Sennheiser HD 450BT vs Sony WH-1000XM4

The Sennheiser HD 450BT and Sony WH-1000XM4 have built out considerable reputations in the realm of premium wireless headphones.

These two headphones serve both the discerning audiophile and the casual listener, with amazing features and audio quality. In this comparison, we will look at the design, sound performance, comfort, battery life, noise-canceling capabilities, and other attributes of these headphones.

By investigating these aspects, you’ll obtain a full grasp of how these headphones compare to one another and which one would be the best fit for your music and lifestyle preferences.

This comparison will help you make an informed selection whether you want a perfectly balanced sound or top-tier noise cancellation.

Sennheiser HD 450BT vs Sony WH-1000XM4: A Complete Guide

Specification

Feature	Sony WH-1000XM4	Sennheiser HD 450BT
Form Factor	Over Ear	Over Ear
Frequency Response	4 Hz – 40000Hz	18 Hz – 22000Hz
Impedance	16 Ohms	18 Ohms
Driver Unit size	40mm	32mm
Battery Life	30 h	30 h
Charging Time	3 h	2 h
Bluetooth Range	10m	10m
Bluetooth Version	5	5
Color	Black, Blue, Silver	Black, White
Weight	254 g	238 g
Check Details	See More	See More

What’s in the box

Sony WH-1000XM4	Sennheiser HD 450BT
Hard-shell carrying case	Headphone
Cable with 3.5mm jacks	Carry Case
USB-C charging cable	Cable
Travel adapter	User Guide

Fit & Comfort

Both the Sennheiser HD 450BT and the Sony WH-1000XM4 excel in terms of fit and comfort. The Sennheiser HD 450BT has plush ear cushions and an adjustable headband for a pleasant and secure fit during long listening sessions.

The lightweight design relieves pressure on the head, allowing for all-day comfort. Sony’s WH-1000XM4 prioritizes comfort with its ergonomic design and fully padded ear cups. The adjustable headband and fluffy ear cushions contribute to a snug and pleasant fit. 

Both headphones are designed for long-term wear, appealing to those who seek comfort throughout extended use. In the end, the choice between them in terms of comfort may come down to personal tastes and head shape, although both provide a good level of wearability for the majority of users.

Design & Build

The Sennheiser HD 450BT and the Sony WH-1000XM4 have distinct looks and construction quality. The Sennheiser HD 450BT has a clean and minimalist style with primarily plastic construction. While it does not exude luxury materials, it is lightweight and robust, making it perfect for daily usage.

The Sony WH-1000XM4, on the other hand, has a more premium feel due to its high-quality materials and great attention to detail. It has a high build quality and a durable and robust construction. The folding form of the WH-1000XM4 increases portability and convenience for travelers. 

While the HD 450BT emphasizes simplicity, the WH-1000XM4 impresses with its luxury appearance and build, appealing to individuals who appreciate both style and longevity in their headphones.

Finally, the choice between them in terms of design and construction may come down to whether you value aesthetics and a luxury feel over a more practical and cost-effective solution.

Sound Quality

When it comes to sound quality, the Sennheiser HD 450BT and the Sony WH-1000XM4 provide diverse audio experiences. The Sennheiser HD 450BT has a well-balanced sound profile with an emphasis on clarity and precision.

Its sound characteristic is defined by detailed mids and highs, making it an ideal pick for folks who enjoy nuanced vocals and instrumentals. The bass response is present but not overbearing, delivering a comfortable listening experience across a wide range of music genres.

The Sony WH-1000XM4 on the other hand is well-known for its superb sound quality and is frequently regarded as an industry standard. It has a more neutral sound profile with exceptional clarity, depth, and precision.

The bass response is powerful and well-defined, while the mids and highs are finely articulated, making it a favorite among audiophiles and critical listeners. Furthermore, the WH-1000XM4 includes programmable EQ settings via its companion app, letting customers fine-tune the sound to their satisfaction.

In conclusion, both headphones provide high-quality sound, but the Sony WH-1000XM4 stands out for its excellent audio performance, making it a top pick for individuals who value exceptional sound quality in their headphones.

