Focal Bathys Hi-Fi vs Sony WH-1000XM4
If you are torn between Focal Bathys Hi-Fi and Sony WH-1000XM4, this breakdown is for you. We compare specs, pros, and cons so you can decide confidently.
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Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
Sony WH-1000XM4
Comparison: Focal Bathys Hi-Fi vs Sony WH-1000XM4
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
Sony WH-1000XM4
| Criterion | Focal Bathys Hi-Fi | Sony WH-1000XM4 |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.2(465)Amazon | ★4.5(623)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.1 + USB-C DAC (Digital) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog) | Bluetooth 5.0; 3.5 mm; USB-C (charging only); NFC |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.1 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX™, aptX™ Adaptive | SBC, AAC, LDAC |
ANC | Yes (2 modes: 'Silent' for high noise, 'Soft' for focus) | Yes (Industry-leading Digital Noise Cancelling) |
Transparency | Yes (Transparency Mode) | Yes (Ambient Sound Mode) |
Drivers | 40mm Aluminum-Magnesium 'M'-shaped Dome Drivers (Made in France) | 40 mm, Dome type (CCAW Voice coil) |
Frequency Response | 15 Hz – 22,000 Hz | 4 Hz - 40,000 Hz (Wired) |
Microphones | 8 Microphones total (Clear Voice Capture technology) | 5 mics (Precise Voice Pickup + Dual Noise Sensor) |
Battery Life | 30 hours (Bluetooth + ANC) / 35 hours (3.5mm Jack) / 42 hours (USB-DAC) | Up to 30 h (ANC On) / 38 h (ANC Off) |
Battery Life | N/A (No charging case) | N/A (Not TWS) |
Charging | USB-C Fast Charge; 15 min charge = 5 hours playback | USB-C (Fast charge: 10 min ≈ 5 h playback) |
Multipoint | Yes (Simultaneous connection to 2 devices) | Yes (2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | Yes (via aptX™ Adaptive) | No (Video sync is good, but no dedicated Gaming Mode) |
Wired Mode | Yes (USB-DAC mode supports 24-bit/192kHz; 3.5mm analog cable included) | Yes (3.5 mm) |
Water Resistance | No (No IP rating) | No IP Rating |
Weight | 12.3 oz (350 g) | 254 g (8.96 oz) |
Controls | Physical Buttons (Volume, Pairing, ANC mode, Voice Assistant) | Touch sensor (Right earcup); Physical buttons (Power, Custom) |
App Eq | Focal & Naim App (5-band EQ + Mimi Sound Personalization) | Sony Headphones Connect (5-band EQ + Clear Bass) |
Extras | Illuminated Focal flame logo (dimmable); Rigid carrying case; Mimi Hearing Test support | Speak-to-Chat; DSEE Extreme; Wearing Detection (Auto-pause); 360 Reality Audio |
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Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
✓ Pros:
- • USB-DAC mode delivers uncompressed 24-bit/192kHz audio directly from a computer or phone
- • Aluminum/Magnesium drivers provide audiophile-level detail and dynamic range
- • Mimi Sound Personalization adapts the audio profile to your specific hearing health
- • Premium construction with real leather, aluminum, and magnesium materials
- • Solid battery life across all modes, especially when using the internal DAC (42 hours)
✗ Cons:
- • Heavier (12.3 oz) and bulkier than mainstream competitors like Bose or Sony
- • No official water resistance rating (IP) requires care during use
- • High price point targets a niche audiophile audience rather than general consumers
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Sony WH-1000XM4
✓ Pros:
- • Top-tier Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- • Excellent folding design (more portable than XM5)
- • Multi-device pairing works seamlessly
- • Comfortable lightweight fit for long sessions
✗ Cons:
- • No official IP water resistance rating
- • Microphone quality is good, but not best-in-class anymore
- • Touch controls can be sensitive to moisture/cold
- • LDAC disables when using Multipoint (on older firmware)
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Which one is better?
Overall, Sony WH-1000XM4 delivers better satisfaction. Focal Bathys Hi-Fi is still a quality option with specific strengths worth considering.
Who should buy each?
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi excels at: USB-DAC mode delivers uncompressed 24-bit/192kHz audio directly from a computer or phone, Aluminum/Magnesium drivers provide audiophile-level detail and dynamic range
Watch for: Heavier (12.3 oz) and bulkier than mainstream competitors like Bose or Sony
Sony WH-1000XM4 excels at: Top-tier Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), Excellent folding design (more portable than XM5)
Watch for: No official IP water resistance rating
Conclusion
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi and Sony WH-1000XM4 are both solid choices. Match the strengths above to your budget and workflow to make the best call.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi excels if you value usb-dac mode delivers uncompressed 24-bit/192khz audio directly from a computer or phone. Sony WH-1000XM4 is better if you prioritize top-tier active noise cancellation (anc). Pick based on your budget and daily use.
+Is this an independent review?
Yes. We use affiliate links for monetization, but recommendations are research-driven and unbiased.
+Do newer models exist?
Check release timelines from the manufacturers and compare pricing before you buy. We refresh this page when major updates land.
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