Quick Comparison: Sony WF-1000XM4 vs AirPods Pro
| Feature | Sony WF-1000XM4 | Apple AirPods Pro |
| Noise Cancellation | Excellent, adaptive | Very good, with Transparency mode |
| Sound Quality | Rich, detailed with LDAC support | Balanced, clear with Spatial Audio |
| Battery Life (Buds) | 8 hours (ANC on) | 5-6 hours (ANC on) |
| Total Battery Life | 24 hours with case | 24 hours with case |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IPX4 |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.2, multipoint | Bluetooth 5.3, Apple ecosystem |
| Weight (per bud) | 7.3g | 5.2g |
| Price | $279 (often discounted) | $249 |
Design and Fit: Comfort Meets Style
Sony WF-1000XM4 Design
The Sony WF-1000XM4 features a more rounded, compact design compared to its predecessor. At 7.3g per bud, they're slightly heavier than the AirPods Pro but include memory foam ear tips that provide excellent noise isolation and a secure fit. Available in black or silver, the WF-1000XM4's subtle copper accents add a touch of sophistication.
AirPods Pro Design
Apple's AirPods Pro maintain the iconic stem design but are significantly lighter at just 5.2g per bud. This makes them more comfortable for extended wear. The silicone ear tips (available in four sizes) provide a customizable fit, while the pressure-sensitive stems offer intuitive controls. The AirPods Pro are only available in white.
Sound Quality: Audiophile Analysis
Sony WF-1000XM4 Sound
Sony's earbuds deliver rich, detailed audio with excellent bass response and clear mids. The WF-1000XM4 supports Sony's LDAC codec, allowing for higher-resolution audio streaming from compatible devices. The built-in DSEE Extreme processing upscales compressed audio files to near hi-res quality.
The Sony Headphones Connect app offers extensive EQ customization, allowing you to fine-tune the sound signature to your preferences. Bass lovers will appreciate the WF-1000XM4's slightly warmer default tuning.
AirPods Pro Sound
The AirPods Pro delivers a more neutral, balanced sound profile with excellent clarity in the mids and highs. While they lack support for higher-resolution codecs, they excel with Apple's Spatial Audio technology, which creates an immersive surround sound experience with compatible content.
The Adaptive EQ feature automatically tunes low and mid frequencies to your ear shape. While customization options are more limited than Sony's, the out-of-box sound quality is excellent for most listeners.
Noise Cancellation: Silence the World
Both earbuds offer exceptional active noise cancellation (ANC), but with different strengths. The Sony WF-1000XM4 excels at blocking low-frequency noise thanks to its Integrated Processor V1 and foam ear tips that create an excellent passive seal. The AirPods Pro uses an adaptive system that adjusts 200 times per second, making it particularly effective at handling variable noise environments.
Sony's Noise Cancellation Features
- Integrated Processor V1 for powerful ANC
- Memory foam ear tips for superior passive isolation
- Ambient Sound mode with adjustable levels
- Speak-to-Chat feature automatically pauses music when you speak
- Quick Attention mode by placing your hand over the earbud
Apple's Noise Cancellation Features
- H2 chip powers adaptive noise cancellation
- Transparency mode for hearing your surroundings
- Adaptive Transparency reduces loud environmental sounds
- Automatic ear detection pauses audio when removed
- Conversation detection pauses audio when speaking
Smart Features and Connectivity
| Feature | Sony WF-1000XM4 | Apple AirPods Pro |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.2 | 5.3 |
| Audio Codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC | SBC, AAC |
| Multipoint Connection | Yes (with update) | Apple devices only |
| Spatial Audio | 360 Reality Audio | Dolby Atmos Spatial Audio |
| App Support | Android and iOS | iOS only (limited) |
| Find My Support | Android only | Yes (buds and case) |
| Voice Assistant | Google Assistant, Alexa, Siri | Siri (hands-free) |
| EQ Customization | Extensive | Limited presets |
The Sony WF-1000XM4 offers more platform-agnostic features, working equally well with Android and iOS through the Sony Headphones Connect app. The AirPods Pro, while more limited on Android, provides seamless integration with Apple's ecosystem, including automatic switching between Apple devices and hands-free Siri access.
Battery Life and Charging
Sony WF-1000XM4 Battery
The Sony WF-1000XM4 offers impressive battery performance with up to 8 hours of continuous playback with ANC enabled. The charging case provides an additional 16 hours, bringing the total to 24 hours. A quick 5-minute charge delivers up to 60 minutes of playback.
The case supports both USB-C and Qi wireless charging. Sony's battery optimization features help extend battery life during daily use.
