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Sony WH-1000XM4 vs Sony WH-1000XM6

Product A: Sony

WH-1000XM4

86 of 161 known
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Compare the Sony WH-1000XM6 with

Product B: Sony

WH-1000XM6

99 of 161 known
Change Sony WH-1000XM6

Compare the Sony WH-1000XM4 with

50 of 152 fields differ

Download CSVDownload JSON
  • 28 different values
  • 22 known for one only
  • 48 the same
  • 54 missing for both

Biggest differences

Each bar uses the scale of all 149 headsets and headphones.

  1. Quick chargeA: 5hB: 3hWH-1000XM4 is 2 h higher.
  2. Driver sizeA: 40mmB: 30mmWH-1000XM4 is 10 mm higher.

Weight

0 to 400 g

Headset weight
A254g
B254g

All 161 fields

Every value links to where we found it.

ASony WH-1000XM4
BSony WH-1000XM6

General

6 of 8 differ
Series
1000X1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026
1000X3Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6Read 30 September 2026Sony's 1000X line
Model numbers
WH-1000XM41Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026
WH-1000XM6, YY29841Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Help Guide cover: WH-1000XM6, Model YY2984. Marketing and regulatory model identifiers both stored.
GTIN / EAN
Not available
Not available
Announced
6 August 20204Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2020-08-06-Sony-Electronics-Launches-the-Next-Generation-of-Industry-Leading-Noise-Canceling-with-WH-1000XM4Read 5 October 2026
15 May 20257Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2025-05-15-Sony-Introduces-the-Best-Noise-Cancellation-with-the-WH-1000XM6-HeadphonesRead 30 September 2026Launch release dated May 15, 2025.
Status
Not available
Available3Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6Read 30 September 2026Sold in the Sony Store Japan with same-day shipping on 2026-09-28
Predecessor
Sony WH-1000XM316Reviewwhathifi.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.
Sony WH-1000XM54Reviewwhathifi.com/headphones/sony-wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026What Hi-Fi calls the WH-1000XM5 the previous flagship before the WH-1000XM6.
Successor
Sony WH-1000XM517Reviewengadget.com/sony-wh-1000xm5-review-160045478.htmlRead 23 October 2026Engadget calls the WH-1000XM5 the follow-up to the WH-1000XM4.18Reviewnotebookcheck.net/Sony-WH-1000XM5-Revised-WH-1000X-headphones-arrive-nearing-the-US-400-mark-with-better-noise-cancellation-more-microphones-and-a-bulkier-design.619279.0.htmlRead 23 October 2026Notebookcheck calls the WH-1000XM5 the new generation of WH-1000X headphones and an upgrade over the WH-1000XM4.
Not available
Launch price (US)
$349.994Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2020-08-06-Sony-Electronics-Launches-the-Next-Generation-of-Industry-Leading-Noise-Canceling-with-WH-1000XM4Read 5 October 2026US maker MSRP 349.99 USD. August 6 was announcement/preorder. Actual August retail comes from the retrospective review. Unproved EUR tax scope omitted.
$449.997Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2025-05-15-Sony-Introduces-the-Best-Noise-Cancellation-with-the-WH-1000XM6-HeadphonesRead 30 September 2026Pricing and availability: suggested retail price $449.99 USD.
Launch price (EU)
Not available
€4508Press releasesony.eu/presscentre/sony-introduces-the-next-evolution-of-noise-cancelling-with-the-wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Pricing and availability: €450 suggested retail price.
Markets
US4Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2020-08-06-Sony-Electronics-Launches-the-Next-Generation-of-Industry-Leading-Noise-Canceling-with-WH-1000XM4Read 5 October 2026
Not available
Colours
Black, Platinum Silver, Midnight Blue, Silent White4Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2020-08-06-Sony-Electronics-Launches-the-Next-Generation-of-Industry-Leading-Noise-Canceling-with-WH-1000XM4Read 5 October 20265Press releasesony.eu/presscentre/sony-launches-new-limited-edition-wh-1000xm4-silent-whiteRead 5 October 2026April 20, 2021 maker release adds Silent White to Black and Silver. Matching accessories and an extra topcoat are finish changes.6Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/headband-headphones/wh-1000xm4/buyRead 5 October 2026Current official indexed store identifies Midnight Blue WH1000XM4L.CE7. Other finishes have launch evidence. Direct store body unavailable. Only public official indexed label/image read.
Black, Platinum Silver, Midnight Blue, Sandstone3Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6Read 30 September 2026Japan page lists (B) Black, (S) Platinum Silver, (L) Midnight Blue, (T) Sandstone. English names as in Sony's global image assets. Sandstone is a 2026 addition
Segment
Music4Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2020-08-06-Sony-Electronics-Launches-the-Next-Generation-of-Industry-Leading-Noise-Canceling-with-WH-1000XM4Read 5 October 2026
Music3Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6Read 30 September 2026Listed under headphones, not under INZONE gaming headsets

