Audio-Technica ATH-M40x vs Sony WF-C500
The Verdict
Both headphones occupy the same $99 price point but serve entirely different use cases. Audio-Technica's ATH-M40x delivers professional-grade audio with its 40mm dynamic drivers and neutral frequency response, making it ideal for studio monitoring and critical listening. However, it's tethered by its wired-only design and lacks modern conveniences. Sony's WF-C500 prioritizes portability and wireless freedom with Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, offering 20 hours of total battery life via its charging case and IPX4 water resistance for active use. While the Sony includes DSEE enhancement and 360 Reality Audio features, neither headphone includes active noise cancellation. Choose the Audio-Technica if you need accurate, flat audio for production work or mixing; select the Sony if you value wireless convenience, portability, and durability for everyday listening and workouts.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x if…
- →Flatter, more neutral tuning than the M50x — preferred by some engineers
- →Excellent value at $99 for professional-grade monitoring
- →Lightweight at 240 g for comfortable extended mixing sessions
Buy the Sony WF-C500 if…
- →10-hour battery life per charge is outstanding for the price
- →Compact, lightweight design disappears in the ear
- →DSEE upscaling improves compressed audio quality
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Audio-Technica ATH-M40x
Pros
- Flatter, more neutral tuning than the M50x — preferred by some engineers
- Excellent value at $99 for professional-grade monitoring
- Lightweight at 240 g for comfortable extended mixing sessions
- Foldable and portable with detachable cables
- Reliable build quality trusted by studios globally
Cons
- Wired only — no wireless option
- Bass response is intentionally restrained — not for bass lovers
- Ear pads are thin and may need replacement for comfort
- Plastic build feels less premium than metal competitors
- No carrying case included
Sony WF-C500
Pros
- 10-hour battery life per charge is outstanding for the price
- Compact, lightweight design disappears in the ear
- DSEE upscaling improves compressed audio quality
- IPX4 sweat resistance handles workouts
- Reliable Sony sound quality at a budget-friendly price
Cons
- No ANC or ambient sound mode
- No multipoint Bluetooth connection
- No wireless charging case
- Basic microphone quality — not ideal for calls
- SBC/AAC only — no high-resolution codecs
Full Specifications
| Spec | Audio-Technica ATH-M40x | Sony WF-C500 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 240 g | 5.5 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | N/A (wired) | 10 hrs (20 hrs total with case) |
| Charging | N/A | USB-C |
| Drivers | 40mm large-aperture dynamic driver | 5.8mm driver |
| Features | Flat, neutral frequency response for accurate monitoring, 40mm drivers with rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire, 90-degree swiveling ear cups, 2 detachable cables included, Foldable for portability, Circumaural design | DSEE digital sound enhancement, 360 Reality Audio, Sony Headphones Connect app, Fast Pair for Android |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | SBC, AAC | |
| Bluetooth | None (wired only) | 5.0 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | IPX4 |
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in headphones, see all Audio-Technica products or all Sony products. View full details for the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x or the Sony WF-C500.