Main points
- The Surface Headphones 2 feature a sleek and minimalist design with a headband that adjusts automatically to fit your head comfortably.
- The Sony WH-1000XM4 are the better option for users who demand the best noise cancellation, immersive sound quality, and a wide range of features.
- The Surface Headphones 2 offer a more comfortable and precise listening experience, while the WH-1000XM4 provide superior noise cancellation and a more immersive soundstage.
In the realm of premium wireless headphones, two titans stand tall: the Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 and the Sony WH-1000XM4. Both offer exceptional sound quality, noise cancellation, and comfort, but which one is the ultimate choice? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between these two industry-leading headphones, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Comfort
The Surface Headphones 2 feature a sleek and minimalist design with a headband that adjusts automatically to fit your head comfortably. The earcups are made of soft, breathable Alcantara fabric, ensuring hours of fatigue-free listening.
The WH-1000XM4 boasts a slightly more traditional design with a padded headband and synthetic leather earcups. It also offers a snug and secure fit, but some users may find the earcups a bit warm after prolonged use.
Sound Quality
Both headphones deliver exceptional sound quality with rich, detailed audio. The Surface Headphones 2 emphasize clarity and accuracy, while the WH-1000XM4 offers a more immersive and bass-forward experience.
The WH-1000XM4 has a wider soundstage, creating a more spacious listening environment. However, the Surface Headphones 2 excel in reproducing vocals and instruments with precision.
Noise Cancellation
Noise cancellation is a crucial feature for headphones in this category. The Surface Headphones 2 and WH-1000XM4 both employ advanced noise-canceling technology to effectively block out unwanted noise.
The WH-1000XM4 has a slight edge in noise cancellation, especially in noisy environments like airplanes or train stations. Its dual-noise sensor system and DSEE Extreme technology work together to deliver an exceptionally quiet listening experience.
Battery Life
Battery life is essential for wireless headphones. The Surface Headphones 2 offer a slightly longer battery life of up to 20 hours with noise cancellation enabled. The WH-1000XM4 provides up to 30 hours of battery life with noise cancellation turned on.
Both headphones support fast charging, allowing you to get several hours of playback with just a few minutes of charging.
Features
The Surface Headphones 2 and WH-1000XM4 come with a range of features to enhance your listening experience.
Surface Headphones 2:
- Dial controls for volume, playback, and noise cancellation
- Cortana voice assistant integration
- Automatic pause when you remove the headphones
WH-1000XM4:
- Multipoint Bluetooth connectivity
- Speak-to-Chat feature that automatically pauses music when you start talking
- Adaptive Sound Control that adjusts noise cancellation based on your environment
Price and Availability
The Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 are available for $249.99, while the Sony WH-1000XM4 are slightly more expensive at $349.99. Both headphones are widely available online and at major electronics retailers.
Which One Should You Choose?
The Surface Headphones 2 are an excellent choice for those who prioritize comfort, clarity, and Cortana integration. They offer a comfortable fit, long battery life, and precise sound reproduction.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 are the better option for users who demand the best noise cancellation, immersive sound quality, and a wide range of features. They excel in noisy environments and provide an exceptional listening experience overall.
The Verdict
Both the Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 and Sony WH-1000XM4 are outstanding wireless headphones in their own right. The Surface Headphones 2 offer a more comfortable and precise listening experience, while the WH-1000XM4 provide superior noise cancellation and a more immersive soundstage. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Which headphones have better noise cancellation?
A: The Sony WH-1000XM4 have a slight edge in noise cancellation, especially in noisy environments.
Q: Which headphones are more comfortable?
A: The Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 are generally considered more comfortable due to their adjustable headband and breathable earcups.
Q: Which headphones have a longer battery life?
A: The WH-1000XM4 have a longer battery life of up to 30 hours with noise cancellation enabled.
Q: Which headphones are more affordable?
A: The Surface Headphones 2 are more affordable at $249.99, while the WH-1000XM4 cost $349.99.
Q: Which headphones are better for music production?
A: The Surface Headphones 2 are better suited for music production due to their accurate sound reproduction and dial controls.