Design

0 of 7 differ
Form factor
Over-ear1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026
Over-ear6Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/sony/wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Public introductory product description: WH-1000XM6 over-ear headphones. Style SAMPLE Notes over-ear, not earbud.
Ear cup enclosure
Closed1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026
Closed2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6/spec.htmlRead 30 September 2026Type: 密閉 (closed)
Wearing style
Headband1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026
Headband1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Parts list: headband with sliders on each side
Folding
Flat and inward11Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/feature_4.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact Travel section states swivel and folding structure. Official folded picture shows flat cups and one cup folded inward. No nonexistent guide storage pages cited.
Flat and inward1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Putting the headset in the carrying case chapter: rotate left/right units, fold both units toward headband. Illustrations show flat and inward packing.
Swivelling ear cups
Yes11Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/feature_4.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact Travel section states swivel structure. Silent White maker store also describes inward cup rotation for packing.
Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Putting the headset in the carrying case chapter: rotate left/right units, fold both units toward headband. Illustrations show flat and inward packing.
RGB lighting
Not available
Not available
Lighting zones
Not available
Not available

Drivers and sound

6 of 20 differ
Driver type
Dynamic1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026
Dynamic9Reviewavforums.com/products/headphones.32/sony-wh-1000xm6.17345/specsRead 30 September 2026Full specifications / Sony WH-1000XM6 Features / Driver Type: 30 mm Dynamic. Exact architecture explicitly named. Other review table values are not substituted for maker data.
Driver size
40mm1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 202640 mm dome driver with CCAW voice coil. Stereo channel count does not establish driver count.
30mm2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6/spec.htmlRead 30 September 2026Headphone specification / Driver Unit: 30 mm dome-type (CCAW voice coil). Dome does not explicitly classify driver architecture. The dynamic type comes from the AV Forums entry.
Drivers per side
Not available
Not available
Diaphragm material
Aluminum-coated LCP2Maker product pagesony.com/electronics/support/wireless-headphones-bluetooth-headphones/wh-1000xm4/specificationsRead 5 October 2026Exact official indexed specification says aluminium-coated LCP. Direct page body unavailable. No full direct access claimed.
Carbon fibre composite4Reviewwhathifi.com/headphones/sony-wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Same carbon fibre composite material as the WH-1000XM58Press releasesony.eu/presscentre/sony-introduces-the-next-evolution-of-noise-cancelling-with-the-wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Driver dome uses high-rigidity carbon fibre composite.
Magnet
Neodymium1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026
neodymium2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6/spec.htmlRead 30 September 2026ネオジウム, translated
Frequency response (wired or passive)
Min4 HzMax40 kHz1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026JEITA headphone acoustic response 4 Hz to 40 kHz. Not Bluetooth radio or microphone response.
Min4 HzMax40 kHz1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 20264 Hz - 40,000 Hz (IEC), headphone cable with the headset on
Wireless audio transmission band
Min20 HzMax40 kHz1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026A2DP transmission 20 Hz to 20 kHz at 44.1 kHz sampling. LDAC at 96 kHz and 990 kbps supports 20 Hz to 40 kHz. The stored maximum requires those LDAC settings.
Min20 HzMax40 kHz1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026A2DP transmission range 20 Hz - 40,000 Hz with LDAC 96 kHz 990 kbps. 20 Hz - 20,000 Hz at 44.1 kHz
Impedance (passive when specified)
16Ω1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Wired at 1 kHz. Powered impedance 40 ohms. Passive impedance 16 ohms, used here.
16Ω2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6/spec.htmlRead 30 September 202616 ohm passive POWER OFF. 48 ohm at 1 kHz POWER ON.
Sensitivity (passive when specified)
101dB1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Wired at 1 kHz. Powered sensitivity 105 dB/mW. Passive sensitivity 101 dB/mW, used here.
102dB2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6/spec.htmlRead 30 September 2026102 dB/mW passive POWER OFF. 103 dB/mW POWER ON.
Sensitivity reference
Per 1 mW1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026
Per 1 mW2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6/spec.htmlRead 30 September 2026Headphone specification / Sound Pressure Sensitivity: 102 dB/mW power off, 103 dB/mW power on. Stored passive per 1 mW reference.
THD (claimed)
Not available
Not available
Max input power
Not available
Not available
Max digital audio sample rate
Not available
Not available
Max digital audio bit depth
Not available
Not available
DAC
Not available
Not available
Personalised sound
Not available
Not available
Onboard EQ
Not available
Yes11Reviewrtings.com/headphones/learn/how-to-eq-your-headphonesRead 8 October 2026Companion Apps section names WH-1000XM6 explicitly: equalizer settings remain active after disconnecting the app and connecting to another device. This establishes headphone memory, not only an app EQ control.
Custom EQ bands
Not available
104Reviewwhathifi.com/headphones/sony-wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Ten-band equaliser5Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-wh-1000xm6-review-read-before-buying-137397Read 30 September 202610-band equalizer in the Sound Connect app
EQ presets
Not available
Not available
Volume limit
Not available
Not available

