Sony’s WH-1000XM series has long been the gold standard for premium noise-cancelling headphones. The Sony WH-1000XM6 was released on May 15, 2025, and continues this legacy. Priced at $450, these over-ear wireless headphones build on the success of their predecessors, particularly the WH-1000XM5, with subtle but meaningful upgrades in design, audio performance, and noise cancellation.
Design and Comfort
The WH-1000XM6 introduces several design refinements that address user feedback from previous models. Some standout changes are:
- Foldable earcups: Make it more travel-friendly
- Stainless steel hinges: Allow the earcups to fold inward, reducing the size of the headphones and fitting them into a slimmer space.
- Magnetic-clasp carrying case: A significant quality-of-life improvement for commuters and travelers
- Premium plastic: The material feels like synthetic stone, giving the headphones a more upscale, seamless appearance compared to the XM5.
- Earcups: Feature flush-mounted metal grilles for the eight microphones, enhancing both aesthetics and durability.
- Wider headband: For better weight distribution
- Easy to remove ear cushions: Improve comfort and maintenance
- Capacitive touch controls: On the right earcup, remain intuitive for managing playback and settings
- WH-1000XM6 colors: Available in black, silver, and blue
- The button layout has been tweaked for usability, with a recessed circular power button that’s easier to locate by touch.
However, some users note that the clamping force may feel tight for extended sessions, although comfort is subjective and depends on the individual’s head shape. But the XM6 maintains a sleek, modern aesthetic.
Sound Quality
Sony has fine-tuned the WH-1000XM6’s audio performance, delivering exceptional clarity and dynamism. The headphones feature:
| Bass | around 5 dB |
| Treble | -1 dB |
| Vocals | crystal-clear |
| Drivers | 40mm |
The inclusion of advanced Bluetooth codecs like LC3 (via Bluetooth LE) ensures high-quality wireless audio, though some reviews note the absence of aptX HD support as a minor drawback. It surpassing competitors like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra in certain scenarios. However, spatial audio support remains limited, and some users report minor audio delivery consistency issues.
Overall, the XM6’s sound quality is among the best in its class, rivaling or exceeding the WH-1000XM5 and Apple AirPods Max.
Noise Cancellation
The WH-1000XM6 sets a new benchmark for active noise cancellation (ANC). Equipped with 12 microphones and the new QN3 processor, the headphones offer superior noise attenuation, effectively blocking out airplane engines, commuter chatter, and gym noise. Reviews consistently praise the ANC as class-leading, with some claiming it outperforms the Bose QuietComfort Ultra. The transparency mode is equally impressive, allowing natural ambient sound to pass through for conversations or situational awareness.
Call Quality
The WH-1000XM6 call quality is another strong suit, with the increased microphone count ensuring clear voice pickup even in noisy environments. This makes the XM6 an excellent choice for remote workers or those who make frequent calls.
Battery Life
The XM6 battery has 31.75 hours of life with ANC enabled, ideal for long flights or extended use. Fast charging capabilities provide hours of playback from a short charge, though some reviews note that the battery life, while excellent, is average compared to competitors.
Connectivity
Connectivity is handled via Bluetooth 5.3, with support for Auracast (via an Android app) and multipoint pairing for seamless device switching. However, the lack of USB audio listening is a minor limitation.
Features and Usability
Sony has packed the WH-1000XM6 with thoughtful features:
- Redesigned carrying case (With a magnetic clasp): It is a highlight, making storage quick and hassle-free.
- Sony Headphones Connect app: Allows users to customize ANC settings, including automatic activation based on location or activity (e.g., enabling ANC on a bus or train).
- Bluetooth LE’s LC3 codec: For improved efficiency and future-proofing.
However, the XM6 lacks an IP rating for water or dust resistance, so users should avoid exposing it to moisture. Additionally, the articulating hinges, while improved, may still feel fragile to some users.
Pricing
The Sony WH-1000XM6 price is $450—a $50 increase over the XM5’s launch price—it justifies the cost with its refinements.
Who Should Buy the Sony WH-1000XM6?
The WH-1000XM6 is ideal for commuters, travelers, and remote workers who prioritize top-tier noise cancellation, premium sound, and a travel-friendly design. However, XM5 owners may not find enough upgrades to warrant an immediate switch, especially given the XM5’s continued excellence. For those upgrading from older models or seeking the best ANC headphones of 2025, the XM6 is a compelling choice.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional noise cancellation
- Outstanding sound quality with clear vocals
- Foldable design with a compact, magnetic-clasp case
- Long battery life (31.75 hours with ANC)
- Excellent call quality
- Advanced codec support (LC3, Bluetooth LE)
Cons
- No aptX HD support
- No USB audio listening
- Slightly tight fit for some users
- No IP rating for water/dust resistance
- Limited soundstage compared to some competitors
Verdict
The Sony WH-1000XM6 refines an already stellar formula, combining best-in-class noise cancellation, exceptional audio quality, and a travel-friendly design. While not a revolutionary leap over the WH-1000XM5, the return of foldable earcups, improved materials, and enhanced ANC make it a worthy successor. At $450, it’s a premium investment, but for those seeking the ultimate noise-cancelling headphones in 2025, the XM6 is hard to beat.
