Apple beats Studio3 vs Sony WH-1000xm4 specs

Navigating the world of headphones may be rather subjective, especially if you have a personal taste for a particular brand. In the case of the Beats Studio 3 vs. Sony WH-1000XM4, both headphones have advantages.

Sony has built a reputation for superior audio quality and technological innovation, whilst Beats has shocked many with its evolving sound quality and design advancements.

It’s critical to remember that what counts most is how these headphones fit your individual demands and tastes.

Whether you prefer Sony because of its track record or have been pleasantly pleased by Beats’ performance, the decision is ultimately based on aspects such as sound character, comfort, noise cancellation, and connectivity features.

Both brands have their advantages, and it all comes down to selecting the best fit for your personal listening style and lifestyle.

Apple Beats Studio3 vs Sony wh-1000xm4 specs: A Complete Guide

Specification

Feature	Sony WH-1000XM4	Beats Studio 3
Form Factor	Over Ear	Over Ear
Frequency Response	4 Hz – 40000Hz	20 Hz – 20000 Hz
Impedance	16 Ohms	32 Ohms
BATTERY LIFE	30 h	50 h
Charging Time	3 h	Unknown
Bluetooth Range	10m	10m
Bluetooth Version	5	4
Color	Black, Blue, Silver	Black, White, Red
Weight	254 g	260 g
Check Details	See More	See More

What’s in the box

Sony WH-1000XM4	Beats Studio 3
Headphone	Headphone
Protective Case	Carrying Case
Cable	Cable
Warranty Card	Warranty Card

Fit & Comfort

When comparing the Apple Beats Studio 3 to the Sony WH-1000XM4, it is clear that both devices provide distinct yet commendable methods. The Beats Studio 3 is noted for its snug yet secure fit, thanks to a strong clamping force and luxurious memory foam ear cushions.

This design option aids in noise isolation and makes them suited for activities such as commuting or working out. Sony’s WH-1000XM4, on the other hand, takes a somewhat different approach, with a more relaxed, over-ear fit that covers your ears pleasantly without exerting excessive pressure. 

This design is ideal for long listening sessions and has a beautiful appearance. In terms of comfort, your preference determines whether you choose a snug fit for on-the-go activities or long-term comfort for leisurely listening.

Design & Build

When comparing the design and construction of the Apple Beats Studio 3 and the Sony WH-1000XM4, it is evident that both headphones have distinct aesthetics and construction. The Beats Studio 3 boasts a trendy and modern appearance, with an emphasis on fashion-forward design.

They have elegant lines, a glossy finish, and the famous “B” emblem on each earcup. The construction quality is strong, with long-lasting materials that can sustain daily use. However, some people may find them too weighty.

In contrast, the Sony WH-1000XM4 has a more modest and sophisticated vibe. They feature a clean and simple design, with a matte surface and subtle branding. Sony has retained its reputation for great build quality, with a focus on comfort and durability.

The WH-1000XM4 are lightweight and well-padded, making them perfect for lengthy usage without creating pain. Overall, the choice between these two headphones boils down to personal stylistic choices.

If you value a fashionable style and don’t mind a somewhat heavier build, the Beats Studio 3 may be for you. However, if you like a more simple yet premium style with a focus on comfort, the Sony WH-1000XM4 may be a better choice.

Sound Quality

When it comes to sound quality, many customers’ first impressions may favor the Beats Studio 3 Wireless. These headphones have a sound signature that is defined by a conventional bass and treble-boosted frequency response that is suitable for a wide range of music genres.

While the bass is slightly exaggerated, especially in genres such as classical music, it gives a satisfying punch to current compositions.

Sony’s headphones, on the other hand, have an intriguing default sound profile. They augment the bass similarly to Beats, but they also increase the treble.

This can produce a fairly startling sound, which may not be well received by listeners with sensitive hearing. However, there is a remedy in the form of Sony’s Headphones Connect software, which allows users to lessen the treble and personalize the sound to their preference.

Taking a closer look at the frequency responses of the Beats Studio 3 and Sony WH-1000XM4, we can see that the cyan line represents Studio 3, while the yellow dotted line represents the WH-1000XM4.

