Headsets and headphones / Compare

Sennheiser HD 550 vs Sony WH-1000XM3

A

Product A: Sennheiser

HD 550

51 of 161 known

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B

Product B: Sony

WH-1000XM3

72 of 161 known

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Every value links to where we found it.

Only differences

ASennheiser HD 550

BSony WH-1000XM3

General

6 of 8 differ

Series

HD 5001Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026Page 2 identifies HD 500 series.

1000X2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3Read 11 October 2026Sony Japan lists it in the 1000X headphone range as WH-1000XM3.

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

HD 550, 7004551Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026

WH-1000XM32Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3Read 11 October 2026Page title and product name WH-1000XM3. Colors are sold as (B) and (S) variants of the same model.

GTIN / EAN

4260752333498, 8100912735861Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026Page 3 Technical Data. Maker V02 EN, February 17 2025, mirrored by Geizhals.

Not available

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

19 March 20252Press releasecdn.uc.assets.prezly.com/125ff0a6-9592-4c48-be8d-28f7b3273ca5/-/inline/no/Press_Release_Sennheiser_HD_550_EN.pdfRead 23 October 2026

30 August 20185Press article9to5google.com/2018/08/30/sony-wh-1000xm3s-go-on-sale-at-amazon-today-for-349-from-other-retailers-sept-4Read 11 October 2026Article dated 30 August 2018: Amazon starts sales that day.

Status

Available3Maker product pageus.sennheiser-hearing.com/products/hd-550Read 23 October 2026

Discontinued2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3Read 11 October 2026The page marks the product as production ended (Japanese: 生産完了) and says Sony Store sales have ended.

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Not available

Not available

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Not available

Sony WH-1000XM48Reviewwhathifi.com/news/sony-wh-1000xm4-wireless-headphones-officially-unveiledRead 23 October 2026What Hi-Fi says the WH-1000XM4 replace the WH-1000XM3 and calls the XM3 their predecessor.

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

$299.952Press releasecdn.uc.assets.prezly.com/125ff0a6-9592-4c48-be8d-28f7b3273ca5/-/inline/no/Press_Release_Sennheiser_HD_550_EN.pdfRead 23 October 2026Page 3 launch MSRP $299.95 USD before tax.

$349.994Press articletechradar.com/news/sonys-wh-1000xm3-turns-your-crowded-commute-into-a-silent-retreatRead 11 October 2026Will be available starting in September for $349.99.

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

€299.92Press releasecdn.uc.assets.prezly.com/125ff0a6-9592-4c48-be8d-28f7b3273ca5/-/inline/no/Press_Release_Sennheiser_HD_550_EN.pdfRead 23 October 2026Page 3 launch MSRP EUR 299.90, including VAT as published.

€3796Press articleclubic.com/salon-informatique-tic/ifa/actualite-845173-sony-casque-phare-wh-1000xm3.htmlRead 11 October 2026Clubic France says the WH-1000XM3 will be on sale in mid-September for 379 euros. The source gives whole euros. Tax treatment is not stated.

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

Not available

Not available

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Black7Reviewtechradar.com/gaming/sennheiser-hd-550-reviewRead 23 October 2026Design describes black finish.

Black, Platinum Silver2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3Read 11 October 2026Colors: (B) Black and (S) Platinum Silver.5Press article9to5google.com/2018/08/30/sony-wh-1000xm3s-go-on-sale-at-amazon-today-for-349-from-other-retailers-sept-4Read 11 October 2026Black and Silver listings.

Segment

Music3Maker product pageus.sennheiser-hearing.com/products/hd-550Read 23 October 2026Maker categorizes these as audiophile headphones for critical music listening.

Music2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3Read 11 October 2026Sold as wireless noise canceling stereo headset for music listening.

Design

2 of 7 differ

Form factor

Over-ear4Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026Page 3 technical specifications: wired headband, over-ear circumaural, open-back.

Over-ear3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026Over-ear closed headset with ear cups around the ears (location and function of parts).

Ear cup enclosureiClosed, open or semi-open acoustic enclosure. This does not describe how the headset folds.

