Sony WH-1000XM6 vs WH-1000XM4: Worth Upgrading?

We may earn compensation from reviewed products. Learn about our editorial policies.

Need-to-knows

• XM6 has noticeably improved noise-cancelling, but the XM4 are still excellent
• Both headphones have brilliant sound quality, marginally better in XM6
• XM6 are slightly more comfy
• Upgrade if you have the money, but there’s no rush; the XM4 are still great

Sony’s WH-1000XM4 headphones were instant classics when they were first released in 2021 and have remained a beloved set of cans ever since. This status was only bolstered when their predecessors, the WH-1000XM5, came out to a mixed reception due to what was objectively worse audio quality and the removal of the folding mechanism.

Of course! Here’s each internal link formatted as a separate quote box, ready for WordPress:

Let me know if you want them grouped differently or styled for a specific WordPress block type like “Callout” or “Highlight.”

Check out Mark’s Sony WH-1000XM6 Review!

But now we have the WH-1000XM6, which has reversed the wrongs of the XM5 and made some noticeable improvements to noise cancelling and the audio quality. The question is, though, are these improvements significant enough to justify upgrading from the XM4 to the XM6? Especially now that the price has risen for the latter.

This article will answer all those questions, comparing sound quality, noise cancelling, comfort and more to determine which pair of headphones is right for you. Let’s get started!

Best Deals

Quick Comparison

Noise Cancellation

WH-1000XM4:

• QN1 Noise Cancelling Processor
• 4 microphones for ANC

WH-1000XM6:

• Advanced Noise Cancelling Processor QN3 (new)
• Integrated V2 audio processor
• 12 microphones for ANC

The XM4 set a high bar for ANC, in fact they remain some of the best noise-cancelling headphones out there, even when compared to new releases from other brands. Sony has the formula locked down. In truth, if you bought the XM4 now, you would be very satisfied with the noise-cancelling.

However, when compared side-by-side, the XM6 are noticeably better at shutting sound out from the world around you. It is particularly noticeable in noisier environments like underground trains or cafes. The XM4 also has a very minor audible hiss, which you sometimes get with noise-cancelling headphones, but this has been entirely eliminated in the XM6.

More help: Sony WH-1000XM6 vs WH-1000XM5

And this isn’t a huge surprise. With three times as many microphones, the XM6 has more hardware to deliver more precise real-time noise filtering across a larger range of frequencies. The new QN3 chip inside the XM6 also processes noise cancellation faster and more intelligently, adapting to environmental changes with less lag.

Verdict: XM6 offers industry-leading ANC with faster response and broader frequency suppression. XM4 are still excellent at noise cancellation, but feel a step behind the XM6 now.

Sound Quality

WH-1000XM4:

• 40mm drivers
• Frequency Response: 4Hz–40,000Hz (wired, Hi-Res)
• SBC, AAC, LDAC codec support

WH-1000XM6:

• Newly developed 40mm driver unit with carbon fibre composite dome
• Frequency Response: 4Hz–40,000Hz (wired, Hi-Res)
• SBC, AAC, LDAC, LE Audio (LC3) ready

This is probably where the two generations of Sony WH-1000X headphones remain closest, even after five years of development. What I will say is that the XM6 do sound better than the XM4, which wasn’t totally nailed on after the unconvincing audio quality on the XM5. But it isn’t as noticeable as the ANC.

Even now, the WH-1000XM4 sound incredibly good. All frequencies feel expertly balanced and the mids are dealt with especially well. Right out of the box, the XM4 give you everything you need in terms of audio quality, unless you are the pickiest of audiophiles. Honestly, if you want some of the best-sounding headphones out there for not much money, the XM4 are still a great option.

But, once again, when compared side-by-side, the XM6 have definitively better sound quality. Like the XM4, the audio is well-balanced but there has been a noticeable increase in the bassier frequencies with the XM6 which is very welcome, giving everything a much warmer, full-bodied profile.

Related: Sony WH-1000XM5 Review

The drivers are the same size in the XM6 but have been entirely redesigned with a carbon fibre dome which, if we’re getting technical for a minute, offers more rigidity and therefore less distortion. And it shows. The XM6 are crystal clear throughout, including at higher frequency ranges.

The XM6 are also LE Audio ready, supporting LC3 codec (when available), meaning you get more efficient transmission and better latency when listening to tracks via Bluetooth. And if that sentence was gibberish to you, then you can discount it from your buying decision!

Verdict: XM6 refines an already excellent sound signature with more detail and refined bass.

Design and Comfort

WH-1000XM4:

• Foldable design
• Weight: 251g
• Earcups: PU leather, non-replaceable

WH-1000XM6:

• Foldable design (restored from XM5’s rigid frame)
• Weight: 254g
• Earcups: Softer memory foam, replaceable
• Slightly wider headband with more padding

The XM4 weigh three grams less than the XM6 but both models feel very light on the head, even over long period of wear. Sony says they have increased the clamping force with the XM6 to aid with noise-cancelling but you really don’t notice it all. The XM6 are as comfy as the WH-1000XM series has ever been. Obviously, comfort levels are different for all head shapes and sizes, but you could buy either of these headphones and be happy.

