Sony WH1000XM3 Review: A New ANC King!
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Promos
New all-time favorite noise cancelling headphones. Thank YOU for putting these on my radar. Sony WH-1000XM3: amzn.to Surface Headphones: youtu.be MKBHD Merch: shop.mkbhd.com Video Gear I use: kit.com Tech I'm using right now: amazon.com Intro Track: Moe Shop - Natural Playlist of MKBHD Intro music: goo.gl ~ twitter.com @MKBHD @MKBHD
The Sony WH1000XM3 review presents the headphones as a clear upgrade in the wireless noise cancelling category, positioning them as a strong rival to the Bose QC35 II and the Microsoft Surface Headphones. The reviewer emphasizes sound quality as a standout feature, describing the audio as full, rich, and clean with a deep yet controlled bass that avoids overpowering the rest of the spectrum. Noise cancellation is highlighted as a key strength, reportedly superior to the Bose option, which reinforces the XM3 as a dominant choice for travel and noisy environments. Comfort and design are praised, with mentions of lightweight build, ample padding, and a padded headband that contributes to long listening sessions on flights. Battery life is noted to exceed 20 hours, providing reassurance for long trips, and the USB Type-C charging port is highlighted as a practical modern convenience. The review also covers user experience aspects such as touch controls on the right ear cup, the Google Assistant button, and the NFC pairing feature, which collectively shape a modern, feature-rich package. In contrast, several drawbacks are discussed: the control scheme relies heavily on a touchpad that can feel finicky, there is no automatic pause when removing the headphones, and the device only supports single-device pairing at a time, which complicates multi-device usage. The reviewer also notes a cold-weather issue where phantom touches can occur on the touch surface in sub-zero temperatures, a potential problem for users in colder climates. Finally, while the case is robust, its folding mechanism is described as awkward, and while overall positive, the reviewer expresses a wish for better multi-device connectivity and some design refinements that could push the XM3 to an ideal status, including a preference for physical dials like those on the Surface Headphones. Overall, the XM3 is praised as an ideal travel companion with top-tier audio and top-notch ANC, earning a strong recommendation while acknowledging practical caveats that prospective buyers should consider.
Topics · technology · audio · review · headphones
Questions answered
- How do the Sony WH-1000XM3 headphones compare to the Bose QC35 II in sound and ANC performance?
- The XM3 are described as having better noise cancellation and a more favorable sound profile, delivering a full and clean sound with deep bass that remains controlled, which heights their position against the QC35 II.
- Do the XM3 support multi-device pairing or seamless device switching?
- No, the XM3 pair to only one device at a time and do not offer seamless multi-device switching, which can be less convenient for users who frequently alternate between devices.