Open4Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026

Closed1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3/spec.htmlRead 11 October 2026Type: closed, dynamic (Japanese: 密閉, ダイナミック).

Wearing style

Headband4Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026

Headband3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026Headband with sliders to adjust the headband length.

FoldingiFlat means the ear cups rotate flat. Inward means the ear cups fold toward the headband.

None11Measurementdiyaudioheaven.wordpress.com/measurements/brands-s-se/hd550Read 23 October 2026Specifications explicitly says collapsible No.

Flat and inward2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3Read 11 October 2026Swivel and folding structure for carrying (Japanese: スイーベル＆折りたたみ構造). The help guide says to fold the headset into the carrying case.3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026Fold the headset and put it in the supplied carrying case.

Swivelling ear cupsiEar cups can rotate relative to the headband. Tilting alone does not count.

Yes11Measurementdiyaudioheaven.wordpress.com/measurements/brands-s-se/hd550Read 23 October 2026Build description distinguishes sideways swivel from limited vertical tilt.

Yes2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3Read 11 October 2026Swivel and folding structure for carrying.

RGB lighting

Not available

Not available

Lighting zonesiNumber of independently controllable lighting areas across both ear cups.

Not available

Not available

Drivers and sound

10 of 20 differ

Driver type

Dynamic5Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026

Dynamic1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3/spec.htmlRead 11 October 2026Type: closed, dynamic.

Driver sizeiDiameter of the largest sound driver. Do not use the microphone capsule diameter.

38mm6Press releasecdn.uc.assets.prezly.com/125ff0a6-9592-4c48-be8d-28f7b3273ca5/-/inline/no/Press_Release_Sennheiser_HD_550_EN.pdfRead 23 October 2026Page 1 custom 38 mm transducer.

40mm1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3/spec.htmlRead 11 October 2026Driver unit: 40 mm dome type with a CCAW voice coil.

Drivers per sideiNumber of sound-producing transducers in one side, excluding microphones.

Not available

Not available

Diaphragm material

Laminate plastic foil7Reviewtechradar.com/gaming/sennheiser-hd-550-reviewRead 23 October 2026Design and features quotes maker on diaphragm construction.

Aluminum-coated LCP2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3Read 11 October 2026Specially designed 40 mm HD driver unit with an aluminum-coated LCP diaphragm.

Magnet

Not available

Neodymium1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3/spec.htmlRead 11 October 2026Magnet: neodymium (Japanese: ネオジウム).

Frequency response (wired or passive)iPublished acoustic range for wired listening, or the maker’s single range when no mode is distinguished. Power state and test standard belong in the source note.

Min6 HzMax39.5 kHz5Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026

Min4 HzMax40 kHz1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3/spec.htmlRead 11 October 2026Playback frequency band 4 Hz - 40,000 Hz (JEITA).

Wireless audio transmission bandiFrequency range of audio transmitted over the wireless connection, not the acoustic response of the driver. Codec, sampling rate and bitrate conditions belong in the source note. When the maker gives a range per codec, the widest range is stored and its codec goes in the source note.

Not available

Min20 HzMax40 kHz1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3/spec.htmlRead 11 October 2026Transmission band (A2DP): 20 Hz - 20,000 Hz at 44.1 kHz sampling, 20 Hz - 40,000 Hz with LDAC at 96 kHz sampling and 990 kbps. The wide value is stored.

Impedance (passive when specified)iUse the headset-off value for a passive analog connection when the maker publishes both powered and passive values. Note the power state and test frequency.

150Ω5Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026

16Ω1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3/spec.htmlRead 11 October 202647 ohm with wired connection, power on, at 1 kHz. 16 ohm with wired connection, power off, at 1 kHz. The power-off value is stored.

Sensitivity (passive when specified)iUse the headset-off figure when both powered and passive values exist. The power or voltage reference, test distance and frequency belong in the source note.

106.7dB5Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026Page 3: 106.7 dB SPL at 1 kHz / 1 Vrms.

