Very Late to The Game but Here's my Impression of Sony's WH-1000XM4 Wireless Headphones
I recently purchased the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones, which are still a top-tier choice for noise-canceling wireless headphones. Even though I'm late to the game, I'm blown away by their excellent sound quality and innovative features. The comfort level of these headphones is impressive as well. They are currently available at a steep discount of just $198.00 on Amazon. Overall, I'm very pleased with my choice and the value I'm getting from these headphones.
Here's my breakdown of what makes the WH-1000XM4 stand out as one of the best headphones I've ever purchased.
Impressive Sound Quality and Noise Cancellation
I like to call the sound quality of these headphones 'detail-rich' with immaculate bass. Even when I cranked the bass level to boost, the sound quality remains refined without muddy distortion. The WH-1000XM4 headphones feature industry-leading noise cancellation that effectively seals out external noise, even in noisy environments like subway trains. I am particularly impressed with the DSEE upscaling feature, which enhances compressed audio files for richer playback. Overall, the combination of these features makes for an exceptional listening experience.
The Smart Features
The built-in Auto-pause/play sensor feature operates when I remove or put the headphones back on my head. In these particular headphones, the auto-pause/play functionality works seamlessly. As soon as I lift the headphones off my ears, it shuts off immediately. This feature enhances the user experience by providing convenience.
Let's talk about the Design and Comfort.
The WH-1000XM4 headphones are surprisingly lightweight and foldable, featuring a very plush cushion and a sturdy headband. The headphones' design is sleek and straightforward. They are available in various colors, including blue, black, and cream white. The combination of their lightweight nature and comfortable materials makes them an appealing choice.
Many reviewers stated that the WH-1000XM4 are less comfortable than their successors, the WH-1000XM5 and WH-1000XM6, but I beg to differ. So far, I find these headphones very comfortable, even during long sessions. The cups cover the entire ears, which I believe contributes to the overall comfort. Overall, my experience with the WH-1000XM4 has been positive in terms of comfort.
The Battery Life is Everlasting
Headphones like the WH-1000XM4 provide extensive playback time, offering up to 30 hours with noise-canceling active. In my real-world test, I got at least a day and a half of use from a single charge, which I found pretty impressive. A standout feature is their quick charging capability. I was able to charge the WH-1000XM4 from 50% to 100% in just over 30 minutes. This combination of long battery life and fast charging makes the WH-1000XM4 a highly appealing option, especially if you’re like me and use wireless headphones for extended periods.
But There is a Downside
There are some downsides to the WH-1000XM4 headphones. They lack an IP rating, making them unsuitable for workouts and rainy commutes. Additionally, there is no AptX support, which might deter audiophiles who prefer alternatives such as the Bose Ultra Headphones 2 or the Momentum 4. I find the touch controls a bit finicky, particularly the double-tap gesture for pausing or answering calls. Overall, while they have impressive features, these limitations are worth considering.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for premium wireless headphones without paying flagship prices, the WH-1000M4 would be a wise choice. The wireless headphones strike a rare balance between optimal performance and practical value. With superb noise cancellation, a wide sound profile, and thoughtful features, the headphones remain a benchmark in wireless audio even 4 years after their market launch. While newer models like the XM5 and XM6 offer impressive incremental improvements, the XM4 will still deliver a flagship experience at a midrange price.
