Airpods Max Vs Sony XM4 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?
Both Airpods Max & Sony XM4 share many similarities, but there are also important differences such as audio quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Sony XM4 rather than Mini 3 Pro.
Why Do I Recommend Sony XM4?
- The Sony WH-1000XM4 is equipped with Sony’s Integrated Processor V1, enhancing its noise-canceling capabilities compared to the Airpods Max’s Active noise cancellation.
- The Sony WH-1000XM4 offer a clearer and more detailed sound, especially in the high frequencies, compared to the slightly warmer bass profile of the Airpods Max.
- The WH-1000XM4 uses 40mm drivers which are optimized for better high-resolution audio and featuring a soft edge enhances noise cancelling helping you enjoy your music precisely without ambient noise, whereas the Airpods Max also uses 40mm drivers which lack sound clarity.
- The XM4 headphones have a Quick Attention Mode that allows to instantly lower music volume and amplify external noises by simply placing a hand over the ear cup without removing the headphones, But the Airpods Max do not feature a quick attention mode.
- The XM4 headphones have Speak-to-Chat technology, which automatically pauses the music when the user starts speaking, allowing for effortless conversations without needing to manually adjust the headphones which not available in the Airpods Max.
- The Sony WH-1000XM4 supports a wider range of Bluetooth codecs, including LDAC for high-resolution audio, which provides superior sound quality and capable of transmitting three times more data than standard Bluetooth audio compared to the AAC codec supported by AirPods Max.
- Sony’s MX4 headphone include touch controls that are intuitive and easy to use for controlling playback and calls, whereas the AirPods Max relies on a digital crown that might not be as straightforward for all users.
- The Sony WH-1000XM4 is generally more affordable than the AirPods Max, making it a more cost-effective option for high-quality noise-canceling headphones.
- With a foldable design, the Sony WH-1000XM4 is more travel-friendly and easier to store compared to the non-foldable AirPods Max.
- The lighter weight of the Sony WH-1000XM4 (254 grams) makes them more comfortable for prolonged use than the heavier AirPods Max (385 grams).
- Sony WH-1000XM4 offers a longer battery life of up to 30 hours, surpassing the 20 hours provided by AirPods Max, which is ideal for extended travel or long listening sessions.
- The multi-device connectivity feature of the Sony WH-1000XM4 allows seamless switching between two devices, a convenience not available with the AirPods Max.
- The Sony WH-1000XM4 supports popular voice assistants like Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, providing more options than the Siri-exclusive support on the AirPods Max.
- DSEE Extreme technology in the Sony WH-1000XM4 enhances the quality of compressed digital music in real-time, an audio improvement feature not available with the AirPods Max.
The Sony XM4 headphones are recommended choice with all the above-mentioned features over the AirPods Max for their affordability, offering comparable high-quality sound and noise cancellation features at a more budget-friendly price. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.
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Side By Side Comparison
Feature | Sony WH-1000XM4 | AirPods Max |
Noise Cancellation | Active noise cancellation with QN1 Noise Cancelling Processor | Active noise cancellation with computational audio |
Design | Over-ear, foldable, plastic with metal reinforcements | Over-ear, larger ear cups, stainless steel frame, breathable knit mesh |
Weight | 254 grams | 385 grams |
Audio Quality | 40mm driver with Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP) diaphragm for high-resolution audio | 40mm driver |
Transparency Mode | Yes | Custom-built driver, high-fidelity audio |
Battery Life | Up to 30 hours with ANC on | Up to 20 hours with ANC on |
Spatial Audio | It has 360 Reality Audio with compatible recordings | Yes, with dynamic head tracking for immersive sound |
Controls | Touch sensors for play/pause, next/previous tracks, volume, and call handling | Digital crown for volume, play/pause, skip, and answer calls; noise control button |
Charging | USB-C cable | Lightning cable |
Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
Multi-Device Connection | Yes, simultaneous connection to two devices | No |
Colors Available | Black, Silver, Midnight Blue | Space Gray, Silver, Sky Blue, Green, and Pink |
Comfort | Soft, pressure-relieving ear pads in synthetic leather | Memory foam ear cushions |
Smart Features | Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa voice control | Siri voice control |
Adaptive EQ | No, but features DSEE Extreme for upscaling compressed files | Yes, automatically tunes music to the shape of your ear |
Case | Foldable case with quick charging feature | Smart case for power-saving |
Codec Support | SBC, AAC, LDAC | AAC |
App Support | Sony Headphones Connect app for extensive control, available on Android and iOS | Limited to iOS devices only (no dedicated app but settings managed through iOS) |
Water Resistance | No, but more resistant to moisture due to material and build | No |
Release Year | 2020 | 2020 |
Automatic Pausing | Yes, with wear detection | Yes, when headphones are removed |
Ambient Sound Control | Yes, adjustable through the app with custom settings | Yes, adjustable via device settings |
In-Box Accessories | Carrying case, USB-C cable, Audio cable, In-flight adapter, Documentation | Smart Case, Lightning to USB-C Cable, Documentation |
Warranty | Typical one-year limited | Typical one-year limited |
Additional Features | Speak-to-chat technology automatically pauses playback when you start a conversation | Computational audio for real-time adjustments based on fit and movement |
Price | Check Sony XM4 Price | Check Airpods Max Price |
What Common Both Can Do?