101dB1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3/spec.htmlRead 11 October 2026104.5 dB/mW wired with power on and 101 dB/mW wired with power off, at 1 kHz. The power-off value is stored.

Sensitivity referenceiPublished power or voltage reference for sensitivity. Do not assume 1 mW when the source gives only a dB value.

Per 1 V5Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026

Per 1 mW1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3/spec.htmlRead 11 October 2026Maker states the level per mW.

THD (claimed)iPublished distortion figure or numerical upper bound. The source note states any less-than sign and test level.

0.2%5Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026Page 3: less than 0.2% at 1 kHz / 90 dB SPL. Stored upper bound.

Not available

Max input power

Not available

Not available

Max digital audio sample rateiHighest supported digital audio sample rate over a USB cable or wireless dongle. This is not the microphone rate or acoustic frequency response.

Not available

Not available

Max digital audio bit depthiHighest published digital playback bit depth over a USB cable or wireless dongle.

Not available

Not available

DAC

Not available

Not available

Personalised soundiA manufacturer-supported hearing test or ear scan creates a device sound profile tailored to the listener. Generic equalizer adjustments do not count.

Not available

Not available

Onboard EQiCustom playback EQ profiles stored in the headset and applied without the host app running. Note supported active connections. Receiver-only or software-only EQ does not count.

No12Maker product pageus.sennheiser-hearing.com/products/hd-550Read 23 October 2026Maker explicitly describes a direct analog signal path with no electronics. No powered noise cancellation, digital USB audio or stored electronic equalizer.

Not available

Custom EQ bandsiNumber of bands in the custom playback equalizer. Microphone EQ bands are excluded.

Not available

Not available

EQ presets

Not available

Not available

Volume limit

Not available

Not available

Spatial audio

1 of 3 differ

Spatial audio supportiNamed headset or host spatial-audio systems that the maker or reviewer explicitly supports. A platform feature may require compatible hardware, software or a separate licence.

Not available

Surround (VPT)3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026App sound effect mode: Surround (VPT).

Spatial audio licence includediA paid spatial-audio licence is bundled or embedded. Compatibility with a separately purchased app does not count.

Not available

Not available

Head tracking

Not available

Not available

Noise cancelling

5 of 10 differ

Active noise cancelling

No12Maker product pageus.sennheiser-hearing.com/products/hd-550Read 23 October 2026Maker explicitly describes a direct analog signal path with no electronics. No powered noise cancellation, digital USB audio or stored electronic equalizer.

Yes3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026Noise canceling function with NC/AMBIENT button, NC Optimizer and Ambient Sound Mode.

ANC typeiFeedforward uses outside microphones. Feedback uses inside microphones. Hybrid uses both. Voice-call noise filtering is separate.

Not available

Hybrid3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026Parts list names a microphone (external) and a microphone (internal) for the noise canceling function. Both outside and inside microphones are used, so ANC is stored as hybrid.

ANC microphonesiTotal microphones used for active playback noise cancellation across both sides. Do not substitute the total physical or voice microphone count.

Not available

Not available

Adaptive ANCiNoise cancellation automatically changes with the environment or fit. Manually choosing a level does not count.

Not available

Yes2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3Read 11 October 2026Adaptive Sound Control detects behavior and place and uses AI to switch to the best mode automatically. The NC Optimizer also tunes cancellation to the wearer.3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026Adaptive Sound Control in the app switches modes automatically by behavior recognition. NC Optimizer optimizes the noise canceling to suit the wearer.

ANC levelsiNumber of adjustable cancellation strength steps. Off and transparency modes are excluded.

Not available

Not available

ANC attenuation (claimed)

Not available

Not available

Transparency mode

Not available

Yes3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026Ambient Sound Mode and Quick Attention Mode.

Adjustable transparency

Not available

Yes2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3Read 11 October 2026Ambient sound control lets you adjust how much noise canceling and ambient sound is applied.3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026The app adjusts the noise canceling function and Ambient Sound Mode (ambient sound control).

Conversation detectioniAudio pauses or lowers automatically when the wearer speaks. Voice assistant activation does not count.