Noise Cancellation

When it comes to noise cancellation, the Sony WH-1000XM4 definitely outperforms the Sennheiser HD 450BT. Sony’s noise-canceling technology is well-known for its effectiveness and versatility. To provide excellent ambient noise reduction, the WH-1000XM4 employs powerful noise-canceling algorithms and many microphones.

It excels at blocking out a wide spectrum of external sounds, whether you’re on a busy city street, on a plane, or in a noisy office atmosphere. Sony’s adaptive noise cancellation (ANC) reacts to your surroundings smoothly, offering a relaxing listening experience.

While the Sennheiser HD 450BT does provide noise cancellation, it is not as powerful or adaptable as Sony’s. It primarily targets lower-frequency noise and is more suited for minimizing continual hums like those seen on an airplane or train. However, it may fail to cancel out higher-frequency sounds or rapid, sharp noises.

If you’re looking for noise-cancelling headphones, the Sony WH-1000XM4 is the better option. It gives a more immersive and effective ANC experience, making it excellent for travelers and people working in noisy surroundings.

Microphone or Call Quality

When it comes to microphone and call quality, the Sony WH-1000XM4 trumps the Sennheiser HD 450BT. Sony has invested in advanced microphone technology, making it a fantastic choice for quality calls and speech recordings.

The WH-1000XM4’s multiple microphones and sophisticated noise reduction algorithms work together to capture your voice properly while decreasing background noise. This is especially crucial for those who use headphones for work-related conversations or online meetings.

The Sennheiser HD 450BT, on the other hand, provides adequate call quality but does not match the WH-1000XM4. While it can manage typical phone calls, it may struggle in louder surroundings, and the microphone may not record your speech as clearly as you’d like.

If call quality and communication are important to you, especially for business or professional use, the Sony WH-1000XM4 is the preferable pick. Its microphone and noise-canceling capabilities make it a more dependable option for clear and distraction-free communications.

Battery Life

Both the Sennheiser HD 450BT and the Sony WH-1000XM4 have decent battery life, however, there are significant variances. The Sony WH-1000XM4 has a battery life of up to 30 hours on a single charge, even with active noise cancellation (ANC) turned on.

This outstanding lifespan ensures that you may enjoy lengthy listening sessions without worrying about running out of power. It also has rapid charging, giving up to 5 hours of playback from a 10-minute charge, which is ideal for when you’re in a rush.

The Sennheiser HD 450BT falls significantly short in comparison, giving up to 20 hours of playing with ANC enabled.

This means you’ll need to recharge it more regularly, especially during lengthy travels or extended use. The HD 450BT, on the other hand, has quick charging, enabling approximately 1.5 hours of playback with a 10-minute charge.

While it lacks the battery endurance of the WH-1000XM4, it still provides ample playtime for most users and can be a good choice for individuals who do not require extended listening sessions between charges.

Control System

When comparing the control systems of the Sennheiser HD 450BT with the Sony WH-1000XM4, both headphones provide intuitive and user-friendly interfaces, but they differ in terms of design and usefulness.

The Sennheiser HD 450BT has tactile controls on the right ear cup that let you control music, adjust volume, manage calls, and access your voice assistant with ease. These buttons are responsive and straightforward, providing quick access to critical functions.

The Sony WH-1000XM4 on the other hand, offers a touch-sensitive approach, with touch-sensitive controls on the ear cups.

This touch interface supports a variety of movements, including swiping to control volume, touching to play or pause music, and covering the ear cup to temporarily pause playback and activate ambient sound. It also enables adjustments via the Sony Headphones Connect app, allowing you to tailor the touch controls to your liking.

While the touch controls on the WH-1000XM4 offer more variety and customization choices, some users may prefer the tactile feedback of physical buttons on the HD 450BT. Finally, whether you prefer touch-sensitive gestures or classic buttons for controlling your headphones comes down to personal preference.

Connectivity

When it comes to connectivity, both the Sennheiser HD 450BT and the Sony WH-1000XM4 provide a variety of alternatives to meet a variety of demands.

