Build
The WF-1000XM4 has a small, black charging case. It’s smaller than the case that comes with the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds, and positively tiny (40 percent smaller) compared with the charging case that comes with their predecessors. The case has a USB-C charging port and for the first time sony introduced wireless charging to the WF-1000X range, all you need is a compatible Qi charging pad.
Comfort
The XM4 got brand new ear tips which are made from polyurethane, which feels like a cross between silicone and foam; Sony states that they help secure a tighter, more stable fit. The thousands of tiny bubbles in the tips are also supposed to help reduce and dissipate noise. It doesn’t have any major problems while sliding the earbuds in and twisting them into place. It nicely fits in the ear opening and they are comfortable for longer listening sessions.
Features
The circular outer surface of each earbud is a touchpad and, by using the Headphones Connect app, you can change the functionality of each one. They are featured to control the volume and playback or switch between noise-canceling and ambient sound modes through the usual combination of taps, presses, and long holds – and the headphones are quick to respond to these actions. The Sony WF-1000XM4 comes with the Speak-to-Chat function which allows you to talk to someone while the earbuds are still in place and is triggered when you start talking.
Sound Quality
Sony claims to deliver clearer call quality with new features, including beam-forming and the use of a bone conduction sensor that prevents the mics from picking up distracting ambient sounds while you’re talking. There’s even an automatic wind noise reduction mode that cuts out the swirls of noise passing through the headset and into your ears. This earbud is featured with Sony’s Precise Voice Pickup technology, originally introduced in the WH-1000XM4. The overall effect is an impressive call quality for a pair of wireless earbuds.
Verdict
The headphones deliver a satisfying user experience, long battery life, some of the best noise-canceling we’ve heard in this category, and stunning sound quality.