Not available

Not available

Wind noise reduction

Not available

Not available

Measured

2 of 21 differ

Frequency response notesiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Bass rolls off gently below 25 Hz. The response stays within 3 dB from 25 Hz to 2 kHz. Treble has a peak near 13 kHz.11Measurementdiyaudioheaven.wordpress.com/measurements/brands-s-se/hd550Read 23 October 2026Flatbed rig with good seal, no smoothing. Reviewer applies microphone and low-frequency correction. Measurements published July 11 2025. Actual fit can differ.

Not available

Bass amountiReviewer’s bass deviation from its stated target. Positive is more bass. Target and test method belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Treble amountiReviewer’s treble deviation from its stated target. Positive is more treble. Target and test method belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Deviation from targetiReviewer’s full-range error from its target curve. Do not substitute a regional bass or treble error.

Not available

Not available

Consistency between fittingsiReviewer’s standard deviation across repeated fittings. Test rig and fitting procedure belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Harmonic distortioniIndependently measured harmonic distortion, with test level and method in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Sound leakageiIndependently measured leakage at 30 cm. Playback level and method belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Measured noise isolationiIndependently measured attenuation. Positive values mean more noise reduction. ANC state, rig and frequency bands belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Noise isolation (measured, best)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Passive isolation (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic quality notesiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic low-frequency extensioniMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic high-frequency extensioniMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic speech-to-noise ratioiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Measured latencyiEnd-to-end latency measured by a reviewer for a specific connection, platform and codec. Firmware, method and operating mode belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth latency (measured, worst)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

2.4 GHz latency (measured, worst)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Measured battery lifeiReviewer’s continuous playback test. State the connection, ANC and lighting where known. Unknown settings stay omitted and are described in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Battery life (measured, max)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Clamping forceiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Weight (measured)iIndependently weighed headset. A review that repeats the maker’s number does not qualify. Cable and microphone inclusion belong in the source note.

238g(8.4 oz)11Measurementdiyaudioheaven.wordpress.com/measurements/brands-s-se/hd550Read 23 October 2026Measured specimen 238 g excluding cable. Maker claim stays 237 g.

254g(9 oz)7Reviewheadphonecheck.com/test/sony-wh-1000xm3Read 11 October 2026Weighed by HeadphoneCheck: 254 g without cable and 269 g with cable. The without-cable value is stored because the maker weight excludes the cord.

Microphone

4 of 16 differ

MicrophoneiMain microphone used for speech. Secondary internal microphones may be described in the source note.

None7Reviewtechradar.com/gaming/sennheiser-hd-550-reviewRead 23 October 2026Base headphone has no microphone. Optional boom arm is excluded.

Built-in3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026Built-in microphones in the left and right units for calls (hands-free). No boom microphone.

Microphone element

Not available

MEMS1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3/spec.htmlRead 11 October 2026Microphone type: MEMS

Microphone pickup patterniUse the maker’s exact named pattern. Unidirectional does not establish whether the capsule is cardioid, supercardioid or hypercardioid.

Not available

Omnidirectional1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3/spec.htmlRead 11 October 2026Directivity: omnidirectional

Voice microphonesiTotal microphones used for voice pickup or beamforming across both sides. ANC-only microphones are excluded.

Not available

Not available

Total microphonesiEvery physical microphone across the headset, including call, ANC and calibration microphones. Shared microphones count once. Excludes microphones in charging cases or receivers, and vibration sensors. Use an explicitly published physical total, never a sum of overlapping role counts.

Not available

Not available

Mic frequency responseiAcoustic microphone response, not its digital sampling rate. Connection-specific ranges belong in the source note.

Not available

Min50Max8,000Hz1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3/spec.htmlRead 11 October 2026Effective frequency band 50 Hz - 8,000 Hz

Mic sensitivityiPublished microphone sensitivity. Reference such as dBV/Pa or dBFS, frequency and distance belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Mic signal-to-noiseiPublished microphone signal-to-noise ratio. Minimum or typical conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Mic sample rateiExplicitly published digital microphone capture or speech sampling rate. State the audio route in the source note, or say it is unpublished. Internal capture does not prove the effective rate on every connection. Acoustic bandwidth, playback rate and generic microphone-chip capability do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

Mic noise reductioniProcessing that removes noise from transmitted speech. Playback ANC and a directional microphone alone do not count.

