Sony WH-1000XM4 Still Worth It in 2026? Full Guide & Review

Few wireless headphones have aged as gracefully as the Sony WH-1000XM4. Launched in 2020, they still manage to hold their own against newer flagships, offering noise cancellation that rivals the best in the business. But with the WH-1000XM5 now on shelves and the XM4 officially discontinued, the question is simple: should you still buy a pair in 2026?

Noise cancellation: Industry-leading dual noise sensor with QN1 chip ·
Battery life: 30 hours with ANC on ·
Weight: 254 g (8.96 oz) ·
Launch date: August 2020 ·
Current price (approx.): €250–300 ·
Drivers: 40 mm

Six key specs define the WH-1000XM4’s hardware core, and most still match or beat current mid-range models.

Is XM4 still worth it in 2026?

Are the Sony WH-1000XM4 still good?

• Noise isolation remains outstanding, especially for low-frequency rumble (RTINGS)
• Comfort and build quality are still praised for long wear sessions (RTINGS)
• Sound quality is “pleasing” and noise cancelling “strong” even in 2026 (RecordingNOW)

The implication: the XM4 hasn’t lost its edge. The core ANC and audio performance are still competitive, which is why many buyers still consider it a smart buy at a discounted price.

How do the WH-1000XM4 compare to newer models?

Four differences, one pattern: the XM5 refines the formula, but the XM4 keeps the essentials.

The trade-off: the XM5 offers a sleeker design and improved microphones, but the XM4’s folding design and lower price still appeal to many. For budget-conscious buyers, the XM4 is a strong alternative.

Is Sony discontinuing the XM4?

Why would Sony discontinue the XM4?

• Sony officially discontinued the WH-1000XM4 in 2022, replaced by the WH-1000XM5 (RecordingNOW)
• Standard product cycle: Sony refreshes its flagship ANC line every two years

The pattern: discontinuation doesn’t mean the product is bad. It simply means Sony has moved on. The XM4 remains widely available through third-party retailers and online marketplaces.

When was the XM4 discontinued?

• Discontinued in 2022, shortly after the XM5 launch (RecordingNOW)
• Stock continued to sell through 2024–2026, and replacement earpads remain in production

What this means: if you buy an XM4 today, you’re getting a device that Sony no longer manufactures, but the support ecosystem (ear pads, firmware) is still alive.

How to put Sony WH-1000XM4 in pairing mode?

How to enter pairing mode on WH-1000XM4

1. Ensure the headphones are turned off (if on, press and hold the power button until the light turns off)
2. Press and hold the power button until the indicator light flashes blue (What Hi-Fi?)
3. Release the button; the headphones will enter pairing mode
4. On your device, select “WH-1000XM4” from the Bluetooth list

Why this matters: the process is identical to the XM3 and many other Sony headphones, so it’s familiar and easy even for first-time users.

How to connect to iPhone/Android

• Use the Sony Headphones Connect app for alternative pairing and advanced settings (Sony Support)
• After initial pairing, the headphones will automatically reconnect to the last connected device
• For multipoint connection (two devices at once), enable “Connect to 2 devices” in the app

What are the disadvantages of Sony WH-1000XM4?

What are the cons of WH-1000XM4 compared to XM5

• Earcup hinge creaking reported by some users (common complaint across forums)
• Touch controls can be finicky, especially in wet conditions (RTINGS)
• No official IP rating (not water-resistant) (Sony specs confirm no IP rating)
• Multipoint connection was added via firmware update, not available at launch (Major HiFi)

Common complaints about WH-1000XM4

• Speak-to-Chat can be too sensitive and drains battery when enabled (Sony Help Guide)
• Battery life in real-world tests often falls short of the 30-hour claim: SoundGuys measured 19 hours 59 minutes with ANC (SoundGuys)
• No aptX support (only AAC, SBC, LDAC) (Major HiFi)

The trade-off: the XM4 trades ruggedness and absolute battery endurance for class-leading ANC and comfort. For desk or travel use, it’s still a winner; for sports, look elsewhere.

What is the lifespan of a Sony WH-1000XM4?

How long do WH-1000XM4 batteries last?

• Rated 30 hours with ANC on, 38 hours with ANC off (Sony Nigeria specs)
• Quick charge: 10 minutes gives 5 hours of playback (Sony Help Guide)
• Real-world tests show ~20 hours with ANC, depending on volume and codec (SoundGuys)

The pattern: the battery is adequate for a full work week, but heavy users should expect to charge every two days. The battery is not user-replaceable, but it typically lasts 3–5 years before noticeable degradation.

How to prolong lifespan

• Replace ear pads every 12–18 months (still available as of 2026)
• Avoid extreme temperatures and humidity
• Store in the carrying case when not in use
• Update firmware via the Sony Headphones Connect app to maintain performance

Timeline

• August 2020: Sony announces WH-1000XM4 (Sony)
• 2021: Firmware update adds multipoint connection (Sony Support)
• 2022: Sony discontinues WH-1000XM4; WH-1000XM5 launched (RecordingNOW)
• 2024–2026: Still widely available; replacement pads remain in production

The pattern: the XM4 enjoyed a long active life and is still supported, even after discontinuation.

Clarity: confirmed vs. unclear

The trade-off: what we know is solid. The only uncertainties are about long-term part supply, which is common for discontinued electronics.

Expert perspectives

“These noise-canceling headphones silence the world better than most, and the mics are now actually usable on phone calls.”

— Wired review (2020)

“Dual noise sensor technology, featuring two microphones on each earcup, captures ambient noise and passes the data to the HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1.”

— Sony press release

Why this matters: the Wired quote confirms the XM4’s call quality improvement over its predecessor, a weakness of the XM3. The Sony quote highlights the technical core that still delivers top-tier ANC.

Summary

The Sony WH-1000XM4 remain a compelling buy in 2026 despite being discontinued. They offer noise cancellation that rivals the XM5, comfort for all-day wear, and a price often €100–150 lower than the newer model. The main drawbacks — no water resistance, hinge creaking, and real-world battery of ~20 hours — are manageable for most users. For the budget-conscious commuter or office worker, the choice is clear: grab a pair while stock lasts, or wait for the XM5 if you need the best microphones and sleeker design.

Frequently asked questions

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