The SoundGuys Target Curve is represented by the pink line. The closer the Beats or Sony line matches with the SoundGuys Target Curve, the more likely listeners will find those headphones appealing.

Surprisingly, despite Beats’ reputation for powerful bass, the Studio 3’s sub-bass is quieter than the WH-1000XM4. There is a distinct rise in the 250-450Hz frequency band, emphasizing the prominence of vocals in the mix.

Furthermore, from 2,000Hz and above, Beats’ frequency response corresponds more closely with SoundGuys’ Curve, guaranteeing that cymbals and hi-hats maintain the anticipated level of clarity and definition.

Noise Cancellation

When it comes to noise cancellation, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones take the lead, making them the best choice for travelers. They excel at significantly reducing low-pitched noises, such as bus engines.

When you use the WH-1000XM4 headphones, you will notice a significant reduction in background noise, offering a tranquil setting for your music or calls.

Although the Beats Studio 3, despite its 2017 release, still offers commendable noise canceling, it falls short of the WH-1000XM4. The Studio 3 Wireless headphones, on the other hand, do an excellent job of muffling high-pitched noises.

They are great for masking background noises such as adjacent conversations or the clatter of dishes. This effectiveness can be ascribed to Beats’ design, which features a snug fit and deep memory foam padding, boosting their capacity to filter out specific forms of noise.

In conclusion, if you prioritize noise cancellation, particularly for low-frequency sounds when traveling, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are the better option.

If, on the other hand, you frequently find yourself in surroundings with more high-pitched disturbances, the Beats Studio 3 Wireless headphones nonetheless provide a reasonable level of noise suppression due to their design and cushioning.

Microphone or Call Quality

When it comes to microphone quality in quiet circumstances, the Sony WH-1000XM4 trumps the Studio 3. In comparison to Sony’s microphones, the Beats Studio 3’s microphones tend to make speakers’ voices sound rather distant.

However, both the Sony WH-1000XM4 and the Beats Studio 3 Wireless are ideal for interior video conferencing and phone conversations, with decent microphone performance.

When background noise is introduced, the true difference is revealed. The Sony WH-1000XM4 excels in relaying voices in noisy environments, outperforming the Studio 3 Wireless.

Both headphones pick up some wind noise, but the WH-1000XM4 picks up more. Overall, if you’re in a setting with a lot of noise, the Sony WH-1000XM4’s microphone technology will probably deliver a more effective and clearer conversation experience.

Battery Life

When it comes to battery life, the Sony WH-1000XM4 outperforms the Apple Beats Studio 3. The WH-1000XM4 has an outstanding battery that can provide up to 30 hours of listening time on a single charge.

In addition, a quick charge feature allows for up to five hours of playback with only a ten-minute charge. Because of its longer battery life, the WH-1000XM4 is an excellent choice for lengthy travels and extensive use without the need for regular recharging.

The Beats Studio 3, on the other hand, has a respectable but significantly lower battery life of up to 22 hours. While this is adequate for most daily needs, it falls short of the WH-1000XM4’s lifetime. The Studio 3 also has a Fast Fuel feature that allows for up to three hours of playback from a ten-minute charge.

In conclusion, if you prioritize extended battery life and fewer charging interruptions, the Sony WH-1000XM4 is the clear winner. However, the Beats Studio 3 has a reasonable battery life that should please most customers for everyday listening.

Control System

The control methods of the Apple Beats Studio 3 and the Sony WH-1000XM4 differ in numerous ways, adapting to individual preferences.

The Studio 3 relies on physical controls for playback control and volume adjustment, with buttons conveniently situated on the ear cups for easy access. These buttons are quick and tactile, which makes it simple to navigate your music and calls without having to remove your device.

In contrast, the Sony WH-1000XM4 incorporates touch-sensitive controls on the ear cups, providing a more modern and touch-centric approach to headphone control. You may swipe or tap to change the volume, skip music, play/pause, and even engage your voice assistant.

Sony’s touch controls are extremely adjustable via their companion app, allowing you to fine-tune the movements to your taste. This touch-based interface gives your interaction with the headphones a sleek and contemporary appearance.