The Sennheiser HD 450BT offers Bluetooth 5.0 for a stable and efficient wireless connection. It also supports the aptX Low Latency codec, which is useful for decreasing audio lag when watching videos or playing games.

Furthermore, the headphones have NFC (Near Field Communication) for quick and easy pairing with compatible devices. With multipoint connectivity, you may connect the HD 450BT to two devices at the same time, making it easier to move between, say, a smartphone and a laptop.

The Sony WH-1000XM4, noted for its extensive connectivity features, also employs Bluetooth 5.0 for a dependable wireless connection. It supports a variety of high-quality audio codecs, including LDAC, aptX HD, and AAC, ensuring superb sound quality when coupled with compatible devices.

LDAC, in particular, provides high-resolution audio streaming, making it an appealing option for audiophiles. The headphones are compatible with the Sony Headphones Connect app, which offers customization choices, firmware upgrades, and access to numerous sound settings.

Furthermore, the WH-1000XM4 supports Bluetooth multipoint connectivity, letting you smoothly swap between two connected devices. Overall, both headphones excel in connectivity, with the Sony WH-1000XM4 having a modest advantage in codec support and customization options via its companion app.

Support for Bluetooth Codec 

In terms of Bluetooth codec support, the Sennheiser HD 450BT and Sony WH-1000XM4 stand out. The Sennheiser HD 450BT has outstanding codec compatibility, with support for the aptX, aptX Low Latency, AAC, and SBC codecs.

These codecs offer high audio quality and low latency for a pleasurable wireless listening experience. While it does not support high-resolution codecs like LDAC or aptX HD, it covers the necessities and provides dependable performance.

The Sony WH-1000XM4, on the other hand, features an astounding number of supported codecs, making it a standout pick for audiophiles and audio fans. It supports LDAC, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, and SBC codecs, giving you a variety of alternatives for high-quality audio streaming.

LDAC, in particular, stands out for its ability to transfer high-resolution audio files over a wireless connection. This means that when coupled with compatible devices, the WH-1000XM4 may produce superb sound quality that rivals wired connections.

The Sony WH-1000XM4 certainly takes the lead in Bluetooth codec support, giving a greater selection of codecs and catering to customers who demand top-tier audio performance in their headphones.

Extra Feature

When it comes to supplementary features, the Sony WH-1000XM4 and Sennheiser HD 450BT both bring their own offerings to improve the listening experience. Beginning with the Sony WH-1000XM4, it introduces a range of innovative features that set it apart.

These headphones have speak-to-chat technology, which automatically pauses playback and activates ambient sound when you begin speaking, allowing for seamless transitions between conversations and music. It also has touch-sensitive buttons for straightforward playback and volume changes.

The Sony Headphones Connect app allows for considerable customization, including an equalizer to fine-tune audio settings and adaptive sound control, which changes noise cancellation based on your activities.

In comparison, the Sennheiser HD 450BT focuses on simplicity and necessary functionality. While it lacks the advanced extras of the Sony WH-1000XM4, it does include features such as customized sound via the Sennheiser Smart Control app, as well as basic playback and call settings.

Both headphones have voice assistant compatibility for hands-free convenience. Finally, if you appreciate extensive functionality and personalization, the Sony WH-1000XM4 is the apparent pick.

However, if you prefer a more uncomplicated and cost-effective choice that doesn’t sacrifice key capabilities, the Sennheiser HD 450BT is an intriguing combination.

Which is the Winner?

The choice between the Sennheiser HD 450BT and the Sony WH-1000XM4 is mostly determined by your priorities and preferences.

The Sony WH-1000XM4 wins in numerous critical areas. Its sound quality is remarkable, with a more balanced and detailed audio profile, making it an excellent choice for audiophiles or those who require top-tier sound performance.

The WH-1000XM4’s sophisticated noise cancellation technology is among the best on the market, efficiently shutting out extraneous distractions and offering an immersive listening experience.

Furthermore, the Sony headphones provide a plethora of capabilities such as speak-to-chat technology, intuitive touch controls, and full customization via the Headphones Connect app.

