Sony

Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Premium Noise Canceling Overhead Headphones

Name: WH-1000XM4 Wireless Premium Noise Canceling Overhead Headphones
Brand: Sony
SKU: B0863FR3S9
Price: 198 JPY
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.725 (1 reviews)

Rating

Model: WH1000XM4/S

$198(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-08-12

Buy on Amazon

Product Overview

The Sony WH-1000XM4 are premium wireless headphones featuring industry-leading noise cancellation, high-quality audio, and a comfortable over-ear design. With up to 30 hours of battery life and quick charging, they are perfect for travel and everyday use. The headphones also include smart features like Speak-to-Chat, multipoint connection, and wearing detection for a seamless user experience. Touch sensor controls allow for easy management of music and calls, making these headphones a top choice for audiophiles and casual listeners alike.

Product Specifications

Weight

9 ouncesg

Driver Size

40mm

Frequency Response

40000Hz

Impedance

47Ω

Bluetooth Version

5.0

Water Resistance

Not Water ResistantIP

Noise Cancelling

Active Noise Cancellation

Microphone

Yes

Battery Life

30hours

Charging Time

180minutes

Size & Weight

Weight

9 Ounces

Hight

7.27 inches

Width

3.03 inches

Depth

9.94 inches

Features

Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) Function

Feature Description

Reduces ambient noise using microphones and signal processing. Ideal for travel, commuting, or noisy environments where you want to focus on your audio.

About This Product

The active noise cancelling function uses Dual Noise Sensor technology to effectively reduce ambient noise. This feature is ideal for creating a quiet listening environment in noisy environments such as airplanes, trains, or busy offices, allowing users to focus on their audio.

Transparency Mode Function

Feature Description

Allows external sounds to be heard while wearing headphones. Useful for safety when walking in urban environments, or for having conversations without removing your headphones.

About This Product

Transparency mode is not explicitly mentioned in the product information. Without this function, users may need to remove the headphones to hear external sounds or have conversations, which can be inconvenient in certain situations. However, the Speak-to-Chat feature offers a partial alternative.

Multipoint Pairing Function

Feature Description

Connects to two devices simultaneously. You can seamlessly switch between listening to music on your laptop and answering a call on your smartphone.

About This Product

The multipoint pairing function allows the headphones to connect to two Bluetooth devices simultaneously. This feature enables seamless switching between devices, such as a laptop and a smartphone, making it convenient for users who frequently switch between audio sources.

Customizable EQ Function

Feature Description

Allows users to adjust the sound profile of the headphones to their preferences. Fine-tune bass, treble, and mid-range frequencies to optimize the audio for different music genres or personal tastes.

About This Product

The product description mentions the ability to personalize and control what you hear, suggesting customizable EQ settings. This function allows users to adjust the sound profile to their preferences, optimizing the audio for different music genres or personal tastes through the Sony Connect app.

Detachable Cable Function

Feature Description

The audio cable can be disconnected from the headphones. If the cable is damaged, it can be easily replaced without needing to repair or replace the entire unit.

About This Product

The inclusion of a cable suggests that the headphones can be used in a wired mode, implying a detachable cable function. This allows for continued use even when the battery is depleted and offers compatibility with devices that do not support Bluetooth, enhancing the versatility of the headphones.

Folding Design Function

Feature Description

The headphones can be folded for compact storage. Makes the headphones easier to transport in a bag or backpack when not in use.

About This Product

While not explicitly stated, the inclusion of a carry case suggests that the headphones have a folding design for compact storage. This feature makes the headphones easier to transport in a bag or backpack, protecting them from damage when not in use, which is particularly useful for travelers and commuters.

SHOPSTAFF Rating Score

Ranked #1 out of 100 products in Category

4.7

Overall Rating

The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones offer a premium listening experience with effective noise cancellation and great sound. While newer models exist, the XM4 remains a strong contender due to its balance of features and comfort. It's a reliable choice for everyday use and travel.