The AirPods Max and the Sony WH-1000XM4 share several common features and capabilities, making both of them highly competitive options in the premium headphone market. Here’s a look at what both headphones can do:
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Both headphones offer advanced active noise cancellation technology, which effectively reduces ambient noise, making them ideal for use in noisy environments like airplanes, offices, or busy city streets.
- Transparency Mode: Each model includes a transparency or ambient sound mode that allows outside noise to filter through, helping wearers remain aware of their surroundings without needing to remove the headphones.
- High-Quality Sound: Both are designed to deliver high-quality, immersive sound experiences. While they use different technologies and drivers, each aims to provide clear, detailed audio with rich bass and wide soundstages.
- Wireless Connectivity: The AirPods Max and Sony WH-1000XM4 connect to devices via Bluetooth, supporting hassle-free wireless listening.
- Integrated Microphones: Both headphones are equipped with multiple microphones that not only support their ANC features but also enable clear phone calls and voice assistant interactions.
- Voice Assistant Support: Each headphone set supports voice assistants — the AirPods Max with Siri and the Sony WH-1000XM4 with both Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, facilitating hands-free control and commands.
- Long Battery Life: Both models offer significant battery life that supports extended listening sessions — up to 20 hours for the AirPods Max and up to 30 hours for the Sony WH-1000XM4.
- Comfort Features: Designed for extended wear, both headphones feature plush, cushioned ear pads and thoughtful ergonomics to enhance user comfort.
- Touch and Physical Controls: The headphones incorporate intuitive controls for managing playback, calls, and noise-cancellation settings. The AirPods Max uses a digital crown and a button, while the Sony WH-1000XM4 uses touch-sensitive pads on the ear cups.
- Carry Cases: Both come with carry cases, though they serve different additional functions; the AirPods Max case puts the headphones into a low power state, while the Sony case is mainly for storage and protection.
- Premium Build and Design: Each model boasts a sleek, modern design with a focus on premium materials and build quality, aligning with their positioning as high-end products in their respective lineups.
- Automatic Device Switching: Both headphones can switch between devices, though the mechanism differs. Sony allows for pairing with two devices simultaneously, whereas AirPods Max can seamlessly switch between devices using the same Apple ID.
Common Features
Feature | Sony WH-1000XM4 | AirPods Max |
Design | Over-ear, closed-back | Over-ear, closed-back |
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) | Industry-leading noise cancellation | High-fidelity noise cancellation |
Transparency Mode | Ambient Sound mode allows listening to environment without removing headphones | Transparency mode lets outside sound in seamlessly |
Bluetooth Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
Supported Audio Codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC | AAC only (optimized for Apple devices) |
Voice Assistant Support | Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Siri | Siri only |
Price | Check Sony XM4 Price | Check Airpods Max Price |
FAQ
What is the battery life of AirPods Max and Sony WH-1000XM4? The AirPods Max offers up to 20 hours of listening time with active noise cancellation and spatial audio enabled. The Sony WH-1000XM4 provides up to 30 hours of battery life with noise cancellation active. Can both headphones connect to multiple devices simultaneously? Only the Sony WH-1000XM4 can connect to two devices simultaneously. The AirPods Max can switch between devices that are signed into the same Apple ID, but they do not support true multi-device pairing. Do both headphones support active noise cancellation? Yes, both the AirPods Max and Sony WH-1000XM4 feature advanced active noise cancellation technology. What voice assistants are compatible with these headphones? The AirPods Max supports Siri, and the Sony WH-1000XM4 supports Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. How do the headphones charge, and what cables do they use? The AirPods Max charges via a Lightning cable, while the Sony WH-1000XM4 uses a USB-C cable. Do both models come with a carrying case? Yes, both come with carrying cases. The AirPods Max includes a Smart Case that helps preserve battery life when not in use, whereas the Sony WH-1000XM4’s case is primarily for protection and portability without additional functionality. Which headphones offer better sound quality? Both headphones provide excellent sound quality, but they cater to different preferences. The AirPods Max has spatial audio for a more immersive experience, while the Sony WH-1000XM4 supports high-resolution audio and has a slightly warmer sound profile. Are the ear pads replaceable on both models? Yes, both the AirPods Max and the Sony WH-1000XM4 have replaceable ear pads. What materials are used in the construction of these headphones? The AirPods Max is made from stainless steel and aluminum, giving it a sturdy, premium feel. The Sony WH-1000XM4 uses a combination of plastic and metal, focusing on comfort and lightweight design. Can I use these headphones for making phone calls? Yes, both headphones are equipped with multiple microphones and offer clear audio quality for phone calls, making them suitable for teleconferencing and regular calls. |