Sony Somehow Made the World’s Best Wireless Earbuds Even Better with the WF-1000XM6

If Sony never came out with another pair of earbuds again, their WF-1000XM5 would still have a chance at being the best wireless monitors ever. A sleek design, superb sound made better with deep EQ settings, and probably the least-frustrating touch controls we’ve ever seen on a pair of buds, the previous-gen model still seemed like a steal at $300.

But it’s been three years and tech inevitably evolves. As such, we’ve now gotten the follow-up to the XM5, and it’s somehow even better than its predecessor. Although, considering the $30 price increase, you’d be forgiven if you decided to hang onto your old model.

The 1000X Legacy

Sony’s been perfecting noise cancellation since 2017 when the original WF-1000X debuted as the company’s first crack at true wireless ANC earbuds. Each subsequent generation brought meaningful upgrades — the XM3 introduced the dedicated QN1e processor, the XM4 added LDAC support and spatial audio, and the XM5 shrank everything down while maintaining performance.

The XM6 continues this tradition but pushes harder into mid-to-high frequency noise reduction, the stuff you encounter most in daily life like office chatter and street noise. This is where the new buds flex their muscle with a claimed 25% improvement over the XM5.

Four Mics, One Mission

The XM6 uses a next-generation HD Noise Canceling Processor QN3e paired with their Integrated Processor V2 (the same chip powering the WH-1000XM6 over-ears). And this time around, the XM6 packs four microphones per earbud (up from three on the XM5), working in concert with adaptive noise optimization that continuously analyzes your ear shape, fit, and environment.

The QN3e also handles DAC amplification, pushing 32-bit audio processing compared to the XM5’s 24-bit setup. Combined with newly designed drivers featuring soft-edge bass response and rigid-dome high frequencies, these earbuds deliver resolution that punches well above their size class. Simply put, they sound even better than before.

Welcomed Improvements

As amazing as the XM5s were, the one major complaint we had was their fit. Luckily, Sony redesigned the shape to better hug the natural curves of your inner ear, making the XM6 about 11% slimmer than the XM5. They’ve also added a ventilation structure that reduces those annoying internal noises, like your own chewing. The case got a makeover too, opening easier one-handed and making the buds simpler to grab, which the previous-gen also struggled with.

Two finishes are available: Black with a smooth, refined texture, and Platinum Silver with metal flakes and glass beads for a more tactile feel.

Call Me Definitely

Between two AI-powered beamforming mics and a bone conduction sensor on each side, the XM6 supposedly delivers Sony’s best call performance yet. The system isolates your voice even in crowded spaces.

Battery life holds steady at eight hours per charge (non-ANC), 24 hours total with the case. Sony also built in LE Audio support for ultra-low latency, which gamers will appreciate.

Rounding out the specs, you’re also getting the full Sony arsenal: Hi-Res Audio Wireless, DSEE Extreme upscaling, 360 Reality Audio compatibility with head tracking, and a 10-band EQ in the Sound Connect app. There’s Google Gemini integration for hands-free assistance, Qi wireless charging, and improved Bluetooth connectivity thanks to antennas 1.5 times larger than before.

Spec Sheet

Pricing & Availability

The WF-1000XM6 are available now at $330 through Sony’s websit. That’s a $30 bump over the XM5’s launch price, but you’re getting tangible upgrades across the board.

Recap

Sony WF-1000XM6 Wireless Earbuds

Sony’s WF-1000XM6 earbuds deliver 25% better noise cancellation than the already-impressive XM5, thanks to four mics per earbud and upgraded processors that crush mid-to-high frequency noise. They’re now $329.99—a $30 increase that’s justified if you want perhaps the best ANC on the market.

Learn More: Sony