this Sony WH-1000XM6 Headphones are all the rage now. A moderately upgraded design with adaptive noise cancellation and proprietary audio technology earned them the title The best sound first headphones In Mashable. Additionally, they perform efficiently using all Android and iOS/MACOS devices.
But if you’re just an Apple user, Sony’s brand new flagship can isn’t the only noise cancer to consider. The AirPods Max is based on impeccable integration with Apple products, not to mention its steady noise, eye-catching spatial audio and ultra-modern look.
These are two The best noise-cancelling headphones Money can be bought. But which smarter investment? When Mashable’s former tech editor compared the previous generation of Sony XM5 headphones to the AirPods Max, she gave Apple Edge. But when it comes to AirPods Max vs. Sony XM6 headphones, Sony has already reached forward.
We have a preference, but it’s a real win-win situation.
Image source: Alex Bracetti / Mashable
Before the research results, we should note that we hope to see these two headphones on sale during Amazon’s upcoming Prime Day sale. The best Prime Day deals always include tempting offers on the headset, and discounts on the AirPods Max are always the highlight of sales. The XM6 headphones have just been released on May 15, but we are crossing our fingers and they will receive the first discount on Prime Day, which will begin on July 8 this year.
Prime Day’s Early Deals Are Rolling – Shopping Now Wireless Earplugs
Apple has an excellent design and ecosystem
The AirPods Max has a sleek and professional look that complements the iPhone’s premium structure. Unique details such as aluminum one, mesh headband and plush filler make these headphones swagger. There is a reason people wear them as fashion accessories. Our only complaint is the smart case inspired by the wallet, with little protection.
Image source: Alex Bracetti / Mashable
The attraction of joining AirPods Max is with iPad,,,,, iPhone,,,,, Macand appletv. Pairing is instantaneous. Most importantly, any implemented changes (e.g., controls, EQ, EQ, software updates) will be saved on your iCloud account and shipped to your preferred Apple device.
Image source: Alex Bracetti / Mashable
WH-1000xm6 looks almost exactly like WH-1000XM5sthis is not positive. Both sets of headphones are made of recyclable materials and have a minimalist, plastic-heavy design that lacks the commercial-grade aesthetics of past entries. The WH-1000XM6 is comfortable and fit enough, so I’m glad they fold inward for easy storage in a redesigned carry case.
Sony’s headphones are compatible with Android and iOS/MacOS via the Sound Connect app. They also come with Google Quick Pair and find my device support. While we enjoy these extra features, as well as being able to customize headphones on either platform, the level of AirPods Max running on iOS is beyond.
winner: AirPods Max | Read our full review of AirPods Max headsets
Sony dominates, including ANC and sound
We don’t have sugar coating here – The WH-1000XM6 headset hits AirPods maximums in almost every other category. There is a reason why Max with AirPods Max is not available in the MASHABLE guide for over a year.
Let’s start with two of the biggest advantages in AirPods Max vs. Sony XM6 Battle: Active Noise Cancellation and Sound. Sony’s ANC technology does a great job of eliminating unnecessary sounds throughout the spectrum. The new adaptive NC optimizer is ideal for automatically adjusting noise neutralization in the surrounding environment. Ambient sound levels over 20 levels can clearly hear your surroundings and be accurate at high volumes.
Image source: Alex Bracetti / Mashable
The exquisite 30mm driver provides great balance, bass and definition for Sony’s headphones. Audio is enhanced with DSEE Extreme Technology, which improves poorly designed tracks. LDAC codec supports CD-like quality HI-RES AUDIO on Android devices. There is also a customizable EQ and has well-designed presets in the Companion app for personalizing sound. Finally, while the feature is limited to some streaming platforms, you have 360 realistic audio.
Program many smart controls into WH-1000XM6. The physical buttons and touch sensors work well, and the new silent buttons can be silent as needed. Cool features like chat do the same when detecting your voice. Digital assistance also pays off for hands-free features. Sony’s 12-MIC array provides excellent voice recognition for Google Assistant and Siri usage and voice calls. Full charge equals 40 hours of listening time, depending on how you use it. ANC lowered it to 30 hours.
The AirPods Max only has one ANC level, which is enough. Over the years, we have tested these headphones in various environments and found that they are effective against low and mid-frequency sounds. High frequency sounds can be distracting when adjacent (my son’s crying often breaks my attention). Apple’s 40mm driver will emanate accurate midrange, deep bass and sharp highs. Adaptive EQ significantly adjusts sound. Personalized spatial audio will produce immersive 360-degree sound when indulging in Dolby Atmos content (for movie play, the AirPods Max does have an advantage). Lossless audio can now be realized via USB-C connector, which sounds surprising. The trade-off is to tie the media player to the media.
Image source: Alex Bracetti / Mashable
Image source: Alex Bracetti / Mashable
The coolest feature on Apple’s headphones is the Digital Crown, a multi-function dialing for managing controls (play, volume, digital assistant). The sound of “Hey Siri” is flawlessly activated. Voice calls are top notch, but not better than Sony’s. No touch controls. Battery life is still disappointing, with 20 hours per charge. However, the 5-minute fee will give you 1.5 hours of playback time. Putting these headphones in a smart case enables ultra-low power mode to save the battery.
winner: Sony WH-1000XM6 | Read our full review of Sony XM6 headsets
Two expensive investments – a clear winner
AirPods Max are priced at $529.99, but they are usually sold for $479 or less Amazon and Walmart. You can even find the old one Lightning Edition As low as $449. Meanwhile, the newer WH-1000XM6 has a $449 MSRP, an increase of $50 from its predecessor. Our technical editors, Timothy Beck WerthIt is also believed that the steep cost of the WH-1000XM6 is proven by its robust specification sheet. The Mashable team (and the writer) agreed. We can’t say the same thing with AirPods Max.
Ultimately, when it comes to Sony XM6 vs. AirPods Max issues, we have a clear preference. However, Apple’s Uber Fashion Headphones have fans, and there is good reason.
winner: Sony WH-1000XM6
