Sony WH-1000XM6 vs Apple AirPods Max (2025): Best Premium Headphones Compared

Sony and Apple have been waging a quiet war in the premium headphone space, each appealing to very different types of users. Sony’s WH-1000X series is the go-to for audiophiles and frequent travelers, known for top-tier noise cancellation and audio customization. Apple’s AirPods Max, on the other hand, is a luxury tech accessory that wins hearts with its sleek design, Spatial Audio wizardry, and seamless ecosystem integration.

With the arrival of the Sony WH-1000XM6, the stakes have been raised. Here’s how the two flagships stack up in the categories that matter most.

🎧 1. Sound Quality & Performance

AirPods Max delivers a wide, immersive soundstage with deep bass and crisp highs. With Spatial Audio, it creates a surround sound-like experience that’s especially impressive when watching movies or listening to Dolby Atmos tracks.

But Sony’s WH-1000XM6 levels up with improved drivers and refined tuning. The sound is cleaner and more balanced than its predecessor, with tighter bass and superior vocal clarity. Most importantly, Sony lets you tailor the audio with its Headphones Connect app and supports LDAC for high-resolution audio on compatible devices.

Winner: Sony WH-1000XM6 – Apple sounds cinematic, but Sony offers customization, better codec support, and more control.

🔇 2. Noise Cancellation & Transparency Mode

Apple’s ANC is powered by its H1 chip and adaptive algorithms, doing a fantastic job blocking out chatter and high-pitched sounds. Its Transparency Mode is among the most natural-sounding on any headphones.

Sony, however, continues to set the gold standard in pure ANC performance. The XM6 adapts in real-time to your environment and does a slightly better job at blocking low-frequency sounds like airplane engines or traffic rumble.

Winner: Tie – Apple nails transparency; Sony dominates in noise cancellation.

👂 3. Comfort & Design

The AirPods Max is a design marvel, built with stainless steel, aluminum earcups, and a unique mesh headband. But that build makes them heavy—something you’ll feel during long sessions.

Sony opts for a lightweight, travel-friendly plastic design with plush cushions and a more traditional look. They may not scream luxury, but they’re far more comfortable for all-day wear.

Winner: Sony WH-1000XM6 – Apple looks better; Sony feels better.

🔋 4. Battery Life & Charging

Sony crushes it here with up to 30 hours of battery life (ANC on) and quick charge support—just 3 minutes gives you 3 hours of playtime.

The AirPods Max delivers about 20 hours, but lacks fast-charging and relies on a controversial Smart Case to conserve power. No power button, slower charge times, and less usage per charge make it less travel-friendly.

Winner: Sony WH-1000XM6 – Longer battery, faster charging, and no gimmicky case.

🔗 5. Features & Ecosystem

AirPods Max is a dream for Apple users. With instant pairing, device switching, “Hey Siri,” Find My support, and personalized Spatial Audio, it offers unmatched ease of use.

Sony leans into cross-platform functionality with multi-device Bluetooth, Google Assistant/Alexa support, and customizable sound profiles. It may not be as “magical,” but it’s far more flexible across Android and Windows devices.

Winner:

• Apple for iOS users

• Sony for everyone else

💰 6. Price & Value

• Sony WH-1000XM6: ~$449 MSRP (often discounted)

• Apple AirPods Max: ~$549 MSRP (occasionally on sale)

Sony delivers better sound control, longer battery life, and superior ANC—for less. Unless you live entirely in the Apple ecosystem, the AirPods Max are harder to justify at their price point.

Winner: Sony WH-1000XM6 – Premium performance at a more reasonable price.

🏁 Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?

Overall Winner: 🥇 Sony WH-1000XM6

If you’re after pure performance, customization, and cross-platform support, Sony’s WH-1000XM6 continues to be the best all-rounder. But if you’re a committed Apple user who values seamless integration and Spatial Audio, the AirPods Max still makes a strong case—just at a premium.