The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones have arrived, and we’re seriously impressed. In our review, we awarded them the Recommended badge—these are easily among the best headphones you can buy today.
But what if you already own the iconic Sony WH-1000XM4? With a noticeable price gap between the two models, is the upgrade worth it?
In short: yes, it is.
I’ve spent several weeks testing the WH-1000XM6, comparing them directly with the WH-1000XM4. Sony has refined nearly every aspect of the experience. Unlike the WH-1000XM5, which made some questionable design choices, the XM6 feels like a true step forward.
The improvements are clear and impactful. While there are many upgrades, three stand out the most, and they might just convince XM4 owners to make the switch.
Let’s take a closer look.
Table of Contents
Silence Perfected: Why the XM6 Leaves the XM4 Behind
There’s no doubt—these are Sony’s best noise-cancelling headphones yet.
In side-by-side tests with the WH-1000XM4, the WH-1000XM6 outperformed it significantly. That’s impressive, considering the XM4 still offers solid noise cancellation.
The XM4 handles low-end sounds well and effectively softens harsh noise. I could easily focus on music or shows without distraction. But the XM6 takes it to another level.
No matter where I was—on a busy street, vacuuming at home, or riding public transport—the XM6 created a bubble of near-silence. Traffic noise faded. The vacuum’s roar disappeared. On the train, it felt like I was traveling alone.
This leap in performance comes from Sony’s new QN3 HD noise-cancelling processor. It works with 12 microphones to block out ambient sound with remarkable precision.
In contrast, the XM4 uses a weaker processor and only five microphones. While it was excellent at launch, it’s now been surpassed—not just by the XM6, but also by the XM5 and competitors like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra.
If noise cancellation is your top priority, the XM6 is the clear winner. The difference is real, and you’ll hear it the moment you switch.
A Perfect Blend of Style and Practicality
The WH-1000XM6 combines the best design features of the XM4 and XM5.
Many XM4 users appreciated the foldable design—it made the headphones easy to pack and carry. Sony removed that feature in the XM5, which disappointed users who valued portability.
With the XM6, Sony brings foldability back—and improves it. The new model uses reinforced metal hinges that feel sturdier and more durable than those on the XM4. That means fewer worries about wear and tear over time.
Sony also includes a new magnetic case for the folded headphones. It’s more convenient and compact than the XM4’s zip-up case.
But the XM6 doesn’t just fold—it looks great doing it. Sony kept the sleek, rounded design of the XM5, which already felt more premium than the XM4.
The headband is another upgrade. It’s wider, smoother, and more comfortable, with a less plasticky look. The matte finish on the exterior adds a clean, modern touch.
Overall, the XM6 feels like a true physical upgrade—stylish, sturdy, and travel-ready.
Sound Quality That Truly Stands Out
Let’s wrap up with what matters most in any premium wireless headphones: sound quality.
The WH-1000XM4 impressed with their clean, expressive audio, punchy bass, and detailed sound. Their 40mm drivers handled everything from deep beats to soft vocals with ease, even years after release.
But the WH-1000XM6 takes things further.
Right out of the box, the XM6 delivers a more balanced and refined sound. Sony developed these headphones in collaboration with top mastering engineers, and it shows. The audio feels more even across all frequencies.
You get deep, controlled bass, rich mids, and crisp highs. This improved balance makes the XM6 a clear step up from the XM4.
Sony also added a new “noise shaper” to the XM6. It enhances digital-to-analog conversion and reduces distortion from sudden sound changes. The result is a smoother, more controlled listening experience.
Another major upgrade is the soundstage. The XM6 offers a wider, more open feel. Instruments have space to breathe, creating a layered and immersive experience, perfect for both music and movies.
That cinematic feel is boosted by a new feature: 360 Reality Audio Upmix. When you activate Cinema mode in the Sony Headphones Connect app, the XM6 transforms basic stereo into a spacious, 3D-like sound.
All the great features from the XM4 are still here, too:
- DSEE Extreme for upscaling low-quality audio
- LDAC for high-resolution Bluetooth streaming
- Custom EQ settings for personalized sound
The XM6 improves on these with a 10-band equalizer, giving you more control. And with better noise cancelling, you’ll stay even more immersed in your audio.
In short, the XM6 covers all the bases. If you’re upgrading from the XM4, the difference in sound quality is immediate and impressive.
