Sony WH-1000XM4 vs Bose QuietComfort Headphones
In contrast, the Bose QuietComfort Headphones deliver 24 hours, making Sony's offering a no-brainer for long trips or days away from a charger. In my testing, the WH-1000XM4's ANC is top-tier, effectively blocking out distractions. You'll appreciate the difference during those long flights or commutes. Key specs: Weight: 8.96 oz vs 8.40 oz and Battery: 30h vs 24h.
Why compare these? The Sony WH-1000XM4 (premium flagship) and Bose QuietComfort Headphones (high-end) 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.
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Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Sony WH-1000XM4 | Bose QuietComfort |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | 4.5★ (623 reviews) | ✓4.6★ (17,542 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Top-tier Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) | Legendary comfort (low clamping force, deep ear pads) |
| Main Drawback | No official IP water resistance rating | No wear sensors (music does not auto-pause when taken off) |
| Market Position | ✓Flagship | Premium |
Sony WH-1000XM4
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.0; 3.5 mm; USB-C (charging only); NFC
Bluetooth 5.0
SBC, AAC, LDAC
Bose QuietComfort Headphones
Over-ear
Bluetooth, 2.5mm to 3.5mm analog cable
Bluetooth 5.1
SBC, AAC
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.
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Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Sony WH-1000XM4 vs Bose QuietComfort Headphones
Sony WH-1000XM4
Bose QuietComfort Headphones
| Criterion | Sony WH-1000XM4 | Bose QuietComfort Headphones |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.5(623)Amazon | ★4.6(17,542)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0; 3.5 mm; USB-C (charging only); NFC | Bluetooth, 2.5mm to 3.5mm analog cable |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.1 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC | SBC, AAC |
ANC | Yes (Industry-leading Digital Noise Cancelling) | Yes (Quiet & Aware modes + Custom modes) |
Transparency | Yes (Ambient Sound Mode) | Yes (Aware Mode) |
Drivers | 40 mm, Dome type (CCAW Voice coil) | Custom dynamic drivers (Size/Type undisclosed by manufacturer) |
Frequency Response | 4 Hz - 40,000 Hz (Wired) | 20 Hz - 20 kHz (Measured) |
Microphones | 5 mics (Precise Voice Pickup + Dual Noise Sensor) | Microphone system with noise-rejecting boomless array |
Battery Life | Up to 30 h (ANC On) / 38 h (ANC Off) | Up to 24 hrs |
Battery Life | N/A (Not TWS) | N/A (Headphones only) |
Charging | USB-C (Fast charge: 10 min ≈ 5 h playback) | USB-C; 2.5 hrs for full charge; 15 min = up to 2.5 hrs play |
Multipoint | Yes (2 devices) | Yes (2 devices with seamless switching) |
Low Latency Mode | No (Video sync is good, but no dedicated Gaming Mode) | No (SimpleSync available only for Bose Soundbars) |
Wired Mode | Yes (3.5 mm) | Yes (Active or Passive - passive sounds different) |
Water Resistance | No IP Rating | None |
Weight | 254 g (8.96 oz) | 238 g |
Controls | Touch sensor (Right earcup); Physical buttons (Power, Custom) | Physical buttons (Volume, Play/Pause, Mode Switch) |
App Eq | Sony Headphones Connect (5-band EQ + Clear Bass) | Bose Music app (3-band EQ + Presets) |
Extras | Speak-to-Chat; DSEE Extreme; Wearing Detection (Auto-pause); 360 Reality Audio | Wind Block feature; Spotify Tap; Foldable design; Hard carry case included |
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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
Bose QuietComfort Headphones
Over-ear
Bluetooth, 2.5mm to 3.5mm analog cable
Bluetooth 5.1
SBC, AAC
Yes (Quiet & Aware modes + Custom modes)
Yes (Aware Mode)
Pros
- Legendary comfort (low clamping force, deep ear pads)
- Best-in-class physical buttons (preferred by many over touch)
Cons
- No wear sensors (music does not auto-pause when taken off)
- 2.5mm audio jack limits third-party cable options
Which one is better?
Grab the Bose if you prioritize comfort and prefer physical buttons over touch controls - it's lighter too.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Sony WH-1000XM4 if: you need exceptional battery life for long trips, want top-tier noise cancellation, or prefer a headphone that pairs easily with multiple devices. (8.96 oz weight)
Choose the Bose QuietComfort Headphones if: you value ultimate comfort for extended wear, prefer physical buttons for controls, or need a lighter option for daily use. (8.40 oz weight)
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.6★ vs 4.5★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Bose QuietComfort
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 17,542 reviews vs 623
→ Choose Bose QuietComfort
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 Bose QuietComfort
Conclusion
Sony WH-1000XM4 and Bose QuietComfort Headphones are both solid choices. Match the strengths above to your budget and workflow to make the best call.
Bottom line: The Bose QuietComfort Headphones leads with a 4.6★ rating versus 4.5★. That said, Sony WH-1000XM4 could still be the right pick depending on your specific priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Sony WH-1000XM4 or Bose QuietComfort Headphones?
Sony WH-1000XM4 is the better choice if you prioritize top-tier active noise cancellation (anc). Bose QuietComfort Headphones wins if you value legendary comfort (low clamping force, deep ear pads). Both are rated highly (4.5★ vs 4.6★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Sony WH-1000XM4 and Bose QuietComfort Headphones?
Key differences: Sony WH-1000XM4 offers top-tier active noise cancellation (anc), while Bose QuietComfort Headphones stands out with legendary comfort (low clamping force, deep ear pads). Consider that Sony WH-1000XM4 no official ip water resistance rating. Meanwhile, Bose QuietComfort Headphones no wear sensors (music does not auto-pause when taken off). 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.
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