Sony WH-1000XM4 vs Sony WH-XB910N Extra Bass
The Verdict
Both Sony headphones deliver excellent noise cancellation and 30-hour battery life, but they serve different listener preferences. The WH-1000XM4 ($349) excels in audio fidelity with LDAC hi-res support, aptX HD codec options, and Dual Noise Sensor technology that edges out the competition for pure ANC performance. Its 30mm drivers and DSEE Extreme upscaling make it ideal for detail-oriented listeners who value clarity across genres. The WH-XB910N ($249) counters with larger 40mm drivers tuned specifically for bass enthusiasts, delivering punchier low-end response through its Extra Bass feature. It includes the newer Bluetooth 5.2 versus 5.0 and supports 360 Reality Audio for spatial mixing. Quick Attention mode works similarly to the XM4's Speak-to-Chat. Both weigh roughly 252-254g and charge via USB-C with decent quick-charge capabilities. The $100 price gap matters significantly here. If you prioritize pristine audio quality, codec diversity, and industry-leading ANC finesse, the WH-1000XM4 justifies its premium. For bass lovers seeking solid ANC and excellent battery life at a better value, the WH-XB910N delivers genuine performance without overpaying for features you won't use.
Who Should Buy
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
Buy the Sony WH-XB910N Extra Bass if…
- →Extra Bass delivers deep, powerful low-end for bass-heavy genres
- →30-hour battery life with ANC matches the premium XM series
- →LDAC support for high-resolution audio streaming
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
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
Sony WH-XB910N Extra Bass
Pros
- Extra Bass delivers deep, powerful low-end for bass-heavy genres
- 30-hour battery life with ANC matches the premium XM series
- LDAC support for high-resolution audio streaming
- Multipoint Bluetooth connects to two devices simultaneously
- Comfortable, lightweight design at 252 g
Cons
- Bass emphasis can overwhelm mids and highs for balanced listeners
- ANC is decent but noticeably weaker than WH-1000XM5
- No water resistance limits outdoor use
- Touch controls lack the precision of the XM5's panel
Full Specifications
| Spec | Sony WH-1000XM4 | Sony WH-XB910N Extra Bass |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 254 g | 252 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 30 hrs (ANC on) | 30 hrs with ANC |
| Charging | USB-C, 10-min quick charge for 5 hrs playback | USB-C, 10 min = 4.5 hrs playback |
| Drivers | 30 mm | 40mm driver with Extra Bass |
| Features | 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 | Extra Bass for deep, punchy low end, Noise Cancellation, Quick Attention mode, 360 Reality Audio, Speak-to-Chat, Adaptive Sound Control |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | LDAC, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, SBC | SBC, AAC, LDAC |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.2 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | None |
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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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