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Sony WH-1000XM4: The Ultimate 2025 Review

Music lovers and audiophiles know that not all headphones are created equal.

The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are a top-tier choice for casual listeners and audio enthusiasts alike, offering industry-leading noise cancellation and exceptional sound quality. While they shine in everyday listening and travel scenarios, they may not be the first choice for professional studio engineers.

In a detailed review of the WH-1000XM4, it’s clear these headphones are crafted for a wide audience and check most boxes—though not every single one.

For instance, gamers seeking low-latency audio and dedicated boom microphones might look elsewhere. While the WH-1000XM4 include built-in microphones for calls and voice assistants, they are optimized for immersive listening and noise isolation rather than real-time multiplayer communication.

That said, Sony’s feature-rich design includes everything from adaptive sound control to long battery life, making them an outstanding all-around performer.

If you enjoy diverse music genres and value crisp, balanced sound, the WH-1000XM4 headphones deliver. However, if your preferences lean exclusively toward heavy bass or studio-level precision mixing, other specialized models may serve you better.

Still, for most users, the Sony WH-1000XM4 offers remarkable value, especially in a market saturated with premium headphones.

Sony has long been known for its innovation in audio, and the WH-1000XM4 continues that legacy. These headphones remain a fan favorite in 2025, even years after their initial release. Their combination of performance, comfort, and smart features continues to earn high praise from audiophiles and everyday users alike.

Let’s explore why the WH-1000XM4 still holds its place as one of the best wireless headphones on the market today.

Sony WH-1000XM4: A Benchmark in Wireless Listening

If you’re serious about sound, you’ve likely come across Sony’s WH series.

The WH-1000XM4 takes everything great about the XM3 and improves upon it, delivering deep bass, crystal-clear mids, and silky highs in a refined and intelligent package. It’s the kind of listening experience that makes you hear your favorite tracks in a whole new way.

Designed with frequent travelers, commuters, and everyday listeners in mind, the WH-1000XM4s feature adaptive noise cancellation, ambient sound control, and a 30-hour battery life that makes them a reliable go-to option.

In this review, we’ll break down both technical and lifestyle features that make these headphones such a powerhouse in Sony’s lineup.

Technical:

The WH-1000XM4 is built with 40mm drivers featuring Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP) diaphragms that reproduce a full range of frequencies, from deep bass to sparkling treble.

These drivers are engineered for balance and precision, delivering hi-res audio that rivals wired setups. Whether you’re listening to acoustic guitar or EDM, the sound remains crisp, layered, and immersive.

With an impedance of 47 Ohms (when powered on), the Sony WH-1000XM4 strikes a balance between clarity and compatibility. It pairs easily with smartphones and laptops while offering enough resistance to prevent distortion at high volumes.

Whether you’re streaming Spotify or playing locally stored FLAC files, the WH-1000XM4 offers smooth, consistent audio.

The sensitivity rating of 105 dB/mW ensures the WH-1000XM4 headphones are responsive and dynamic. Even at moderate volume levels, the headphones preserve depth and detail, allowing every nuance of a track to shine through.

This makes them ideal for extended sessions without causing ear fatigue.

While the WH-1000XM4 are primarily wireless with Bluetooth 5.0, they include a 3.5mm audio cable for those who prefer wired listening or need it for inflight entertainment systems.

The USB-C port allows for fast charging—just 10 minutes of charging gives you up to 5 hours of playback.

With a frequency response range of 4 Hz to 40,000 Hz (wired mode), the WH-1000XM4 far exceeds the human hearing range. This allows for enhanced audio fidelity, especially when using high-resolution audio files.

Bass lovers will appreciate the rumble, while classical and jazz enthusiasts will admire the subtlety.

Do You Know?

The WH-1000XM4 supports Sony’s LDAC codec, which transmits three times more data than standard Bluetooth for near-lossless wireless audio. Paired with the DSEE Extreme upscaling engine, even compressed tracks sound richer and more natural.

Noise cancellation is where the WH-1000XM4 shines brightest.

Sony’s industry-leading ANC adapts in real-time to your environment. Dual microphones on each earcup work with Sony’s HD Noise-Canceling Processor QN1 to block ambient sound—whether it’s the hum of a plane or chatter in a café.

The Adaptive Sound Control also learns your habits, adjusting settings based on your activity—walking, sitting, or traveling.

Not-Technical:

Crafted with high-grade plastic and soft-touch materials, the WH-1000XM4 combines durability with a premium feel. While not as heavy or metallic as some competitors, they’re made to withstand daily use without compromising comfort or function.

The swivel-and-fold design adds portability, making them easy to store in the included travel case.

Sony prioritized comfort with the WH-1000XM4. The earcups are generously padded with memory foam, and the headband provides a snug fit without creating pressure points.

These headphones are light enough for all-day use, and the smart wear detection pauses your music automatically when you remove them.

Weighing just around 254 grams (approx. 8.9 oz), the WH-1000XM4 strikes the perfect balance between sturdy build and feather-light comfort. You’ll forget you’re even wearing them after a few minutes—making them perfect for long flights, study sessions, or remote work calls.

FAQ’S:

  1. Do the Sony WH-1000XM4 Max have microphones?

Yes, they feature multiple microphones that support call quality, voice assistants, and active noise cancellation. The Speak-to-Chat feature even detects when you’re talking and automatically pauses your music.

  1. Are the Sony WH-1000XM4 good?

Absolutely. With top-tier sound quality, intelligent ANC, smart controls, and long battery life, the WH-1000XM4 remains one of the best wireless headphones available—even in 2025.

  1. Are the WH-1000XM4 better than the AirPods Max?

It depends on your needs. The AirPods Max may offer slightly more integration within the Apple ecosystem and a more luxurious build. However, the WH-1000XM4 provides better value, longer battery life, and arguably superior ANC—making them an outstanding choice for both Android and iOS users.

Conclusion:

Sony’s WH-1000XM4 headphones continue to set the standard in the wireless headphone market. Blending excellent sound, intelligent noise cancellation, premium comfort, and user-friendly features, they deliver unbeatable value even in 2025.

Whether you’re commuting, working, traveling, or relaxing at home, the Sony WH-1000XM4 are ready to deliver an elite listening experience—wirelessly and effortlessly.

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