Ultimately, the choice between physical buttons on the Beats Studio 3 and touch controls on the Sony WH-1000XM4 comes down to personal preference.

Some users like the familiarity and tactile character of physical buttons, while others prefer the modernity and variety of touch controls. Sony’s touch controls, on the other hand, provide more customization possibilities, offering users more control over their listening experience.

Connectivity

When it comes to connectivity, both the Sony WH-1000XM4 and the Apple Beats Studio3 provide a variety of options customized to individual user preferences. Sony’s WH-1000XM4 features Bluetooth 5.0, which enables a robust and energy-efficient wireless connection.

It also supports high-quality codecs such as LDAC for improved audio quality when coupled with suitable devices. Furthermore, the WH-1000XM4 can connect to two devices at the same time, making it simple to swap between, say, a smartphone and a laptop.

The Beats Studio3, on the other hand, has Bluetooth connectivity, however, it employs the outdated Bluetooth 4.2 protocol. While this still provides a good wireless connection, it may not be as energy-efficient or as stable as Bluetooth 5.0.

However, it’s worth noting that Studio3 uses Apple’s W1 chip, which improves pairing and communication when used with Apple devices, providing a seamless experience for iOS users.

Finally, the choice between these headphones is determined by your personal needs and device preferences.

If you use iOS, the Beats Studio3 with its W1 chip may provide a more streamlined experience, but if you prefer the newest Bluetooth technology and high-quality codec compatibility, the Sony WH-1000XM4 may be the superior pick, especially for use with a range of devices.

Support for Bluetooth Codec 

When it comes to Bluetooth codec support, the Sony WH-1000XM4 and Apple Beats Studio3 provide distinct alternatives to enhance your music experience.

Sony’s WH-1000XM4 has outstanding codec support, including LDAC, which enables high-resolution audio streaming when coupled with LDAC-compatible devices.

It also supports additional codecs such as aptX and AAC, ensuring device compatibility. This extensive codec compatibility means that you may experience top-notch sound quality, making it an excellent choice for audiophiles.

The Beats Studio3, on the other hand, primarily supports the AAC codec, which is well-suited for Apple devices and provides good sound quality. However, its codec support is more limited than that of the Sony WH-1000XM4.

While this may not be a big disadvantage for iOS users who predominantly utilize AAC, it may not provide the same amount of flexibility for users with a wider range of devices.

In conclusion, if you want the greatest possible sound quality and intend to use your headphones with a variety of devices, the Sony WH-1000XM4’s comprehensive codec support gives it an advantage.

However, if you’re deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem and generally use iOS devices, the Beats Studio3’s AAC support can still give a great audio experience.

Extra Feature

Both the Apple Beats Studio3 and the Sony WH-1000XM4 have some outstanding features that add to their overall attractiveness to users.

Starting with the Sony WH-1000XM4 has industry-leading noise-canceling technology that adjusts to your environment for a personalized listening experience. The “Speak-to-Chat” feature intelligently pauses your music when you start speaking and resumes when you stop.

It also has a “Quick Attention” option that allows you to temporarily hear ambient sounds without removing the headphones. Furthermore, the WH-1000XM4 can connect to two devices at the same time, making it versatile for multitasking.

In contrast, the Beats Studio3 includes the Apple W1 chip, which guarantees easy pairing and speedy switching between Apple devices that are signed into your iCloud account.

This functionality is especially useful for Apple customers who value the ease of syncing their headphones with their Apple environment.

The Studio3 also boasts a “Fast Fuel” feature that allows three hours of playback with just a 10-minute charge, so you don’t go without music during a fast break.

In conclusion, the Sony WH-1000XM4 excels in terms of advanced noise-canceling and adaptive features, making it an excellent choice for individuals who value premium noise cancellation and music quality.

The Beats Studio3, on the other hand, offers Apple-specific capabilities that smoothly interact with the Apple ecosystem, appealing to people who have already invested in Apple products and services.

Which is the Winner?