One minor difference between the two is the new earpads on the XM6 which are noticeably larger, softer, and more breathable. The earcups are also user-replaceable which is a massive boost for durability.

More help: Sony XM4 vs XM5

The return of the folding mechanism in the XM6 (which was removed from the XM5 for some terrible reason) means both models are equally as portable with cases that are virtually the same size. Whilst we’re on the topic of cases, the XM6 wins hands down thanks to a nifty new magnetic closing mechanism that does away with a zip.

Verdict: Not much difference here but the XM6 are slightly more comfortable and elegantly designed.

Battery Life

Identical on both models:

• Up to 30 hours with ANC on
• Up to 40 hours with ANC off
• 3-minute charge = 3 hours playback (Quick Charge via USB-C)

No gains here, but that’s fine, 30 hours with ANC is excellent. Both support fast charging via USB-C, and neither offers lossless audio over the same USB-C connection (you’ll still need a 3.5mm cable for that).

Verdict: Draw. Both offer strong endurance and fast top-ups.

Connectivity & Features

WH-1000XM4:

• Bluetooth 5.0
• Multipoint support (2 devices)
• Touch controls and buttons
• Speak-to-chat, Adaptive Sound Control

WH-1000XM6:

• Bluetooth 5.3
• Multipoint support
• Improved touch response and head detection
• Touch controls and some buttons
• LE Audio ready (LC3 codec support)
• Listen while charging via Bluetooth

The XM6 improves on connectivity with Bluetooth 5.3, giving it better range, reliability, and lower power consumption. The headphone sensors (which controls auto-pause and wear detection) are more responsive and the XM6 also supports listening while charging, a welcome feature missing from the XM4.

The XM4 includes most core features, but is based on older, still serviceable, wireless tech. If you don’t need LE Audio or improved multipoint, it still delivers a full-featured experience.

Compare: Beats Studio Pro vs Sony WH-1000XM5

The only other thing to mention is that the XM6 has a redesigned power button which is recessed and slightly easier to find with your finger. Both headphones mainly use touch controls which are an acquired taste, but you get used to them.

Verdict: XM6 is more future-proof, especially as new audio codecs and streaming technologies become mainstream.

Price & Value

WH-1000XM4:

• Launch price: $349/£349
• Current price at time of writing: ~$230/£200

WH-1000XM6:

• Launch price: $449/£399

If you’ve just read all of that and decided that you really would prefer the XM6, then here is the kicker; it costs $449/£399 (at the time of writing). That is a lot for a pair of non-studio consumer headphones. For context, the Sonos Ace released for $400 and they were deemed expensive. Neither reach the AirPods Max’s ludicrous price tag though.

Are the XM6 worht it? Our verdict is that yes they are because you get such excellent quality across the board from build quality to noise cancelling and audio. Does that mean you need to spend that money to get a great pair of headphones? No way.

It is an entirely personal choice based on your budget and willingness to spend but if you don’t have the money for the XM6, then the XM4 are amazing value at around $200/£200. They may be a few years old now but they still knock it out of the park in every area.

Related: Sony WH-1000XM5 vs AirPods Max

Should you upgrade from the XM4 to the XM6? If you have the funds then definitely. The XM6 are that good. But if you still love your XM4 then there’s is no rush at all to buy the XM6 right now. Waiting a year for a price drop is a good strategy.

Verdict: XM4 wins on pure value. XM6 is for those who want the absolute best and are willing to pay for it.

Final Recommendation

Buy the WH-1000XM6 if:

• You want class-leading ANC and improved sound quality
• You listen for long hours and care about comfort
• You want to future-proof your purchase with LE Audio and Bluetooth 5.3
• You’re fine paying $200+ more for premium refinements

Buy the WH-1000XM4 if:

• You want 90% of the performance for nearly half the price
• You value portability, great sound, and solid ANC
• You don’t need the absolute latest features or LE Audio

The Bottom Line

The WH-1000XM6 is the best headphone Sony has made to date. It tops our list of the best headphones you can buy for a reason. It’s refined, smart, and ultra-capable. But the WH-1000XM4 still holds up incredibly well, and now offers the best value in Sony’s lineup by far at a hugely discounted price.

If you’re upgrading from the XM4, the gains are evolutionary, not revolutionary. The XM6 offer a noticeably better experience, but it is pretty small (albeit worth paying for if you can). But if you’re buying new and want the best, the XM6 deliver on all fronts.

Have questions, or still rocking your XM4s with pride? Let me know what you’re listening to—I always love a good headphone chat.