable fit. Their ANC system does a significantly better job of blocking out background noise, and the Sony have a longer total battery life. Their companion app also offers a graphic EQ and presets to help adjust their sound to your liking, and you can use them passively if you run out of battery life.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are better headphones than the Sony WH-1000XM2 Wireless. The WH-1000XM4 are more comfortable, their ANC can block out even more background noise, and their continuous battery life is longer, too. You can also pair them with up to two devices at a time.
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x are better for audio production than the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless. The Audio-Technica are wired headphones designed for recording and monitoring audio, but they aren't as good for commutes and travel as the Sony. The Sony headphones are better for multi-purpose use. You can use them via Bluetooth or a wired connection, and have a more comfortable, stable fit, onboard controls, and an integrated mic. They also have a very effective ANC feature.
The Sony WH-100XM4 Wireless are better than the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 Wireless. The Sony headphones are more comfortable, their ANC feature blocks out more ambient noise, and their integrated mic has a much better overall performance. They also work with companion software that gives you access to a graphic EQ and presets. However, the Bowers & Wilkins support aptX and aptX HD codecs.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are better over-ear headphones for most uses than the Beats Solo Pro Wireless. The Sony are more comfortable and their companion app offers a graphic EQ plus presets to help you adjust their sound to your liking. Their ANC also does a significantly better job of blocking out noise around you, and they have longer continuous battery life. However, the Beats have an H1 chip, which makes it easy to seamlessly pair them to your Apple devices.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are better than the Sony WH-H910N/h.ear on 3 Wireless. The XM4 are comfier, are better built, deliver audio more consistently, and have a far more effective ANC system. They also provide a similar overall battery life despite taking much less time to charge and can pair with two devices simultaneously. Meanwhile, the H910N have a less bass-heavy default sound profile, leak less audio, and have a better overall microphone performance.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless and Jabra Evolve2 85 Wireless have different strengths and weaknesses. The Sony are slightly better built, provide a more consistent listening experience, are more effective in blocking out ambient noise, and last longer on a single charge. The Jabra headphones' boom microphone provides superior recording quality and noise-handling capability. The Jabra headphones' physical control scheme is also easier to use and offers more functionality.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 are much better by most metrics than the Beats Solo3 2019 Wireless. With the Sony you get active noise cancelling, better connectivity with multi-device pairing, and LDAC codec support. Both are bassy headphones, but only the Sony have EQ in the capable app. They are discontinued, however, which can make it hard to find a pair. The Beats are on-ear headphones and do a poor job of blocking noise, and while you can connect them over Bluetooth or analog, they don't include a TRS cable. They have a W1 chip for seamless integration and device switching with Apple devices, but the app is very sparse.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are better than the Jabra Elite 85h Wireless. The Sony have much better build quality, and their ANC feature blocks out much more ambient sound. That said, the Jabra's integrated microphone has a much better recording quality, and the Jabra's onboard controls include a mute microphone button.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are better headphones than the Shure AONIC 50 Wireless. The Sony are more comfortable, have a significantly better noise isolation performance, have a longer continuous battery life, and support NFC pairing. However, the Shure have a companion app that offers a parametric EQ, which some users may prefer over the Sony's graphic EQ.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are better headphones than the Anker Soundcore Life Q30 Wireless. The Sony are more comfortable, feel better built, and have a better-balanced sound profile right out of the box. Plus, they have an auto-off timer to help conserve their battery life when not in use. That said, the Anker have a longer continuous battery life and a better full range noise isolation performance.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are better over-ears than the Anker Soundcore Life Q35 Wireless. The Sony are more comfortable and better built. They have a significantly better performing ANC and an auto-off timer to help conserve battery life when not in use. However, the Anker have a longer continuous battery life.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are better over-ears than the JBL Tour One Wireless. The Sony are more comfortable, are better built, and can deliver audio more consistently. They have a significantly better noise isolation performance.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless offer better noise cancelling than the Focal Bathys Wireless, especially with low-pitched noises like engine rumbles on buses. That said, the Focal still offer a great overall noise isolation performance. They also have more options like aptX Adaptive (or aptX, AAC, and SBC), analog, or USB-C to connect, while the Sony headphones connect via LDAC (or AAC and SBC) or analog. Your budget and preferred use will determine whether to go with one or the other, as they're pretty different headphones.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless and the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds Truly Wireless have different strengths, and you may prefer either, depending on your usage. The Sony are over-ears with a much better noise isolation performance and have a longer continuous battery life. They also support multi-device pairing, and you can use them wired with their included audio cable. On the other hand, the Bose are much more portable in-ears with a much more stable fit and an IPX4 rating for water resistance.
The SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless and the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are designed for different uses. The SteelSeries are wireless gaming headphones. They have a better overall performing boom mic, support Bluetooth, and support non-Bluetooth wireless. They also come with a transmitter which allows you to adjust more controls like channel mixing and audio sources on the fly. In contrast, the Sony are better suited for casual use. They're more comfortable, can be paired with up to two devices at a time, and have an ANC system that helps block out a lot of background noise.
The Razer Opus Wireless 2020 are better headphones for a balanced sound than the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless. The Razer's default sound profile is flatter than the Sony, though some listeners may prefer the Sony's more bass-heavy sound. The Razer headphones have a more stable fit, and they leak less noise. On the other hand, the Sony headphones have a somewhat better noise isolation performance, and their integrated mic performs better in noisier environments.
For most people, the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are better than the Sony ULT WEAR Wireless, though it depends on your needs. While both are bassy, the WH-1000XM4 are a bit more even in the mid-treble, which makes it easier to make out the details in your music. They're also capable of blocking more environmental noise. On the other hand, the ULT WEAR have a better microphone that handles noise better, alongside a few more hours of battery life.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are better than the Beats Studio Pro Wireless for most purposes. The Sony's ANC feature blocks out more noise across the entire range. They're more comfortable for most, have a longer battery life, and offer more robust sound customization features. However, the Beats support audio via USB-C, which lets you stream high-fidelity audio and use the headphones while charging.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are much better headphones than the Anker Soundcore Space One Wireless. The Sony are more premium headphones, showing in both their design and performance. They're more comfortable, are better built, and have a hard carrying case to help protect the headphones when not in use. They deliver sound more consistently too, and support a virtual soundstage to help make your audio sound more immersive. Their noise isolation performance is superior, too.
Both the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless and the Sonos Ace Wireless are top-of-the-line headphones. While both headphones have a premium build quality and first-class noise isolation performance, the Sony are a bit older but still offer good value as they're more customizable, thanks to their companion app, which has a graphic EQ and virtual soundstage at your fingertips. They also have a longer continuous battery life and can be used passively. They also support LDAC for high-quality audio via Bluetooth, although the Sonos have aptX Adaptive, aptX Lossless, plus USB audio support. That said, the Sonos are more comfortable and have a TV Audio Swap feature that you can use with compatible Sonos soundbars to receive audio from your soundbar. Some users have reported issues using the app, which can be a dealbreaker though.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are better than the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 Wireless for most purposes. They isolate you from much more noise, thanks to their ANC feature, and they're much more comfortable and well-built. On the other hand, the Audio-Technica headphones have a longer continuous battery life. Also, some may prefer their flatter sound profile to the Sony's bass-heavy sound, although both pairs have sound customization features in their apps.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are better headphones for casual use than the Razer Barracuda Pro Wireless. The Sony are more comfortable, are better built, have a better noise isolation performance, and support multi-device pairing with up to two devices at once. On the other hand, the Razer have a better-performing integrated mic. They also support Bluetooth and non-Bluetooth wireless, meaning you can connect them to your PlayStation or PC.
The Sony WF-1000XM3 Truly Wireless and the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless have different strengths, so you may prefer either. The WF-1000XM3 have an in-ear design that's more portable, have a more neutral default sound profile, which some users may prefer, and leak less audio at high volumes. However, the WH-1000XM4 are over-ear headphones with a better battery and noise isolation performance.
You may prefer the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless or the Apple AirPods (3rd generation) Truly Wireless, depending on the type of headphones you're looking for. The Sony are over-ear headphones with ANC and have a much better noise isolation performance. Their sound profile is more bass-heavy, which some may prefer, and their app has sound customization features. They also have a longer continuous battery life. On the other hand, the Apple are much more compact earbuds. Their case can fit in most pockets, and they have an open design that lets you hear your surroundings.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are slightly better headphones than the AKG N700NC M2 Wireless. The Sony are more comfortable, better built, and have a significantly better noise isolation performance. Their continuous battery life is longer, and their companion app offers more customization features. The AKG have a flatter default sound profile, which some users may prefer, and a better passive soundstage performance.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are better headphones than the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay Portal. The Sony are more comfortable and stable, and they have a better noise isolation performance. Their continuous battery life is also longer. However, if you're looking for gaming-oriented headphones, you may prefer the Bang & Olufsen. They support Xbox Wireless, and they offer full audio and microphone compatibility with Xbox and PlayStation consoles.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are better over-ears than the Razer Opus Wireless 2021. The Sony are more comfortable, have a significantly better noise isolation performance, and have a companion app offers a graphic EQ and presets to help you adjust their sound to your liking. They also support multi-device pairing, which is good if you want to stay connected to your PC and smartphone at the same time. However, the Razer have a more immersive passive soundstage performance.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are better headphones for casual use than the MOONDROP Aria. The Sony are wireless over-ears that are better built, have noise cancelling to help block out a significant amount of ambient noise, and have a companion app that allows you to customize their sound using their graphic EQ or presets. They also have an integrated mic, meaning you can take calls on the go, and they support multi-device pairing.
