Sony WH-1000XM4 vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
When comparing the Sony WH-1000XM4 and Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black), the stands out is the Sony WH-1000XM4 due to its leading Active Noise Cancelling (ANC). In real-world use, the Sony WH-1000XM4 excels, providing a comfortable fit and high-quality sound. However, without ANC, it can't match the sound isolation capabilities of the Sony headset, making it less suitable for noisy environments. Key specs: Battery: 50h vs 30h and Weight: 10.8oz vs 8.96oz.
Why compare these? The Sony WH-1000XM4 (premium flagship) and Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) (mid-range) represent different approaches to headphones. While they may appeal to different budgets, many buyers consider both options. This 2026 comparison helps you decide if the differences justify the price gap.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Sony WH-1000XM4 | Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | ✓4.5★ (623 reviews) | 4.4★ (3,219 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Top-tier Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) | Exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency |
| Main Drawback | No official IP water resistance rating | Lacks Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency modes found in competitors |
| Market Position | ✓Flagship | Mid-range |
Sony WH-1000XM4
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.0; 3.5 mm; USB-C (charging only); NFC
Bluetooth 5.0
SBC, AAC, LDAC
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.0 + USB-C (Charging) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog)
Bluetooth 5.0
LDAC, AAC, SBC
Only the specs that differ are shown here. Winners are highlighted when the data is clear.
+Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Expand
Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Sony WH-1000XM4 vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
Sony WH-1000XM4
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
| Criterion | Sony WH-1000XM4 | Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.5(623)Amazon | ★4.4(3,219)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) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog) |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC | LDAC, AAC, SBC |
ANC | Yes (Industry-leading Digital Noise Cancelling) | No (Passive noise isolation only) |
Transparency | Yes (Ambient Sound Mode) | No |
Drivers | 40 mm, Dome type (CCAW Voice coil) | 45mm large-aperture drivers with rare earth magnets |
Frequency Response | 4 Hz - 40,000 Hz (Wired) | 15 Hz – 28,000 Hz |
Microphones | 5 mics (Precise Voice Pickup + Dual Noise Sensor) | Dual MEMS microphones (beamforming) |
Battery Life | Up to 30 h (ANC On) / 38 h (ANC Off) | Up to 50 hours (Continuous use) |
Battery Life | N/A (Not TWS) | N/A (No charging case) |
Charging | USB-C (Fast charge: 10 min ≈ 5 h playback) | USB-C; ~3.5 hours full charge; 10 min rapid charge = up to 3 hours playback |
Multipoint | Yes (2 devices) | Yes (2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | No (Video sync is good, but no dedicated Gaming Mode) | Yes (via Audio-Technica CONNECT app) |
Wired Mode | Yes (3.5 mm) | Yes (1.2 m / 3.9' cable included; works with zero battery) |
Water Resistance | No IP Rating | None (No IP rating) |
Weight | 254 g (8.96 oz) | 10.8 oz (307 g) |
Controls | Touch sensor (Right earcup); Physical buttons (Power, Custom) | Physical buttons (Power/Pairing, Volume, Multifunction/Voice Assistant) |
App Eq | Sony Headphones Connect (5-band EQ + Clear Bass) | Audio-Technica CONNECT app (5-band EQ, Codec switch, Low Latency, L/R Balance) |
Extras | Speak-to-Chat; DSEE Extreme; Wearing Detection (Auto-pause); 360 Reality Audio | Google Fast Pair; Amazon Alexa built-in; Sidetone circuitry; 1.2 m cable & carrying pouch included |
| Pros |
|
|
| Cons |
|
|
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. | Check Price on Amazon→ | Check Price on Amazon→ |
Sony WH-1000XM4
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.0; 3.5 mm; USB-C (charging only); NFC
Bluetooth 5.0
SBC, AAC, LDAC
Yes (Industry-leading Digital Noise Cancelling)
Yes (Ambient Sound Mode)
Pros
- Top-tier Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Excellent folding design (more portable than XM5)
Cons
- No official IP water resistance rating
- Microphone quality is good, but not best-in-class anymore
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.0 + USB-C (Charging) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog)
Bluetooth 5.0
LDAC, AAC, SBC
No (Passive noise isolation only)
No
Pros
- Exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency
- High-resolution audio support via LDAC codec
Cons
- Lacks Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency modes found in competitors
- No official IP water or dust resistance rating
Which one is better?
The Sony WH-1000XM4 is the better buy for most people - its top-tier Active Noise Cancelling crushes the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black).
Who should buy each?
Choose the Sony WH-1000XM4 if: you want premium Active Noise Cancelling, you value sound quality for music and calls, or you need comfort for extended wear. (8.96 oz weight)
Choose the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) if: you need long battery life of 50 hours, you want a strong wired backup option, or you enjoy high-resolution audio support.
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.5★ vs 4.4★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Sony WH-1000XM4
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 3,219 reviews vs 623
→ Choose Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2
Premium Buyers
Higher-tier option with more premium features and build quality
→ Choose Sony WH-1000XM4
Value Seekers
Better value proposition for buyers who don't need top-tier features
→ Choose Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2
Conclusion
We hope this comparison helps you buy with confidence. Both products are dependable; the right one depends on how you will use it.
Bottom line: The Sony WH-1000XM4 edges ahead with a 4.5★ rating compared to 4.4★. However, Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) remains a strong contender if its strengths align better with your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Sony WH-1000XM4 or Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)?
Sony WH-1000XM4 is the better choice if you prioritize top-tier active noise cancellation (anc). Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) wins if you value exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency. Both are rated highly (4.5★ vs 4.4★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Sony WH-1000XM4 and Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)?
Key differences: Sony WH-1000XM4 offers top-tier active noise cancellation (anc), while Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) stands out with exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency. Consider that Sony WH-1000XM4 no official ip water resistance rating. Meanwhile, Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) lacks active noise cancelling (anc) and transparency modes found in competitors. Check the detailed specs table above for a complete comparison.
+Where can US buyers get the best price?
For US buyers, Amazon typically offers competitive pricing with Prime shipping, easy returns, and reliable warranty support. We recommend comparing prices on both products using our affiliate links above—prices fluctuate regularly, and you may find sales or deals.
+Is this comparison up to date?
Yes, this comparison is current for 2026. We regularly verify specs, ratings, and availability. Last verified: January 26, 2026. PageBen uses affiliate links for monetization, but our recommendations are research-driven and independent.
Affiliate disclosure
PageBen uses Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This supports independent content for US shoppers.