Sony WH-1000XM4 vs Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
The Sony WH-1000XM4 is the smarter buy for most people, thanks to its industry-leading Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and impressive portability at just 8.96 oz. The Focal Bathys Hi-Fi offers a unique USB-DAC mode for uncompressed 24-bit/192kHz audio, which is a game-changer for audiophiles. However, it weighs 12.3 oz, making it bulkier and less convenient for everyday use. This trade-off means that while the Focal shines in audio fidelity, it may not be the best choice for casual listeners or travelers in 2026.
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Sony WH-1000XM4
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
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 Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
Sony WH-1000XM4
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
| Criterion | Sony WH-1000XM4 | Focal Bathys Hi-Fi |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.5(623)Amazon | ★4.2(465)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0; 3.5 mm; USB-C (charging only); NFC | Bluetooth 5.1 + USB-C DAC (Digital) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog) |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.1 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC | SBC, AAC, aptX™, aptX™ Adaptive |
ANC | Yes (Industry-leading Digital Noise Cancelling) | Yes (2 modes: 'Silent' for high noise, 'Soft' for focus) |
Transparency | Yes (Ambient Sound Mode) | Yes (Transparency Mode) |
Drivers | 40 mm, Dome type (CCAW Voice coil) | 40mm Aluminum-Magnesium 'M'-shaped Dome Drivers (Made in France) |
Frequency Response | 4 Hz - 40,000 Hz (Wired) | 15 Hz – 22,000 Hz |
Microphones | 5 mics (Precise Voice Pickup + Dual Noise Sensor) | 8 Microphones total (Clear Voice Capture technology) |
Battery Life | Up to 30 h (ANC On) / 38 h (ANC Off) | 30 hours (Bluetooth + ANC) / 35 hours (3.5mm Jack) / 42 hours (USB-DAC) |
Battery Life | N/A (Not TWS) | N/A (No charging case) |
Charging | USB-C (Fast charge: 10 min ≈ 5 h playback) | USB-C Fast Charge; 15 min charge = 5 hours playback |
Multipoint | Yes (2 devices) | Yes (Simultaneous connection to 2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | No (Video sync is good, but no dedicated Gaming Mode) | Yes (via aptX™ Adaptive) |
Wired Mode | Yes (3.5 mm) | Yes (USB-DAC mode supports 24-bit/192kHz; 3.5mm analog cable included) |
Water Resistance | No IP Rating | No (No IP rating) |
Weight | 254 g (8.96 oz) | 12.3 oz (350 g) |
Controls | Touch sensor (Right earcup); Physical buttons (Power, Custom) | Physical Buttons (Volume, Pairing, ANC mode, Voice Assistant) |
App Eq | Sony Headphones Connect (5-band EQ + Clear Bass) | Focal & Naim App (5-band EQ + Mimi Sound Personalization) |
Extras | Speak-to-Chat; DSEE Extreme; Wearing Detection (Auto-pause); 360 Reality Audio | Illuminated Focal flame logo (dimmable); Rigid carrying case; Mimi Hearing Test support |
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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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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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Which one is better?
The Sony WH-1000XM4 is the better buy for most people - its industry-leading ANC crushes the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi. That said, grab the Focal if you’re an audiophile seeking high-resolution audio - it offers 42 hours of playback in USB-DAC mode.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Sony WH-1000XM4 if: you want superior noise cancellation, need a lighter headphone for travel, or prefer seamless multi-device pairing. (8.96 oz weight)
Choose the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi if: you crave audiophile-level sound quality, enjoy uncompressed audio from your computer, or value personalized audio profiles. (12.35 oz weight)
Conclusion
With the key differences outlined, the decision should be clearer. Both options deliver quality—choose the one that fits your priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
Sony WH-1000XM4 excels if you value top-tier active noise cancellation (anc). Focal Bathys Hi-Fi is better if you prioritize usb-dac mode delivers uncompressed 24-bit/192khz audio directly from a computer or phone. 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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