Sony WH-1000XM4 vs Airpods Pro 2

As the battle for audio supremacy continues, the Sony WH-1000XM4 and the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) emerge as two significant contenders.

The AirPods Pro (2nd gen) builds on the popularity of its predecessor, retaining the classic look while providing a slew of additional capabilities and refinements.

Meanwhile, Sony’s WH-1000XM4, with its well-established reputation, provides top-tier noise-cancellation and sound quality in the over-ear headphone category.

With both gadgets fighting for your attention, the question is which one warrants a spot in your audio arsenal. In this extensive comparison, we’ll deconstruct these premium audio companions to help you make an informed decision. 

Whether you like Apple’s ecosystem or Sony’s audio quality, this battle will reveal the strengths and intricacies of each, guiding you to the ideal audio companion for your lifestyle.

Sony WH-1000XM4 vs Airpods Pro 2: A Comprehensive Guide

Specification

Airpods Pro 2	Sony WH-1000XM4	Airpods Pro 2
Form Factor	Over Ear	In-Ear
Frequency Response	4 Hz – 40000Hz	–
Impedance	16 Ohms	–
Driver Unit size	40mm	11mm
Battery Life	30h	4.5
Charging Time	3 h	1.5h
Bluetooth Range	10m	–
Bluetooth Version	5	–
Color	Black, Blue, Silver	White
Weight	254g	0.19 ounces (each earbud)
Check Details	See More	See More

What’s in the box

Sony WH-1000XM4	Airpods Pro 2
Headphone	AirPods
Carrying Case	Box
Connection Cable	Documentation
User Guide	User Guide

Fit & Comfort

When it comes to fit and comfort, the Sony WH-1000XM4 and AirPods Pro (2nd generation) adapt to diverse preferences and use situations.

The Sony WH-1000XM4 is an over-ear headset that provides exceptional comfort for longer listening sessions. The velvety ear cushions and adjustable headband offer a secure and comfortable fit. However, the larger and bulkier style may not be as suited for on-the-go or active use.

The AirPods Pro (2nd generation), on the other hand, features an in-ear design with adjustable ear tips, allowing users to find the right fit. The integrated memory foam ear tips enhance comfort and noise isolation. Their lightweight and small design makes them perfect for both casual listening and active lifestyles.

Finally, the choice between the two is a matter of personal preference. If you prefer the immersive comfort of over-ear headphones for at-home listening or travel, the Sony WH-1000XM4 is a good option. However, if you desire a secure and customizable fit for on-the-go activities, the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) is a more adaptable option.

Fit and comfort are critical aspects in finding the best audio solution for your needs, and they should be examined alongside other features and performance measures.

Design & Build

The Sony WH-1000XM4 and AirPods Pro (2nd generation) use diverse approaches to design and construction, catering to different form factors and use situations. The Sony WH-1000XM4 are over-ear headphones known for their high build quality.

They have a strong build with plush cushioning on the ear cups and headband, giving them a sumptuous and immersive experience. This design is good for long listening sessions and provides excellent noise isolation, making them suitable for travel or home use.

In comparison, the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) features a tiny in-ear design that promotes portability and versatility. These earbuds are well-made and equipped with adjustable ear tips for a secure and pleasant fit. 

Their sleek, minimalist design appeals to those looking for a quiet and attractive audio solution. Furthermore, the AirPods Pro’s tiny charging case is both stylish and practical for on-the-go use.

Finally, the choice between the two is largely determined by your lifestyle and interests. If you value luxurious comfort and immersive music quality for home or travel, the Sony WH-1000XM4’s over-ear design is an excellent choice.

If mobility, versatility, and a minimalist look are more important to you, the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) are an appealing in-ear option with high build quality. To achieve the best fit for your audio needs, consider variables including comfort, use case, and design choices.

Sound Quality

When it comes to sound quality, the comparison between the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) and the Sony WF-1000XM4 reveals some surprising results. Both pairs of earphones produce excellent sound quality, and there is no clear victory in this category.

Apple has made considerable gains in audio performance compared to their prior bass-light AirPods versions, whilst Sony, known for their additional bass tuning, has taken a more balanced approach here.

In terms of mid-range response, the Apple and Sony earbuds demonstrate comparable characteristics, with responses closely following the preferred headphones curve and accentuating the mids through the lows.

The WF-1000XM4 has somewhat more bass volume than the AirPods Pro (2nd generation), although the difference is small. However, discrepancies become more noticeable in the high-frequency region. 

