CNET’s expert staff reviews and rates dozens of new products and services each month, building on more than a quarter century of expertise.
9.2 / 10 Score Cnet Score CNET provides expert, unbiased reviews of products and services. When we assign a score, we use a scale of 1-10. Each product we score is evaluated by criteria specific to its category with most assessing pricing, quality, features and performance. Read more on: How we test Sony WF-1000XM6 $330 at Amazon Pros Completely redesigned with upgraded components and slightly better fit than XM5
Top-notch sound that's accurate, well-balanced and natural
Excellent noise-canceling and voice-calling performance with 8 microphones (4 in each bud)
Decent battery life Cons Pretty pricey
Included eartips may not be a good match for all ears
Android-only spatial audio features
When I first heard that Sony was coming out with new sixth-generation 1000X earbuds, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. Companies like Bose and Apple have basically stuck with the same design -- or a similar one anyway -- for their flagship noise-canceling buds for the last few years. But Sony's new WF-1000XM6 buds are completely overhauled inside and out and look nothing like the models that preceded them.
The end result is impressive: While expensive at $330, the WF-1000XM6 not only features great sound and excellent noise canceling, but their voice-calling performance is also top-notch. Are they the best noise-canceling earbuds out there right now? Aside from a caveat or two, I'd say so, though the AirPods Pro 3 remain a safer bet for Apple users from a fit and features standpoint (not to mention a lower price tag).
The WF-1000XM6's design shift
... continue reading