Spatial audio

2 of 3 differ
Spatial audio support
Sony 360 Reality Audio4Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2020-08-06-Sony-Electronics-Launches-the-Next-Generation-of-Industry-Leading-Noise-Canceling-with-WH-1000XM4Read 5 October 2026360 Reality Audio requires compatible services and content. No Dolby/DTS licence or head tracking inferred.
360 Reality Audio, 360 Upmix for Cinema1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026360 Reality Audio / Head Tracking chapters: compatible 360 Reality Audio content/services and head tracking setup. 360 Upmix for Cinema settings chapter separately names cinema feature.
Spatial audio licence included
Not available
Not available
Head tracking
Not available
Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026360 Reality Audio / Head Tracking chapters: compatible 360 Reality Audio content/services and head tracking setup. 360 Upmix for Cinema settings chapter separately names cinema feature.

Noise cancelling

2 of 10 differ
Active noise cancelling
Yes3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm4/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026
Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Using the noise canceling function and Listening to ambient sound chapters: NC/AMB button cycles NC/Ambient Sound, customizable using Sound Connect.
ANC type
Not available
Not available
ANC microphones
44Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2020-08-06-Sony-Electronics-Launches-the-Next-Generation-of-Industry-Leading-Noise-Canceling-with-WH-1000XM4Read 5 October 2026Two Dual Noise Sensor microphones per cup. Four ANC microphones across the headset. Shared voice roles do not create extra capsules.
124Reviewwhathifi.com/headphones/sony-wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 202612 mics in total, six per earcup: four outside, two inside7Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2025-05-15-Sony-Introduces-the-Best-Noise-Cancellation-with-the-WH-1000XM6-HeadphonesRead 30 September 2026QN3 optimizes 12 microphones in real time.
Adaptive ANC
Yes3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm4/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Page 118 automatic noise-control adjustment by behaviour recognition, Adaptive Sound Control. No automatic ear-fit calibration inferred.
Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Auto NC Optimizer constantly optimizes noise canceling to the wearing condition and environment
ANC levels
Not available
Not available
ANC attenuation (claimed)
Not available
Not available
Transparency mode
Yes3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm4/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026
Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Using the noise canceling function and Listening to ambient sound chapters: NC/AMB button cycles NC/Ambient Sound, customizable using Sound Connect.
Adjustable transparency
Yes3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm4/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Ambient sound adjusted in the app. Quick Attention is a temporary gesture, not another ANC strength level.
Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Ambient Sound Mode level is adjusted in the Sound Connect app (ambient sound control)
Conversation detection
Yes3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm4/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Speak-to-Chat detects speech and pauses music. Separate from manual Quick Attention.
Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Speak-to-Chat
Wind noise reduction
Not available
Yes4Reviewwhathifi.com/headphones/sony-wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026The outer microphones are covered by a mesh redesigned to further reduce wind noise