The AirPods Pro (2nd generation) somewhat under-emphasizes treble frequencies in comparison to the recommended curve, whilst the WF-1000XM4 exhibits a more pronounced tapering off of treble frequencies beyond 2kHz, resulting in a sound profile that leans slightly more towards bass and mids by default.

Both earbuds provide some level of equalization to fine-tune the sound to your liking, but the WF-1000XM4 has more sophisticated control via the Headphones Connect app.

While the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) generally sounds better out of the box, the WF-1000XM4’s flexibility in sound tuning inside the app allows for more personalized music experiences.

Finally, the difference between these two earbuds in terms of sound quality may come down to whether you prefer a more balanced default profile or the flexibility to adjust your music with more personalization choices.

Noise Cancellation

When it comes to noise cancellation, the Sony WF-1000XM4 and the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) stand out. The WF-1000XM4’s memory foam ear tips excel at separating you from high-pitched ambient sounds by forming a tight seal in your ears. This level of acoustic isolation is especially useful in preserving your hearing in noisy conditions.

The AirPods Pro (2nd generation), on the other hand, performs admirably in terms of active noise cancellation (ANC). It excels at attenuating noise below 1kHz, providing up to 35dB of reduction in that range, outperforming the Sony buds. 

However, Sony’s ANC technology remains excellent, even if it is no longer the undisputed leader in this category. Both options provide a level of noise cancellation that can greatly improve your listening experience, but the choice between them may be influenced by your preferences for isolation versus active noise cancellation performance.

Microphone or Call Quality

In terms of microphone and call quality, both the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) and the Sony WF-1000XM4 function admirably, with some subtle variances.

The AirPods Pro (2nd generation) has a decent microphone array, providing somewhat greater quality in calls thanks to a more balanced representation of high frequencies when compared to the WF-1000XM4.

While both earbuds perform well in general, the WF-1000XM4 may introduce a little congested feel to your speech due to its relative under-emphasis on high frequencies.

In office settings, the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) effectively catches your voice while taking up some background noise, but it retains good sound clarity. 

In comparison, the WF-1000XM4 operates satisfactorily in office environments, while it does have limitations, particularly when faced with demanding noise-rejection scenarios, such as when a vacuum sweeper noise tests the microphone.

This can result in an unnatural-sounding voice. If you anticipate many conference calls, you might want to purchase a specialized headset or perhaps a gaming headset with a boom microphone for better performance.

Neither the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) nor the Sony WF-1000XM4 are suited for windy settings, as both suffer from severe dropouts in speech when exposed to wind. It’s best to use either a pair of earphones indoors or on calm days to get the best call quality.

It’s worth mentioning that our standardized testing techniques give a uniform foundation for comparing microphone performance across different products, while real-world settings and vibrations may result in slightly different experiences during actual calls.

Battery Life

In terms of battery life, the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) performs admirably, providing roughly 5 hours and 43 minutes of playing with ANC (Active Noise Cancellation).

Charging the case is simple, whether via Lightning cable, MagSafe, or wireless Qi pad. The Sony WF-1000XM4 has a little longer endurance, offering an extra two hours for a total of 7 hours and 43 minutes per charge.

Charging the WF-1000XM4 is also simple, as it can be done via a conventional USB-C connection or a wireless charging mat. Furthermore, the Sony earphones have the advantage of giving two extra charges via their case.

While both earbuds provide comparable total playback times, the Sony WF-1000XM4 requires fewer top-ups, providing greater convenience and environmental benefits by lowering the number of charge cycles that might reduce battery longevity.

Notably, a 5-minute charge for the Sony WF-1000XM4 gives a full 60 minutes of playback, guaranteeing that you may enjoy your music or calls without long interruptions. The AirPods Pro (2nd generation) also has a rapid 5-minute charge time for 60 minutes of playing or call time, making them ideal for individuals on the road.

Finally, your choice between these two earbuds may be determined by your unique usage patterns and the significance you place on extended battery life and fast charging features.

Control System

Apple has improved the control system of the AirPods Pro (2nd generation), increasing touch sensitivity and giving hands-free access to Siri.

These enhancements, together with a built-in skin sensor, ensure that playback stops when you remove the earbud from your ear. The controls for the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) are designed to be simple and easy to use.

In contrast, the Sony WF-1000XM4 has touch controls that are partially configurable via the Sony Headphones Connect app. While it lacks hands-free access to virtual assistants, it’s worth mentioning that many users may be hesitant to utilize voice commands in public places. 

In addition, the WF-1000XM4 has an in-ear detector that automatically pauses and resumes audio playback. Sony provides default settings for various touch controls, ensuring a consistent user experience.

