Top pick · Audio & Tech
Sony WH-1000XM6

Sony · Audio & Tech

Sony WH-1000XM6 review

The pick for most people who want the strongest all-round mix of noise cancelling, detailed sound and app features in an over-ear pair. Reviewers generally rate Bose's QC Ultra (2nd Gen) as more comfortable for long sessions, and wired listening is limited to a 3.5 mm cable rather than USB-C audio.

Sony's flagship over-ear noise-cancelling headphones, launched in May 2025 as the successor to the WH-1000XM5. They use Sony's HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3 with a 12-microphone array, 30 mm drivers, and bring back a folding design with a magnetic-clasp case.

9.3/10SnipSnapy score · Excellent

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Who should buy this

Commuters and frequent flyers, especially Android users who want LDAC, who prioritise sound quality and noise cancelling over all-day comfort.

Pros & Cons

What We Like

  • Review consensus puts its overall sound quality ahead of the Bose QC Ultra (2nd Gen)
  • Noise cancelling is rated at or near the top of the category, with a natural, less pressurised effect
  • Folds again, unlike the WH-1000XM5, and ships with a compact magnetic case
  • Supports LDAC and LC3 (LE Audio) as well as SBC and AAC
  • Up to 40 hours of playback with noise cancelling off

What to Consider

  • Reviewers consistently find the Bose QC Ultra (2nd Gen) more comfortable over long sessions
  • Battery life with noise cancelling on (up to 30 hours) is unchanged from the WH-1000XM5
  • No wired listening over USB-C; wired audio uses the 3.5 mm cable
  • Usually costs more than the WH-1000XM5 did at launch

SnipSnapy score

9.3/10
Excellent
Sound Quality
9.5
ANC
9.5
Comfort
8.8
Battery
9
Features
9.4
✎ Researched by Audio TeamUpdated 2026-10-29How we score →

Specifications

Driver unit30 mm
Weight8.96 oz (254 g)
Battery life (NC on / off)Up to 30 hours / up to 40 hours
Charging timeAbout 3.5 hours
Bluetooth version5.3
CodecsSBC, AAC, LDAC, LC3

Key features

  • ✦ HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3 with 12 microphones
  • ✦ Foldable design with magnetic-clasp carry case
  • ✦ Multipoint connection to two devices
  • ✦ Sound tuning developed with professional mastering engineers
  • ✦ Available in Black, Platinum Silver, Midnight Blue and (from February 2026) Sand Pink

Where to buy

StoreLink
A
Amazon
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Frequently Asked Questions

Should I upgrade from the WH-1000XM5?
Only if folding portability or the improved noise cancelling matter to you. Battery life is unchanged at up to 30 hours with noise cancelling on, and the XM5 remains a capable pair.
Sony WH-1000XM6 or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)?
Reviewers generally favour the Sony for sound quality and app features, with noise cancelling close between the two. The Bose is usually rated more comfortable and adds USB-C wired audio, so it suits long-haul wearers.
Is there a WH-1000XM7?
Not as of late October 2026. Sony added a Sand Pink colour in February 2026 but has not announced a new generation; the WH-1000XM6 is Sony's current flagship.

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