Not available

Not available

Flip to mute

Not available

Not available

Mute button

Not available

Not available

Mute indicatoriPublished indication of microphone mute. mechanical_marker is a visible physical marker showing the microphone's mute-switch position. LED options require an electronic light. The in-line controller option is for a mute light on a cable remote.

Not available

Not available

Sidetone

Not available

Not available

Adjustable sidetone

Not available

Not available

Foam microphone windscreeniA foam cover for the voice microphone. An internal metal mesh pop filter does not count.

Not available

Not available

Connectivity

12 of 20 differ

Audio connectionsiConnections that carry playback audio. Charging or firmware USB alone does not count as USB audio.

Analog8Reviewsoundguys.com/sennheiser-hd-550-review-134419Read 23 October 2026

Bluetooth, Analog3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026Bluetooth pairing chapters and the headphone cable connection to the INPUT jack. The USB Type-C port only charges.

Analog source plugsiAnalog plug(s) supplied for the source device, including adapters. The headset-side jack is listed separately.

3.5 mm TRS, 6.35 mm8Reviewsoundguys.com/sennheiser-hd-550-review-134419Read 23 October 2026

3.5 mm TRS1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3/spec.htmlRead 11 October 2026Input plug: gold-plated L-shaped stereo mini plug.

Cable connector on headsetiConnection used by the playback cable at the headset. A fixed cable is not replaceable through a headset jack.

2.5 mm8Reviewsoundguys.com/sennheiser-hd-550-review-134419Read 23 October 2026Connectivity section explicitly identifies 2.5 mm locking headset end and 3.5 mm TRS source end.

3.5 mm1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3/spec.htmlRead 11 October 2026Cord type: single-sided, detachable. The headset has a stereo mini input jack.

Longest included cableiLength of the longest supplied cable, including charging and dongle cables. Individual cable lengths are listed in Cables included.

1.8m9Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026

1.2m1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3/spec.htmlRead 11 October 2026Cord length approx. 1.2 m, OFC wire, gold-plated stereo mini plug (headphone cable).3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026Headphone cable approx. 1.2 m (47 1/4 in.).

Headset USB plug or portiUSB plug or port on the headset or its included wired audio adapter. A charging-only USB port can appear here.

Not available

USB-C3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026USB Type-C port is used to connect the headset to a computer or USB AC adapter for charging.

Audio over USB-C cableiPlayback through a USB-C cable or included wired USB-C audio adapter. A charging-only USB-C port does not count.

No12Maker product pageus.sennheiser-hearing.com/products/hd-550Read 23 October 2026Maker explicitly describes a direct analog signal path with no electronics. No powered noise cancellation, digital USB audio or stored electronic equalizer.

No3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026The guide describes the USB Type-C port only for charging. No USB audio path is described.

Passive wired listeningiAnalog playback works with the headset powered off or its battery empty. An active analog converter that needs headset power does not count.

Yes3Maker product pageus.sennheiser-hearing.com/products/hd-550Read 23 October 2026Direct analog signal path with no electronics and no charging or pairing.

Yes3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026You can listen to music even if the headset is turned off. The noise canceling function cannot be used then.

Wireless receiveriDedicated wireless audio receiver or dongle. A wired USB sound card does not count.

Not available

None3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026Bluetooth headset. No dongle in the package contents.

Wireless receiver connectoriPhysical USB connector on the receiver. Supplied extension cables and adapters are explained in the source note. Both means two native connector types.

Not available

Not available

Wireless range (claimed)iMaker’s advertised wireless range. Connection and indoor or outdoor conditions belong in the source note. Measured distance is not stored here.

Not available

10m1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3/spec.htmlRead 11 October 2026Maximum communication range: line of sight about 10 m.

