Compare SONY WH-1000XM6 Headphones vs Apple AirPods Max 2

Reviewers broadly praised the XM6 for rich, clear, dynamic sound, with only a few noting rivals can sound wider or more refined.

Overall sound quality was broadly praised as rich, cleaner and more resolving, though some reviewers found the tuning less neutral or only incrementally improved.

Immersive audio quality was mixed: cinema/background modes impressed some reviewers, while others called music upmixing gimmicky or poor.

Immersive audio was praised for depth, fullness and a big presentation, especially with spatial content and USB-C playback.

Soundstage was mixed: some reviewers heard nice width, while others found it restricted or weak for competitive gaming.

Soundstage width was a strength in positive reviews, with several praising width, depth, openness and more dynamic presentation.

Spatial audio was one of the most mixed areas: cinema use sometimes impressed reviewers, but music support, setup, and service availability drew criticism.

Spatial audio was often strong for movies and immersive use, though at least one reviewer found it distracting for music.

Frequency response and tuning were generally praised as balanced and well measured, especially compared with earlier Sony tuning.

Frequency-response accuracy was viewed as generally balanced or accurate, with caveats around bass lift and treble shaping.

Passive isolation was a major strength in lab and hands-on impressions, helping the headphones block substantial noise even before ANC.

Passive isolation from the earcups helped ANC and was praised where fit fully enclosed the ears.

ANC was the strongest consensus point: reviewers repeatedly called it class-leading, best-in-class, or among the best they had tested.

Reviewers generally found ANC substantially improved and often class-leading, though a few considered the improvement incremental versus already-strong rivals.

Microphone noise reduction was excellent in the evidence, especially against streets, wind, and ambient noise during calls.

Voice Isolation and mic noise reduction performed well in many noisy call tests, although standard mode could lag behind.

Latency evidence was limited but positive for wired analog use, where reviewers noted no latency through the headphone cable.

Latency improved enough for casual gaming and video use, especially with Game Mode or wired USB-C.

Bass was usually described as punchy, controlled, and customizable, though one reviewer found Sony's low end could overpower mids and highs.

Bass was usually praised as tighter, deeper, punchier, and controlled, though some listeners found it heavy or boomy.

Ecosystem integration was criticized where discussed because Sony's own ecosystem and PlayStation support felt incomplete.

Ecosystem integration was a major strength, with reviewers praising Apple-device switching and deep iPhone, iPad and Mac behavior.

Portability and foldability were major upgrades, with reviewers repeatedly praising the return of folding hinges and a smaller travel footprint.

Portability was a repeated weakness because the headphones do not fold and occupy too much bag space.

The carrying case was a standout strength thanks to its compact size, protection, magnetic clasp, and faster access.

The Smart Case was widely criticized for poor protection, awkward design and poor travel practicality, despite enabling low-power mode.

Travel friendliness was a major strength, supported by strong ANC, comfort, battery life, folding design, and the improved case.

Travel friendliness suffered because the headphones are heavy, bulky and paired with a minimally protective case.

USB-C was the most repeated technical complaint because reviewers wanted USB-C audio or lossless digital playback, not charging-only behavior.

USB-C was welcomed for charging and wired lossless playback, especially by owners of Lightning-era AirPods Max.

Android compatibility was a strength thanks to LDAC, Android-friendly hi-res support, and cross-device pairing advantages.

Android compatibility was repeatedly framed as limited: basic listening works, but Apple-only features and controls are missing.

Built-in DAC and hi-res wired playback were criticized because reviewers wanted a true digital lossless USB-C option.

Wired USB-C lossless playback was valued for added clarity, depth and more critical listening, even when the difference was not night-and-day.

LDAC was a clear plus for Android and hi-res Bluetooth playback, though one reviewer warned the highest transfer rate may be unstable on some phones.

LDAC absence was a downside for reviewers comparing the AirPods Max 2 with Sony and other hi-res Bluetooth rivals.

Premium feel was one of the weaker areas because several reviewers felt the plastic build did not match the high price.

Premium feel was one of the clearest strengths, driven by aluminum, stainless steel and luxury fit-and-finish.

Headband adjustability had limited but positive evidence from a reviewer who found the fully extended fit comfortable.

Headband adjustability had a minor fit caveat, with one review wishing it adjusted smaller for more head shapes.

Multi-platform compatibility was mixed: Apple and Android playback worked, but PlayStation wireless compatibility drew criticism.

Multi-platform compatibility remained weak because non-Apple devices lose many settings, updates and ecosystem features.

Aesthetic discretion was mixed: one reviewer liked the low-profile street look, while another thought the headphones looked dorkier than competitors.

The design was praised as sleek and fashionable, especially for public use, with few cosmetic changes from earlier models.

Treble drew mostly positive comments for detail and sparkle, but lab-focused criticism noted some peaks that could need EQ.