Measured

6 of 21 differ
Frequency response notes
The measured response has a bass emphasis compared with the SoundGuys preference curve. The review compares noise attenuation across frequencies and identifies strong low-frequency ANC. No graph peak is used as a band-average dB value.8Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-wh-1000xm4-review-38011Read 5 October 2026SoundGuys exact-model lab measurements. Firmware and codec not stated. Qualitative bass comparison only. No MDAQS score converted to dB.
Warm tuning with very emphasized bass. Narrow dips in the mid and high treble. Minor left/right driver matching issues.6Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/sony/wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Public Audio Reproduction Accuracy: warm response, narrow mid/high treble dips, minor left/right matching issues. Public Sound Profile descriptors 5 dB/-1 dB separately noted.
Bass amount
Not available
5dB6Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/sony/wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Test bench 2.3. Very Emphasized (5 dB)
Treble amount
Not available
-1dB6Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/sony/wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Test bench 2.3. Balanced (-1 dB)
Deviation from target
Not available
Not available
Consistency between fittings
Not available
Not available
Harmonic distortion
Not available
Not available
Sound leakage
Not available
Not available
Measured noise isolation
Not available
Not available
Noise isolation (measured, best)
Not available
Not available
Passive isolation (measured)
Not available
Not available
Mic quality notes
Recorded microphone samples show usable speech pickup with mixed results in background noise. Earlier preproduction and later samples are not assigned a shared firmware or codec.8Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-wh-1000xm4-review-38011Read 5 October 2026Recorded speech demos inspected. The original 19 h 59 min battery result used preproduction hardware and is omitted. Public numeric latency, THD, clamping, leakage and weighed mass not found.
Very good. Voice sounds full-bodied and intelligible, and background noise is separated well. Voice can lose intelligibility in very harsh conditions.6Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/sony/wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Public Our Verdict / Microphone: full-bodied intelligible voice, good background separation. Very harsh noise can reduce intelligibility.
Mic low-frequency extension
Not available
Not available
Mic high-frequency extension
Not available
Not available
Mic speech-to-noise ratio
Not available
Not available
Measured latency
Not available
Not available
Bluetooth latency (measured, worst)
Not available
Not available
2.4 GHz latency (measured, worst)
Not available
Not available
Measured battery life
ASony WH-1000XM4
Not available
BSony WH-1000XM6
ConnectionANCHours (h)
BluetoothYes31.75
Source6Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/sony/wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Continuous 31.75-hour battery life with ANC enabled. Sound Guys measured 37 h 14 min in its own test
Battery life (measured, max)
Not available
31.75h
Clamping force
Not available
Not available
Weight (measured)
Not available
Not available

Microphone

6 of 16 differ
Microphone
Built-in1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026
Built-in1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Location/function of parts chapter identifies built-in microphones on headset units. No cable or detachable boom.
Microphone element
MEMS1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026
MEMS2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6/spec.htmlRead 30 September 2026MEMS
Microphone pickup pattern
Omnidirectional1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026
Omnidirectional2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6/spec.htmlRead 30 September 2026Microphone specification / Direction: omnidirectional. This is microphone capsule pattern, not AI beamforming array pickup width.
Voice microphones
54Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2020-08-06-Sony-Electronics-Launches-the-Next-Generation-of-Industry-Leading-Noise-Canceling-with-WH-1000XM4Read 5 October 2026Precise Voice Pickup uses five physical headset microphones for calls and Speak-to-Chat. Separate from the four ANC microphones.
65Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-wh-1000xm6-review-read-before-buying-137397Read 30 September 20266-mic beamforming array for voice calls7Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2025-05-15-Sony-Introduces-the-Best-Noise-Cancellation-with-the-WH-1000XM6-HeadphonesRead 30 September 2026Six-microphone AI beamforming system for calls.
Total microphones
Not available
1213Reviewwhathifi.com/headphones/sony-wh-1000xm6Read 8 October 2026The exact reviewer explicitly states total mic count 12, with six physical microphones per earcup: four outside and two inside. Sony independently states that QN3 processes twelve microphones for noise cancellation and uses a six-microphone call beamforming system. The total is the directly published physical count, not an addition of ANC and voice roles.
Mic frequency response
Min50Max8,000Hz1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Effective microphone range 50 Hz to 8 kHz. MEMS omnidirectional microphones.
Not available
Mic sensitivity
Not available
Not available
Mic signal-to-noise
Not available
Not available
Mic sample rate
Not available
Not available
Mic noise reduction
DSP4Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2020-08-06-Sony-Electronics-Launches-the-Next-Generation-of-Industry-Leading-Noise-Canceling-with-WH-1000XM4Read 5 October 2026Maker explicitly names advanced audio signal processing for Precise Voice Pickup. DSP, without an AI claim. DSEE Edge AI is music restoration.
AI4Reviewwhathifi.com/headphones/sony-wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Beamforming AI removes external noise on calls
Flip to mute
Not available
Not available
Mute button
Not available
Yes8Press releasesony.eu/presscentre/sony-introduces-the-next-evolution-of-noise-cancelling-with-the-wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Tactile button mic mute. App setup required, see footnotes 3 and 4.
Mute indicator
Not available
Voice prompt10Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026About the voice guidance chapter: Mic Off and Mic On prompts announce microphone state during a call. Call-functions chapter also documents an optional notification sound every seven seconds while muted.
Sidetone
Yes3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm4/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Call and assistant chapters explicitly feed microphone pickup to the listener. Adjustable sidetone intensity not proved.
Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Frequently asked questions / You hear your own voice: headset microphones pick up surroundings and voice during calls via Sidetone function.
Adjustable sidetone
Not available
Not available
Foam microphone windscreen
Not available
Not available