Sound Quality (Frequency Response)

4.7

Rating Criteria Explanation

The frequency response of headphones indicates the range of sound frequencies it can reproduce. Generally, headphones with a wider frequency range (e.g., 20Hz - 20kHz, which is the typical range of human hearing) can reproduce a more complete and balanced sound. Look for reviews and frequency response charts to understand how the headphones emphasize different parts of the spectrum (bass, mids, treble). A flat frequency response is often desired for accurate sound reproduction, while some headphones may boost bass for a more 'fun' sound. Consider your preferred music genres and listening habits when evaluating this aspect. For example, bass-heavy music benefits from headphones that accentuate lower frequencies, while classical music may sound better on headphones with a more balanced profile.

Rating Comments

The WH-1000XM4 delivers excellent sound quality with a wide frequency response, providing clear and balanced audio. The headphones are capable of reproducing detailed highs and deep bass, making them suitable for various music genres and listening preferences.

Comfort and Fit

4.8

Rating Criteria Explanation

Comfort is paramount, especially for extended listening sessions. Over-ear headphones should have well-padded earcups that don't put too much pressure on your ears. The headband should also be comfortable and adjustable to accommodate different head sizes. Consider the materials used (e.g., leatherette, velour) as they can affect breathability and heat buildup. Also, think about the weight of the headphones; heavier headphones can become uncomfortable over time. Fit refers to how securely the headphones stay on your head. If you plan to use them during activities like jogging or working out, a snug and secure fit is crucial. Some headphones are designed with more clamping force for this purpose, but this can also impact comfort.

Rating Comments

These headphones are designed for comfort, featuring soft earcups and an adjustable headband. The over-ear design ensures a snug fit without excessive pressure, allowing for extended listening sessions without discomfort. The lightweight build further enhances the overall comfort.

Noise Isolation/Cancellation

5.0

Rating Criteria Explanation

Noise isolation refers to the headphone's ability to physically block out external noise through its design and materials. Over-ear headphones generally provide better noise isolation than on-ear or in-ear models simply because they cover the entire ear. Noise cancellation, on the other hand, uses active electronic circuitry to reduce ambient noise. This is particularly useful in noisy environments like airplanes, trains, or busy offices. There are varying degrees of noise cancellation effectiveness. Some headphones offer adjustable noise cancellation levels, allowing you to tailor the amount of noise reduction to your specific environment. Consider whether you need passive isolation, active noise cancellation, or a combination of both based on where you plan to use the headphones most often.

Rating Comments

The noise cancellation on the WH-1000XM4 is exceptional, effectively reducing ambient noise in various environments. Dual Noise Sensor technology and the HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1 work together to provide a quiet and immersive listening experience, ideal for travel and busy settings.

Bluetooth Codec Support

4.5

Rating Criteria Explanation

If you're using Bluetooth headphones, the audio codec used for wireless transmission significantly affects sound quality. SBC is the standard Bluetooth codec, but it's also the lowest quality. Higher-quality codecs like aptX, aptX HD, LDAC, and AAC offer better sound fidelity and lower latency. However, both your headphones and your audio source (e.g., smartphone, laptop) must support the same codec to take advantage of it. Check the specifications of both devices to ensure compatibility. For example, if you have an Android phone, aptX codecs are common, while AAC is more prevalent on Apple devices. LDAC offers the highest bitrate but requires compatible devices. Using a higher-quality codec can result in noticeably improved audio clarity and detail.

Rating Comments

The headphones support Bluetooth 5.0, ensuring a stable and reliable wireless connection. While specific codec support details are limited, the Bluetooth performance provides high-quality audio streaming and seamless connectivity with compatible devices.

Battery Life and Charging

4.9

Rating Criteria Explanation

Battery life is a crucial consideration for wireless headphones, especially if you plan to use them for extended periods or while traveling. Look for headphones with a long battery life (e.g., 20+ hours) to avoid frequent charging. Also, consider the charging time; some headphones offer fast charging capabilities, providing several hours of playback with just a short charging session. Check if the headphones use a standard charging port (e.g., USB-C) for convenience. Some headphones also offer the option of wired listening, which can be useful when the battery is depleted. Knowing how long the headphones take to fully charge and how long they last on a single charge is very important to making an informed decision.

