Review: Sony WH-1000XM4 – The Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Airplane Travel 2024

Introduction

Released in 2020, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones have quickly become a favorite among travelers seeking the best noise cancelling headphones for airplane travel. These headphones are designed to provide an exceptional audio experience, making long flights more enjoyable. With features like industry-leading noise cancellation, a customizable app, and a comfortable design, they’re not only the best noise cancelling headphones for airplane use but also among the best travel headphones available.

Design and Quality

Design Specifics

The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones feature a sleek and modern design that combines style with functionality. The ear cups are cushioned and fit snugly, providing comfort during long flights. Their foldable design and included carrying case make them easy to pack and protect, ensuring they’re ready whenever you need them.

Water Resistance Rating

While these headphones excel in many areas, they do not have a water resistance rating. This means they’re not ideal for use in wet conditions, but for airplane travel, this is rarely a concern.

Key Features and Functionality

App Features and Customization

The Sony Headphones Connect app offers a range of customization options, perfect for frequent flyers. You can adjust the EQ settings to suit your preferences, update the firmware, and personalize the noise cancellation settings based on your environment, making them the best noise cancelling headphones for airplane settings and among the best travel headphones for personalizing your audio experience.

Wireless Charging

The WH-1000XM4 doesn’t support wireless charging, but it does offer quick charging capabilities via USB-C. A 10-minute charge provides up to 5 hours of playback, ensuring your headphones are ready for even the longest flights.

Codec Support

These headphones support various codecs, including LDAC, which allows for high-resolution audio streaming over Bluetooth. This ensures you get the best sound quality possible, making your in-flight entertainment experience second to none.

Battery Life with ANC

Battery life is a strong suit of the WH-1000XM4, with up to 30 hours of playback time even with active noise cancellation (ANC) turned on. This makes them perfect for long-haul flights, as you won’t need to worry about recharging mid-air.

Sound Signature and EQ

The sound signature is well-balanced, providing clear highs, rich mids, and satisfying bass. The customizable EQ settings allow you to tweak the sound to your liking, ensuring your music or movies sound just right as you soar above the clouds.

Noise Cancellation Performance

The noise cancellation on these headphones is truly exceptional, making them the best noise cancelling headphones for airplane travel. The Dual Noise Sensor technology effectively blocks out ambient noise, allowing you to enjoy your audio without distractions, even in the loudest airplane cabins. This feature also contributes to their reputation as the best travel headphones for those seeking peace and quiet on the go.

Microphone Performance

The WH-1000XM4 features beamforming microphones with AI noise reduction, providing superior call quality. This ensures your voice is heard clearly, whether you’re making a call from the airport lounge or mid-flight.

Ambient Sound Mode

The ambient sound mode is a handy feature that lets you stay aware of your surroundings without taking off the headphones. This is particularly useful during announcements or when interacting with flight attendants.

Comparison with Similar Products

When compared to other high-end headphones like the Bose 700 or the Microsoft Surface Headphones 2, the Sony WH-1000XM4 stands out as the best noise cancelling headphones for airplane travel. While the Bose 700 offers excellent call quality, the WH-1000XM4 provides a more customizable listening experience with its app features and superior noise cancellation, making them among the best travel headphones overall.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional noise cancellation with adaptive sound control
• Long battery life with quick charging
• High-quality sound with customizable EQ
• Comfortable design for extended wear
• Superior call quality with beamforming microphones

Cons

• No water resistance, limiting use in wet conditions
• No wireless charging capability
• Occasional connectivity issues when switching devices

Why This Product is Better

The Sony WH-1000XM4 excels as the best noise cancelling headphones for airplane travel due to its combination of industry-leading noise cancellation, high-quality sound, and extensive customization options. These features make it a top choice for anyone serious about their audio experience in-flight and solidify its status as one of the best travel headphones.

User Experiences and Testimonials

Users rave about the comfort and sound quality of the WH-1000XM4, particularly highlighting its effectiveness as the best noise cancelling headphones for airplane use. Many appreciate the noise cancellation, noting how it transforms noisy flights into peaceful listening experiences. However, some users mention minor issues with device connectivity. Overall, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with many considering these headphones the best in their class for travel.

Tips and Tricks

• Utilize the app to customize your sound settings and update firmware regularly.
• Experiment with the adaptive sound control to find the best noise cancellation settings for different environments.
• Take advantage of quick charging for a fast battery boost when you’re in a hurry.

FAQ

Q: Are the WH-1000XM4 good for airplane travel?

A: Absolutely! They’re considered the best noise cancelling headphones for airplane travel due to their exceptional noise cancellation and long battery life.

Q: Do they support wireless charging?

A: No, but they do offer quick charging via USB-C.

Q: How is the call quality?

A: Call quality is generally good, thanks to the beamforming microphones, though some users find it less than ideal for video calls.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are the best noise cancelling headphones for airplane travel, offering premium sound quality and noise cancellation. While they have a few drawbacks, such as the lack of water resistance and wireless charging, their overall performance and features make them a worthwhile investment. If you’re a frequent flyer or someone who values a customizable audio experience, these headphones are definitely worth considering as the best travel headphones for your needs.