Sony WH-1000XM4
Premium over-ear wireless noise-canceling headphones known for excellent sound quality, effective ANC, and a foldable design.
Last updated: Oct 26, 2026 · Released 2020
So... Should I Buy It?
No universal yes or no — here's who it fits and who should look elsewhere.
Consider buying it if
- Frequent travelers needing noise isolation
- Office workers in noisy environments
- Commuters looking for a portable, foldable design
- Users who need to connect to two devices simultaneously
Consider skipping it if
- Athletes or gym-goers due to lack of water resistance
- Users on a strict budget
- Audiophiles requiring a wired-only, high-fidelity setup
The Quick Take
The Sony WH-1000XM4 is an excellent choice for travelers and office workers who prioritize top-tier noise cancellation and comfort. It remains a highly competitive option for those who prefer a foldable design over newer, non-folding models.
Pros
- Excellent audio quality with customizable EQ
- Top-tier active noise cancellation
- Comfortable, foldable design for travel
- Multipoint Bluetooth pairing
- Long 30-hour battery life
Cons
- Touch controls can be finicky
- Not water or sweat resistant
- Cable lacks an inline remote
Key Specifications
| Battery Life | Up to 30 hours (NC ON); up to 38 hours (NC OFF) |
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC |
| Frequency Response | 4 Hz - 40,000 Hz |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0, 3.5mm wired, NFC |
| Driver | 40mm dome (CCAW voice coil, neodymium) |
| Charging | USB-C; ~3 hrs full charge |
Common Complaints
Recurring drawbacks shoppers mention about this product. These are compiled from publicly available research, not our own testing.
- Double-tap to pause feature is inconsistent
- High retail price
- Touch controls can be frustrating to use
In Depth
The Sony WH-1000XM4 are over-ear wireless headphones that feature industry-leading active noise cancellation (ANC), high-quality audio performance, and a comfortable, foldable design. They include smart features like multipoint Bluetooth pairing, Speak-to-Chat, and auto-pause sensors. While succeeded by newer models, they remain a highly regarded choice for commuters, travelers, and office workers due to their balance of performance and portability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Sony WH-1000XM4 best for?
It is best for commuters, travelers, and office workers who need effective noise cancellation and a comfortable, foldable design for daily use.
What are the biggest drawbacks of the WH-1000XM4?
The main drawbacks include finicky touch controls, a lack of water or sweat resistance, and the fact that it is an older model compared to the newer XM5.
How does it compare to the newer Sony WH-1000XM5?
The XM4 features a foldable design which the XM5 lacks, making the XM4 more portable. The XM5 offers a newer design and updated processing, but many users still prefer the XM4 for its portability and value.
Are these headphones good for working out?
No, they are not ideal for working out as they lack an IP rating for water or sweat resistance.
What Owners Say
Community reviews written by site visitors who own this product. They're separate from our research verdict above and don't change it.
No reviews yet
No community reviews yet. If you own this product, be the first to say how it's held up.
You May Also Be Considering
Other products worth a look in the same space.
The XM5 are a superb travel and office companion — class-leading ANC, great call quality, and all-day comfort. If compactness matters, the older XM4 may suit you better.
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are an excellent choice for users who prioritize top-tier noise cancellation and long-term comfort. They are best suited for travelers and professionals who want a premium, feature-rich listening experience.
A reliable, long-lasting pair of wireless headphones that prioritizes battery life and bass-heavy sound over premium noise cancellation performance.
The Galaxy Buds3 Pro represent a significant design shift for Samsung, moving to a stem-based form factor that offers improved microphone performance and intuitive squeeze controls, though early quality control concerns regarding ear tip durability are worth noting.
These earbuds bridge the gap between standard AirPods and the Pro line, providing effective noise cancellation and a compact design for those who dislike ear tips.
Popular Comparisons
Side-by-side breakdowns involving this product.
Where to Buy
Affiliate disclosure. We may earn a commission when you purchase through links on this page, at no additional cost to you. Should I Buy It? is a participant in the Amazon.ca Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Prices, availability and Canadian pricing are not guaranteed and can change — always confirm details with the retailer before purchasing. Shopping recommendations are intended for Canadian buyers.