Both the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) and the Sony WF-1000XM4 have advanced control systems that accommodate various preferences and usage conditions.

Whether you like Apple’s smooth Siri integration or Sony’s adjustable touch controls, these premium earbuds strive to provide a hassle-free and delightful listening experience. Finally, the decision will be based on your personal requirements and which control system best fits your lifestyle.

Connectivity

In terms of communication, the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) is outfitted with the most recent Bluetooth 5.3 technology, which is complemented by the H2 chip, delivering a strong and reliable connection to your Apple devices. It primarily uses the AAC and SBC codecs, with AAC providing optimum performance on Apple devices.

While it lacks Bluetooth multipoint compatibility, it shines at easily switches between Apple devices that share the same iCloud account and provides audio sharing for a collaborative listening experience.

Sony’s WF-1000XM4, on the other hand, incorporates a variety of codecs, including SBC, AAC, and LDAC, as well as Bluetooth 5.2. AAC compliance ensures a similar bit rate with your iPhone as the AirPods Pro (2nd generation). 

Android users, on the other hand, benefit from the LDAC codec’s greater performance, which outperforms the AAC and SBC alternatives. Sony’s inclusion of LDAC highlights its dedication to delivering high-quality audio across several platforms.

The decision between these two premium audio products is ultimately determined by your device ecosystem and tastes. If you’re strongly embedded in the Apple ecosystem, the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) provide a seamless and efficient connection.

Meanwhile, the Sony WF-1000XM4 caters to a broader audience by delivering a diverse range of codecs, ensuring a high-quality audio experience regardless of your device of choice.

Support for Bluetooth Codec

In terms of battery life, the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) performs admirably, providing roughly 5 hours and 43 minutes of playing with ANC (Active Noise Cancellation).

Charging the case is simple, whether via Lightning cable, MagSafe, or wireless Qi pad. The Sony WF-1000XM4 has a little longer endurance, offering an extra two hours for a total of 7 hours and 43 minutes per charge.

Charging the WF-1000XM4 is also simple, as it can be done via a conventional USB-C connection or a wireless charging mat. Furthermore, the Sony earphones have the advantage of giving two extra charges via their case.

While both earbuds provide comparable total playback times, the Sony WF-1000XM4 requires fewer top-ups, providing greater convenience and environmental benefits by lowering the number of charge cycles that might reduce battery longevity.

Notably, a 5-minute charge for the Sony WF-1000XM4 gives a full 60 minutes of playback, guaranteeing that you may enjoy your music or calls without long interruptions.

The AirPods Pro (2nd generation) also has a rapid 5-minute charge time for 60 minutes of playing or call time, making them ideal for individuals on the road. Finally, your choice between these two earbuds may be determined by your unique usage patterns and the significance you place on extended battery life and fast charging features.

Extra Feature

In terms of supplementary features, the Sony WH-1000XM4 and the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) provide distinct benefits to meet the needs of a wide range of users.

Sony’s WH-1000XM4 headphones are loaded with innovative features such as outstanding noise-canceling capabilities, adaptive sound control that adjusts settings based on your activities, and Speak-to-Chat, which automatically pauses music when you start chatting.

The Sony headphones also enable LDAC for high-quality music streaming and have touch controls for simple navigation.

In contrast, the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) excels in its flawless interaction with the Apple ecosystem. They offer spatial audio for a 3D-like sound experience, transparency mode for awareness of your surroundings, and hands-free Siri activation. 

Furthermore, Apple’s ecosystem-centric features like as automated device switching and Find My Compatibility improve the user experience for people who are deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem.

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

Sony’s WH-1000XM4 offers a wide range of capabilities, including industry-leading noise cancellation, while Apple’s AirPods Pro (2nd generation) offers an integrated experience with unique audio features such as spatial audio and seamless device integration. Your decision should be guided by your priorities and the ecology with which you are most comfortable.

Which is the Winner?

The choice between the Sony WF-1000XM4 and the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) is ultimately determined by your personal demands and preferences.

Android users may find the decision easier, as the WF-1000XM4 provides more accessible capabilities on non-Apple devices. However, for Apple users, the decision gets more difficult because both earbuds operate smoothly with iPhones.

In terms of noise cancellation, the WF-1000XM4 excels at blocking high frequencies, whilst the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) provides consistent noise filtering with comparable degrees of attenuation across the sound spectrum.

Both sets of earbuds deliver remarkable sound quality, with the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) providing better-balanced tuning out of the box and the WF-1000XM4 providing greater user flexibility with configurable EQ settings.

