ny WH-1000XM4 Headphones: Still Worth Considering in 2025?

The relentless march of tech means last year’s flagship quickly becomes this year’s bargain. The Sony WH-1000XM4 noise-canceling headphones are a prime example. Launched several years ago, these cans are now available at a tempting price, especially with Black Friday deals swirling. You can find them for around $160, a significant drop from their initial cost. This raises an interesting question: Do they still hold up?

Let’s be real, in the world of audio, “new” often translates to “slightly improved, vastly more expensive.” Sony’s WH-1000XM series has consistently set a high bar for noise cancellation and overall sound quality. The XM4, XM5, and now XM6 each claim the throne. But the performance jumps between iterations aren’t always earth-shattering. The XM6s will set you back roughly $400, which beckons the question of value and diminishing returns.

The WH-1000XM4 still present a compelling package. We are talking about impressive sound, the ability to block out the world with effective noise cancellation, and battery life that easily gets you through a long flight. The multipoint connectivity lets you seamlessly switch between your laptop and phone. I’ve always appreciated that. And the “Speak to Chat” feature, which pauses your music when you start talking, is more useful than you might think.

It’s worth noting a feature that has appeal for some is the folding design. Unlike the XM5 which are not foldable, the XM4s collapse for easier storage. For travelers, that compact form factor can be a lifesaver. This design difference alone could sway some buyers.

What do you sacrifice by opting for the XM4 over the newer XM6? The XM6 boasts further refined sound, even better noise cancellation, and clearer call quality. Another feature that could be compelling is the ability to charge while listening. This, however, requires both USB-C and a 3.5mm cable since audio over USB-C is not possible.

Here’s my take, having spent considerable time with various noise-canceling headphones: The differences between the XM4 and XM6, while measurable, may not be deal-breakers for everyone. The improvements are evolutionary, not revolutionary. It’s the classic situation: are the marginal gains worth the extra cost?

The noise cancellation on the XM6 is certainly impressive. But the XM4 already provides a very high level of isolation. Unless you’re constantly battling extremely loud environments (think construction sites or jet engines), the XM4 might be sufficient. I’ve used the XM4 on countless flights and busy city streets and found them to be remarkably effective.

Sound quality is subjective. However, most listeners would be hard-pressed to discern a massive difference between the XM4 and XM6 without a direct A/B comparison. Both headphones deliver a rich, balanced sound that caters to a wide range of musical genres. Those who consider themselves audiophiles might appreciate the more refined tuning of the XM6. The XM4 offers solid sound out-of-the-box, with the ability to tweak the EQ in the Sony Headphones Connect app.

The call quality improvements on the XM6 are another area to consider. If you frequently use your headphones for phone calls, the XM6 might offer a noticeable upgrade. But the XM4’s call quality is still very respectable.

The real kicker, as always, is the price. At roughly $160, the XM4 represents an incredible value. You’re getting a top-tier noise-canceling headphone at a mid-range price. That’s a tough proposition to ignore. To that end, weigh your needs.

Think about how you plan to use the headphones. If you’re a casual listener who values noise cancellation and overall sound quality, the XM4 is a fantastic choice. If you’re a demanding audiophile or someone who relies heavily on crystal-clear call quality, the XM6 might be worth the investment.

Black Friday deals, of course, complicate the equation. Aggressive discounts on the XM5 or even the XM6 could narrow the price gap and make those newer models more appealing. Keep an eye on those deals.

Sony’s strategy here is pretty clear. By continuing to offer the XM4 at a lower price, they’re capturing a wider segment of the market. They’re essentially saying, “We have something for everyone, regardless of your budget.” It’s a smart move, and it benefits consumers.

It’s also worth acknowledging the competitive landscape. There are plenty of other noise-canceling headphones on the market, some of which offer comparable performance at similar prices. Brands like Bose and Apple, along with newcomers like Technics, are all vying for a piece of the pie. Yet, Sony’s WH-1000XM series has maintained its dominance for a reason. They consistently deliver a compelling combination of features, performance, and value.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to buy the Sony WH-1000XM4 in 2025 comes down to personal preference and budget. These headphones might lack the absolute latest and greatest features, they remain a top contender in the noise-canceling arena. For many, the XM4 still provides more than enough performance at a price that’s hard to resist. Don’t discount them just because a newer model exists. Think about your needs, consider the price, and make an informed decision. You might just find that the “old” flagship is still the right choice for you.

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Keywords: Sony WH-1000XM4, noise-canceling headphones, XM4 vs XM6, Black Friday deals, headphone value, wireless headphones, Sony headphones 2025, foldable headphones