Treble was praised for detail by some reviewers but criticized by others as rolled off, harsh or recessed in specific ranges.

Connectivity options were praised for convenient device switching and multipoint behavior.

Connectivity was a standout for Apple users, with automatic switching reducing the need for manual multipoint management.

Overall recommendations were strongly positive, with reviewers frequently calling the XM6 elite, best-in-class, or worth buying despite caveats.

Overall recommendations were positive for Apple users and first-time premium buyers, but cautious for existing owners and audio purists.

Ear cup padding was usually praised as soft and well cushioned, though one long-use review found the earpads warm and sweaty.

Ear cup padding was generally seen as roomy, breathable and supportive, though material feel was not universally preferred.

Transparency mode improved substantially and often sounded natural, though some reviewers still found AirPods Max more realistic or Sony slightly unnatural.

Transparency mode was one of the strongest consensus wins, often described as best-in-class, natural and conversation-friendly.

Included accessories were criticized where evaluated because a reviewer expected better and more modern cables for the price.

Included accessories disappointed some reviewers, especially the lack of a charging brick or proper case at this price.

Replaceable earpads were mixed: one source praised easier pad removal, another called replacement difficult, and another simply noted replaceable pads.

Replaceable or washable earcups were a minor positive for maintenance and longevity.

Water and sweat resistance were a weakness because reviewers cautioned there is no IP rating.

Water and sweat resistance remained a limitation, with reviewers warning against gym or wet use.

Headband padding and shape were mixed: some reviewers found it comfortable, while others criticized thin padding or long-term pressure.

Headband comfort was split between high praise for pressure distribution and criticism that the canopy can feel under-padded.

Instrument separation earned positive but limited evidence, with reviewers hearing better placement and clearer separation in the XM6.

Instrument separation improved noticeably, with reviewers hearing more distinct placement and cleaner layering.

Midrange and vocal clarity were a consistent strength, with reviewers calling voices clear, textured, natural, and fuller than prior models.

Midrange clarity was praised for vocals, improved detail and more natural mids.

Editorial recognition was strong, with reviewers naming the XM6 a best overall or best new headphone pick.

Two reviews explicitly awarded Editors' Choice recognition, reinforcing strong critical reception.

Head gestures had limited but positive evidence, with a reviewer calling nod/shake call control a nice touch.

Head gestures worked well and felt natural to reviewers who tested them, though they were not always considered essential.

Fit stability was positive where evaluated, with reviewers noting snug, secure fit and consistent seal behavior.

Connection stability and switching were considered better with H2 and reliable in Apple-device use.

EQ customization was one of Sony's strongest feature advantages, with repeated praise for the 10-band EQ, guided EQ, and deep tuning control.

EQ customization was a repeated frustration because Apple still does not offer a full manual equalizer.

Setup and software simplicity were mixed-to-negative because spatial setup, app navigation, and feature layout could feel involved or unintuitive.

Setup simplicity was praised as extremely easy, especially for pairing and first-run setup on iPhone.

Smart Pause worked very well in the available evidence, immediately pausing and resuming playback.

Conversation Awareness was mostly praised for convenience, though some reviewers preferred to switch modes manually or turn it off.

Physical button usability improved meaningfully, with reviewers liking the distinct power and ANC buttons and easier blind operation.

The Digital Crown and physical button controls were repeatedly praised as intuitive, tactile and among the best on headphones.

Call quality was strongly praised, with reviewers highlighting clearer voice pickup, better mics, and strong performance in noisy settings.

Call and mic quality were generally strong, ranging from top-tier to good enough, with occasional unevenness or fuzz.

Advanced software features were plentiful and often impressive, but reviewers sometimes found them excessive, confusing, or underused.

H2-enabled software features were widely viewed as useful modernization, with the main caveat that some users may not use every feature.

Smart listening features such as Speak-to-Chat, Quick Attention, and adaptive modes were generally useful, though not universally essential.

Smart listening features such as Adaptive Audio, Personalized Volume and Conversation Awareness were usually useful, but not universally preferred.

Bluetooth version support was viewed positively in one comparison because the XM6 uses newer Bluetooth with LE benefits.

Bluetooth 5.3 was treated as a welcome stability and latency upgrade, though not cutting-edge.

The app drew mixed-to-negative reactions because it is powerful but crowded, aged, or not especially intuitive.

Apple's no-standalone-app approach was treated as a tradeoff: seamless on iOS but less flexible than a dedicated app.

Bluetooth performance was discussed positively where reviewed, with connectivity described as a standout area for Sony.

Wireless connection reliability was strong in tested Apple setups, with no dropouts reported in key reviews.

Weight comfort was praised where mentioned, with reviewers highlighting the XM6 as very light for premium over-ear ANC headphones.

Weight comfort was the most persistent ergonomic drawback, with several reviewers saying the heavy earcups become noticeable over time.

Clamping force was generally comfortable and secure, with tighter fit improving isolation without widespread discomfort.

