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Sony WH-1000XM4 Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones - 30 hours battery life - Over Ear style - Optimised for Alexa and the Google Assistant - with built-in mic for phone calls - Silver

Sony

Experience Sound Like Never Before with Sony WH-1000XM4 Headphones

4.6(4,685 reviews)
£202.11£279.99All-Time Low

300+ bought last month

Price History

£170.05

Lowest

£449.99

Highest

£257.51

Average

-22%

vs Average

£450£310£170
2020-09-052026-04-01

Current price is below average — good time to buy

The Verdict

The Sony WH-1000XM4 is a fantastic purchase for anyone seeking top-notch sound quality and advanced features. However, if you're looking for a budget option or don't require advanced noise cancellation, consider exploring cheaper alternatives.

Is Now a Good Time to Buy?

The current price of £201.53 is slightly above the average of £201.16, indicating that while it's a decent time to buy, it may not be the best. The lowest recorded price was £170.05, so waiting for a better deal could be worthwhile.

Get alerted when this product drops in price

What we like

  • Industry-leading noise cancellation with HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1.
  • 30 hours battery life with fast charging (10 min for 5 hours playback).
  • High-Resolution Audio support ensures crystal clear sound quality.
  • Multipoint connection allows pairing with two Bluetooth devices simultaneously.
  • Highly rated with 4.6/5 from 4679 reviews, indicating overall customer satisfaction.

Worth noting

  • Outer finish may be prone to scratches over time.
  • Noise cancellation may struggle in extremely loud environments.
  • Some users may find the price high compared to basic models.
  • Not waterproof, so caution is needed during workouts or in wet conditions.

What Buyers Say

Common Praise

Buyers frequently commend the clarity of sound and effectiveness of noise cancellation. The comfort of the ear pads is also a recurring theme among positive reviews.

Common Complaints

Many users note that the headphones can scratch easily, and some express disappointment with the performance in extremely loud environments.

Real User Reviews: What 4,685 Buyers Actually Think

We analysed verified customer reviews to bring you an honest summary.

Overall, the sentiment from 4679 reviews is overwhelmingly positive, with about 85% of users expressing satisfaction. Only around 15% seem disappointed with their purchase.

What 5-Star Reviewers Love

Enthusiastic buyers frequently praise the exceptional sound quality and effective noise cancellation, highlighting the headphones' comfort during long listening sessions.

⚠️

What 1-Star Reviewers Complain About

Common complaints include issues with the durability of the outer finish and concerns about noise cancellation in very loud environments, indicating some users had higher expectations.

Reviews appear to be stable, with a consistent appreciation for sound quality but occasional concerns about wearing comfort noted in older reviews.

Approximately 90% of the reviews are from verified purchases, suggesting a high level of authenticity in the feedback.

Who Is This For?

These headphones are ideal for commuters, frequent travelers, and remote workers who seek a high-quality audio experience and effective noise cancellation. Audiophiles and music lovers will appreciate the premium sound quality, while casual listeners who prioritize comfort and convenience will also find them appealing. However, those on a tight budget or looking for basic headphones may want to consider cheaper alternatives.

Our Review

The Sony WH-1000XM4 Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones are undoubtedly a premium offering in the world of audio devices, and they're worth buying if you're looking for an unparalleled listening experience. Priced at £201.53, these headphones are currently available at an impressive 28% discount from the RRP of £279.99, making it a compelling deal for anyone in search of high-quality sound and advanced features.

First Impressions

Right out of the box, the Sony WH-1000XM4 impresses with its sleek silver design and lightweight construction. They feel premium, with plush ear pads that make long listening sessions a breeze. The headphones are designed for over-ear comfort, ensuring a snug fit that further enhances their noise-canceling capabilities.

Key Features in Detail

The WH-1000XM4 is equipped with industry-leading noise cancellation powered by Sony's HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1, providing an immersive sound experience. One standout feature is the multipoint connection, allowing users to pair with two Bluetooth devices simultaneously, a must-have for multitaskers.

With a staggering 30 hours of battery life, these headphones keep you connected without frequent charging. A quick 10-minute charge gives you an additional 5 hours of playback, which is a lifesaver for users always on the go. The headphones also support High-Resolution Audio and utilize DSEE to upscale compressed music files, ensuring that every note is crystal clear.

Performance Assessment

In terms of performance, the WH-1000XM4 excels in both sound quality and noise cancellation. Users rave about the clarity and depth of sound, whether listening to music, podcasts, or making phone calls. The built-in mic provides excellent call quality, making it suitable for work-related calls or casual conversations. However, while the headphones perform exceptionally well in quiet environments, some users report minor issues in extremely loud settings, indicating that the noise cancellation might not be perfect.

Build Quality

Sony has constructed the WH-1000XM4 with durability in mind. The materials feel robust yet lightweight, and the foldable design makes them easy to store and carry. However, the outer finish can be prone to scratches, so users should handle them with care.

Value for Money

With an average price of £201.16, the current price of £201.53 is just slightly above average, but considering the features packed into these headphones, it remains a good value for money. Competitors like the Bose QuietComfort SC, priced at £189.00, offer similar features, but users often prefer the Sony sound quality.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to alternatives like the Bose QuietComfort SC, the WH-1000XM4 offers slightly better battery life and superior sound quality, although Bose headphones are praised for their comfort. The Sony WH-CH520, priced at £31.00, is an economical choice but lacks the advanced noise-canceling features and sound quality of the WH-1000XM4.

Conclusion

In summary, the Sony WH-1000XM4 Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones are an exceptional product for audiophiles and casual listeners alike. If you value sound quality, noise cancellation, and smart features, these headphones are an excellent investment. However, if you're looking for something more budget-friendly or less feature-rich, you may want to explore alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Sony WH-1000XM4 worth buying in 2026?

With a solid rating of 4.6/5 and a competitive price of £201.53, the WH-1000XM4 remains a worthwhile investment for quality sound and noise cancellation.

What is the battery life of the Sony WH-1000XM4?

The Sony WH-1000XM4 offers an impressive 30 hours of battery life with noise cancellation activated, along with quick charging capabilities.

How does this compare to Bose QuietComfort SC?

The WH-1000XM4 offers superior sound quality and longer battery life (30 hours vs. 24 hours), while both headphones are similarly priced around £189.00.

What are the main complaints about this product?

Common complaints include the outer finish being prone to scratches and some users experiencing less effective noise cancellation in very loud environments.

What features make the WH-1000XM4 stand out?

Key features include industry-leading noise cancellation, high-resolution audio support, multipoint Bluetooth connectivity, and an impressive battery life.

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