36 facts in comparison
Drag the sliders to weight each category and re-rank the products to suit your priorities.
Larger drivers can move more air for fuller sound.
The driver technology (e.g. dynamic, planar magnetic).
A lower figure means deeper bass response.
A higher figure means more detailed treble.
The full range of frequencies the headphones reproduce.
Higher sensitivity plays louder from the same volume level.
A lower impedance is easier to drive from phones and laptops.
Higher-quality codecs carry more detail; more support means better device matching.
Creates an immersive, three-dimensional soundstage.
Plays back high-resolution audio above CD quality.
Electronically cancels background noise.
Automatically tunes noise cancelling to your surroundings.
Physically blocks outside noise with a tight seal.
Lets outside sound in so you stay aware of surroundings.
A companion app lets you tune the sound to taste.
Summon a voice assistant hands-free from the earbuds.
Tap or swipe the earbuds to control playback and calls.
Pauses playback when you remove an earbud.
Locate the earbuds if you misplace them.
Listening time on a single charge.
Total listening time including the charging case.
Listening time with active noise cancellation enabled.
The case can be charged wirelessly.
The case charges over a standard USB-C cable.
A short charge gives hours of playback.
How long a full charge of the case takes; lower is better.
A newer Bluetooth version improves range and efficiency.
Stay connected to two devices at once.
More microphones improve call clarity and noise cancelling.
Reduces audio lag for gaming and video.
Can also be used with a cable when needed.
The wearing style of the headphones.
Lighter earbuds are more comfortable for long sessions.
The IP rating against sweat and water.
Folds down to pack away more easily.
The colour options the headphones are sold in.
The Sony WH-1000XM6 is the clear winner, scoring 100 to 72 on our VS Score. It leads on Sound quality, Battery and Comfort.