Connectivity

7 of 20 differ
Audio connections
Analog, Bluetooth1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026
Bluetooth, Analog1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Bluetooth pairing and Using the supplied headphone cable chapters. USB charging section only, no USB audio path.
Analog source plugs
3.5 mm TRS1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Gold-plated L-shaped stereo mini plug. 3.5 mm TRS, not a TRRS voice cable. Included OFC cable approximately 1.2 m.
3.5 mm TRS2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6/spec.htmlRead 30 September 2026Gold-plated L-shaped stereo mini plug. Analog microphone unavailable.
Cable connector on headset
3.5 mm1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026
3.5 mm2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6/spec.htmlRead 30 September 2026Detachable single-sided cable, stereo mini jack on the headset
Longest included cable
1.2m1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026
1.2m2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6/spec.htmlRead 30 September 2026Approx. 1.2 m, gold-plated L-shaped stereo mini plug
Headset USB plug or port
USB-C1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026
USB-C1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Charging the headset chapter: USB Type C port with supplied USB-A to C cable.
Audio over USB-C cable
No8Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-wh-1000xm4-review-38011Read 5 October 2026Review identifies USB-C charging and analog wired playback. Guide page 20 disables playback while connected to USB, confirming charging-only operation.
No4Reviewwhathifi.com/headphones/sony-wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026You still can't listen via a wired USB-C connection
Passive wired listening
Yes2Maker product pagesony.com/electronics/support/wireless-headphones-bluetooth-headphones/wh-1000xm4/specificationsRead 5 October 2026Official specification explicitly supports passive operation. Full Help Guide confirms listening while powered off.
Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026You can listen to music even if the headset is turned off. Noise canceling then does not work
Wireless receiver
Not available
None1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Checking package contents chapter includes headset, USB cable, headphone cable, carrying case, documents. Bluetooth pairing requires host. Wireless dongle not included.
Wireless receiver connector
Not available
Not available
Wireless range (claimed)
10m1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Approximate line-of-sight range 10 m. No indoor range guarantee.
10m1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Specifications / Communications: System Bluetooth 5.3, maximum line-of-sight range approximately 10 m.
Bluetooth
5.01Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026
5.31Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Specifications / Communications: System Bluetooth 5.3, maximum line-of-sight range approximately 10 m.
Bluetooth codecs
SBC, AAC, LDAC1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026
SBC, AAC, LDAC, LC31Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026SBC/AAC/LDAC on Classic Audio. LC3 on compatible LE Audio devices, selected with Sound Connect.
LE Audio
Not available
Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Compatible LE Audio host required, app connection setting differs from Classic Audio.
Auracast
Not available
Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Broadcast reception is enabled using Sound Connect on supported phones.
Bluetooth multipoint
Yes3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm4/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Two concurrent Bluetooth devices with Connect to 2 devices enabled. Page 137 excludes LDAC in this mode. No concurrent analog and Bluetooth playback.
Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Connecting headset to 2 devices simultaneously chapter: two Bluetooth devices at same time. Audio switches between rather than mixes.
Multipoint devices
23Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm4/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026
21Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Connecting headset to 2 devices simultaneously chapter: two Bluetooth devices at same time. Audio switches between rather than mixes.
Paired devices remembered
83Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm4/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Up to eight remembered devices. A ninth pairing replaces the oldest. Two active connections are a separate count.
81Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026The headset can be paired with up to 8 devices
Mixes 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth audio
Not available
Not available
Fast pairing
Google Fast Pair4Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2020-08-06-Sony-Electronics-Launches-the-Next-Generation-of-Industry-Leading-Noise-Canceling-with-WH-1000XM4Read 5 October 2026Maker explicitly names Google Fast Pair.
Google Fast Pair, Microsoft Swift Pair1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Help guide covers Microsoft Swift Pair. Google Fast Pair is backed by the Sound Guys review5Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-wh-1000xm6-review-read-before-buying-137397Read 30 September 2026If the Fast Pair/Swift Pair doesn't work
Base station
Not available
Not available