AirPods Pro Battery
Apple's AirPods Pro provide around 5-6 hours of listening time with ANC enabled. The charging case extends this to a total of 24 hours. Like the Sony, a 5-minute quick charge gives you about an hour of listening time.
The AirPods Pro case supports Lightning or USB-C charging (depending on model), MagSafe, Qi wireless charging, and can even charge from an Apple Watch charger.
Controls and Usability
Sony WF-1000XM4 Controls
- Touch-sensitive panels on each earbud
- Customizable controls via the app
- Play/pause, track skipping, volume control
- ANC/ambient sound switching
- Voice assistant activation
AirPods Pro Controls
- Force sensor stems with haptic feedback
- Squeeze for play/pause/answer calls
- Double-squeeze for next track
- Triple-squeeze for previous track
- Press and hold to switch modes
- Swipe up/down for volume control
Both earbuds offer intuitive controls, but with different approaches. Sony's touch panels are highly customizable through the app, while Apple's force sensors provide tactile feedback that some users prefer. The AirPods Pro's stem controls work well with gloves, except for the volume swipe gesture.
Pros and Cons: The Final Verdict
Sony WF-1000XM4 Pros
- Superior battery life (8 hours vs 5-6)
- LDAC codec support for higher-quality audio
- Excellent noise cancellation
- Extensive EQ customization
- Memory foam tips for better passive isolation
- Platform-agnostic features
- Multipoint connection support
- Speak-to-Chat functionality
Sony WF-1000XM4 Cons
- Heavier and bulkier than AirPods Pro
- More expensive at retail price
- Touch controls can be finicky
- No hands-free voice assistant
- Case lacks Find My support on iOS
AirPods Pro Pros
- Lighter and more comfortable for long wear
- Seamless Apple ecosystem integration
- Excellent Transparency mode
- Hands-free Siri access
- Find My support for buds and case
- Intuitive stem controls
- MagSafe and Apple Watch charging
- Excellent call quality
AirPods Pro Cons
- Shorter battery life per charge
- Limited functionality with Android
- No high-resolution codec support
- Limited EQ customization
- Only available in white
Complete Specifications
| Specification | Sony WF-1000XM4 | Apple AirPods Pro |
| Driver Size | 6mm | Custom driver |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz-40,000Hz | Not specified |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.2 | 5.3 |
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC | SBC, AAC |
| Battery Life (Buds) | 8 hours (ANC on) | 5-6 hours (ANC on) |
| Battery Life (Total) | 24 hours | 24 hours |
| Quick Charging | 5 min = 60 min playback | 5 min = 60 min playback |
| Charging | USB-C, Qi wireless | Lightning/USB-C, MagSafe, Qi |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 (buds only) | IPX4 (buds and case) |
| Weight (Buds) | 7.3g per bud | 5.2g per bud |
| Weight (Case) | 41g | 45.6g |
| Dimensions (Buds) | 1.0 x 0.8 x 0.8 inches | 1.2 x 0.9 x 0.9 inches |
| Dimensions (Case) | 2.4 x 1.5 x 1.1 inches | 2.4 x 1.8 x 0.9 inches |
| Included Accessories | 3 sizes foam tips, USB-C cable | 4 sizes silicone tips, charging cable |
Editor's Choice: Which Should You Buy?
After extensive testing and comparison, the Sony WF-1000XM4 earns our Editor's Choice award. While both earbuds are exceptional, Sony's offering delivers superior battery life, more versatile platform compatibility, and better value—especially with frequent discounts bringing the price below the AirPods Pro.
The WF-1000XM4's combination of excellent sound quality, powerful noise cancellation, extensive customization options, and impressive battery life makes it the better all-around choice for most users. The LDAC codec support is also a significant advantage for audiophiles.
Where to Buy
Sony WF-1000XM4
Premium noise-canceling true wireless earbuds with exceptional sound quality, 8-hour battery life, and LDAC codec support.
Apple AirPods Pro
Premium wireless earbuds with effective noise cancellation, Spatial Audio, and seamless integration with Apple devices.
Final Thoughts: Making Your Decision
Both the Sony WF-1000XM4 and Apple AirPods Pro represent the pinnacle of true wireless earbud technology. Your choice ultimately depends on your specific needs, device ecosystem, and personal preferences.
The Sony WF-1000XM4 offers better overall value with its superior battery life, excellent sound quality, and platform-agnostic features. Meanwhile, the AirPods Pro excels in the Apple ecosystem with seamless integration and lighter, more comfortable design for extended wear.
Whichever you choose, both earbuds deliver exceptional performance that justifies their premium price tags. We hope this Sony WF-1000XM4 vs AirPods Pro comparison has helped you make an informed decision for your next audio upgrade.
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