However, the Sennheiser HD 450BT remains a great challenger, especially in terms of price. It offers outstanding sound quality and effective noise cancellation, making it an excellent alternative for consumers looking for a more affordable option without sacrificing audio performance too much.

The HD 450BT also provides exceptional comfort for longer wear and a straightforward, no-frills listening experience.

In conclusion, if you value top-tier sound quality and advanced features and are ready to invest a little extra, the Sony WH-1000XM4 is the clear winner.

The Sennheiser HD 450BT, on the other hand, is a compelling pick if you’re seeking a low-cost alternative that doesn’t stint on fundamental performance. Finally, your choice should be based on your individual needs and budget.

Alternative Options

If you’re considering the Sennheiser HD 450BT and Sony WH-1000XM4 but want to look into some other possibilities, there are a few outstanding options in the premium wireless headphone market.

First, the Bose QuietComfort 35 II (recently replaced by the Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700) is a strong candidate. It’s a great competitor to the Sony WH-1000XM4 because of its superb noise cancellation, comfortable fit, and balanced sound quality.

Another option is the Bowers & Wilkins PX7, which has excellent sound quality, a long lifespan, and strong noise cancellation. It’s great for audiophiles looking for high-quality sound. 

The Soundcore Life Q35 is a good budget-friendly option. It offers respectable music quality and noise cancellation at a cheaper price point. Finally, the ideal option is determined by your priorities, such as top-tier audio, advanced features, or price.

Sennheiser HD 450BT vs Sony WH-1000XM4 – FAQs

Which headphones provide better noise cancellation, the Sennheiser HD 450BT or the Sony WH-1000XM4?

While both headphones have active noise cancellation (ANC), the Sony WH-1000XM4 is widely regarded as having more effective noise cancellation. Sony’s sophisticated ANC technology adapts to your environment, offering superior noise isolation.

Which is more comfortable for extended wear, the Sennheiser HD 450BT or the Sony WH-1000XM4?

Although comfort is subjective, many customers believe the Sony WH-1000XM4 to be particularly pleasant because of its ergonomic design, plush padding, and lightweight frame. The Sennheiser HD 450BT is also comfy, however, personal preferences may differ.

Do the Sennheiser HD 450BT and Sony WH-1000XM4 support high-quality Bluetooth codecs like as LDAC?

The Sony WH-1000XM4 supports LDAC, a high-resolution audio codec that provides excellent sound quality when utilized with compatible devices. The Sennheiser HD 450BT supports the standard SBC and AAC codecs, which provide good audio quality.

Which headphone has a longer battery life, the Sennheiser HD 450BT or the Sony WH-1000XM4?

The Sennheiser HD 450BT has an outstanding battery life, with up to 30 hours of playback on a single charge. However, the Sony WH-1000XM4 offers up to 30 hours of playback with ANC turned on and up to 38 hours with ANC turned off, giving it a tiny advantage in terms of battery life.

Are there any noteworthy extra features that set these headphones apart?

Yes, both headphones have distinct features. The Sony WH-1000XM4 includes features like as Speak-to-Chat, which automatically pauses playback when you speak, and the option to activate voice assistants using touch controls.

The Sennheiser HD 450BT focuses on providing a clean and balanced audio experience through its dedicated app for sound adjustment.

Final Thoughts

The decision between the Sennheiser HD 450BT and the Sony WH-1000XM4 is ultimately determined by your priorities and preferences. Both headphones have their own distinct advantages.

The Sennheiser HD 450BT has a balanced sound profile, a comfortable fit, and an amazing battery life, making it an excellent choice for individuals who appreciate sound quality and long listening sessions.

The Sony WH-1000XM4, on the other hand, shines with its superb noise cancellation, superior sound quality, and sophisticated features such as Speak-to-Chat and LDAC support, targeting to audiophiles and those wanting top-tier audio performance.

If you value noise cancellation and cutting-edge technology, the Sony WH-1000XM4 is the clear winner. However, if you prefer a more balanced sound character and longer battery life, the Sennheiser HD 450BT is a solid option.

Finally, your choice should be based on your personal requirements, whether it’s immersive sound, comfort, or superior ANC technology.