Our Verdict
Okay for neutral sound. The Sony WI-1000XM2 have both recessed bass and treble, making notes in both ranges dull and veiled. While good for casual use, fans of neutral sound might not like the lifeless sound profile. However, if this isn't to your liking, you can customize this sound profile using the companion app's graphic EQ.
- Flexible silicone neckband.
- In-line remote.
- Several differently sized silicone and foam tip options.
- Lower battery life than previous model.
Good for commuting and travel. The Sony WI-1000XM2 cut out a lot of bass noise including bus and train engines. However, these earbuds aren't the most comfortable and can fall out. These headphones also reduce the noise of low rumbling engines like buses or trains. If you forget to charge your headphones, you can use also them passively with the included audio cable.
- Flexible silicone neckband.
- In-line remote.
- Several differently sized silicone and foam tip options.
- Lower battery life than previous model.
Good for sports and fitness. The Sony WI-1000XM2's silicone neckband is stable enough to be kept around the neck, although the earbuds tend to fall out if you tend to shake your head back and forth. They also don't have an IP rating so they might not be the best option for more intense activity.
- Flexible silicone neckband.
- In-line remote.
- Several differently sized silicone and foam tip options.
- Lower battery life than previous model.
Alright for office use. The Sony WI-1000XM2's earbuds aren't the most comfortable, and although they come with several differently sized tips, you might not be able to wear them in all day. Their noise cancelling will be good for an office setting though and others around you shouldn't be disturbed if you crank up your music. The battery life is also okay - it should get you through the work day but you might need to charge them on your break.
- Flexible silicone neckband.
- In-line remote.
- Several differently sized silicone and foam tip options.
- Lower battery life than previous model.
Disappointing for wireless gaming. The Sony WI-1000XM2 are Bluetooth headphones that can't be used wirelessly on either the PS4 or Xbox One. While they can be used on PC via Bluetooth, these headphones aren't recommended for gaming due to their high latency and mediocre microphone.
Alright for wired gaming. While the Sony WI-1000XM2 can be used wired for gaming, their microphone won't work, so you'll only get audio through the headphones. This probably isn't the best choice if you like playing co-op games with others.
- Flexible silicone neckband.
- In-line remote.
- Several differently sized silicone and foam tip options.
- Lower battery life than previous model.
Satisfactory for phone calls. You'll be able to take calls using the Sony WI-1000XM2 and still be heard clearly on the other end. However, this microphone doesn't perform as well in loud environments, so you probably shouldn't make calls in a subway station.
- Flexible silicone neckband.
- In-line remote.
- Several differently sized silicone and foam tip options.
- Lower battery life than previous model.
Changelog
- Updated Feb 04, 2022: Added 360 Reality Audio to Virtual Soundstage.
- Updated Nov 11, 2021: Converted to Test Bench 1.5.
- Updated Mar 06, 2020: Review published.
- Updated Mar 03, 2020: Early access published.
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Popular Headphones Comparisons
The Sony WI-1000XM2 are the upgraded version of the WI-1000X. They've got a sleek silicone neckband and a nice fabric-clad hard case. While their sound profile and noise cancelling isn't particularly special or outstanding, their design is good for those who prefer the neckband design. Check out our recommendations for the best headphones and the best neckband headphones.
The Jabra Elite 65e Wireless are better headphones than the Sony WI-1000XM2 Wireless. While the Sony have a solid silicone neckband compared to the Jabra's hard plastic design, the Jabra are more stable, making them a better choice for sports. The Jabra also produce more low bass than the Sonys, which is good if you like more thump and rumble in your audio. However, Sony's companion app offers more sound customization.
The Bose QuietComfort 35 II/QC35 II Wireless 2018 are slightly better headphones than the Sony WI-1000XM2 Wireless in-ears. The Bose have much better active noise cancelling, are more comfortable, and have a slightly better-balanced sound profile with more bass. On the other hand, the Sony have better controls and a better companion app that gives you access to a graphic EQ as well as presets.
The Sony WI-1000X Wireless are the predecessors of the WI-1000XM2 Wireless. While similar, the battery life of the 1000MX2 isn't as long lasting, even if it charges quicker. The sound profile is also less refined in the newer generation, making it less suitable for those looking for a more neutral sound.
The Sony WI-C600N Wireless are similarly performing headphones to the Sony WI-1000XM2 Wireless. While the WI-1000XM2 improved on battery life, their sound profile isn't as neutral as the WI-C600N. The in-line controls on the WI-1000XM2 are also a nice improvement over the on-neckband controls of the WI-C600N.
Our How We Test Headphones article takes you behind the scenes in our lab. You'll learn how we choose and purchase products and dive into the details of our review philosophy, from testing and scoring to writing and editing.
You can also discover how we produce recommendations like this one so that you can find the best headphones (or earbuds!) for your needs.
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