Sony WH-1000XM6 Headphones Review: A Viable Upgrade with a Familiar Touch
Sony officially introduced its newest flagship noise-cancelling headphones, the WH-1000XM6, on May 15. It’s been three years since the WH-1000XM5 made its debut, and while the new model doesn’t dramatically change the game, it brings some noteworthy enhancements — most significantly, a foldable design for greater portability.
Beyond the folding capability, the XM6 headphones primarily present modest improvements. However, if your priority is premium noise cancellation and high-fidelity audio, these headphones certainly deliver — albeit at a marginally elevated price. The XM6s retail for $449.99, roughly $50 more than their predecessors. While this increase may be related to rising tariffs and general technology inflation, it’s still worth contemplating if you’re unsure.
So, are the Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones a worthwhile investment? After testing them prior to launch, here are my initial thoughts.
Audio Performance: Outstanding, Yet Not Unrivaled
In my evaluation of the XM6s, I compared them to other high-end headphones and earbuds, including the prior-gen XM5s, Dyson OnTrac, Bose QuietComfort Ultra, and Technics AZ100 earbuds. The XM6s stand their ground among these elite rivals, though they fall short of offering the best sound I’ve encountered.
That being said, the audio performance is certainly remarkable. Sony worked alongside music mastering professionals in the U.S. to refine the sound, and the results are evident — particularly in tracks with strong vocals. Compared to the XM5s, the XM6s provide enhanced balance, clarity, and depth. Songs from artists such as Adele and Lewis Capaldi have a notably rich quality, and even classical compositions gain from the improved tuning.
The bass is robust and easily discernible, even for those who typically find it challenging to detect. However, on more intricate tracks like Radiohead’s “National Anthem” or M83’s “Outro,” the sound can become slightly less clear. It’s not muddy, but the soundstage can feel a bit cramped. I also noticed I had to increase the volume more than usual to fully appreciate the richness of the audio.
If you’re passionate about bass, you might consider Sony’s ULT headphones, which are specifically designed for bass-centric listening.
What’s Different in the XM6?
The most significant design enhancement is the foldable nature of the headphones — a feature absent in the XM5s. This renders them considerably more travel-friendly. The updated carrying case is also more durable and streamlined, featuring a magnetic closure that replaces the less sturdy zipper on the previous model.
Internally, Sony has implemented a new QN3 processor that is seven times quicker than the earlier chip. This bolsters enhanced adaptive noise cancellation and improved call quality, facilitated by AI beamforming technology. The XM6s also include 12 microphones (up from eight in the XM5s), six of which are dedicated to phone calls.
Comfort has seen upgrades as well. The headband has been redesigned for better ergonomics, and I experienced no discomfort during long listening sessions — even on lengthy workdays.
Touch controls are still user-friendly, and the ANC button has received a slight redesign for easier access.
What Remains the Same?
Despite the improvements, several facets of the XM6 stay consistent. Battery life continues to be 30 hours with ANC engaged (40 hours without), mirroring the XM5s. That’s commendable, but not groundbreaking — especially when set against the Dyson OnTrac’s impressive 55-hour battery life.
Visually, the XM6s closely resemble the XM5s. If you appreciated the previous design, you’ll feel comfortable here. However, if you were hoping for a striking new aesthetic or a significant audio upgrade, you might find it somewhat disappointing.
In many respects, the XM6s reflect the current landscape of headphone technology: incremental enhancements rather than revolutionary advances. Even Apple’s latest AirPods Max update merely included USB-C charging. It appears we are approaching the limits of what is achievable with existing audio driver technology.
Nonetheless, Sony has made substantial improvements to vocal clarity and ANC effectiveness, and those merits are certainly worth acknowledging.
Noise Cancellation: Still Leading the Field
Sony’s noise cancellation has always been a highlight, and the XM6 continues this legacy. The ANC ranks among the finest I’ve ever experienced. When activated, it forms a nearly silent environment — particularly effective when combined with music. It isn’t flawless on noisy subway rides, but in most surroundings, it’s remarkably efficient.
I frequently use the XM6s at work without music simply to eliminate distractions, and they excel in that role. However, while Sony promotes adaptive ANC, there’s limited user customization available. Competing offerings from Bose and Technics provide more adjustable ANC features, which would have been a beneficial addition.
Specs at a Glance: