Sony WF-1000XM6 Earbuds Review: Flagship Sound, But at What Cost?

Sony’s latest flagship earbuds, the WF-1000XM6, have arrived with a bang, promising cutting-edge audio performance, next-gen noise cancellation, and a host of premium features. But with a $330 price tag and a controversial new design, are these earbuds worth the upgrade? After three weeks of testing, here’s everything you need to know.

Key Takeaways

• Price: $330 in Platinum Silver and Black.
• Performance: Sony’s earbuds deliver top-tier sound and customization options.
• Design: The new bud shape prioritizes utility but sacrifices comfort for some users.

Design: Slimmer, But Not Always Better

Sony has redesigned the WF-1000XM6 earbuds with a slimmer profile, aiming to better fit the natural curves of the ear. However, this redesign comes with a trade-off. While the earbuds are slimmer than their predecessor, they are longer and protrude more from the ear, making them feel bulkier and heavier.

For users with shallow ear canals or smaller tragi, like myself, the XM6 earbuds can quickly become uncomfortable. During workouts, they often fell out, and during long listening sessions, I had to take frequent breaks—something I don’t experience with other earbuds like the AirPods.

If you’re looking for a more comfortable fit, consider alternatives like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2 or Google Pixel Buds Pro 2, which offer wider eartip bases for better support.

Performance: A Powerhouse Under the Hood

Despite the comfort issues, the XM6 earbuds shine when it comes to performance. Sony has equipped these earbuds with a host of upgrades, including:

• Enhanced DAC Amplifier: Powered by an upgraded QN3e processor and Integrated Processor V2.
• Bluetooth LE Audio: Compatibility with the LC3 codec for higher-quality audio, lower latency, and better power efficiency.
• Adaptive Noise Cancellation: Improved algorithms for dynamic environments.

The result? A smoother, more balanced sound profile that’s less fatiguing than the XM5. The XM6 earbuds deliver Sony’s signature analytical sound with greater detail and clarity, making them a standout in the audio category.

When paired with a LE Audio-compatible smartphone, the XM6 earbuds unlock even more potential, including Auracast audio sharing, high-fidelity audio, and low-latency gaming performance.

Noise Cancellation: Strong, But Not Perfect

Sony’s noise cancellation on the XM6 is robust, effectively silencing low-frequency noises like engine rumble and fan noise. The adaptive algorithm is quick to respond to sudden distractions, making it ideal for noisy environments like grocery stores or gyms.

However, the XM6 earbuds struggle slightly with mid-to-high frequency noises, such as human voices and background chatter. While they perform better than the XM5 in this regard, they still can’t match the “dead silence” feel of Bose’s premium earbuds.

Sony has addressed this with additional microphones, a bone-conduction sensor, and AI-powered noise-reduction algorithms, but the XM6 earbuds still fall short in this category compared to their competitors.

Controls and Smart Features: A Power User’s Dream

Sony’s Sound Connect app offers a wealth of customization options, including:

• 10-Band Equalizer: Fine-tune your audio to your liking.
• DSEE Extreme: Upscale compressed audio files for better quality.
• Sony 360 Reality Audio: Immersive spatial sound with head tracking (Android only).
• Adaptive Sound Control: Adjusts settings based on your location and habits.

While these features are a boon for enthusiasts, they may overwhelm casual users. If simplicity is your priority, brands like Apple and Bose offer more streamlined experiences.

ZDNET’s Buying Advice

The Sony WF-1000XM6 earbuds are a powerhouse of audio performance and customization, but they’re not for everyone. Here’s who should consider them:

• Upgrade: If you’re a power user who values top-tier sound, advanced noise cancellation, and granular control over your audio experience.
• Skip: If you already own the WF-1000XM5 or prioritize comfort over performance.
• Alternatives: Consider the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2 or Apple AirPods Pro 3 for a more comfortable fit or simpler user experience.

At $330, the XM6 earbuds are a significant investment. If you’re on the fence, be sure to test them out during the return window to ensure they’re the right fit for your ears and lifestyle.

Final Verdict

Sony’s WF-1000XM6 earbuds are undeniably impressive, delivering flagship-level audio and noise cancellation performance. However, their new design may not suit everyone, and the high price tag makes them a tough sell for casual users. If you’re a Sony loyalist or an audiophile looking for the best of the best, the XM6 earbuds are worth the splurge. Otherwise, consider your priorities carefully before taking the plunge.

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