The Sennheiser PXC 550-II Wireless and the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless have different strengths, and you may prefer either one. The Sony headphones are more comfortable and better built, and their ANC system does a significantly better job blocking background noise. Their companion app also offers a graphic EQ and presets to help you adjust their sound to your liking. The Sennheiser headphones have a better overall performing integrated mic and a more stable and breathable fit.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are better headphones than the Razer Opus X Wireless. The Sony are better built and can block out significantly more ambient noise around you, and their companion app offers a graphic EQ so you can tweak their sound to your liking. They also support multi-device pairing and can be used wired.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless are more versatile headphones than the Drop + THX Panda Wireless. The Sony are more comfortable, are better built, and have a more bass-heavy sound profile, which some users may prefer. They also have a companion app and an active noise cancelling system that can block out a significant amount of noise, and their continuous battery life is longer. However, the Drop have a planar magnetic transducer, which some users may prefer.
Video
Test Results
The Sony WH-1000XM4 have a very similar design to their predecessor, the Sony WH-1000XM3 Wireless. These over-ears have a matte finish with the manufacturer's logo on the yokes in gold. They come in three different color variants: 'Black', 'Silver', and 'Midnight Blue', which is exclusive to Best Buy. The all-white colorway, 'Silent White', was only available in 2021 for Sony's 75th anniversary.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 are very comfortable headphones. The lightweight foam earpads don't put much pressure on your head, so you can wear them for a long time without feeling much fatigue. However, they are shallower in profile than the Bose QuietComfort 45/QC45 Wireless, which can present discomfort if you have larger ears, as your ears may rub against the driver housing.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 have good controls. They have a touch-sensitive surface on the right ear cup and two physical buttons on the left ear cup. The 'Custom' button on the left ear cup controls the noise cancelling feature by default but can also be configured via the app to activate a Speak-to-Chat function. It pauses your audio and lets in ambient sound as soon as you start talking. Note that the ANC turns off by default when you're on a call, and the headphones enter 'Talk-Through' mode. Luckily, you can cycle back to ANC by pressing the custom button.
Their touch-sensitive surface is very similar to the Sony WH-1000XM3 Wireless. It's somewhat easy to register accidental inputs to the touch controls when readjusting the headphones, though. Also, the controls feature more voice prompts than the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless, making them a better option for users looking for a more interactive experience.
On the left ear cup:
Power button:
- Press and hold: Turns headphones on or off. If you continue to hold this button past turning the headphones on, you'll enter Bluetooth pairing mode.
Custom button:
- One press: Cycles between ANC on, talk-through mode, letting you better hear your surroundings without taking off the headphones, and ANC off. You can remap this control via the companion app to activate Alexa or Google Assistant.
The touch-sensitive surface on the right ear cup:
- Double tap: Plays and pauses audio. Also answers and ends a call.
- Swipe forward: Skips to the next track.
- Swipe forward and hold: Fast forwards through your track.
- Swipe backward: Skips to the previous track.
- Swipe backward and hold: Backtracks through your track.
- Swipe up: Turns the volume up incrementally.
- Swipe down: Turns the volume down incrementally.
- Cover the ear cup with your palm: Enters talk-through mode.
They aren't very breathable. They're fine for casual use, but their over-ear design traps heat around your ears. If you wear them to the gym, you'll likely sweat more.
These over-ears aren't the most portable. They're the same size as the Sony WH-1000XM3 Wireless, and like most over-ears, they have a bulky design. Fortunately, unlike the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless, you can fold these headphones to take up less space in your bag.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 come with a great hard carrying case. It comes in the same color as your unit, which is a nice touch. The case can help protect them from scratches, falls, and water damage. It's also much more compact than that of the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless, making it a better option for users on the go.