Bluetooth

Not available

4.21Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3/spec.htmlRead 11 October 2026Bluetooth standard Ver. 4.2, Power Class 2.

Bluetooth codecsiNamed Bluetooth audio codecs supported by this exact model. Host, firmware and operating-mode restrictions belong in the source note.

Not available

SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, LDAC1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3/spec.htmlRead 11 October 2026Supported codecs: SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, LDAC.3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026The headset supports 5 codecs for A2DP music playback: SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD and LDAC.

LE AudioiLE Audio playback support. Bluetooth Low Energy for app control alone does not count.

Not available

Not available

AuracastiAuracast broadcast audio support. Required phone, firmware and app conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth multipointiCan remain connected to multiple Bluetooth source devices at once. Mixing Bluetooth with a proprietary dongle is a separate field. A maker's dual connection to two Bluetooth devices at once counts.

Not available

Yes2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3Read 11 October 2026Lists multipoint and multipairing.3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026Multipoint connection chapter: two Bluetooth devices at the same time. It cannot be used while Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa is set on the NC/AMBIENT button.

Multipoint devicesiNumber of Bluetooth source devices connected at once, not the number remembered for later pairing.

Not available

23Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026Multipoint connects two Bluetooth devices to the headset.

Paired devices remembered

Not available

83Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026The headset can be paired with up to 8 devices.

Mixes 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth audioiPlays both wireless audio streams at the same time. Automatic switching or Bluetooth standby does not count.

Not available

Not available

Fast pairing

Not available

Not available

Base station

Not available

Not available

Latency

None of 2 known

Low latency modeiA selectable mode intended to reduce audio delay. A low-latency connection without a distinct mode does not count.

Not available

Not available

Claimed latencyiMaker’s claimed delay for the stated connection and mode. Minimum claims and host restrictions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Compatibility

1 of 3 differ

Compatible platformsiPlatforms with a documented audio path. This does not imply every connection or microphone function works. Platform editions must be checked individually.

PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch7Reviewtechradar.com/gaming/sennheiser-hd-550-reviewRead 23 October 2026Comparison table explicitly lists these platforms. PC stored as Windows, corroborated by wired PC review. Mobile lacks named OS and is omitted.

Android, iOS, Windows, macOS3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026The guide has pairing chapters for Android smartphones, iPhone, Windows computers and Mac computers.

Connection per platformiOnly explicitly documented playback paths for the exact model. Microphone support is separate. Leave unknown microphone support omitted. An Xbox and a PlayStation edition of one headset can connect differently, so it is per variant.

Not available

Not available

Official licence

Not available

Not available

Battery and charging

9 of 13 differ

Battery capacityiRated capacity of one headset battery. Do not use case, receiver or total multi-battery capacity.

Not available

Not available

Swappable batteryiBattery can be exchanged by the user as part of normal operation. Service or recycling disassembly does not count.

Not available

Not available

Batteries includediNumber of headset batteries supplied, including the one already installed.

Not available

Not available

Claimed battery lifeiMaker’s maximum playback time per stated connection, codec, ANC, spatial audio and lighting settings. Name the spatial processing mode and other conditions in the source note. Unknown settings stay omitted.

ASennheiser HD 550

Not available

BSony WH-1000XM3

Connection	ANC	Codec	Hours (h)
Bluetooth	Yes	aptX, aptX HD, LDAC	24
Bluetooth	No	aptX, aptX HD, LDAC	30
Bluetooth	Yes	AAC	30
Bluetooth	No	AAC	38
Bluetooth	Yes	SBC	28
Bluetooth	No	SBC	36
Analog	Yes	Not available	36
Analog	No	Not available	44

Source3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026Available operating time, music playback over Bluetooth. aptX, aptX HD and LDAC: 24 hours with noise canceling, 30 hours with both off. AAC with DSEE HX off: 30 and 38 hours. SBC with DSEE HX off: 28 and 36 hours. DSEE HX auto lowers the AAC and SBC values. Ambient Sound Mode rows are not stored. Headphone cable connected with power on: 36 hours with noise canceling, 44 hours with both off.

