The Sony WH-1000XM4 and Apple AirPods Max are still the most talked-about luxury headphones, even though the market is always changing.Even in 2025, these two titans remain top contenders for anyone looking to invest in high-end wireless audio.
Though both launched a few years back, their popularity hasn’t faded—thanks to consistent firmware updates, strong brand loyalty, and features that still rival newer models.
But which one is actually worth your money in 2025? Should you go for Sony’s lighter, more travel-friendly option or spend more for Apple’s premium metal build and deep ecosystem integration?
We’ll go over everything from comfort and functionality to noise cancellation, battery life, price, and resale value in our extensive comparison. our way, you can choose the ideal one depending on your needs, not just what everyone else says.
Design & Comfort: Which Headphones Feel Better for Long Listening?
When you listen for a long time, like when you work from home, watch movies, or fly long distances, comfort is equally as important as sound quality.
In this category, the Sony WH-1000XM4 and AirPods Max take two very different design paths, each with its own pros and cons.
Sony WH-1000XM4: Lightweight & Travel-Friendly
Weighing just 254 grams, the Sony WH-1000XM4 is noticeably lighter than the AirPods Max. The headphones are made primarily of high-grade plastic, which not only keeps the weight down but also adds to the flexibility and comfort over longer hours.
The ear cushions are soft, memory-foam style, and the clamping force is just right—firm enough to stay secure but not so tight that it causes fatigue.
The XM4s also fold inward and come with a compact hard travel case, making them ideal for travelers or daily commuters. The headband is well-padded, and users have reported comfortably wearing them for 4 to 6 hours straight without any pressure points.
AirPods Max: Luxurious but Heavy
The AirPods Max are the opposite in terms of build philosophy. Apple uses aluminum ear cups, a stainless steel frame, and a mesh headband, giving them a premium, almost luxurious feel. But that comes with a downside: they weigh a hefty 384.8 grams—over 130 grams heavier than the Sony XM4.
While the memory foam ear cushions are plush and the mesh headband is designed to distribute weight evenly, many users report feeling neck strain or pressure after wearing them for more than 2–3 hours. They also don’t fold inward—only the ear cups rotate flat—making them bulkier to carry around.
Comfort Verdict (2025):
Sony WH-1000XM4 wins in overall comfort and portability. It’s better suited for daily wear and long hours.
AirPods Max offer a high-end feel but sacrifice long-term comfort due to their weight.
If your top priority is comfort for long listening, especially while traveling or working, the Sony WH-1000XM4 has a clear edge.
Build Quality & Materials: Plastic vs Premium Metal
When investing in premium headphones, you’re not just paying for sound—you’re paying for build quality that lasts. In this category, Sony WH-1000XM4 and AirPods Max couldn’t be more different in approach.
Sony WH-1000XM4: Functional and Durable Plastic
Sony has chosen a high-quality matte plastic build for the WH-1000XM4. While this keeps the weight down and makes the headphones more comfortable to wear, it doesn’t quite give off a luxury feel. That said, the finish resists fingerprints and minor scratches well.
Over time, though, users have reported some wear and tear issues, especially in hot or humid climates. The headband cushioning may peel, and the plastic hinges can loosen if handled roughly. However, the flexible design and solid internal structure mean these headphones can survive frequent folding, travel, and daily use with ease.
They’re built to be practical, not flashy—and that shows.
AirPods Max: Premium Metal, Built Like a Tank
Apple took a bold step with the AirPods Max, constructing them with anodized aluminum ear cups, a stainless steel frame, and a mesh knit headband. Every inch feels premium, and the fit and finish are in line with what you’d expect from Apple.
But there’s a trade-off. That metal construction contributes to the 384.8-gram weight, making them significantly heavier than most over-ear headphones.
They’re also more susceptible to cosmetic scratches and dents, especially if used without a case. And speaking of cases—the included Smart Case has been widely criticized for offering minimal protection.
Still, in terms of luxury and sturdiness, AirPods Max clearly take the lead. They feel expensive, and they are.
Build Quality Verdict (2025):
- Sony WH-1000XM4: Lightweight, durable, and practical but lacks the premium feel.
- AirPods Max: Premium materials and top-tier finish but heavy and prone to visible wear.
If you value luxury and aesthetics, the AirPods Max stand out. But if you’re after functional durability, the Sony WH-1000XM4 is the smarter choice.
Features Breakdown: Smart Controls, Spatial Audio, and More
The Sony WH-1000XM4 and AirPods Max both have the latest technologies, but they are made for different kinds of people. One is all about personalization and versatility, while the other is all about how well it works with Apple products and smart audio technologies.