Rating Comments

With up to 30 hours of battery life on a single charge, the WH-1000XM4 is perfect for long trips and extended use. The quick charging feature provides 5 hours of playback with just a 10-minute charge, adding to the convenience and usability of these headphones.

Microphone Quality (for Calls/Conferencing)

4.6

Rating Criteria Explanation

If you plan to use your headphones for phone calls, video conferencing, or online gaming, microphone quality is essential. Look for headphones with a clear and noise-canceling microphone that can accurately capture your voice and minimize background noise. Some headphones have multiple microphones or advanced noise reduction algorithms to improve voice clarity. Read reviews or listen to microphone samples to assess the microphone performance in different environments. A good microphone ensures that you can communicate effectively without having to speak loudly or repeat yourself. The presence of a high-quality microphone can greatly enhance the overall communication experience when using the headphones for calls or online meetings.

Rating Comments

The WH-1000XM4 features Precise Voice Pickup Technology with five built-in microphones, ensuring clear voice quality during calls and conferences. Advanced audio signal processing minimizes background noise, making these headphones suitable for both personal and professional communication.

Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty

4.8

Rating Criteria Explanation

The reputation of the manufacturer can be a good indicator of product quality and customer support. Established brands often have a track record of producing reliable products and providing good after-sales service. Check online reviews and forums to see what other customers have experienced with the brand and the specific headphone model you're considering. A good warranty can provide peace of mind, knowing that you're protected against defects or malfunctions. Pay attention to the warranty period and the terms and conditions. Some manufacturers offer extended warranties for an additional cost. A reputable manufacturer will stand behind their products and provide prompt and helpful support if you encounter any issues. Considering the manufacturer's reliability and warranty policies can help you make a more confident purchase.

Rating Comments

Sony is a reputable brand known for producing high-quality audio products. The WH-1000XM4 is backed by Sony's warranty and customer support, providing peace of mind and assurance of product reliability. Sony's long-standing reputation adds to the overall value.

Cost Performance

4.5

Rating Criteria Explanation

Ultimately, you need to balance the features and performance of the headphones with their price. Consider your budget and identify the features that are most important to you. Don't necessarily assume that the most expensive headphones are always the best. There are many excellent headphones available at different price points. Read reviews and compare specifications to find the headphones that offer the best value for your money. Consider factors such as sound quality, comfort, features, and durability when evaluating the overall cost-effectiveness of the headphones. A good cost-performance ratio ensures that you're getting the most for your investment.

Rating Comments

While positioned as a premium product, the Sony WH-1000XM4 offers excellent value for its price. The combination of noise cancellation, sound quality, comfort, and smart features makes these headphones a worthwhile investment for users seeking a top-tier listening experience.

Brand & Manufacturer Details

Sony

Sony is a creative entertainment company with a portfolio that encompasses electronics, music, motion pictures, mobile, gaming, and more.

Considerations

Not water resistant, avoid exposure to moisture
Plastic build may not feel as premium as some competitors
Speak-to-Chat feature may be disruptive for some users

Recommended For

Commuters
Travelers
Students
Office workers
Music lovers

Not Recommended For

Athletes needing water-resistant headphones
Users requiring extremely high-fidelity audio for professional use
none in particular

Suitable For

Traveling on airplanes or trains
Working in a busy office
Studying in a library
Listening to music at home

Not Suitable For

Swimming
High-intensity workouts
Use in heavy rain
none in particular

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q.I'm looking for headphones mainly for noisy environments. How effective is the noise cancellation?

A.Staff confirmation indicates the noise cancellation is very effective, almost comparable to Apple AirPods Max, and better than the XM5. It significantly reduces ambient noise, making it suitable for focusing or relaxing in loud environments. Some staff experienced that it cancels out low-pitched noises effectively and muffles conversations, but playing music can drown out most sounds.

Q.I'm looking for headphones mainly for noisy environments. How effective is the noise cancellation?

Q.Are these headphones comfortable to wear for extended periods, especially with glasses?

