Sony WH-1000XM4 vs Soundcore Space One
In the showdown between Sony WH-1000XM4 and Soundcore Space One, the Sony WH-1000XM4 takes the lead with its top-tier Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). The key difference lies in real-world performance: the Sony WH-1000XM4 is designed for audiophiles and frequent travelers, offering features like DSEE Extreme and 360 Reality Audio. Meanwhile, the Soundcore Space One, while effective, feels plasticky and lacks the premium build quality. If you're looking for a top-tier experience in 2026, the Sony WH-1000XM4 is worth the investment for serious audio enthusiasts. Key specs: Weight: 8.96 oz vs 9.35 oz and Battery: 55h vs 30h (ANC Off).
Why compare these? The Sony WH-1000XM4 (premium flagship) and Soundcore Space One (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.
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Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Sony WH-1000XM4 | Soundcore Space |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | ✓4.5★ (623 reviews) | 4.4★ (12,971 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Top-tier Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) | LDAC codec support for Hi-Res Wireless Audio |
| Main Drawback | No official IP water resistance rating | Build quality feels plasticky compared to premium models |
| 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
Soundcore Space One
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.3 + 3.5mm AUX (wired)
5.3
SBC, AAC, LDAC
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 Soundcore Space One
Sony WH-1000XM4
Soundcore Space One
| Criterion | Sony WH-1000XM4 | Soundcore Space One |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.5(623)Amazon | ★4.4(12,971)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0; 3.5 mm; USB-C (charging only); NFC | Bluetooth 5.3 + 3.5mm AUX (wired) |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.0 | 5.3 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC | SBC, AAC, LDAC |
ANC | Yes (Industry-leading Digital Noise Cancelling) | Adaptive ANC (Reduces noise by up to 98%) |
Transparency | Yes (Ambient Sound Mode) | Yes (Transparency mode; 5 adjustable levels) |
Drivers | 40 mm, Dome type (CCAW Voice coil) | 40 mm dynamic drivers |
Frequency Response | 4 Hz - 40,000 Hz (Wired) | 20 Hz – 40 kHz (Hi-Res Audio wired/LDAC) |
Microphones | 5 mics (Precise Voice Pickup + Dual Noise Sensor) | 3 mics with AI algorithm (for clear calls) |
Battery Life | Up to 30 h (ANC On) / 38 h (ANC Off) | 55H (ANC Off) / 40H (ANC On) |
Battery Life | N/A (Not TWS) | N/A (No charging case) |
Charging | USB-C (Fast charge: 10 min ≈ 5 h playback) | USB-C; 5 min = 4 hrs (Normal mode); Full charge ~2 hrs |
Multipoint | Yes (2 devices) | Yes (Connect to 2 devices simultaneously) |
Low Latency Mode | No (Video sync is good, but no dedicated Gaming Mode) | No (Not supported) |
Wired Mode | Yes (3.5 mm) | Yes (3.5mm AUX; Bluetooth disabled in wired mode) |
Water Resistance | No IP Rating | No (Not waterproof/sweatproof) |
Weight | 254 g (8.96 oz) | 9.35 oz (265 g) |
Controls | Touch sensor (Right earcup); Physical buttons (Power, Custom) | Physical buttons (Power, Volume +/-, NC) + soundcore app |
App Eq | Sony Headphones Connect (5-band EQ + Clear Bass) | soundcore app (HearID EQ, Custom EQ, Presets) |
Extras | Speak-to-Chat; DSEE Extreme; Wearing Detection (Auto-pause); 360 Reality Audio | Travel pouch; wear detection (auto-pause); Google Fast Pair |
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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
Soundcore Space One
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.3 + 3.5mm AUX (wired)
5.3
SBC, AAC, LDAC
Adaptive ANC (Reduces noise by up to 98%)
Yes (Transparency mode; 5 adjustable levels)
Pros
- LDAC codec support for Hi-Res Wireless Audio
- Effective Adaptive ANC at a mid-range price point
Cons
- Build quality feels plasticky compared to premium models
- No dedicated low-latency/gaming mode
Which one is better?
The Sony WH-1000XM4 is the better buy for most people - its top-tier ANC crushes the Soundcore Space One.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Sony WH-1000XM4 if: you want top-tier noise cancellation, you prioritize sound quality for music, or you travel frequently and need a compact design. (8.96 oz weight)
Choose the Soundcore Space One if: you need long battery life at 55 hours, you want to save money without sacrificing too much performance, or you appreciate the LDAC support for high-resolution audio.
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 12,971 reviews vs 623
→ Choose Soundcore Space
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 Soundcore Space
Conclusion
There is no wrong answer here. Focus on the features you will use daily and pick the model that aligns with them.
Bottom line: The Sony WH-1000XM4 edges ahead with a 4.5★ rating compared to 4.4★. However, Soundcore Space One remains a strong contender if its strengths align better with your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Sony WH-1000XM4 or Soundcore Space One?
Sony WH-1000XM4 is the better choice if you prioritize top-tier active noise cancellation (anc). Soundcore Space One wins if you value ldac codec support for hi-res wireless audio. 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 Soundcore Space One?
Key differences: Sony WH-1000XM4 offers top-tier active noise cancellation (anc), while Soundcore Space One stands out with ldac codec support for hi-res wireless audio. Consider that Sony WH-1000XM4 no official ip water resistance rating. Meanwhile, Soundcore Space One build quality feels plasticky compared to premium models. 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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