Sony WH-1000XM4: Packed with Customization
Sony built the WH-1000XM4 with features designed for serious listeners who love control. You get:
Touch Controls on the right earcup: swipe up/down for volume, forward/back for tracks, double-tap to play/pause.
Speak-to-Chat: The headphones automatically pause when you start speaking.
Adaptive Sound Control: Adjusts ANC based on your location and activity (e.g., walking, commuting, sitting).
Multipoint Bluetooth: Connects to two devices at once—a major win for multitaskers.
Google Assistant and Alexa support.
These features make the XM4 feel like a smart tool for everyday productivity and entertainment.
AirPods Max: Perfect Fit and Amazing Sound
AirPods Max doesn’t want to be customizable; it wants to be easy to use, especially for Apple users. Some of the most important features are:
Digital Crown for precise volume control and playback navigation.
Transparency Mode and Active Noise Cancellation toggle button.
Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking: Brings a theater-like experience to movies and music on iPhone, iPad, or Apple TV.
Automatic switching between Apple devices signed into the same iCloud account.
Audio Sharing with another pair of AirPods.
H1 chips in each ear cup: Ensures fast pairing and low latency.
No 3.5mm jack – Wired listening requires a separate Lightning-to-3.5mm adapter ($35 extra).
AirPods Max thrive in the Apple ecosystem but feel limited when used outside it.
Feature Verdict (2025):
Sony WH-1000XM4 is the winner for Android users, frequent travelers, or those who want full customization and multipoint connection.
AirPods Max dominate in the Apple ecosystem with spatial audio, effortless switching, and sleek integration.
If you live in Apple’s world, the Max feels magical. If you want control and broader device support, Sony has you covered.
Noise Cancellation: Sony’s ANC King vs Apple’s Precision Silence
One of the most important reasons people buy premium headphones is for active noise cancellation (ANC)—and in 2025, both the Sony WH-1000XM4 and AirPods Max still stand among the best. But their approach, effectiveness, and user experience differ in subtle yet meaningful ways.
Sony WH-1000XM4: Adaptive and Industry-Leading
Sony’s ANC technology has been leading the game since the XM3, and the WH-1000XM4 only took it further. It uses a dual noise sensor and the powerful QN1 processor to analyze ambient sounds in real-time and cancel them effectively.
The XM4 performs exceptionally well in low-frequency noises—like airplane engines, AC hums, and road noise—making it a favorite for travelers. It also adapts based on location and behavior. For example:
- Walking outside? It lets in a bit of ambient sound.
- Sitting in a café? It adjusts to drown out chatter while preserving some awareness.
The noise cancellation on the XM4 is fully customizable via the Sony app, where you can even control the ANC intensity on a 20-level scale.
AirPods Max: Balanced and Natural
Apple took a different path. The AirPods Max use six outward-facing microphones to detect external sounds and two inward-facing mics to monitor what you’re hearing. It doesn’t give you as many manual controls as Sony, but what it does is smart and automatic.
The ANC on AirPods Max is excellent in mid to high frequencies, like office chatter, traffic noise, or keyboard clicks. It doesn’t suppress low rumbles quite as strongly as Sony, but it compensates with ultra-clear audio reproduction and spatial awareness.
One area where AirPods Max clearly win is Transparency Mode. It’s so natural and clear, it almost feels like you’re not wearing headphones—perfect for quick conversations or staying alert outdoors.
Noise Cancellation Verdict (2025):
- Sony WH-1000XM4 delivers stronger low-frequency ANC, more custom control, and better adaptability.
- AirPods Max offer a more natural listening experience, especially with Transparency Mode, but fall slightly behind in ANC power.
So, if silence is golden and you’re a frequent traveler or need to shut out the world, the Sony WH-1000XM4 has the edge. But if you’re often switching between focus and awareness, the AirPods Max’s smooth transitions and natural feel are hard to beat.
Battery Life: Which One Lasts Longer in Real Use?
When it comes to battery life, both the Sony WH-1000XM4 and AirPods Max perform well—but there’s a clear difference in convenience and endurance.
With active noise cancellation enabled, the Sony WH-1000XM4 can last up to 30 hours. With it off, it can last up to 38 hours. That’s around 50% more than the AirPods Max. Even better, a quick charge of just 10 minutes offers you 5 hours of playback, which makes them great for long days at work or on the go.
