Beats Studio Pro vs Sony WH-1000XM4
The Verdict
Both headphones deliver premium over-ear experiences at nearly identical price points, but excel in different areas. Beats Studio Pro emphasizes Apple ecosystem integration with Personalized Spatial Audio and lossless USB-C audio, alongside 40mm drivers and impressive 24-hour ANC battery life. Sony WH-1000XM4 counters with industry-leading ANC using Dual Noise Sensor technology, superior codec support (LDAC, aptX HD), multipoint Bluetooth connectivity, and longer 30-hour ANC runtime. Sound signature differs notably: Beats offers three customizable profiles for versatility, while Sony provides DSEE Extreme upscaling for enhanced detail. Sony's broader Android optimization and multipoint pairing give it workflow advantages for multi-device users, whereas Beats shines for Apple devotees seeking seamless integration. For pure ANC performance and codec flexibility, Sony edges ahead; for Apple users prioritizing spatial audio and customization, Beats wins. Sony WH-1000XM4 emerges as the more versatile choice for general audiences.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Beats Studio Pro if…
- →Lossless USB-C wired audio playback
- →Works well with both iOS and Android
- →Comfortable, lightweight build
Buy the Sony WH-1000XM4 if…
- →Class-leading active noise cancellation that blocks almost all ambient sound
- →LDAC support delivers hi-res wireless audio quality
- →Exceptional 30-hour battery life with fast charging
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Beats Studio Pro
Pros
- Lossless USB-C wired audio playback
- Works well with both iOS and Android
- Comfortable, lightweight build
- Strong battery life
Cons
- No multipoint Bluetooth pairing
- ANC trails Sony, Bose, Apple
- Same physical design as 2017 Studio 3
- No aptX or LDAC codec support
Sony WH-1000XM4
Pros
- Class-leading active noise cancellation that blocks almost all ambient sound
- LDAC support delivers hi-res wireless audio quality
- Exceptional 30-hour battery life with fast charging
- Multipoint Bluetooth connects two devices simultaneously
- Comfortable over-ear fit with plush earcups for long sessions
Cons
- Plastic build feels less premium than rivals at the same price
- Touch controls can be accidentally triggered
- No IP rating — avoid using in rain or at the gym
- Microphone quality is average for calls
Full Specifications
| Spec | Beats Studio Pro | Sony WH-1000XM4 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 260 g | 254 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 24 hours ANC on (40 hours ANC off) | 30 hrs (ANC on) |
| Charging | USB-C, 10 min = 4 hours Fast Fuel | USB-C, 10-min quick charge for 5 hrs playback |
| Drivers | 40mm custom dynamic | 30 mm |
| Features | Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking, Lossless audio over USB-C, Native compatibility with both Apple and Android, Transparency mode, Three signature sound profiles via USB-C | Industry-leading ANC with Dual Noise Sensor technology, LDAC hi-res wireless audio, Speak-to-Chat auto-pause, Adaptive Sound Control, DSEE Extreme upscaling, Multipoint Bluetooth pairing, Wearing detection |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | SBC, AAC | LDAC, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.0 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | None |
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.
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