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Sony WH-1000XM4 Review: The Final Form!

Marques Brownlee@mkbhd6.4M viewsAug 13, 20207:38
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Even better headphones. Still a terrible name. Sony WH-1000XM4: amzn.to That shirt! shop.mkbhd.com The sometimes discounted MK3: amzn.to Tech I'm using right now: amazon.com Intro Track: youtube.com Playlist of MKBHD Intro music: goo.gl Headphones provided by Sony for review. ~ twitter.com @MKBHD @MKBHD

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Sony WH-1000XM4 Review: The Final Form presents a detailed look at Sony’s updated flagship over-ear headphones, focusing on the value of the changes over the Mark III. The narrator confirms that Sony largely kept the same design and price while addressing user-requested refinements, notably adding multi-device pairing so the headphones can stay connected to multiple devices simultaneously. This feature dramatically improves real-world usability, allowing seamless transitions between a computer, phone, or tablet during calls or music playback without constant re-pairing. The review then dives into improved noise cancellation, noting that the XM4s maintain the celebrated isolation of the XM3s while extending cancellation to higher frequencies such as voices and household appliances, making for a quieter listening environment in a variety of settings. It also highlights the improved microphone array with five microphones, which enhances call quality and voice recognition, a meaningful upgrade for users who take calls on the go. In terms of user experience, the reviewer details the added sensors and on-head detection, which enable smart pauses when removing the headphones and a quick ambient mode using the right ear cup to lower music and enhance voices when needed. Throughout, the XM4 is praised for its balanced sound signature, excellent battery life, and continued emphasis on practical software enhancements via the Sony app. The verdict remains strongly positive, with the XM4 positioned as the ideal choice for listeners who value top-tier noise cancellation, convenience, and a refined listening experience, even as the reviewer notes that the core improvements are incremental rather than revolutionary. The review closes by acknowledging potential price-conscious buyers who can still find XM3 models discounted, though the XM4 is recommended for most users due to its multi-point pairing and refined feature set. The design remains understated and comfortable, with minor physical tweaks such as slightly larger cushions, while software-driven features like wear detection and quick-voice amplification continue to augment everyday use. The conclusion emphasizes that if you want the best all-around noise-cancelling headphones for daily wear, commuting, and focused listening, the XM4s deliver a high-value package, even if some enthusiasts might prefer a bolder aesthetic. Overall, the video reinforces Sony’s incremental but meaningful improvements and solidifies the XM4 as the current pinnacle of Sony’s wireless headphones lineup, suitable for those who want top-tier performance with practical, user-friendly features.

Topics · audio technology · consumer electronics · product reviews · headphones · sony

Questions answered

What is the main new feature that improves daily usability on the Sony WH-1000XM4?
The main new feature is multi-device pairing, which allows the headphones to stay connected to more than one device at once and switch seamlessly between them.
How does the XM4 improve noise cancellation compared to the XM3?
The XM4s offer improved noise cancellation that extends to higher frequencies, including voices and common household noises, while retaining the strong performance the XM3 had.