Their build quality is great. Their look and feel are very similar to the Sony WH-1000XM3 Wireless. Their build is mostly made of high-quality plastic that feels sturdier and more durable than their successor, the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless. While the headband is flexible, the combined yoke and hinge element seems prone to cracking over time.
They're decently stable. If you're listening to music at your desk or if you wear them to the grocery store, they'll stay on your head. However, they aren't ideal to wear to the gym or while exercising since high-intensity movements make them move around on your head.
- Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones
- 1/8" TRS cable
- USB-C to USB-A charging cable
- Airplane adapter
- Manuals
- Carrying case
Their bass-heavy sound brings more thump and punch to your mixes. It's great for genres like EDM and hip-hop, which already have a lot of bass mixed in. Those who prefer a more balanced sound may find them muddy and cluttered. You can switch up their performance to your liking using the graphic EQ and presets in their companion app, though it's not easy to adjust for the emphasis in the high-bass to the low-mid since the adjustment bands start at 400Hz. These headphones sound a little different with ANC turned on or off.
These headphones have great frequency response consistency. The bass range is very consistent across different users, possibly because their noise cancelling feature seems to check for bass consistency. However, their fit and positioning on your head can lead to some inconsistencies in the high-mid to the treble range. Once you get a good fit, you'll achieve a more consistent sound each time you use them.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 have good bass compliance. The response is boosted, resulting in an intense thump, punch, and boom that's suitable for genres like EDM and hip-hop. In songs like 'King Kunta' by Kendrick Lamar, the boosted low-bass makes the mix overly rumbly and boomy, which muddies the vocals in the chorus.
The mid-range target compliance is great. The response is pretty neutral and well-balanced across the range, so vocals and lead instruments are clear, accurate, and present. However, a small bump from the boost in the bass range continues in the low-mids, making your mix sound less clear overall. We also noticed a minor mismatch between the left and right drivers, which can also be seen in imaging. However, this may be unique to our unit, and yours may perform differently.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 have decent treble compliance. A slight under-emphasis in the low-treble can make vocals sound a touch distant at times, but there's enough mid-treble present that this isn't really an issue: voices have plenty of detail and presence. That said, the mid-treble is inconsistent, so sibilants can sound alternately dull or piercing depending on their pitch.
These headphones have very good peaks and dips performance, indicating they control their sound profile well. The bass and low-mids are virtually flat, but from the upper-mids on up, the sound is less consistent. Voices can sound distant or present depending on the notes sung. This is most noticeable in the mid-treble region, where sibilants and cymbals are rendered dull or piercing depending on their pitch.
Their imaging performance is excellent. Sony has demonstrated outstanding consistency in the quality control of their high-end audio products, and our unit is fairly consistent. The group delay falls mostly below the audibility threshold, resulting in tight bass and transparent treble reproduction. Our unit's L/R drivers are well-matched in amplitude, frequency, and phase response, so objects like footsteps and instruments are accurately placed in the stereo image. That said, a minor mismatch in the drivers' phase response in the mid-mid range makes regular content like music skew slightly left. A peak in the low-bass is also present but won't be audible in most uses. Imaging varies between units, though.
As expected with closed-back headphones, their stereo soundstage is poor. It's perceived as small and as if sound is coming from inside your head rather than from speakers placed in the room around you. Their soundstage won't seem as open or spacious as that of open-back headphones like the Philips Fidelio X2HR.
These headphones support 360 Reality Audio, which can improve audio quality. It offers a feature that analyzes your unique ear shape to create a more spacious sound. However, you need to subscribe to services like Tidal or Nugs.net and use compatible audio files, which limits the feature's practicality.
Additionally, you can buy a WLA-NS7 transmitter if you want to connect the headphones to compatible Sony BRAVIA TVs. While the experience is immersive compared to Bluetooth, the sound profile falls flat of a home theater system, feeling lackluster with the Quality Limiter turned on or off.
These headphones have a good weighted harmonic distribution performance. While there's a peak in the high-treble range at normal volumes, it's very hard to hear with real-life content, especially as we lose sensitivity to this region over time. Most frequencies fall within good limits, resulting in a clear and pure audio reproduction.
These are the test settings we used with these headphones. Our results are only valid with these settings.