Battery life (claimed, max)

Not available

44h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Battery life with ANC (claimed)

Not available

36h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Battery life without ANC (claimed)

Not available

44h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Charging port

Not available

USB-C1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3/spec.htmlRead 11 October 2026Charging method: USB charging.3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026USB Type-C port with the supplied USB Type-C cable.

Full charge timeiPublished time to fully charge a depleted headset. In-use charging can take longer.

Not available

180min1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3/spec.htmlRead 11 October 2026Charging time approx. 3 hours for a full charge with a 1.5 A AC adapter.3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026Charging is completed in about 3 hours for an empty battery.

Quick charge timeiCharge duration in the maker’s quick-charge claim. Read together with Quick charge playback.

Not available

10min3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026Music can be played for about 5 hours after 10 minutes of charging with a USB AC adapter that supplies 1.5 A or more.

Quick charge playbackiPlayback gained from Quick charge time. Charger power, codec, volume and ANC conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

5h3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026About 5 hours after 10 minutes with a 1.5 A or higher USB AC adapter.

Use while charging

Not available

No3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026If charging starts while the headset is turned on, the headset turns off. While it is connected to an AC outlet or computer, turning on and music playback cannot be performed.

Charging dock or stand

Not available

Not available

Controls

4 of 6 differ

Controls

Not available

Buttons, Touch3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026Touch sensor control panel on the right unit, NC/AMBIENT button and power button.

Volume control

None7Reviewtechradar.com/gaming/sennheiser-hd-550-reviewRead 23 October 2026No onboard controls or volume dial.

Touch3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026Touch sensor control panel remotely controls playback and volume.

Game and chat mixiBalances separate game and chat audio streams. Mixing Bluetooth and dongle source volume alone does not count. Supported platforms belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Remappable controlsiOn-device button, touch or dial functions can be reassigned. Changing EQ alone does not count.

Not available

Yes2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3Read 11 October 2026The app can change the function of the NC/AMBIENT button.3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026The app changes the function of the NC/AMBIENT button, for example to Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.

Wear detection

Not available

Not available

Voice assistant

Not available

Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Siri3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026Chapters for using the Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa and the voice assist function (Siri).

Comfort and build

8 of 11 differ

Headband type

Padded7Reviewtechradar.com/gaming/sennheiser-hd-550-reviewRead 23 October 2026

Not available

Headband material

Synthetic leather3Maker product pageus.sennheiser-hearing.com/products/hd-550Read 23 October 2026

Not available

Frame material

Plastic8Reviewsoundguys.com/sennheiser-hd-550-review-134419Read 23 October 2026Design describes plastic exterior and chassis.

Not available

Ear cup material

Steel mesh covers3Maker product pageus.sennheiser-hearing.com/products/hd-550Read 23 October 2026Maker names steel covers. Entire cup construction is not claimed to be steel.

Not available

Ear pad material

Synthetic velour9Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026

Artificial leather over low-rebound urethane foam2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3Read 11 October 20263D-stitched ear pads using low-rebound urethane material (Japanese: 低反撥ウレタン素材を採用した立体縫製イヤーパッド).7Reviewheadphonecheck.com/test/sony-wh-1000xm3Read 11 October 2026Artificial leather padding and an adjustable headband.

Replaceable ear pads

Yes9Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026

Not available

Ear pad attachmentiHow a replacement ear pad attaches to the ear cup, not how the decorative outer cover attaches. A press-fit or snap-on pad counts as clip.

Not available

Not available

Ear pad openingiUsable opening inside an ear pad, excluding the outer cushion. Depth is the internal space between pad surface and driver cover.

Width42Height71mm(1.7 × 2.8 in)11Measurementdiyaudioheaven.wordpress.com/measurements/brands-s-se/hd550Read 23 October 2026Specifications explicitly names inner pad width 42 mm and height 71 mm. Front/rear depth differs, so a single depth is omitted. SoundGuys labels 43 x 75 mm as ear cup dimensions without saying usable opening.

