The Trend Verdict
Spec-by-spec

Head to head

Contenders from Noise-Cancelling Headphones, every metric lined up. The winning value in each row is outlined.

Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones (Renewed) Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones (Renewed) #1 in Noise-Cancelling Headphones
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Apple AirPods Max Wireless ANC Headphones (Blue) Apple AirPods Max Wireless ANC Headphones (Blue) #103 in Noise-Cancelling Headphones
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Price
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Rating
★★★★★
★★★★★
Category rank
#1
#103
Noise Cancelling
Class-leading noise cancellation
Good but not best-in-class
Sound
Premium audio, balanced tuning
Balanced and detailed; excellent for spatial audio
Battery
30 hours with ANC on
20 hours with ANC on
Comfort
Comfortable, some heat on long sessions
Very comfortable, light weight, moderate clamp
Call Quality
Good microphone, some wind noise
Excellent multimic voice pickup
Build Durability
Solid build, foldable hinges proven reliable
Premium aluminum and mesh; solid construction
Value
$199.99 refurbished (50% off retail)
Very high price; premium-tier cost
Verdict
Best value in flagship ANC headphones
Best ANC headphones for Apple devotees

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