The Sony WH-1000XM3 and WH-1000XM4 headphones are popular choices among audio enthusiasts for their exceptional noise-canceling abilities, sound quality, and comfort.
While both models share many features, subtle differences in design, connectivity, and audio enhancements set them apart.
This comparison outlines these distinctions to help you select the best fit for your lifestyle, whether you’re focused on style, convenience, or audio performance.
Dimensional Value
Sony WH-1000XM3:
The WH-1000XM3 has a slightly bulkier design, with a weight of 255 grams. Its solid build quality makes it feel durable, but some users may find it a bit heavy for extended use, especially during long commutes or flights.
The overall construction is robust, and it maintains a classic, refined look that appeals to users who value quality and sturdiness in their headphones.
Sony WH-1000XM4:
The WH-1000XM4 is designed to be slightly more compact and modern-looking, weighing just 254 grams. Although the weight difference is minimal, it does feel lighter and better balanced, enhancing comfort for extended use.
The XM4’s streamlined look and updated materials contribute to a sleek aesthetic, making it an attractive choice for both casual and professional environments.
Summary: Both models are comfortable to wear for long periods, but the WH-1000XM4 has a slight edge due to its lighter weight and more modern, ergonomic design. The weight reduction and refined materials in the XM4 improve the overall comfort and appearance, especially during extended listening sessions.
Available Colors
Sony WH-1000XM3:
This model comes in classic Black and Silver options, each with a matte finish and subtle copper accents on the logo and microphone area.
The Black version offers a sleek, understated look, while the Silver option provides a more professional, elegant feel. These colors blend well with various styles, from casual to formal, making the WH-1000XM3 a versatile choice.
Sony WH-1000XM4:
Available in similar Black and Silver options, the WH-1000XM4 has a slightly updated finish with a smoother, more refined matte texture.
This model’s color options are subtly redesigned, giving it a more polished look, with copper accents that are slightly more subdued than on the XM3. The colors are versatile and modern, suited for a range of styles and settings.
Summary: Both models offer classic Black and Silver options, but the WH-1000XM4’s refined matte finish and updated color tones give it a more premium and polished look. The subtle design enhancements on the XM4 make it feel more contemporary and sophisticated, appealing to users who prioritize aesthetics.
Sound Quality
Sony WH-1000XM3:
The WH-1000XM3 is known for its powerful bass response and overall balanced sound quality. It supports aptX, which enhances Bluetooth audio quality, making it an excellent choice for music lovers who value clear and rich audio.
The sound profile is dynamic, with punchy bass and clear highs, offering an immersive experience for genres like hip-hop, EDM, and rock.
Sony WH-1000XM4:
The WH-1000XM4 features enhanced sound processing, with improvements in mid and high frequencies for more balanced and natural audio. It supports spatial audio, which creates a 3D-like sound environment, ideal for movies, games, and live music recordings.
The XM4 also has extra microphones, which help improve call clarity and overall sound precision, making it suitable for a range of audio content.
Summary: While both models provide high-quality sound, the WH-1000XM4’s refined audio processing and spatial audio support give it an edge in clarity and immersion. The XM4 is better suited for users looking for an enriched listening experience, especially with genres that require precise audio detailing.
Comfortability
Sony WH-1000XM3:
Equipped with thick, plush ear padding, the WH-1000XM3 is designed for comfort during extended listening sessions. The earcups fit securely around the ears, providing a decent level of passive noise isolation.
However, some users may find it slightly bulky, especially during prolonged use or in warmer environments where extra padding might feel warm.
Sony WH-1000XM4:
The WH-1000XM4 offers improved padding with a softer feel, making it more comfortable for long wear. The lighter design and refined weight distribution also add to the comfort level, reducing pressure on the head.
The XM4’s ear padding and frame design are ergonomically optimized, allowing for a snug yet breathable fit, even during long listening sessions.
Summary: Both models are comfortable, but the WH-1000XM4 has an advantage with softer, more ergonomic padding and slightly lighter weight, making it ideal for all-day use. These subtle improvements in comfort make the XM4 a better choice for users who frequently wear headphones for extended periods.
Fit
Sony WH-1000XM3:
The WH-1000XM3 features an over-ear design with an adjustable headband, providing a secure and comfortable fit for most users. Its earcups sit firmly around the ears, creating a snug seal that aids in passive noise reduction.
However, the fit can feel slightly bulky, and for users with smaller heads, adjusting it to a perfect fit may require a bit of trial and error.
Sony WH-1000XM4:
The WH-1000XM4 has a similar over-ear design but with enhanced padding and weight distribution, offering a more comfortable and stable fit.
The earcups have a slightly improved shape that conforms better to the ears, reducing movement and providing better coverage. This model is ideal for those who are active or move around while listening, as it stays securely in place.
