Sony has introduced its latest noise-canceling headphones, the Sony WH-1000XM6, and they come with several changes that make them better than the last version. These headphones were released three years after the WH-1000XM5, and many people have been waiting to see what Sony would improve. From better comfort to stronger noise cancellation, the WH-1000XM6 brings some helpful upgrades.
Design Changes That Make a Difference
One of the first things users will notice is that Sony brought back the folding design. The WH-1000XM5 did not fold, which made them harder to carry around. The new WH-1000XM6 folds inwards like older models, making them easier to store in bags or backpacks. This makes them much more travel-friendly.
Sony has also made some small changes to the shape and size of the headband and ear cups. The headband is a bit wider, and the ear cups are more comfortable for long listening sessions. These small tweaks mean the headphones feel better when worn for hours, whether you’re studying, traveling, or relaxing at home.
Better Noise Cancellation and Call Quality
Sony has added a new chip to the WH-1000XM6 that improves noise cancellation. This means background sounds like traffic, airplane engines, or people talking will be blocked out more effectively. It helps users enjoy their music, movies, or even silence without distraction.
The headphones also include six microphones and use AI-powered technology to make voices clearer during calls. This upgrade helps people hear you better, even in noisy places. Whether you’re on a phone call or a video chat, your voice will sound sharper and cleaner.
A Small but Important Update: Listening While Charging
One of the new features that many users will find helpful is the ability to use the headphones while charging. This was not possible with the previous version. If your battery runs out, you can plug in the headphones and still use them at the same time. It’s a small feature but very useful when you’re in a hurry.
Sony WH-1000XM6 How Does It Sound?
Sony has worked on improving the sound quality with new drivers and better tuning. This gives users clearer sound and deeper bass. While the WH-1000XM6 may not sound dramatically different from the WH-1000XM5, many people will notice richer and more balanced audio, especially in quiet settings.
However, one feature that hasn’t changed much is spatial audio upmixing, which still doesn’t feel very natural. But the overall sound quality is still excellent, especially for those who enjoy listening to music, podcasts, or watching videos.
Sony WH-1000XM6 Battery Life and Charging
The battery life remains the same as the WH-1000XM5. You still get around 30 hours of playback time with noise cancellation on, and slightly more without it. This is more than enough for a full day of use and even long trips. A quick 10-minute charge can give you up to 5 hours of playback, which is a handy feature if you’re short on time.
What’s in the Box?
The headphones come with a redesigned carrying case that is smaller than the last one. The case now has a magnetic flap, making it easier to open and close. This new design adds to the portability of the headphones and protects them while you’re on the go.
Sony WH-1000XM6 Price and Final Thoughts
The WH-1000XM6 is priced at $449, which is a good price for music listeners. While this price may seem high, the extra comfort, better call quality, and folding design make the upgrade worth it for many people. If you’re someone who travels a lot, works in noisy places, or just loves high-quality sound, these headphones could be a great fit.
Still, there are some things that haven’t changed, like the lack of USB-C audio support. You cannot listen to music through the USB-C port, which may be disappointing for some users.