Clamp comfort was mixed: generally tolerable, but with some pressure concerns during longer wear.

Build quality was mixed: one review found it very good, while another said the plastic construction felt underwhelming for the price.

Build quality was a major strength, with reviewers praising the aluminum, steel and premium construction.

Design and aesthetics were mostly praised for a clean, modern, lightweight look, though some reviewers still found the design safe or understated.

The design was widely praised as elegant and gorgeous, though unchanged from the original.

Long-use comfort was mostly strong, especially for travel, but several reviewers reported heat, pressure, or fit issues for some heads and ears.

Comfort was divisive: some called the headphones extremely comfortable, while others found long sessions uncomfortable because of weight or clamp.

Battery life was viewed as solid and travel-ready at roughly 30 hours with ANC, though not class-leading against longer-lasting competitors.

Battery life was the most consistent weakness, with 20 hours repeatedly called disappointing or behind current flagships.

Charging was praised for quick-charge performance and the ability to listen while charging.

Charging-related feedback was limited but charge reminders and quick top-ups were viewed as useful conveniences.

Codec support was mostly good thanks to LDAC, SBC, LC3, and AAC, but reviewers noted limits such as missing aptX and some LDAC stability concerns.

Codec support was a clear weakness because reviewers wanted LDAC, aptX, LC3 or other high-resolution wireless options.

Value was mixed: reviewers often said performance justified the price, but the $450 tier, discounts, and missing features were recurring caveats.

Value depended heavily on Apple ecosystem commitment: some found the price more justified, while others saw better sound or portability for less.

Multipoint was viewed positively, with reviewers appreciating dual-device pairing across phones, laptops, and mixed Apple/non-Apple setups.

Automatic device switching worked well inside Apple's ecosystem and exceeded conventional Bluetooth multipoint for reviewers.

The 3.5mm input was generally appreciated as a practical wired option, especially because it enables analog listening despite missing USB-C audio.

Live Translation drew mixed reactions: some found it impressive and travel-ready, while others found pauses awkward or said it still needs work.

aptX was criticized because reviewers specifically noted the lack of aptX HD support.

Auto-play and wear detection performed very well in the available evidence, pausing and resuming immediately.

Cable quality was criticized by one reviewer, who expected better cables for a premium headphone.

Detachable analog cable use was useful for low-latency wired listening, though broader cable quality drew criticism elsewhere.

Ear cup swivel and rotation were praised for neck comfort, easier storage, and restoring convenience missing from the XM5.

Features at launch were viewed as very complete in the available evidence, with one reviewer saying the XM6 offers essentially everything expected from premium Bluetooth ANC headphones.

Firmware and software-update support was praised where it unlocked meaningful sound and spatial improvements at no added cost.

The integrated microphone setup was viewed positively in the available evidence as part of the XM6's strong mic technology.

Maximum-volume clarity improved, with reviewers noting cleaner highs and less muddiness at high volume.

Preset or guided EQ profiles were received positively where discussed, helping users reach a preferred sound without complex manual tuning.

Replaceable pads or headband evidence was limited but positive for earpads, with easier pad removal described as a change for the better.

Sensors were praised in the available evidence because the wear sensors performed reliably.

Sidetone adjustment was a weakness for one reviewer because voice amplification sounded unnatural and could not be toned down enough.

Smudge resistance was weak, with reviewers complaining that the darker finishes show finger grease and smudge badly.

Streaming service integration for spatial audio was weak, with reviewers noting limited or lost service support despite 360 Reality Audio capability.

Repairability was criticized, especially around maintenance options and difficulty replacing parts compared with expectations for a premium product.

Touch controls divided reviewers: some found them accurate or intuitive, while others called them finicky, easy to nudge, or terrible.

Wear detection auto-pause was excellent in the available review, immediately pausing and resuming playback.

ANC background artifacts were mostly praised as quiet, but lab-focused reviewers noted low-frequency rumble or added noise in specific modes.

ANC processing was described as natural and airy, avoiding the heavy pressure some rivals create.

LE Audio readiness was treated as a future-proofing benefit, tied to Auracast and newer Bluetooth features.

Wear detection performance was excellent in the available review, with sensors described as as good as ever.

Wind handling was praised in microphone testing, where the XM6 rejected unwanted wind noise very well.

The H2 chip was consistently credited for the meaningful upgrade, powering ANC, calls, smart features, latency and tuning improvements.

Voice assistant and voice-command features were mixed, with one reviewer saying they worked well and another finding them inconsistent.

Auracast support was mixed: one reviewer saw it as future-proofing, while another could not get it working in testing.

The low-power case behavior preserves charge well, but the lack of a physical power button was criticized.

Durability over time had limited evidence, with one reviewer specifically worrying about the folding joint's long-term durability.

Hinge durability was mixed: one review praised the more durable hinge, while another flagged fragile-feeling articulating hinges.