It all boils down to personal preferences and priorities when comparing the Apple Beats Studio3 and the Sony WH-1000XM4. Each has its own set of advantages and targets different types of people.

When it comes to noise cancellation, music quality, and advanced capabilities, the Sony WH-1000XM4 is a beast. It has noise-canceling technology that is industry-leading, tailored sound optimization, and features like “Speak-to-Chat” and “Quick Attention.”

Sony headphones may appeal to audiophiles and people who value the best noise-canceling experience. They are also adaptable because they function effortlessly with both Android and iOS devices.

The Apple Beats Studio3 excels in connection with the Apple environment, thanks to the W1 chip. If you’re an Apple customer who loves the ease of connecting and switching between Apple devices, the Studio3 is a solid contender.

They also create a bass-rich sound profile that many listeners love, particularly for contemporary music genres.

In the end, it comes down to your unique needs and objectives. If you’re searching for top-tier noise cancellation and music quality, the Sony WH-1000XM4 could be the winner.

If you’re strongly invested in the Apple ecosystem and desire seamless device connection, the Beats Studio3 is a fascinating option. Both headphones provide an excellent listening experience, so it’s a case of matching the features to your preferences.

Alternative Options

While the Apple Beats Studio3 and Sony WH-1000XM4 are good wireless headphone options, there are various other options to consider depending on your unique needs and tastes.

Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700: These headphones are a strong candidate for individuals who value noise cancellation and audio performance.

Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless: If you’re an audiophile looking for high-quality sound, Sennheiser’s Momentum 3 provides excellent audio reproduction and outstanding noise cancellation.

Bowers & Wilkins PX7: These headphones combine premium design with remarkable sound quality and noise cancellation, making them an excellent choice for individuals who value both aesthetics and audio performance.

Apple beats studio3 vs sony wh-1000xm4 specs – FAQs

1. Which headphones have superior noise cancellation, the Apple Beats Studio3 or the Sony WH-1000XM4?

The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are noted for their greater noise-canceling capabilities when compared to the Apple Beats Studio3. Sony’s adaptive noise cancellation technology is extremely successful at suppressing ambient noise, making it a good choice for travelers and individuals who work in busy situations.

2. Is the Beats Studio3’s sound quality comparable to the Sony WH-1000XM4?

The Beats Studio3 headphones provide decent sound quality with a bass-heavy profile that many users find pleasant for contemporary music genres. However, the Sony WH-1000XM4 has a more balanced sound characteristic and enables customization via its app, making it a favorite choice for audiophiles looking for adaptability.

3. Which headphones are more comfortable for long listening sessions, the Studio3 or the WH-1000XM4?

Although comfort is subjective, many customers believe the Sony WH-1000XM4 to be more pleasant for longer use because of its velvety ear cushions and well-padded headband. The Beats Studio3, while pleasant for some, may impose additional clamping force, which could cause pain during long listening sessions.

4. Is the Beats Studio3 or the Sony WH-1000XM4 better for making phone calls?

The Sony WH-1000XM4 generally provides higher call quality because of its advanced microphone technology and noise-reduction features. Even in busy situations, calls made with the WH-1000XM4 tend to sound clearer and more natural.

5. Do both headphones support high-quality Bluetooth codecs?

Yes, both the Apple Beats Studio3 and the Sony WH-1000XM4 support high-quality Bluetooth codecs such as AAC and SBC.

However, the Sony WH-1000XM4 takes a step further by enabling LDAC, which provides even greater audio quality when utilized with compatible devices. For audiophiles that seek the greatest sound quality, LDAC can deliver a superior wireless audio experience.

Final Thoughts

It’s natural to have particular preferences when it comes to headphones, and the choice between the Sony WH-1000XM4 and the Beats Studio 3 comes down to what best suits your individual tastes. Sony’s design, fit, and general performance may have won you over, and that’s a reasonable point.

Celebrity-endorsed products can indeed raise concerns about durability and value, and caution is advised. However, if money is an issue, the Beats Studio 3 is a viable option, providing a good blend of features and performance.

Finally, whether you want Sony’s premium style and sound or a more budget-friendly choice without sacrificing quality, the right headphone pick relies on your own goals.