These headphones have a fantastic full-range noise isolation performance. Their ANC performs slightly better in the bass range than their successor, the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless, which helps to further block out sounds like the low rumble of bus engines. The ANC can also cut down mid-range noise like voices and higher-pitched noise like the hum of an AC unit. If you want to make a call while using the ANC, the headphones go into 'Talk-Through' mode by default, letting you better hear your surroundings. You can cycle back to ANC mode (or turn 'Talk-Through' off) by pressing the custom button on the left ear cup.
Unfortunately, some users have reported issues with the ANC system producing a high-pitched noise from one driver, which is quite unpleasant. Although we didn't experience this with our unit, please let us know in the forums if you've encountered this issue.
When it comes to more dynamic environments, these headphones also deliver a fantastic noise isolation performance. They can reduce a lot of rumbly airplane noise, which is handy when traveling. They offer similar isolation when it comes to typical office sounds and a slight improvement when it comes to the ambient hum of traffic on a busy street.
If you're walking outdoors, chances are you'll encounter wind noise. It's unwanted sound produced by the ANC system; wind interacts with its microphones, so the ANC tries to cancel this sound out by playing anti-noise. However, this wind sound doesn't really reach your ear. What you're left with is the sound of anti-noise. Unfortunately, these headphones lack a wind reduction feature to help cut down some of this sound, so if it's a windy day, you'll hear a lot of noise when the ANC is on.
They have a satisfactory leakage performance. Leakage is most notable in the mid range and sounds full-bodied. If you listen to audio at high volumes, others will hear parts of your audio. However, the average amount of noise in an office setting is loud enough to help drown out most of your escaping audio.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 have an integrated microphone. If you're looking for wireless over-ear headphones with a boom microphone, consider the Jabra Evolve2 85 Wireless.
The Sony WH-1000XM4's mic has a passable recording quality. Your voice sounds thin, muffled, and lacking in detail to whoever is on the other end of the line.
Note: Our recording file lags and skips in a few areas. It's a known bug in our testing process. We don't know what causes the lag, but we don't expect users to encounter this issue.
The microphone has a disappointing noise handling performance. Loud sounds like a busy street or a train pulling into the station can drown out your voice, so you won't be heard clearly. If you need to take an important call, it's best to do so in a quiet environment like home.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 have excellent battery performance. The manufacturer advertises them to last 30 hours continuously with their ANC on. Still, we measured over 37 hours, which is longer than the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless and will easily last through long trips without needing a recharge. That said, it's worth noting that battery life varies depending on your usage and active features like the ANC or mic can drain the battery quicker. If you're worried about battery life, the headphones have an auto-off timer to conserve battery life if you forget to turn them off, as well as a smart pause feature, which automatically pauses your audio if you remove the headphones from your head. You can even use them passively via their 1/8" TRS cable, but you won't be able to use their mic.
The Sony | Headphones Connect app offers lots of additional features. For example, you can customize the sound with the graphic EQ and presets. Also, the app lets you adjust the auto-off timer, remap the control, and see which devices you have connected to the headphones at a given time. You can access other features like Smart-Pause, which automatically pauses your audio when you take the headphones off your head, and Sony's 360 Reality Audio feature.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 come with a 1/8" TRS cable, which allows you to use the headphones passively and receive audio. While this connection doesn't support mic audio, it has negligible latency, so your audio and visuals stay in sync if you're watching videos.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 have excellent Bluetooth connectivity. They support Bluetooth 5.0 and are NFC-compatible, making them easy to pair with Android devices. Unlike the Sony WH-1000XM3 Wireless, they can pair with up to two devices simultaneously, which is convenient. Unfortunately, they have high latency on PCs via SBC. As a result, this codec isn't the best choice for gaming or watching movies on your computer, though some apps and devices compensate for latency.
These headphones also support Sony's proprietary hi-res codec, LDAC, which offers better audio quality over Bluetooth. They have high latency via this codec, which is expected for streaming higher-quality audio. However, this won't be much of an issue if you only stream music. If you're looking for a pair of noise cancelling headphones with an H1 chip to seamlessly pair with Apple devices, consider the Apple AirPods Max Wireless.
You can use the Sony WH-1000XM4 wirelessly with Bluetooth-enabled PCs. You can also use them via an analog connection, but they can only receive audio, so you can't use their mic.
These headphones can only receive audio when you wire their 1/8" TRS cable into your PS4 or PS5 controller's audio jack.
You can plug these headphones into your Xbox One or Xbox Series X|S controller using an audio cable, but you can only receive audio and can't use the microphone.