Key facts
- Sony's WH-1000XM6 headphones were released in May 2025.
- The XM6 headphones feature improved active noise cancellation.
- The XM6 headphones have a sturdier design and wider headband than the XM5.
- The XM6 headphones have a retail price of $460, a $60 increase from the XM5's debut price.
- Audio quality improvements over the XM5 are described as subtle.
Sony's WH-1000XM6 headphones, the latest iteration of its flagship noise-canceling line, were released in May 2025. The new model introduces subtle enhancements to audio quality and a notable update to the design, making them feel sturdier than their predecessors, the WH-1000XM5. The most significant improvement lies in the active noise cancellation (ANC) performance, which Sony claims rivals top competitors from Bose and Apple.
The design of the XM6 features a wider headband for increased comfort and ear cups that can fold for more compact storage. The power button has also been redesigned for easier identification. Weighing 254 grams, they are slightly heavier than the 250-gram XM5 model, but this increase is not perceived as burdensome. While the audio quality is excellent, with rich bass and crisp mids, the improvements over the XM5 are described as subtle, making it difficult to justify an upgrade solely on sound.
The XM6 headphones come with a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $460, which is $60 more than the XM5's debut price. This price point is in line with competing high-end headphones. Despite the higher cost, the XM6 are considered a tempting option for enthusiasts, though the older XM5 model may offer better overall value due to its lower price and frequent discounts.