Overview
The Sony WH-1000XM4 and AirPods Pro 2 are two of the most popular premium wireless headphones on the market. Both offer excellent audio quality, gesture controls, and noise-canceling features. However, there are significant differences in terms of battery life, transparency mode, and overall user experience.
Key Features
- Excellent sound quality on both devices
- Gesture control for easy navigation
- Noise cancellation on both: Sony with industry-leading ANC and Apple's effective solution
- Transparency mode is much better on the AirPods Pro 2
- Battery life is superior on the Sony WH-1000XM4
Battery Life
When it comes to battery life, the Sony XM4s are the clear winner. Offering up to 30 hours of playback with active noise cancellation on, they outperform the AirPods Pro 2, which provide around 6 hours of listening time (up to 30 hours with the charging case). This makes the XM4s a better choice for longer listening sessions, traveling, or for users who don't want to frequently recharge their headphones.
Transparency Mode
The AirPods Pro 2 shine when it comes to transparency mode. Apple's transparency feature is incredibly intuitive and natural, allowing you to hear your surroundings almost as if you're not wearing earbuds. In contrast, while the Sony XM4s do offer a transparency feature, it doesn't quite match the natural feel and effectiveness of the AirPods Pro 2. For users who often need to switch between immersion and awareness, the AirPods are the better choice.
Gesture Control
Both the Sony XM4s and the AirPods Pro 2 offer highly responsive and easy-to-use gesture controls. Whether you're skipping tracks, adjusting the volume, or answering calls, the touch sensors on both devices work well, adding to their premium feel. The XM4s provide large earcups for gesture control, while the AirPods Pro 2 use force sensors on the stems, making them both user-friendly in different ways.
Sound Quality
Both devices deliver excellent sound quality, though with slightly different audio signatures. The Sony XM4s offer a more bass-heavy sound, ideal for users who enjoy a punchy low-end. On the other hand, the AirPods Pro 2 focus on clarity, with a well-balanced sound signature that works well across all genres of music.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Sony WH-1000XM4 | AirPods Pro 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Life | 30 hours | 6 hours (30 with case) |
| Transparency Mode | Good | Excellent |
| Gesture Control | Very Good | Very Good |
| Sound Quality | Bass-heavy, rich | Clear, balanced |
| Noise Cancellation | Excellent | Very Good |
| Price | £199.99 | £229.00 |
Pros & Cons
Sony WH-1000XM4 Pros
- Outstanding battery life
- Rich, immersive sound
- Excellent noise cancellation
- Comfortable over-ear design
- Customisable EQ
Sony WH-1000XM4 Cons
- Transparency mode not as natural as AirPods
- Bulky design compared to in-ear options
AirPods Pro 2 Pros
- Exceptional transparency mode
- Compact and portable design
- Balanced sound signature
- Seamless integration with Apple devices
- Integrates with Find My
AirPods Pro 2 Cons
- Shorter battery life
- Expensive for the feature set
Conclusion
Both the Sony WH-1000XM4 and AirPods Pro 2 are fantastic wireless headphones, offering top-tier sound, noise cancellation, and gesture controls. If battery life and immersive over-ear sound are your priorities, the Sony XM4s are a great choice. However, if you value portability, a superior transparency mode, and seamless integration with Apple devices, the AirPods Pro 2 may be more suitable. Overall, we give the Sony WH-1000XM4s a 9.5/10, while the AirPods Pro 2s only get a 8.5/10.
