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Audio geeks, rejoice. Sony released the successor to its popular WH-1000XM5 headphones earlier this year, bringing worthy improvements and Sony's stellar sound to a new generation.
Also: The 13 best headphones of 2025
The WH-1000XM6 headphones' key highlights include classically rich sound, improved noise cancellation, and a reformed headset design for comfort and portability. The headphones share some similarities with their predecessor, including battery life capacity and general design.
However, they also come with a new (and pricier) price tag of $450. That's a lot of cash to spend, especially when the price of Sony's WH-1000XM5 will only continue to drop.
That begs the question: Which headphones should you buy? Should you opt for Sony's 2025 headphones or stick with the tried-and-true? I break it all down below.
Specifications
Sony WH-1000XM5 Sony WH-1000XM6 Available colors Black, Midnight Blue, Silver, Smoky Pink Black, Midnight Blue, Silver Frequency Range 2.4000–2.4835 GHz 2.4000 GHz - 2.483 5 GHz Bluetooth Version 5.2 5.3 Spatial audio Limited to select platforms Available on any and all platforms Battery 30 hours with ANC on 30 hours with ANC on Noise-Cancellation Optimizer Uses personal ANC optimizer Uses adaptive-ANC optimizer Inputs Stereo mini jack (3.5mm) Stereo mini jack (3.5mm) Price $400 (though on sale for $250 right now) $449
You should buy the Sony WH-1000XM6 if...
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