Summary: Both models provide a snug, secure fit, but the WH-1000XM4’s refined design and padding offer a more stable and tailored feel, especially for active users. The XM4’s improved fit makes it more versatile for a variety of environments, including travel and physical activity.
Foldable
Sony WH-1000XM3:
Foldable design allows for compact storage in its carrying case, making it ideal for users who frequently travel or commute, providing protection and convenience by reducing the size when not in use.
Sony WH-1000XM4:
Also foldable, this model comes with a travel-friendly, more compact case design, offering improved portability and secure storage, which is highly beneficial for users who prioritize compactness and easy packing.
Summary: Both models are foldable and portable, but the WH-1000XM4’s more efficient folding design optimizes storage space, making it more convenient for those who need a compact travel solution.
Noise Cancellation
Sony WH-1000XM3:
Industry-leading active noise cancellation technology, paired with adaptable sound control, effectively minimizes ambient noise, allowing users to immerse in music without disturbances in busy environments such as public transit or crowded areas.
Sony WH-1000XM4:
Enhanced noise cancellation, incorporating ambient sound control and improved AI processing, offers better adaptability to surroundings, making it highly effective at filtering out background sounds across diverse settings and activities.
Summary: WH-1000XM4’s advanced noise-canceling technology and added features improve upon the WH-1000XM3, providing enhanced control and quieter experiences, which makes it an ideal choice for frequent travelers or commuters.
Battery Life
Sony WH-1000XM3:
Offers up to 30 hours of battery life with noise cancellation activated, providing ample usage time for extended trips or multiple days without needing a recharge, making it reliable for frequent long listening sessions.
Read Here: How To Charge Sony WH-1000XM3
Sony WH-1000XM4:
Matches the 30-hour battery life of the WH-1000XM3 but includes slight efficiency improvements, which maximize usage time and optimize battery management, extending playback under certain usage conditions.
Summary: Both models deliver excellent battery life, lasting up to 30 hours, but WH-1000XM4’s efficiency improvements slightly enhance endurance, beneficial for extended periods of travel or heavy daily use.
Battery Indicator
Sony WH-1000XM3:
Includes a battery level indicator on the device and within the app, allowing users to monitor battery status easily and ensuring they can keep track of remaining power throughout the day.
Sony WH-1000XM4:
Features a battery level display along with additional voice prompts that notify users when the battery is low, offering an added layer of convenience for those needing real-time battery updates.
Summary: Both models provide battery indicators, but the WH-1000XM4 includes voice notifications, which enhance user awareness of battery status, making it ideal for those who prefer audio alerts.
Charge Time
Sony WH-1000XM3:
Takes around 3 hours to fully charge, giving users extended playback time with every charge, ideal for those needing dependable battery performance throughout the day or during long-haul travel.
Sony WH-1000XM4:
Also charges in approximately 3 hours but offers faster quick-charge options, delivering several hours of playback from shorter charging sessions, suitable for users on tight schedules.
Summary: Both have similar charging times, but WH-1000XM4’s quick-charge capabilities provide additional convenience for users who require faster power boosts during their busy day.
Charging Type
Sony WH-1000XM3:
Charges via USB Type-C, providing compatibility with most modern devices, ensuring convenient access to charging cables, making it easy for users to charge without needing unique accessories.
Sony WH-1000XM4:
Also utilizes USB Type-C charging, supporting updated cable compatibility, making it compatible with recent devices and chargers, contributing to a more versatile and user-friendly charging experience.
Summary: Both models support USB Type-C charging, ensuring that users can charge using most modern devices, which is convenient for travel, reducing the need for specialized chargers.
Weight
Sony WH-1000XM3:
Weighs approximately 255 grams, providing a balanced and sturdy feel that’s comfortable for extended listening sessions without adding excessive weight, ideal for users needing a balance between durability and comfort.
Sony WH-1000XM4:
Slightly lighter at 254 grams, making it more comfortable for extended wear, providing a less noticeable feel on the head, which is beneficial for users looking for lighter, more comfortable headphones.
Summary: The WH-1000XM4’s slight weight reduction enhances comfort during long use, offering an improved experience for users who wear headphones continuously throughout the day.
Cable
Sony WH-1000XM3:
Includes a detachable 3.5mm audio cable, allowing users to switch between wired and wireless listening as needed, offering flexibility, especially in settings where Bluetooth use is restricted or not possible.
Sony WH-1000XM4:
Also features a detachable 3.5mm cable but with improved durability, providing a more robust option for frequent wired use, which is ideal for users seeking longevity in their audio accessories.
Summary: Both models offer detachable cables for wired use, but WH-1000XM4’s improved cable durability is advantageous for users who rely on wired listening for extended periods.
IP Rating
Sony WH-1000XM3:
No official IP rating, indicating it’s not water-resistant, making it suitable primarily for indoor or controlled environments where exposure to moisture or dust is minimal.
