Key points
- It offers an exceptional audio experience, industry-leading noise cancellation, a comprehensive suite of smart features, and impressive battery life.
- While the Microsoft Surface Headphones are a solid choice with excellent audio quality and ANC, the Sony WH-1000XM4’s superior build quality, advanced features, and exceptional value make it the ultimate choice for discerning audiophiles.
- The Sony WH-1000XM4 has a wider range of smart features, including support for Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
In the realm of premium wireless headphones, two titans stand tall: the Microsoft Surface Headphones and the Sony WH-1000XM4. Both headsets offer an exceptional audio experience, advanced noise cancellation, and a host of smart features. But which one reigns supreme? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the intricacies of each headset, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Comfort
Microsoft Surface Headphones:
- Sleek and minimalist design with a comfortable headband
- Soft and breathable earcups for extended wear
- Adjustable headband for a personalized fit
Sony WH-1000XM4:
- Premium build quality with a luxurious feel
- Plush earcups with memory foam padding
- Foldable design for easy portability
Winner: Sony WH-1000XM4 for its superior build quality and foldable design.
Audio Quality
Microsoft Surface Headphones:
- Balanced and natural sound profile
- Omnisonic drivers for immersive spatial audio
- 13.6mm drivers for rich and detailed sound
Sony WH-1000XM4:
- Exceptional audio performance with a wide soundstage
- 40mm drivers with a wide frequency range
- LDAC support for high-resolution audio
Winner: Sony WH-1000XM4 for its wider soundstage and high-resolution audio support.
Noise Cancellation
Microsoft Surface Headphones:
- Excellent active noise cancellation (ANC)
- Adjustable ANC levels for customizable noise reduction
Sony WH-1000XM4:
- Industry-leading ANC with advanced algorithms
- Multi-microphone system for effective noise isolation
Winner: Sony WH-1000XM4 for its superior noise cancellation capabilities.
Smart Features
Microsoft Surface Headphones:
- Cortana voice assistant integration
- Dial controls for volume, ANC, and music playback
- Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity for stable and long-range connection
Sony WH-1000XM4:
- Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa support
- Touch controls for intuitive operation
- Multi-point Bluetooth connectivity for simultaneous pairing with multiple devices
Winner: Sony WH-1000XM4 for its wider range of smart features and multi-point Bluetooth connectivity.
Battery Life
Microsoft Surface Headphones:
- Up to 15 hours of battery life with ANC on
- Quick charging for 1 hour of playback with 10 minutes of charging
Sony WH-1000XM4:
- Up to 30 hours of battery life with ANC on
- Quick charging for 5 hours of playback with 10 minutes of charging
Winner: Sony WH-1000XM4 for its superior battery life.
Price and Value
Microsoft Surface Headphones:
- MSRP: $349.99
- Good value for excellent audio quality and ANC
Sony WH-1000XM4:
- MSRP: $349.99
- Exceptional value for premium build quality, advanced features, and industry-leading ANC
Winner: Sony WH-1000XM4 for its better overall value proposition.
Final Verdict: Sony WH-1000XM4 Emerges Victorious
After a thorough comparison, the Sony WH-1000XM4 emerges as the victor. It offers an exceptional audio experience, industry-leading noise cancellation, a comprehensive suite of smart features, and impressive battery life. While the Microsoft Surface Headphones are a solid choice with excellent audio quality and ANC, the Sony WH-1000XM4’s superior build quality, advanced features, and exceptional value make it the ultimate choice for discerning audiophiles.
Popular Questions
Q: Which headphones have better sound quality?
A: The Sony WH-1000XM4 offers a wider soundstage and high-resolution audio support.
Q: Which headphones have better noise cancellation?
A: The Sony WH-1000XM4 has industry-leading noise cancellation capabilities.
Q: Which headphones have more smart features?
A: The Sony WH-1000XM4 has a wider range of smart features, including support for Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
Q: Which headphones have better battery life?
A: The Sony WH-1000XM4 has a superior battery life of up to 30 hours.
Q: Which headphones are better for the price?
A: The Sony WH-1000XM4 offers exceptional value for its premium build quality, advanced features, and industry-leading ANC.