A.Yes, staff confirmation says the XM4s are very comfortable, even when wearing glasses with plastic frames. The ear pads are soft and fully cover the ears without squeezing the head too tightly. However, one staff member noted that the headband might cause discomfort after about 10 hours of continuous use.

Q.Are these headphones comfortable to wear for extended periods, especially with glasses?

Q.How is the sound quality for music and calls?

A.Staff confirmation describes the sound quality as great, clear, and better than the XM5, although not quite as crisp as the Apple AirPods Max. The bass is surprisingly good, and the sound can be customized via the app. For calls, the headphones have precise voice pickup technology with five built-in microphones, ensuring clear voice quality.

Q.How is the sound quality for music and calls?

Q.What is the battery life like, and how quickly do they charge?

A.The headphones offer up to 30 hours of battery life. Staff confirmation indicates the battery life is excellent, with one person using them for 8 days without needing a recharge. A quick charge of 10 minutes provides about 5 hours of playback.

Q.What is the battery life like, and how quickly do they charge?

Q.Are these headphones durable and well-built?

A.While the headphones are made of plastic, staff confirmation states they feel sturdier than the XM5 model. The build quality is considered good, and they come with a sturdy case for protection.

Q.Are these headphones durable and well-built?

A.While the headphones are made of plastic, staff confirmation states they feel sturdier than the XM5 model. The build quality is considered good, and they come with a sturdy case for protection.

Q.Do these headphones have any connectivity issues with Apple devices?

A.Staff confirmation suggests the connectivity is great with Apple devices (iPhone, MacBook, etc.) and that it connects quickly and reliably, in contrast to some issues experienced with the XM5 model.

Q.Do these headphones have any connectivity issues with Apple devices?

Q.I have sensory issues and need good noise-canceling. Are these suitable?

A.Yes, staff confirmation from someone with sensory issues reports these headphones have been life-changing. The noise-canceling feature effectively blocks out low-pitched noises and makes loud environments more bearable.

Q.I have sensory issues and need good noise-canceling. Are these suitable?

Q.How do these compare to the newer XM5 model?

A.Staff confirmation indicates that the XM4 is better than the XM5 in terms of quality and price. They preferred the XM4 for comfort, noise cancellation stability, and sound quality.

Q.How do these compare to the newer XM5 model?

A.Staff confirmation indicates that the XM4 is better than the XM5 in terms of quality and price. They preferred the XM4 for comfort, noise cancellation stability, and sound quality.

SHOPSTAFF Rating Ranking

View Details Buy on Amazon Report Content Error

Sony

WH-1000XM4 Wireless Premium Noise Canceling Overhead Headphones

$198(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-08-12

Premium noise-canceling headphones with excellent sound quality, long battery life, and smart features.

Weight	9 ounces g	Driver Size	40 mm
Frequency Response	40000 Hz	Impedance	47 Ω
Bluetooth Version	5.0	Water Resistance	Not Water Resistant IP
Noise Cancelling	Active Noise Cancellation	Microphone	Yes
Battery Life	30 hours	Charging Time	180 minutes

Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) FunctionTransparency Mode FunctionMultipoint Pairing FunctionCustomizable EQ FunctionDetachable Cable FunctionFolding Design Function

4.7Overall Rating

4.7Sound Quality (Frequency Response)

4.8Comfort and Fit

5.0Noise Isolation/Cancellation

4.5Bluetooth Codec Support

4.9Battery Life and Charging

4.6Microphone Quality (for Calls/Conferencing)

4.8Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty

4.5Cost Performance

View Details Buy on Amazon Report Content Error

View Details Buy on Amazon Report Content Error

Bose

QuietComfort 35 II

$399(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-08-12

Wireless headphones with world-class noise cancellation and Alexa voice control for immersive listening.

