Sony WH-1000XM6 Wins
Winner
VS
Score Comparison
Criteria
Sony WH-1000XM6
Apple AirPods Max
Overall Score
9.6
8.8
Sound Quality
9.7
9.5
Noise Cancellation
9.6
9.0
Comfort
9.4
8.5
Features
9.6
8.5
Build Quality
9.5
9.5
Pricing & Features
Specification
Sony WH-1000XM6
Apple AirPods Max
Price
$449
$549
Making Your Decision
When to Choose Sony WH-1000XM6
Audiophiles who want the best wireless headphone sound quality
Sony WH-1000XM6 reclaim the crown with the new QN3 processor, 12-mic array, and the return of the foldable design. The $50 price increase is justified by the improvements.
Strengths
- Best-in-class sound quality with new QN3 processor
- Foldable design returns (finally!)
- 12 microphones for superior ANC
- AI-powered call quality with voice isolation
Limitations
- Price increased to $449
- Still no IP rating for water resistance
- Heavier than some competitors
When to Choose Apple AirPods Max
Apple ecosystem users who want premium materials and seamless device switching
Apple AirPods Max offers exceptional build quality and sound for Apple users, but its high price, weight, and poor case design make it a luxury rather than a practical choice.
Strengths
- Premium aluminum and stainless steel construction
- Excellent sound quality with Apple's H1 chip
- Seamless integration with Apple ecosystem
- Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking
Limitations
- Highest price in the category
- Heavy compared to competitors (384g)
- Poor case design doesn't protect well