Latency

1 of 2 differ
Low latency mode
Not available
Yes10Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Current exact-model Help Guide, About the sound quality mode and Supported codecs chapters: named Low latency setting uses LE Audio. Compatible LE Audio host and current headset firmware/Sound Connect app required. GMAP switches automatically only with a compatible host and game. No numeric latency inferred.
Claimed latency
Not available
Not available

Compatibility

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Compatible platforms
Windows, macOS, Android, iOS3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm4/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026
Android, iOS, Windows, macOS1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Separate pairing chapters explicitly Android smartphone, iPhone, Windows 10/11 computer, Mac computer. No console capability inferred.
Connection per platform
ASony WH-1000XM4
PlatformConnectionMicrophone works
WindowsBluetoothYes
macOSBluetoothYes
AndroidBluetoothYes
iOSBluetoothYes
Source3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm4/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Exact Android, iPhone, Windows 10/8.1 and Mac pairing chapters. Computer calls use HFP/HSP input/output. No console route inferred from jack availability.
BSony WH-1000XM6
Not available
Official licence
Not available
Not available

Battery and charging

7 of 13 differ
Battery capacity
Not available
Not available
Swappable battery
No3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm4/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Page 132 requires Sony dealer replacement of the built-in battery. No user hot-swapping.
No10Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Charging chapter: built-in rechargeable battery replacement is referred to Sony support or a Sony dealer. This is service replacement rather than a user battery swap.
Batteries included
Not available
Not available
Claimed battery life
ASony WH-1000XM4
ConnectionANCCodecHours (h)
BluetoothYesAAC30
BluetoothNoAAC38
BluetoothYesSBC30
BluetoothNoSBC38
BluetoothYesLDAC24
BluetoothNoLDAC30
AnalogYesNot available22
AnalogNoNot available36
Source3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm4/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Printed pages 21 to 22 document music playback after a full charge. With DSEE Extreme and Speak-to-Chat off, AAC and SBC each allow up to 30 hours with ANC on or 38 hours with ANC and Ambient Sound Mode off. LDAC allows 24 hours with ANC on or 30 hours with both noise-control modes off. The separate rows preserve each named codec. Powered analog playback allows 22 hours with ANC on or 36 hours with both noise-control modes off. Volume is unspecified. Standby and calling durations are excluded. DSEE-enabled estimates are lower and are not mixed with these rows.
BSony WH-1000XM6
ConnectionANCCodecHours (h)
BluetoothYesAAC30
BluetoothNoAAC40
BluetoothYesSBC30
BluetoothNoSBC40
BluetoothYesLC330
BluetoothNoLC340
BluetoothYesLDAC26
BluetoothNoLDAC36
AnalogYesNot available28
AnalogNoNot available38
Source12Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026The exact current WH-1000XM6/YY2984 Help Guide on printed pages 29 to 30 gives music playback after a full charge. AAC and SBC each allow up to 30 hours with ANC on or 40 hours with ANC and Ambient Sound Mode off. LC3 over compatible LE Audio has the same 30/40-hour claims. LDAC allows 26 hours with ANC on or 36 hours with both noise-control modes off. Powered analog playback allows 28 hours with ANC on or 38 hours with both modes off. Each named codec is retained in its own row. Sony warns that Equalizer, DSEE Extreme, Speak-to-Chat, Service Link, and other changes to default app modes reduce these maxima. Playback volume and LDAC bitrate are unspecified. Communication durations are excluded. The 25 to 35°C footnote attaches to the quick-charge estimates, so it is not assigned as a continuous-runtime test condition.
Battery life (claimed, max)
38h
40h
Battery life with ANC (claimed)
30h
30h
Battery life without ANC (claimed)
38h
40h
Charging port
USB-C1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026
USB-C1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Charging the headset chapter: USB Type C port with supplied USB-A to C cable.
Full charge time
180min1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Approximately three hours using a 1.5 A adapter. Separate from the ten-minute quick-charge claim.
210min1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Approx. 3.5 hours
Quick charge time
10min4Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2020-08-06-Sony-Electronics-Launches-the-Next-Generation-of-Industry-Leading-Noise-Canceling-with-WH-1000XM4Read 5 October 2026
3min1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Charging the headset chapter: 3 minute charging gives approximately 3 hour music playback with compatible USB PD adapter. Conditions qualified in quick playback note.
Quick charge playback
5h4Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2020-08-06-Sony-Electronics-Launches-the-Next-Generation-of-Industry-Leading-Noise-Canceling-with-WH-1000XM4Read 5 October 2026Maker launch pairs ten-minute charging with up to five hours of wireless playback.
3h1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026About 3 hours after 3 minutes with a USB PD adaptor of 9 V/2.3 A or more. About 1 hour with a 5 V/1.5 A adaptor
Use while charging
No3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm4/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Page 20 disables all operations, including music, while connected to USB charging power.
Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026You can use the headset while charging. Charging stops at about 80% while in use
Charging dock or stand
Not available
Not available

