Having been able to test various high-end headphones over the years, I naturally assumed the Sony WH-1000XM4 Noise-Canceling Headphones would be my best bet. Extensive use of the headphones has made me state with confidence that these particular headphones possess one of the best audio experiences I have ever had. And the noise cancellation, sound quality, and fit of this product have been made even better. Truly, Sony has improved on a great product that fits both audiophiles and casual listeners.
Deign & Comfort
At the first glance, WH-1000XM4 preserves that sleek, minimalist design, which is, in effect, an almost exact of its predecessor WH-1000XM3. Matte finish and lightness indeed give the headphone a very premium look and feel. The earcups are padded with soft memory foam, allowing a very comfortable fit that can be worn for long hours.
The most notable upgrade is an upgraded weight distribution. I never felt discomfort or pressure points on the ears after wearing them for hours at a time! For the clamping strength, the headband is cushioned as well, so that no pressure points could be felt on top of the head. Perfect for long flights, work-from-home, or chilling at home.
Sound Quality
Traditionally, great sound has been Sony’s hallmark, and the WH-1000XM4 fit perfectly into that mold. With Sony’s HD Noise-Canceling Processor QN1 in action, the WH-1000XM4 enhances audio through lifting clarity and depth controls. Bass hits deep and punchy without being overbearing, mids are clear and well-balanced, and highs shine crisp and detailed. A notable feature is DSEE Extreme, which upscales compressed digital files in real-time, allowing subpar streaming audio to sound considerably better.
This is where the WH-1000XM4 really excels.
The noise cancellation is extraordinary. Background noise is effectively blocked in multiple environments. My headphones consistently provided a serene, engaging listening experience in any environment, be it a noisy train, a busy café, or a home with background chatter. Adaptive Sound Control is remarkably impressive. It precisely senses whether you’re walking, sitting, or traveling and it automatically adjusts the noise cancellation accordingly. Furthermore, the Speak-to-Chat function instantly pauses music upon the initiation of a conversation, thus enabling considerably smoother conversations that avoid the necessity of removing headphones.
The WH-1000XM4 has superb battery life. Thirty hours of playback is possible with a full charge and a quick 10-minute charge provides 5 hours of use. It’s ideal for those with many demanding commitments. This remarkably useful multipoint connection enables these headphones to simultaneously connect to two devices and this greatly simplifies the process of switching between my phone and laptop. The strong Bluetooth 5.0 connection consistently maintained stability; I experienced absolutely no lag or dropouts.
Controls & Additional Features
The right ear cup’s touch controls are remarkably intuitive and highly responsive. A single swift upward or downward swipe adjusts the volume, while a single left or right swipe efficiently skips tracks; a double-tap plays or pauses the music. The sensors also detect with precision when you remove the headphones, automatically pausing playback—a subtly meaningful, in addition to incredibly convenient feature. The Sony Headphones Connect App allows for wide-ranging customization of several settings, including equalizer adjustments, ambient sound control and firmware updates, thereby guaranteeing a personalized listening experience.
My Final Thoughts
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Noise-Canceling Headphones offer superior sound quality, industry-leading noise cancellation and premium comfort; they represent a near-perfect amalgamation of these important features. They provide a superior listening experience, featuring adaptive sound control, multipoint connectivity and outstanding battery life. Music lovers, frequent travelers and those seeking high-quality noise cancellation will find these headphones a superior investment. Extraordinary features and superior performance fully justify their high price. These headphones are exceptionally recommended for anyone wanting wireless headphones of supremely high quality that deliver an engaging, as well as high-fidelity, listening experience.