Sony WH-1000XM3 vs WH-1000XM4: Which Should You Buy?

Best For

Best for Gaming

Sony WH-1000XM4

Better Sound Quality

Sony WH-1000XM4

Best Value

Sony WH-1000XM3

Best Noise Cancelling

Sony WH-1000XM4

Best for Travel

Sony WH-1000XM4

The Sony WH-1000XM3 and Sony WH-1000XM4 are two of the most popular premium wireless noise-cancelling headphones from Sony. Both deliver excellent sound quality, long battery life, 40 mm drivers, and industry-leading active noise cancellation. While the WH-1000XM3 remains a strong option for buyers looking to save money, the WH-1000XM4 introduces Bluetooth 5.0, smarter adaptive features, improved call quality, and seamless voice assistant integration. If you're deciding between these two models, the right choice depends on whether you prioritize value or the latest wireless features and everyday convenience.

Verdict

The Sony WH-1000XM4 is the better overall choice for most users thanks to its newer Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, enhanced voice calling, adaptive sound features, and broader smart assistant support. However, the WH-1000XM3 still delivers nearly identical sound quality, battery life, and premium noise cancellation at a potentially lower price, making it an excellent value for budget-conscious buyers.

NFC: Yes Quick Attention: Yes Ambient Sound Mode: Yes Noise Cancellation Switch: Yes All day power and quick charging. Volume Control Touch Sensor: Yes Gold-plated L-shaped Stereo Mini Plug. Atmospheric Pressure Optimization: Yes High-quality audio with DSEE HXâ„¢ and LDAC.

NFC: Yes Quick Attention: Yes Clearer hands-free calling . Ambient Sound Mode: Yes Optimizing noise cancelling. Noise Cancellation Switch: Yes. Be smarter with Voice Assistant. All day power and quick charging. Volume Control Touch Sensor: Yes. Wireless freedom, premium sound. Gold-plated L-shaped Stereo Mini Plug. Atmospheric Pressure Optimization: Yes. The technology behind the noise cancellation. Real-time restoration of all your compressed files. Adaptive Sound Control automatically adjusts to your location and behavior. Voice assistant: Alexa, Google Assistant & Siri enabled (In-built) for voice access to music, information and more. Activate with a simple touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which product is better for gaming?

The Sony WH-1000XM4 is the better choice thanks to its Bluetooth 5.0 connection, improved wireless stability, and smarter connectivity features.

Does Sony WH-1000XM3 support Dolby Atmos?

The WH-1000XM3 does not include native Dolby Atmos support, but it can play Dolby Atmos content from compatible devices and streaming services.

Is the Sony WH-1000XM4 worth upgrading from the WH-1000XM3?

Yes, if you want better call quality, adaptive sound control, Bluetooth 5.0, and built-in support for Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri. Otherwise, the audio performance is very similar.

Which headphone has better battery life?

Both models offer up to 30 hours with active noise cancellation enabled and up to 38 hours with noise cancellation turned off, so battery performance is essentially the same.

Which model offers better value for money?

The Sony WH-1000XM3 offers better value if available at a significantly lower price, while the WH-1000XM4 justifies its premium with newer smart features and improved usability.

Do both headphones support high-quality wireless audio?

Yes. Both headphones support Sony's LDAC codec for high-resolution wireless audio, while the WH-1000XM3 additionally supports aptX and aptX HD codecs.

Top Differences

Bluetooth: 4.2 vs 5.0
Weight: 255 gm vs 254 GM
Impedance: 16/47 ohm Vs 16 Ohms

Best For

Verdict

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Frequently Asked Questions

Top Differences