Your decision may also be influenced by your choice of music streaming service and audio upgrades. If you use Apple Music and are interested in Spatial Audio, the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) may be your best option. If you prefer Sony’s 360 Reality Audio for surround sound, the WF-1000XM4 would be a better choice.

Finally, examine the price. The Sony WF-1000XM4 is frequently more competitively priced, occasionally being $50 less than the AirPods Pro (2nd generation).

For many, the price difference is significant, and it may swing your decision in favor of Sony, unless the exclusive capabilities of the Apple buds, like the Spatialize algorithm, are critical to you. Finally, the best option is determined by your personal priorities and how they correspond with your tastes and budget.

Alternative Options

Before getting into the Sony WF-1000XM4, it’s worth reviewing some other possibilities in the ever-changing world of wireless earbuds. Keep a watch out for the Sony WF-1000XM5, which is on the way. Waiting to see how it compares to its predecessor or whether it leads to price reductions for the WF-1000XM4 could be a prudent decision.

If you’re willing to experiment with Apple’s offers, the original AirPods Pro (1st generation) remains a feasible option, especially since their price has dropped with the arrival of the AirPods Pro (2nd generation). While the original version still provides adequate ANC, it may fall short of the effectiveness of its replacement.

The Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 3 is an appealing option for individuals who are less interested in 3D sound but still want excellent sound quality.

These earbuds are compatible with any operating system and cost $169 on Amazon. Notably, they come with optional stabilizers to ensure a solid in-ear fit, making them excellent for busy people or those with difficult ear shapes. They are also capable of noise cancellation.

Finally, consider the Sony LinkBuds S, which costs $148 on Amazon. These earphones have many of the same features as the WF-1000XM4 and use the same app. While they preserve 3D audio and ANC (though significantly less effective), they are an appealing choice to consider.

Finally, your choice of earbuds may be influenced by your individual device and operating system, as manufacturers frequently design their products to work flawlessly with specific platforms and hardware configurations. Exploring these alternatives allows you to pick the earbuds that best suit your interests, priorities, and budget.

Sony WH-1000XM4 vs Airpods Pro 2 – FAQs

Which is better for noise canceling, the Sony WH-1000XM4 or the AirPods Pro (2nd generation)?

The Sony WH-1000XM4 is well-known for its remarkable noise-cancelling capabilities. It employs innovative technology to filter out a wide spectrum of external sounds, making it an excellent choice for individuals looking for superb noise isolation. While the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) provides good noise cancellation, the Sony headphones outperform them in this category.

Are the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) compatible with Android devices?

Yes, the AirPods Pro (2nd version) are compatible with Android smartphones, although they function best with Apple products due to flawless integration. Android users may not be able to utilize all of the features available when linked to an Apple device, such as Spatial Audio.

Do the Sony WH-1000XM4 and the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) support voice assistants?

Yes, both earphones enable voice assistants. The Sony WH-1000XM4 has voice assistant integration, whilst the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) enables hands-free Siri activation, making it simple to utilize voice commands.

Which earbuds have the best sound quality?

Both the Sony WH-1000XM4 and the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) provide excellent sound quality. The choice is mostly determined by your musical choices. The AirPods Pro (2nd generation) provides balanced tuning out of the box, whilst the Sony WF-1000XM4 allows for further customization with various EQ settings.

Are there any other possibilities to explore if I can’t pick between these two?

Yes, there are numerous alternatives to consider. If you’re an Android user, the Sony WF-1000XM4 provides a feature-rich experience. The original AirPods Pro (1st generation) are still available for a lower price, albeit they offer significantly less effective noise cancellation.

The Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 3 is an excellent choice for individuals who value sound quality, and the Sony LinkBuds S offers similar characteristics to the WF-1000XM4 at a reduced cost. Your choice will be determined by your individual needs and preferences.

Final Thoughts

Finally, the decision between the Sony WH-1000XM4 and the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) comes down to personal preferences and priorities.

The Sony WH-1000XM4 distinguishes out for its superb noise-canceling features, configurable sound profile, and compatibility with both Android and Apple devices. It’s a wonderful solution for individuals who value immersive audio and platform versatility.

The AirPods Pro (2nd generation), on the other hand, excels in seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, with unique capabilities such as Spatial Audio and hands-free Siri activation. 

Apple fans may find the AirPods Pro to be the ideal companion for their Apple devices. Finally, your choice should be based on your device ecosystem, desired form factor (over-ear vs. in-ear), and the exact features that are most important to you, ensuring that you have the ideal audio partner for your needs.