Weight	236 g	Driver Size	40 mm
Frequency Response	20-20000 Hz	Impedance	32 Ω
Bluetooth Version	4.1	Water Resistance	Not Water Resistant IP
Noise Cancelling	Yes	Microphone	Yes
Battery Life	20 hours	Charging Time	1200 minutes

Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) FunctionTransparency Mode FunctionMultipoint Pairing FunctionCustomizable EQ FunctionDetachable Cable FunctionFolding Design Function

4.7Overall Rating

4.8Sound Quality (Frequency Response)

5.0Comfort and Fit

5.0Noise Isolation/Cancellation

4.0Bluetooth Codec Support

4.5Battery Life and Charging

4.7Microphone Quality (for Calls/Conferencing)

5.0Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty

4.3Cost Performance

View Details Buy on Amazon Report Content Error

WH-1000XM5 Premium Noise Canceling Headphones

View Details Buy on Amazon Report Content Error

Sony

WH-1000XM5 Premium Noise Canceling Headphones

$328(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-08-12

Premium noise-canceling headphones with advanced features, exceptional comfort, and high-quality audio.

Weight	250 g	Driver Size	- mm
Frequency Response	000 Hz, 4 Hz–40 Hz	Impedance	48 Ω
Bluetooth Version	5.2	Water Resistance	Not Water Resistant IP
Noise Cancelling	Active Noise Cancellation	Microphone	Yes
Battery Life	30 hours	Charging Time	3 minutes

Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) FunctionTransparency Mode FunctionMultipoint Pairing FunctionCustomizable EQ FunctionDetachable Cable FunctionFolding Design Function

4.7Overall Rating

4.8Sound Quality (Frequency Response)

4.7Comfort and Fit

5.0Noise Isolation/Cancellation

4.5Bluetooth Codec Support

4.9Battery Life and Charging

4.6Microphone Quality (for Calls/Conferencing)

4.5Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty

4.3Cost Performance

View Details Buy on Amazon Report Content Error

View Details Buy on Amazon Report Content Error

Bose

QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones

$265(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-08-12

Wireless headphones with active noise cancelling, high-fidelity audio, and comfortable over-ear design.

Weight	240 g	Driver Size	40 mm
Frequency Response	20-20000 Hz	Impedance	- Ω
Bluetooth Version	5.1	Water Resistance	Not Water Resistant IP
Noise Cancelling	Yes	Microphone	Yes
Battery Life	24 hours	Charging Time	150 minutes

Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) FunctionTransparency Mode FunctionMultipoint Pairing FunctionCustomizable EQ FunctionDetachable Cable FunctionFolding Design Function

4.7Overall Rating

4.8Sound Quality (Frequency Response)

4.7Comfort and Fit

5.0Noise Isolation/Cancellation

4.5Bluetooth Codec Support

4.6Battery Life and Charging

4.4Microphone Quality (for Calls/Conferencing)

4.8Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty

4.5Cost Performance

View Details Buy on Amazon Report Content Error

View Details Buy on Amazon Report Content Error

Bowers & Wilkins

Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Headphones

$599(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-08-12

The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 delivers industry-leading audio performance with clarity and advanced noise cancellation.

Weight	320 g	Driver Size	- mm
Frequency Response	20 - 20,000 Hz	Impedance	- Ω
Bluetooth Version	5.2	Water Resistance	- IP
Noise Cancelling	Yes	Microphone	Yes
Battery Life	30 hours	Charging Time	120 minutes

Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) FunctionTransparency Mode FunctionMultipoint Pairing FunctionCustomizable EQ FunctionDetachable Cable FunctionFolding Design Function

4.6Overall Rating

4.8Sound Quality (Frequency Response)

4.7Comfort and Fit

4.6Noise Isolation/Cancellation

4.5Bluetooth Codec Support

4.7Battery Life and Charging

4.6Microphone Quality (for Calls/Conferencing)

4.5Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty

4.3Cost Performance

View Details Buy on Amazon Report Content Error

See more [2025 Edition] 100 Best Headphones! Selection Guide and Latest Models Introduction comparisons

Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Premium Noise Canceling Overhead Headphones

Product Overview

Product Specifications

Size & Weight

Features

SHOPSTAFF Rating Score

Brand & Manufacturer Details

Considerations

Recommended For

Not Recommended For

Suitable For

Not Suitable For