Controls

1 of 6 differ
Controls
Buttons, Touch3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm4/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026
Buttons, Touch1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Location/function of parts and Controlling the audio device chapters: Power/NC/AMB buttons, left, right touch sensor control panel.
Volume control
Touch3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm4/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026
Touch1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Swipe up and down on the touch sensor control panel
Game and chat mix
Not available
Not available
Remappable controls
Yes3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm4/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Page 118 allows assigning the CUSTOM button. Assistant assignment replaces its noise-control function.
Yes10Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Using Quick Access chapter: Sound Connect assigns services separately to double and triple presses of the NC/AMB button. Availability varies by region.
Wear detection
Yes3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm4/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Page 118 and launch release identify a proximity sensor that pauses/resumes playback on removal/replacement.
Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Wearing the headset chapter: auto-stop/resume by wearing sensor, can change using Sound Connect.
Voice assistant
Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Google app, Siri3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm4/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Pages 108-117 Google Assistant, Alexa, Android Google app and iPhone Siri. Device, app and region restrictions apply. Google app/Siri use touch hold, without wake words. Assistant assignment can exclude other routes.
Google Assistant, Siri, Tencent Xiaowei1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Google Assistant and Siri are device functions. Tencent Xiaowei is for mainland China models only.

Comfort and build

2 of 11 differ
Headband type
Padded8Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-wh-1000xm4-review-38011Read 5 October 2026Review explicitly describes headband padding and pressure at the crown.
Padded8Press releasesony.eu/presscentre/sony-introduces-the-next-evolution-of-noise-cancelling-with-the-wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Soft-fit wider headband with vegan leather.
Headband material
Not available
Vegan leather8Press releasesony.eu/presscentre/sony-introduces-the-next-evolution-of-noise-cancelling-with-the-wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Design section: headband infused with vegan leather.
Frame material
Not available
Not available
Ear cup material
Not available
Not available
Ear pad material
Low-rebound urethane foam12Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/feature_3.htmlRead 5 October 2026Comfort section specifies low-rebound urethane in the pads. This is cushion fill. Generic pleather wording does not establish the covering of a named part.
Not available
Replaceable ear pads
Yes14Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/support/wireless-headphones-bluetooth-headphones/articles/00302783Read 8 October 2026The current maker replacement guide explicitly uses WH-1000XM4 as its example and gives model-specific installation directions. The headphones must be turned off before replacement. This is ear-pad replacement, not battery service.
Yes5Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-wh-1000xm6-review-read-before-buying-137397Read 30 September 2026Review: earpads peel out and snap back onto hooks.
Ear pad attachment
Clip14Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/support/wireless-headphones-bluetooth-headphones/articles/00302783Read 8 October 2026The guide identifies six claws that secure each WH-1000XM4 ear-pad frame to the headphone housing. Replacement pads attach by pressing these clips into place.
Clip5Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-wh-1000xm6-review-read-before-buying-137397Read 30 September 2026Pads peel out of the chassis and snap back on hooks
Ear pad opening
Not available
Not available
Ear tips included
Not available
Not available
Dust and water rating
Not available
Not available
User-replaceable parts
Ear pads14Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/support/wireless-headphones-bluetooth-headphones/articles/00302783Read 8 October 2026The maker documents normal removal and installation of WH-1000XM4 ear pads. No battery or internal electronic part is included.
Ear pads10Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Location and function of parts chapter, pages 13 to 14: remove the right earpad and reattach its five tabs until they click. Pads are removable without opening the housing.

