Sony WF-1000XM6 Earbuds: A Week-Long Test of Flagship Audio
After a three-year wait, Sony has launched its latest flagship wireless earbuds, the WF-1000XM6, aiming to build on the success of the acclaimed WF-1000XM5 model. Priced similarly to its predecessor, these earbuds face stiff competition from rivals like Bose's QuietComfort Ultra 2, which have set new standards in noise cancellation and comfort. Over the past week, I've extensively tested the WF-1000XM6 in various environments, from busy train platforms to gym sessions, to determine if they reclaim the crown as the best wireless earbuds available.
Design and Comfort: A Slimmer, More Secure Fit
The WF-1000XM6 features a redesigned, bean-shaped form that is 11% slimmer than the XM5, despite appearing larger. This contoured design follows the natural curvature of the inner ear, providing a tighter seal without causing ear strain. Sony retains polyurethane foam tips in three sizes—small, large, and extra-large—which enhance comfort and reduce the occluded sensation during activities like chewing or walking. The earbuds stay securely in place, minimizing readjustments, and feature a matte finish for better grip compared to the glossy XM5 surface.
However, the charging case has grown bulkier and heavier, with sharper edges, though it remains pocket-friendly. The magnetic hinge feels less firm than on the XM5, but it has proven durable in accidental drops. Available in black or platinum silver, the earbuds maintain a minimalist aesthetic, with tactile dots on the left bud for easy identification and responsive touch controls customizable via the Sony Sound Connect app.
Features and Performance: Enhanced Audio and Connectivity
The WF-1000XM6 includes familiar features like multipoint pairing, LDAC for hi-res audio on Android, and DSEE Extreme for upscaling compressed streams. New additions include a 10-band EQ for precise sound tuning, a gaming preset for directional audio cues, and background music mode for a café-like listening experience. The antenna size has increased by 1.5 times, promising a more stable connection, and Bluetooth LE Audio support future-proofs the earbuds with improved efficiency.
Notably, the earbuds lack a heart rate sensor found in competitors like the AirPods Pro 3, but they offer a broader feature set overall. The Sound Connect app, while feature-rich, can be overwhelming due to its numerous toggles and sliders.
Noise Cancellation and Call Quality: Strengths and Weaknesses
Sony's noise cancellation has been significantly upgraded with the new QN3e HD processor and eight microphones, resulting in 25% better noise reduction than the XM5. High-frequency sounds like sirens and chatter fade effectively, creating a vacuum-seal sensation akin to Bose's QuietComfort Ultra 2. The adaptive NC optimizer adjusts in real-time to environmental changes, though some users may prefer manual control over the default adaptive sound feature.
Ambient sound mode is exceptional, offering zero background hiss and lifelike voice clarity, surpassing even Apple's AirPods Pro. However, call quality is a notable weakness; users reported muffled audio and issues with background noise management, despite improvements in microphone array and AI processing. Wind reduction works well, but overall call clarity lags behind rivals.
Sound Quality: Refined and Fun Audio Experience
The WF-1000XM6 features an updated 8.4mm dynamic driver and 32-bit audio processing, delivering enhanced bass, separation, and musicality. Tracks like Olivia Rodrigo's "Bad Idea Right?" and The Weeknd's "The Hills" showcase controlled bass and deep sub-bass without overwhelming vocals. Mid-range performance is warm and textured, ideal for podcasts, audiobooks, and film dialogue. The 10-band EQ allows for further customization, making these earbuds versatile across genres.
Battery life remains unchanged at eight hours with ANC on and 24 hours total with the case, which is decent but not class-leading. Some competitors offer up to 10 hours per charge.
Verdict: A Flagship Contender with Minor Flaws
The Sony WF-1000XM6 excels in noise cancellation, comfort, and sound quality, making it a strong competitor to the Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2. While call quality and the bulkier case are drawbacks, these earbuds earn their flagship status with significant improvements over the previous model. For audiophiles and commuters seeking top-tier noise cancellation, the WF-1000XM6 is a compelling choice, though those prioritizing call clarity may want to consider alternatives.
