Sony's WH-1000XM6 fixes most of what people complained about in the previous generation: the fragile hinge is gone and the design folds again, with no cost to the top-tier noise cancellation and sound quality. What is still missing is water resistance and USB audio support, which matters if you want durability or flexible wired connections. As an all-rounder for commuters and travelers, it stays a strong pick despite those specific omissions.
Full review
Design Overhaul and Build Quality
Sony has fundamentally rethought the physical architecture of its flagship headphones to address long-standing user complaints. SoundGuys noted that the fragile hinge mechanism found on the previous XM5 model has been replaced with a robust, foldable design that finally allows the earcups to collapse flat. This change was widely celebrated by Reddit users in r/SonyHeadphones, who confirmed that the new hinge feels significantly stronger and more durable than its predecessor. The power and Bluetooth button has also been relocated and redesigned for easier access while the headphones are worn, eliminating the confusion that plagued earlier iterations. Additionally, the microphone cover has been updated from a solid shield to a grille, a fix that SoundGuys praised for resolving previous ANC performance issues caused by wind noise or blockage.
Noise Cancellation and Call Clarity
The active noise cancellation on the WH-1000XM6 represents a tangible leap forward, with What Hi-Fi? describing the performance as class-leading and capable of matching anything at this price point. Reddit users reported that the ANC engages instantly without the five-second delay often experienced with the XM5, effectively silencing everything from high-frequency drills to low-frequency air purifiers. The adaptive noise canceling optimizer appears to handle a wider range of environmental sounds more seamlessly. Furthermore, call quality has seen a marked improvement, with multiple reviewers highlighting the clarity of voice transmission even in noisy settings. One YouTube reviewer demonstrated that the microphone system now isolates the user's voice with exceptional precision, making these headphones a viable primary device for professional teleconferencing.
Sound Quality and Audio Performance
Audio fidelity has been significantly refined, moving away from the sometimes muddy low-end response of previous models. Reddit users upgrading from the XM4 noted that the bass is now deeper and punchier while maintaining excellent clarity in the vocal range. SoundGuys measured the frequency response and found the sound signature to be very good, offering a spacious and musical presentation that rivals wired competitors. What Hi-Fi? specifically praised the exceptional levels of detail and the sense of dynamism, stating that the sound quality can match any wireless headphones currently on the market. The inclusion of LDAC and the new LC3 codec ensures high-resolution audio streaming, although What Hi-Fi? did note the absence of aptX HD support as a minor omission for some audiophiles.
Comfort and Fit Adjustments
Comfort remains a strong suit, though the fit has changed in ways that may require an adjustment period. Several Reddit users mentioned that the clamping force is initially tighter than the XM5, describing it as a snug fit that feels like a giant cushion after a few days of wear. SoundGuys observed that the earpads do not leave much room between the plastic chassis and the skin, which could be a consideration for users with larger ears or those who wear glasses. Despite the tighter initial clamp, the overall weight has been managed well at 254 grams, and the redesigned headband distributes pressure effectively. The consensus among long-term testers is that while the break-in period is necessary, the resulting comfort is superior to the previous generation.
Connectivity and Feature Limitations
While the headphones support Bluetooth 5.3 and multipoint connections, there are notable omissions in the connectivity suite. SoundGuys pointed out the lack of USB-C audio listening, meaning users cannot use the headphones as a USB DAC for lossless audio from a computer, a feature present in some competitors. What Hi-Fi? also highlighted the absence of aptX HD support, which limits high-bitrate streaming options for Android users who rely on that codec. Additionally, the included carrying case, while functional, is still quite large and lacks a zipper, which some reviewers found less secure than a hard-shell alternative. Despite these limitations, the addition of spatial audio features via the Sound Connect app and the ability to customize transparency modes adds significant value for daily use.
No ingress protection rating against moisture
Despite the extensive improvements, the WH-1000XM6 is not without its flaws. The most significant concern raised by reviewers is the lack of an ingress protection rating, with SoundGuys explicitly warning that the headphones are susceptible to moisture and should not be used in heavy rain or during intense workouts. The price point has also increased compared to the XM5, which may deter budget-conscious consumers who find the current generation still capable. Furthermore, while the hinge is stronger, the snap-in earpad mechanism requires a firm pull to remove, which some users might find intimidating or prone to accidental damage if not handled carefully. These factors suggest that while the XM6 is a top-tier device, it demands careful handling and a willingness to pay a premium for incremental but meaningful upgrades.
Strengths
- +Delivers excellent active noise cancellation with an Adaptive NC Optimizer
- +Features a redesigned, more durable hinge that allows the headphones to fold flat
- +Includes 12 microphones for superior call quality and voice pickup
- +Supports Bluetooth 5.3 with multipoint connection and LC3 codec
- +Offers a new power/Bluetooth button design that is easier to operate while wearing the headphones
Watch-outs
- −Lacks any ingress protection rating, making them susceptible to moisture and sweat
- −Does not support USB audio listening, limiting wired usage options
- −Ear pads provide minimal clearance between the chassis and the user's skin
Rating sources
Our 4.4 score is the average of these published ratings. More about methodology.
