Sony WH-1000XM4 vs Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
If you are torn between Sony WH-1000XM4 and Apple AirPods Max (USB-C), this breakdown is for you. We compare specs, pros, and cons so you can decide confidently.
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Sony WH-1000XM4
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Comparison: Sony WH-1000XM4 vs Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Sony WH-1000XM4
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
| Criterion | Sony WH-1000XM4 | Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.5(623)Amazon | ★4.6(3,079)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0; 3.5 mm; USB-C (charging only); NFC | Bluetooth 5.0; USB-C (charging + lossless wired audio) |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.0 | 5.0 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC | AAC, SBC (Wireless); ALAC (Wired via USB-C) |
ANC | Yes (Industry-leading Digital Noise Cancelling) | Yes (Pro-level Active Noise Cancellation) |
Transparency | Yes (Ambient Sound Mode) | Yes (Transparency mode) |
Drivers | 40 mm, Dome type (CCAW Voice coil) | 40mm Apple-designed dynamic driver |
Frequency Response | 4 Hz - 40,000 Hz (Wired) | Not officially specified |
Microphones | 5 mics (Precise Voice Pickup + Dual Noise Sensor) | 9 mics (8 for ANC, 3 for voice pickup - 2 shared) |
Battery Life | Up to 30 h (ANC On) / 38 h (ANC Off) | Up to 20 h (with ANC/Spatial Audio) |
Battery Life | N/A (Not TWS) | N/A (Smart Case preserves battery, does not charge) |
Charging | USB-C (Fast charge: 10 min ≈ 5 h playback) | USB-C |
Multipoint | Yes (2 devices) | Automatic Switching (Apple ecosystem only) |
Low Latency Mode | No (Video sync is good, but no dedicated Gaming Mode) | Ultra-low latency via USB-C (wired) |
Wired Mode | Yes (3.5 mm) | Yes (Lossless digital audio via USB-C cable) |
Water Resistance | No IP Rating | None |
Weight | 254 g (8.96 oz) | 0.85 lb (385 g) |
Controls | Touch sensor (Right earcup); Physical buttons (Power, Custom) | Digital Crown (volume/control), Noise Control button |
App Eq | Sony Headphones Connect (5-band EQ + Clear Bass) | iOS Settings (Headphone Accommodations) |
Extras | Speak-to-Chat; DSEE Extreme; Wearing Detection (Auto-pause); 360 Reality Audio | Personalized Spatial Audio; Find My support; Smart Case (low power mode) |
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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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Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
✓ Pros:
- • Seamless switching and integration within Apple ecosystem
- • Class-leading ANC and Transparency modes
- • Native Lossless Audio support via USB-C cable
- • Premium build quality with breathable mesh canopy
✗ Cons:
- • Heavier than most competitors (385g)
- • Smart Case offers minimal physical protection
- • Retains older H1 chip (misses Adaptive Audio/Conversation Awareness)
- • Expensive MSRP ($549) unchanged
- • No official water resistance rating
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Which one is better?
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) is stronger in overall satisfaction, but Sony WH-1000XM4 could still be the better pick if you value its unique advantages.
Who should buy each?
Choose Sony WH-1000XM4 if:
- You want Top-tier Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), Excellent folding design (more portable than XM5)
- Rating: 4.5★ (623 reviews)
Choose Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) if:
- You prefer Seamless switching and integration within Apple ecosystem, Class-leading ANC and Transparency modes
- Rating: 4.6★ (3079 reviews)
Conclusion
Sony WH-1000XM4 and Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) 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?
Sony WH-1000XM4 excels if you value top-tier active noise cancellation (anc). Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) is better if you prioritize seamless switching and integration within apple ecosystem. 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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