Sony’s WH‑1000X series has long been the gold standard for premium wireless noise‑cancelling headphones, and the latest iteration — the Sony WH‑1000XM6 — continues that legacy in 2025 and beyond. With cutting‑edge noise‑cancelling tech, studio‑level sound tuning, smart adaptive features, and comfort built for long listening sessions, these headphones are designed to impress both casual listeners and music connoisseurs.

In this review, we’ll break down the features, performance, pros and cons, and whether they’re worth your money in today’s competitive headphone landscape.

Next‑Level Noise Cancellation

Sony has upgraded the WH‑1000XM6 with its most advanced noise‑cancelling tech yet.

Powered by Sony’s new HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3 — reported to be seven times faster than the chip used in the WH‑1000XM5 — and using 12 microphones, the headphones adapt in real time to block out environmental sound with impressive precision.

This means:

• Quiet commutes and flights — background rumble, chatter and engine noise are dramatically reduced.
• Adaptive NC Optimizer — adjusts cancellation based on air pressure, environment, and fit.
• Auto Ambient Sound mode keeps you aware of announcements and conversations when needed.

The result is a world where music comes first — not noise.

Superior Sound — Created with the Pros

Sony collaborated with world‑renowned mastering engineers to tune the WH‑1000XM6 for studio‑level sound quality, striving to reproduce music the way the artist intended.

Other audio enhancements include:

• 360 Reality Audio Upmix for Cinema for immersive listening.
• Support for Hi‑Res Audio Wireless via LDAC codec.
• Edge‑AI DSEE Extreme upscales compressed audio files in real time.

Whether you’re listening to bass‑heavy tracks, classical pieces, or cinematic soundtracks, the WH‑1000XM6 delivers detailed, dynamic performance that stands out at this price point.

Clear Calls and Smart Connectivity

The WH‑1000XM6 also shines in everyday use beyond listening:

• Beamforming AI microphone system isolates your voice for clearer calls — even in noisy environments.
• Multi‑Point & Auto Switch seamlessly connects to two devices, such as phone and laptop.
• Support for Bluetooth 5.3 and LE Audio provides low‑latency audio — great for gaming and streaming.

It even lets you listen while charging via USB‑C — a small but useful convenience.

Battery Life That Keeps Up

With noise cancellation ON, Sony claims up to 30 hours of playback on a single charge — and up to 40 hours with NC off, which is excellent for long trips and daily use alike.

The quick‑charge feature delivers about 1 hour of playback from just a short three‑minute charge, so you’re rarely left waiting.

Comfort & Build Quality

Sony has improved comfort with a wider headband and soft, plush ear pads designed to reduce pressure during long sessions. The headphones fold up neatly for travel and come with a padded carry case.

That said, some users online note that fit and comfort are more subjective:

• A few listeners find the earpads snug or warm during extended use.
• Others mention the lack of water resistance and primarily plastic build feels less premium than competitors.

Overall, comfort is solid — but if you’re extremely sensitive to clamping pressure or ear heat, you might want to try them in‑person first.

Pros & What They Do Well

✔ Best‑in‑class noise cancellation with adaptive precision.
✔ Premium sound, tuned with expert engineers.
✔ Excellent call quality and smart connectivity.
✔ Long battery life with quick charging.
✔ Comfortable design for everyday wear.

Cons & Room for Improvement

⚠ Plastic build — feels less premium than some rivals.
⚠ No water resistance rating — not ideal for workouts or rainy use.
⚠ Pricey — premium features come at a premium price.
⚠ Sound profile — some listeners find tuning warm or mellow without EQ.

Final Verdict

The Sony WH‑1000XM6 sits near the top of the noise‑cancelling headphones market in 2026, offering a compelling balance of superb ANC, rich sound, smart features, and long battery life. For travelers, commuters, audiophiles, and everyday listeners who want a premium audio experience with minimal compromise, these headphones are a standout choice.

While they come at a high price and aren’t perfect for every listener, fans of Sony’s 1000X series will find much to love here — and anyone looking for top‑tier ANC and immersive audio should seriously consider them.