The Sony WH-1000XM4 Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones have taken the market by storm with their cutting-edge features and exceptional performance. Priced at £199.99, these over-ear headphones promise a premium listening experience.
With a rating of 4.6 out of 5 from over 19,000 reviews, it’s clear that the WH-1000XM4 has won the hearts of many. Let’s dive into what makes these headphones stand out.
From my time using the Sony WH-1000XM4, I was particularly impressed with the noise cancellation powered by the HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1. It effectively blocks out ambient noise, making it perfect for commuting or working in noisy environments.
The sound quality is superb, especially after tweaking the settings in the Sony Connect app. However, I did notice that the built-in microphone could be better, and the touch-sensitive controls took some getting used to.
Noise Cancellation
The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are renowned for their industry-leading noise cancellation, which is powered by the HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1. This feature allows users to experience an immersive listening environment by blocking out ambient sounds. Whether you are commuting or working in a noisy environment, the noise cancellation ensures that you remain undisturbed. Users have praised this feature for its ability to completely silence low-frequency noises such as engine rumbles and traffic sounds. The adaptive noise cancellation can also be fine-tuned using the Sony Connect app to suit different environments and preferences.
Sound Quality
The sound quality of the Sony WH-1000XM4 is exceptional, supporting high-resolution audio and using DSEE Extreme technology to upscale compressed music files. This results in a rich and detailed sound experience, making these headphones ideal for audiophiles. Users have noted that the default sound profile is bass-heavy, but this can be adjusted using the equalizer in the Sony Connect app. Once adjusted, the headphones provide a balanced sound profile that enhances both the highs and lows, making your music sound better than ever. The headphones also feature a 40mm driver unit, which contributes to their impressive sound performance.
Comfort and Build Quality
Comfort is a key aspect of the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones, making them suitable for long listening sessions. The headphones are designed with soft memory foam ear pads and a padded headband, ensuring they remain comfortable even after hours of use. Users have praised the lightweight design, which makes them easy to wear without causing fatigue. The build quality is also noteworthy, with high-quality plastic that feels sturdy and durable. Despite being made of plastic, the headphones do not feel cheap, and the soft-touch finish adds to their premium feel.
Battery Life
One of the standout features of the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones is their impressive battery life, which can last up to 30 hours on a single charge. This makes them perfect for long trips or extended periods of use without needing to recharge. Users have reported that the battery life is consistent with the advertised duration, and the headphones also provide accurate battery level updates through connected devices. Additionally, the headphones support quick charging, allowing you to get up to 5 hours of playback time with just a 10-minute charge.
Smart Features
The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are equipped with a range of smart features designed to enhance the user experience. The Speak-to-Chat feature automatically pauses playback when you start a conversation, making it easy to switch between listening to music and interacting with others. The Wearing Detection feature powers off the headphones when they are not being worn, helping to conserve battery life. Users have found these features to be convenient and effective, although some have experienced occasional issues with the touch-sensitive controls.
Connectivity
Connectivity is a major strength of the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones, which feature Bluetooth 5.0 and multipoint connection capabilities. This allows the headphones to be paired with two Bluetooth devices simultaneously, making it easy to switch between devices such as a phone and a laptop. Users have praised the seamless switching and stable connection, which ensures uninterrupted listening. The headphones also have an effective range of approximately 30 feet, providing flexibility in movement without losing connection.
Microphone and Call Quality
The built-in microphone of the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones allows for clear phone calls, although some users have noted that the call quality is not as exceptional as the audio quality. The microphone effectively reduces background noise, making it easier for the other party to hear you. However, it may struggle in very noisy environments. Overall, the call quality is satisfactory for most users, and the convenience of having a built-in mic is appreciated.
Design and Aesthetics
Design is an important aspect of the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones, which feature a sleek and modern look. Available in black, the headphones have a minimalist design that appeals to many users. The soft-touch plastic material adds to the premium feel, and the overall build quality is robust. The ear cups are designed to fit comfortably over the ears, providing a secure and snug fit. The folding design makes them easy to store and carry, especially with the included hard carrying case.
App and Customization
The Sony Connect app provides a comprehensive suite of customization options for the WH-1000XM4 headphones. Users can adjust the equalizer settings, update firmware, and configure noise cancellation levels through the app. The app also offers features like adaptive sound control, which adjusts the noise cancellation based on your activity and location. While some users have found the adaptive sound control to be battery-draining, the ability to customize settings through the app is highly appreciated.
Durability and Water Resistance
Durability is a key consideration for many users, and the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are built to last. However, it is important to note that they have a low water resistance rating and should not be exposed to moisture. Users have reported issues with steam and light rain causing damage to the headphones. This makes them less suitable for use during exercise or in wet conditions. Despite this, the overall build quality and materials used ensure that the headphones can withstand regular use and handling.
Pros:
- Excellent noise cancellation.
- Great sound quality with EQ adjustments.
- Comfortable for long listening sessions.
Cons:
- Touch controls can be finicky.
- Not highly water-resistant.
- Adaptive sound control can drain phone battery.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones offer impressive noise cancellation, excellent sound quality, and a suite of smart features that make them a top choice in their category.
Despite minor drawbacks like the touch controls and microphone quality, the overall performance and build quality make these headphones a worthwhile investment for any audiophile.
Questions & Answers:
Question: How is the battery life on these headphones?
Answer: The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones offer up to 30 hours of battery life, which is quite impressive and means you rarely have to worry about charging them frequently.
Question: Are these headphones comfortable for extended use?
Answer: Yes, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are designed with soft memory foam ear pads and a well-padded headband, ensuring comfort during long listening sessions.
Question: Can these headphones be used in the gym?
Answer: While they can be used in the gym, they are not highly water-resistant, so it’s best to avoid heavy sweating or using them in rainy conditions.