Not available

Ear tips included

Not available

Not available

Dust and water rating

Not available

Not available

User-replaceable parts

Ear pads, Audio cable9Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026Page 3 lists replacement cable and ear pads.

Not available

Software

3 of 3 differ

Companion app

Not available

Sony | Headphones Connect3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026Sony | Headphones Connect app.

App platforms

Not available

Android, iOS3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026Android smartphones and the iPhone/iPod touch both support the app.

User firmware updates

Not available

Yes3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026The app can update the headset software.

Dimensions and weight

1 of 2 differ

Headset weightiPublished headset mass without detachable cable or microphone when stated. A fixed cable remains included. Any unqualified maker weight is identified in the source note.

237g(8.4 oz)9Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026Page 3 explicitly excludes cable.

255g(9 oz)1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3/spec.htmlRead 11 October 2026Mass approx. 255 g. The cord is not included.

Headset dimensionsiBody size with headband upright and ear cups in their normal wearing position. Width is across the head, height is top to bottom, and depth is front to back. Folded or flat-swivel dimensions are not substituted.

Not available

Not available

Certifications

None of 3 known

Hi-Res Audio

Not available

Not available

Communication certifications

Not available

Not available

FCC ID

Not available

Not available

Other certifications

Not available

Not available

In the box

3 of 3 differ

In the box

HD 550 headphones, 1.80 m cable with 3.5 mm jack plug, 3.5 to 6.35 mm screw-on jack adapter, Drawstring bag, Safety guide9Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026Page 3 complete box contents.

Wireless noise canceling stereo headset, USB Type-C cable (USB-A to USB-C), Headphone cable, Carrying case, Plug adapter for in-flight use1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3/spec.htmlRead 11 October 2026Accessories: USB cable, warranty, carrying case, airplane plug adapter, connection cable, manual.2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3Read 11 October 2026Accessories: USB Type-C cable (about 20 cm), headphone cable (about 1.2 m), carrying case, airplane plug adapter.3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026Checking the package contents: headset, USB Type-C cable (USB-A to USB-C, approx. 20 cm), headphone cable (approx. 1.2 m), carrying case, plug adapter for in-flight use.

Cables includediSupplied playback, charging, dongle and adapter cables. A permanently attached headset cable is included and named as fixed.

ASennheiser HD 550

Type	Length (m)	Count
2.5 mm locking headset plug to 3.5 mm stereo plug	1.8	1

Source9Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026

BSony WH-1000XM3

Type	Length (m)	Count
USB Type-C cable (USB-A to USB-C)	0.2	1
Headphone cable, 3.5 mm gold-plated L-shaped stereo mini plug	1.2	1

Source3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026USB Type-C cable approx. 20 cm and headphone cable approx. 1.2 m.

Carrying caseiSupplied carrying case or pouch. A retail carton does not count as a carrying case.

Soft9Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026

Not available

Links

Not compared

Product page

us.sennheiser-hearing.com/products/hd-5503Maker product pageus.sennheiser-hearing.com/products/hd-550Read 23 October 2026

www.sony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM32Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3Read 11 October 2026Sony Japan product page, read in October 2026.

Spec sheet

gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdf1Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026

www.sony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3/spec.html1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM3/spec.htmlRead 11 October 2026Japanese maker specification table for WH-1000XM3.

Manual

www.richersounds.com/content/product_files/HD550.pdf10Owner's manualrichersounds.com/content/product_files/HD550.pdfRead 23 October 2026Maker safety guide HD 505 / HD 550 with connection, headband adjustment and ear pad replacement illustrations. Retailer mirror because current maker Download article is empty.

helpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/index.html3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm3/v1/en/print.pdfRead 11 October 2026Sony Help Guide for WH-1000XM3. The printable PDF is at print.pdf in the same folder. It has no specifications chapter, so the Japanese spec page is used for those values.

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

Not available

Not available

Warranty

1 of 1 differ

Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

2years3Maker product pageus.sennheiser-hearing.com/products/hd-550Read 23 October 2026US maker page includes a 2-year manufacturer warranty.

Not available

Both are also in the API. Back to all headsets and headphones.