Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones

Having the pleasure to receive the new WH-1000XM4 from Sony, I would like to share some thoughts about this headphones.

The WH-1000XM4 is the fourth iteration of Sony’s “premium” line of active noise cancelling wireless headphones. It succeeds the immensely popular WH-1000XM3, released during the summer of 2018. Sharing many points in common with the previous version, it still intends to bring it some new features, primarily functional, that can improve the experience of day-to-day use.

The aesthetic similarity between the two models says it all about Sony’s desire not to change a winning formula. The few material changes made to the newborn are insignificant: plastic with a slightly more matte finish, slightly resized foams (the space for the ears inside the ear cups is marginally enlarged - without any significant impact on the comfort of the helmet), or size adjustments of the headband to the “click” slightly firmer.

The autonomy is excellent: depending on the conditions of use (Bluetooth codec used, noise reduction activated or not), it reaches between 24 and 30 hours.

The sound is always balanced, the dynamics always so punchy. The distortion is perfectly contained and the 1000XM4 shines with its versatility. Whether you are fan of classical music, rock, rap, jazz, metal (in short, any type of music), you will live a delicious experience. Lovers of films, series or podcasts will not shy away from their pleasure either.

Always so comfortable to wear, it delivers sound of exceptional quality and enjoys active noise reduction still unmatched on the market.

Key features at a glance

If you are thinking about buying the WH-1000XM4, here is a quick overview of what the headphones offer on paper:

• Active noise cancelling powered by Sony’s HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1
• 40 mm drivers in closed-back, over-ear cups
• Bluetooth with multipoint, so you can stay connected to two devices at once (for example a laptop and a phone)
• LDAC, AAC and SBC codecs, with LDAC offering higher-resolution wireless audio on compatible Android devices
• Up to 30 hours of battery life with noise cancelling on, and quick charging over USB-C
• Wear detection, which pauses music when you take the headphones off
• Speak-to-Chat, which pauses playback automatically when you start talking
• A 3.5 mm cable for wired listening, for example on planes
• A folding design with a hard carry case

What changed compared to the WH-1000XM3

As mentioned above, the design barely changed. The real updates are in the software and the everyday features:

• Multipoint connection was one of the most requested features and arrived with the XM4.
• Wear detection and Speak-to-Chat make the headphones easier to live with in an office or at home.
• DSEE Extreme is Sony’s upscaling technology that aims to restore detail lost in compressed music files.
• Adaptive Sound Control can change noise cancelling settings automatically depending on where you are and what you are doing.

None of these changes are revolutionary on their own, but together they make the XM4 a more polished product than the XM3.

Who are these headphones for?

The WH-1000XM4 makes the most sense for:

• Frequent travellers. Noise cancelling is especially effective against low, constant sounds like aircraft engines and train noise.
• Commuters who want to block out traffic and public transport.
• People working in open offices or cafés who need to concentrate.
• Anyone who wants one pair for everything, from music and podcasts to films and video calls.

They are less ideal if you want headphones for the gym or running. Over-ear headphones get warm, and they are not designed to be sweat-proof. In that case, true wireless earbuds are usually a better choice.

Tips to get the most out of the WH-1000XM4

• Install the Sony companion app. It lets you adjust the equalizer, change noise cancelling settings, update firmware and customise the touch controls.
• Run the noise cancelling optimizer. It adapts the noise cancelling to your head, glasses and hair, and to the air pressure when you fly.
• Learn the touch gestures. Swipe on the right ear cup to change tracks and volume, double-tap to play or pause, and cover the ear cup with your palm for “Quick Attention” mode to hear what is going on around you.
• Use the cable on long flights. If the battery runs low, you can keep listening with the included cable.
• Keep the firmware updated. Updates have added and improved features over time.
• Store them in the case. The headphones fold flat and the case protects the hinges when you travel.

Alternatives worth considering

The premium noise cancelling market is very competitive. If you are comparing options, these are the usual names that come up:

• Sony WH-1000XM5 and newer generations – Sony has released newer models in the same line, with a redesigned headband and updated noise cancelling. The XM4 is still popular because it folds more compactly and is often discounted.
• Bose QuietComfort series – Bose has a long history in noise cancelling and is known for very comfortable, lightweight headphones.
• Apple AirPods Max – A good fit if you live fully in the Apple ecosystem, but heavier and more expensive.
• Sennheiser Momentum – A strong choice for people who care about sound quality and long battery life.

The best choice depends on what matters most to you: comfort, sound, noise cancelling, ecosystem or price. If possible, try a few models in a shop before you buy.

How to take care of your headphones

• Wipe the ear pads with a soft, dry cloth from time to time.
• Avoid leaving them in a hot car or in direct sun for long periods.
• Replace the ear pads when they start to crack or flatten. Replacement pads are widely available.
• Charge the battery regularly, even if you don’t use the headphones every day.

FAQ

When was the Sony WH-1000XM4 released? Sony launched the WH-1000XM4 in August 2020, as the successor of the WH-1000XM3.

Can I connect the WH-1000XM4 to two devices at the same time? Yes. Multipoint connection lets you pair it with two Bluetooth devices at once, for example your phone and your laptop.

How long does the battery last? Sony rates it at up to 30 hours with noise cancelling turned on. Real-world battery life depends on volume, codec and noise cancelling settings.

Can I use the WH-1000XM4 with a cable? Yes. It comes with a 3.5 mm audio cable, so you can use it wired, for example with in-flight entertainment systems.

Is the WH-1000XM4 good for phone calls? It works well for calls and video meetings. Microphone quality in very windy or noisy places is not its strongest point, which is common for many over-ear headphones.

Is it still worth buying the WH-1000XM4? For many people, yes. Newer models exist, but the XM4 still offers strong noise cancelling, good sound and long battery life, and it is often available at a lower price than the latest generation.