On the other hand, AirPods Max provide around 20 hours of use with ANC or Transparency Mode enabled. While decent, they lack a true power-off function. Instead, they enter a low-power state when placed in their Smart Case, which is often criticized for poor protection and usability.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 obviously wins in battery life and the ability to charge quickly for people who need to listen for long periods of time without interruption, especially while traveling.
Sound Quality: Neutral Detail vs Rich Bass – Which Sounds Better?
Sound quality is where personal taste plays a major role—and both the Sony WH-1000XM4 and AirPods Max cater to different preferences.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 delivers a balanced and bass-rich sound profile. It emphasizes low-end frequencies without drowning out mids or highs, making it ideal for genres like hip-hop, EDM, and pop.
The custom EQ in the Sony Headphones Connect app lets users fine-tune sound to their liking—boost treble, flatten bass, or create a more neutral sound.
The AirPods Max, meanwhile, offer a more natural and open soundstage. Apple uses adaptive EQ that adjusts frequencies in real-time based on your ear shape and seal.
Vocals and instruments come across clearer, with a focus on detail and separation—perfect for classical, acoustic, or podcast listeners.
If you love bass and custom tweaks, Sony takes the lead. If you prefer refined clarity and immersive audio, AirPods Max impress with every note.
Price Comparison: Is the Premium Worth It in 2025?
Price plays a huge role when choosing between these two headphones. As of 2025, the Sony WH-1000XM4 typically sells for around $280–$320, and you can often find it discounted even further during sales. This makes it one of the best-value premium headphones available.
In contrast, the AirPods Max still carries a hefty price tag of $499–$549. Even five years after launch, Apple hasn’t significantly reduced its retail price—though you might occasionally find it closer to $470 on third-party sites.
So, is the AirPods Max worth nearly double the price of the WH-1000XM4? It depends on what you value. If you’re an Apple user seeking perfect ecosystem integration, premium materials, and spatial audio, the price might justify itself.
But for the average user who wants excellent noise cancellation, customization, and comfort at a lower cost, the Sony WH-1000XM4 clearly offers more bang for your buck.
Ecosystem & Compatibility: Apple Integration vs Android Freedom
This is where the AirPods Max truly shines—if you’re an Apple user. Thanks to the H1 chip in each ear cup, these headphones seamlessly integrate with iPhones, iPads, Macs, and even Apple TVs.
You get instant pairing, automatic switching between devices, and advanced features like spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, which feels magical in movies and FaceTime calls. Everything just works—as long as you’re in the Apple ecosystem.
On the other hand, the Sony WH-1000XM4 is all about freedom and flexibility. Whether you’re using an Android phone, a Windows laptop, or even a gaming console, Sony’s multipoint Bluetooth connectivity and wide compatibility make it incredibly user-friendly. You also get Google Assistant and Alexa integration, something Apple’s headphones don’t support.
So, if you’re deeply tied to Apple, the Max feels like a natural extension. But if you value device compatibility, Sony WH-1000XM4 is the more versatile choice.
Final words: Which One Is Worth Your Money in 2025?
Choosing between the Sony WH-1000XM4 and AirPods Max in 2025 ultimately comes down to your priorities—and your ecosystem.
If you’re looking for the best value, with excellent noise cancellation, lightweight comfort, customizable sound, and wide compatibility, then the Sony WH-1000XM4 remains the smarter choice. It’s reliable, travel-friendly, and still delivers a premium experience for under $320.
However, if you’re deeply invested in Apple’s ecosystem, want seamless integration across your Apple devices, and value luxury materials and spatial audio, then the AirPods Max still offers a unique experience that’s hard to replicate—if you’re willing to pay the $500+ price tag.
In the end, neither choice is wrong. The WH-1000XM4 is the smart, versatile performer, while the AirPods Max is the polished, premium specialist. Choose the one that fits your tech lifestyle and listening habits—and you won’t regret it.
FAQs
1. Are the Sony WH-1000XM4 still worth buying in 2025?
Yes, they remain one of the best ANC headphones with excellent features, long battery life, and solid comfort—still highly competitive.
2. Can I use AirPods Max with Android or Windows?
Yes, but you’ll lose features like spatial audio, instant pairing, and automatic switching—they work best with Apple devices.
3. Which headphones are better for travel?
Sony WH-1000XM4 are lighter, foldable, and offer better battery life, making them more travel-friendly than the heavier AirPods Max.
4. Do either of them support wired listening?
The WH-1000XM4 includes a 3.5mm jack. AirPods Max require a separate $35 Lightning-to-3.5mm adapter for wired use.