Software

0 of 3 differ
Companion app
Sony | Sound Connect7Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/support/wireless-headphones-bluetooth-headphones/wh-1000xm4/software/00269130Read 5 October 2026Exact supported-software page names current Sound Connect. The older manual Headphones Connect name is historical.
Sony | Sound Connect1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026What you can do with Sony Sound Connect / Installing Sony Sound Connect chapters: Sony Sound Connect mobile application from Google Play and App Store.
App platforms
Android, iOS3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm4/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Manual Apple App Store and Google Play installation instructions. Current Sound Connect name sourced separately.
Android, iOS1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026What you can do with Sony Sound Connect / Installing Sony Sound Connect chapters: Sony Sound Connect mobile application from Google Play and App Store.
User firmware updates
Yes3Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm4/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026
Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Keeping software up to date chapter: headset software update using Sound Connect application.

Dimensions and weight

0 of 2 differ
Headset weight
254g(9 oz)1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Maker approximate headset weight 254 g. SoundGuys 251 g metadata belongs to a preproduction sample and does not prove a measured retail weight.
254g(9 oz)1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Approx. 254 g2Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM6/spec.htmlRead 30 September 2026Approx. 254 g without cable
Headset dimensions
Not available
Not available

Certifications

0 of 3 differ
Hi-Res Audio
Hi-Res Audio, Hi-Res Audio Wireless10Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4Read 5 October 2026Exact original product displays Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Audio Wireless logos. SBC/AAC do not inherit 40 kHz transmission. Wireless range retains LDAC conditions. Documented NFC cannot be represented in this headset schema.
Hi-Res Audio, Hi-Res Audio Wireless1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Wired: High-Resolution Audio needs the headset turned on. Wireless certification from What Hi-Fi8Press releasesony.eu/presscentre/sony-introduces-the-next-evolution-of-noise-cancelling-with-the-wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Explicit Hi-Resolution Audio and High-Resolution Audio Wireless support.
Communication certifications
Not available
Not available
FCC ID
Not available
Not available
Other certifications
Not available
Not available

In the box

2 of 3 differ
In the box
WH-1000XM4 headphones, USB-A to USB-C charging cable, Headphone cable, Carrying case, Airplane plug adapter, Documentation1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/WH-1000XM4/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact Japanese accessory table. Silent White has matching white accessories with the same functions. No AC adapter inherited from another region.
Wireless Noise Canceling Stereo Headset, USB Type-C cable (USB-A to USB-C), Headphone cable, Carrying case, Documents1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Checking the package contents chapter: headset, USB Type C cable USB-A to C, headphone cable, carrying case, documents.
Cables included
ASony WH-1000XM4
TypeLength (m)Count
USB-A to USB-C charging cable0.21
3.5 mm stereo headphone cable1.21
Source13Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/wh1000xm4/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Printed page 9 lists one USB-A to USB-C cable approximately 20 cm long and one headphone cable approximately 1.2 m long. These are the supplied cables. The existing 1.2 m longest-cable value remains valid.
BSony WH-1000XM6
TypeLength (m)Count
USB-A to USB-CNot available1
Headphone cable, 3.5 mm L-shaped plug1.21
Source1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2984/v1/en/print.pdfRead 30 September 2026Cable length from the Sony Japan spec page
Carrying case
Hard15Reviewrtings.com/headphones/reviews/sony/wh-1000xm4-wirelessRead 8 October 2026The exact original WH-1000XM4 Travel verdict explicitly identifies its hard carrying case. The maker guide confirms that this case is supplied. No optional replacement case or WH-1000XM4C accessory is used.
Hard6Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/sony/wh-1000xm6Read 30 September 2026Travel verdict: hard protective case with magnetic clasp.

Warranty

None of 1 known
Manufacturer warranty (source market)
Not available
Not available

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