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Sony's WH-1000XM6 headphones are more than solid, garnering industry praise for their impressive noise cancellation, extensive software features, and attention to sonic detail. I can't deny Sony's prowess in the consumer headphones market, so much so that I gave the XM6 a ZDNET Editors' Choice award bac May.
Also: I tested Sony and Bose's best headphones for months - how my buying advice has changed in 2026
Though Sony's audio performance is among the best in the sub-$500 category, if you spend $300 more, you'll end up with Bowers & Wilkins' Px8 S2 headphones, another strong arm in the industry, albeit considerably more premium in areas Sony can't compete. If your headphone budget reaches $800, you might wonder which pair suits you best. I've tried both, and here's my take.
Specifications
Sony WH-1000XM6 Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 Wired connectivity 3.5mm jack USB-C; 3.5mm jack Codec support SBC; AAC; LDAC; LC3 SBC; AAC; AptX Classic, Adaptive, Lossless, HD Weight 254g 310g Foldable? Yes No Audio Modes ANC, Ambient Sound Mode, Adaptive Sound Control ANC, Ambient Sound Mode, Adaptive ANC Battery life 40 hours 30 hours Price $ 460 $ 799
You should buy the Sony WH-1000XM6 if...
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