Sony WH-1000XM4:
Also lacks an official IP rating and is designed for indoor or moderate-use environments, making it suitable for users who don’t require water-resistant features in their headphones.
Summary: Neither model is water-resistant, so both are best used in dry, indoor settings where exposure to moisture or dust is limited, ensuring optimal durability.
Stereo Speakers
Sony WH-1000XM3:
Delivers high-quality stereo sound with a wide frequency range, providing users with a balanced and immersive audio experience, ideal for listening to varied music genres and capturing audio details clearly.
Sony WH-1000XM4:
Enhanced stereo output that includes Dolby Atmos support, creating a more immersive, 3D sound environment, which is especially appealing for users interested in cinematic audio experiences or spatial sound effects.
Summary: Both provide excellent stereo sound, but WH-1000XM4’s Dolby Atmos support enhances immersion, making it a top choice for those seeking advanced audio realism.
Microphone
Sony WH-1000XM3:
Equipped with three built-in microphones, providing clear voice quality for calls and effective noise cancellation, which is suitable for users who require reliable audio for calls in various environments.
Sony WH-1000XM4:
Features five microphones, enhancing voice clarity and noise cancellation performance, delivering a superior experience for calls and better ambient sound control, ideal for users who prioritize clear audio.
Summary: WH-1000XM4’s additional microphones improve call quality and noise management, making it suitable for professional or daily use, especially in environments with background noise.
Lowest Frequency
Sony WH-1000XM3:
Covers a low frequency range starting at 4 Hz, providing deep bass for a full, rich audio experience, appealing to users who enjoy enhanced bass in their music.
Sony WH-1000XM4:
Also starts at 4 Hz but offers enhanced bass accuracy, allowing users to experience richer, more precise low tones, ideal for genres that emphasize bass.
Summary: Both models deliver deep bass, but WH-1000XM4’s refined accuracy provides an improved experience for users seeking clarity in low-frequency sound.
Highest Frequency
Sony WH-1000XM3:
Reaches up to 40,000 Hz, providing clear, crisp treble tones that capture subtle audio details, enhancing high-frequency sounds and creating an immersive listening experience for users who enjoy well-defined audio clarity across music genres.
Sony WH-1000XM4:
Also extends to 40,000 Hz but features optimized tuning, which slightly enhances treble clarity, giving users a smoother, more refined high-end sound experience that brings out finer nuances in higher-pitched audio.
Summary: Both models cover an excellent high-frequency range, with the WH-1000XM4 offering improved clarity in treble, ideal for listeners seeking more precision and detail in upper frequencies for a balanced, immersive audio experience.
Driver
Sony WH-1000XM3:
Equipped with 40mm drivers, delivering robust, well-rounded sound across low, mid, and high frequencies, making it suitable for users looking for powerful bass alongside detailed audio in various music genres.
Sony WH-1000XM4:
Also features 40mm drivers, with refined audio tuning to achieve more balanced sound. This improvement delivers richer mids and highs while maintaining the bass, creating an enhanced, immersive listening experience for a wider range of audio.
Summary: Both models use 40mm drivers for high-quality sound, but the WH-1000XM4’s improved tuning enhances audio fidelity, providing more detail and clarity, making it ideal for users seeking refined, well-balanced sound.
Magnet Type
Sony WH-1000XM3:
Utilizes neodymium magnets, which are known for their lightweight yet powerful sound production, contributing to a balanced and dynamic audio output with well-defined bass, clear mids, and crisp highs.
Sony WH-1000XM4:
Also incorporates neodymium magnets, with slight adjustments for enhanced output. This improvement provides a richer, more balanced listening experience, emphasizing precision across frequencies for an immersive, high-quality sound.
Summary: Both models feature neodymium magnets that deliver robust, high-quality audio, though the WH-1000XM4’s minor improvements give users slightly better sound output, enhancing the audio experience across a wide range of frequencies.
Control Method
Sony WH-1000XM3:
Equipped with touch controls on the earcups, allowing users to adjust playback, volume, and other functions with a swipe or tap, offering intuitive control for easy access to audio features.
Sony WH-1000XM4:
Features updated touch controls with improved responsiveness, providing a smoother and quicker response to user interactions, making adjustments to playback and settings more efficient and user-friendly.
Summary: Both models include touch controls for convenient operation, but the WH-1000XM4’s upgraded sensitivity enhances user experience, allowing for faster, more responsive adjustments, which is beneficial for those frequently interacting with controls.
Connectivity Type
Sony WH-1000XM3:
Supports both wireless and wired connectivity, providing versatility for users who need flexible listening options across different devices, whether for high-fidelity wired connections or convenient Bluetooth streaming.
Sony WH-1000XM4:
Also supports wireless and wired connections, with improved Bluetooth stability, ensuring a more seamless and consistent experience for users who rely on wireless connectivity for uninterrupted audio performance.
Summary: Both models offer dual connectivity options, with the WH-1000XM4 providing enhanced Bluetooth stability, ideal for users who prioritize reliable wireless audio, especially during activities requiring consistent, high-quality Bluetooth performance.
Bluetooth Version
Sony WH-1000XM3:
Equipped with Bluetooth 4.2, this model offers dependable connectivity but is limited to standard data rates, impacting overall range and connection stability for users compared to newer Bluetooth versions, especially when using multiple devices.
Sony WH-1000XM4:
With an upgrade to Bluetooth 5.0, this model provides faster data transfer rates, extended range, and significantly improved connection stability for smoother, more reliable streaming performance when connected to Bluetooth-enabled devices across varied distances.
Summary: The WH-1000XM4’s Bluetooth 5.0 delivers faster connections, stronger range, and enhanced device compatibility, improving overall user experience for those who rely on stable, high-quality Bluetooth connections for audio streaming and calls.
Bluetooth Range
Sony WH-1000XM3:
This model supports a standard Bluetooth range effective within 30 feet, which works well for typical listening environments but may experience connection drops when used beyond this range or in spaces with multiple obstacles.
Sony WH-1000XM4:
Bluetooth 5.0 enables an extended range, providing a more stable connection over longer distances and allowing for uninterrupted audio streaming even across larger spaces, making it ideal for users needing enhanced connectivity.
Summary: The WH-1000XM4’s improved range with Bluetooth 5.0 ensures reliable connectivity across larger spaces, reducing the likelihood of disconnections and delivering seamless performance, especially in open environments or through multiple walls.
Multipoint Connection
Sony WH-1000XM3:
This model connects to only one device at a time, limiting the ability to multitask easily, especially for users who frequently switch between personal and work devices, like phones, tablets, or laptops during daily activities.
Sony WH-1000XM4:
Allows simultaneous connection to two devices, enabling seamless switching between audio sources, making it convenient for multitasking across different devices without needing to manually disconnect and reconnect frequently.
Summary: The WH-1000XM4’s multipoint connection simplifies managing multiple devices for users who switch between tasks, enhancing workflow and productivity by maintaining continuous connectivity across work and personal devices.
Warranty
Sony WH-1000XM3:
Includes a standard one-year warranty, covering manufacturing defects and limited customer support, offering users basic assistance and service options for a full year in case any issues arise with their headphones.
Sony WH-1000XM4:
Also features a one-year warranty, with added customer support options to address potential issues, providing users with an enhanced support experience and more comprehensive assistance beyond the standard warranty services.
Summary: Both models come with a one-year warranty, but the WH-1000XM4’s expanded support offers added peace of mind, giving customers extra assurance in the event of technical problems or customer service needs
APTX Adaptive
Sony WH-1000XM3:
This model does not support APTX Adaptive, as Sony has focused on other high-quality codecs such as LDAC, which offers higher resolution streaming for compatible devices, providing a strong audio experience even without APTX Adaptive capabilities.
Sony WH-1000XM4:
APTX Adaptive support is not included in this model, as Sony prioritizes LDAC for high-resolution Bluetooth audio. LDAC is preferred for its high-bitrate streaming, giving users excellent sound quality when paired with compatible devices.
Summary: Neither model supports APTX Adaptive. Instead, both prioritize LDAC, Sony’s proprietary codec known for delivering high-resolution audio. This codec supports higher bitrates, allowing for rich, clear audio quality on compatible devices, enhancing overall streaming performance.
APTX
Sony WH-1000XM3:
Supports aptX for high-quality audio streaming, allowing clearer audio over Bluetooth with compatible devices. With aptX, this model offers improved sound fidelity, making it a good choice for users who prioritize audio quality during wireless listening.
Sony WH-1000XM4:
This model does not support aptX, instead relying on LDAC and AAC for Bluetooth audio. Sony’s focus on LDAC with the WH-1000XM4 aims to provide enhanced streaming quality through a codec with higher bitrates for better audio performance.
Summary: The WH-1000XM3 supports aptX, whereas the WH-1000XM4 omits it, shifting to LDAC as its primary codec. This change reflects Sony’s preference for LDAC, which offers superior high-resolution audio when used with compatible Bluetooth devices.
Conclusion
Both the WH-1000XM3 and WH-1000XM4 deliver a top-tier listening experience, yet the WH-1000XM4 offers advancements in comfort, connectivity, and noise-canceling technology that appeal to frequent travelers and multitaskers.
While the WH-1000XM3 remains an excellent choice for audio quality and reliability, the WH-1000XM4’s added features and refined design make it the ideal upgrade for those seeking the latest in headphone technology.
