Sony WH‑1000XM6 is the latest in Sony’s flagship line of noise‑cancelling headphones, while AirPods Max (with USB-C) continues to represent Apple’s premium over‑ear offering. Both are aimed at users seeking advanced features, strong connectivity, and top-tier audio. While we are currently in the process of reviewing the XM6, this comparison will solely focus on the differences in their specifications to provide a general view of what each model offers.
SurveyDesign and build
The WH‑1000XM6 weighs approximately 254 g, featuring a wider and cushioned headband, a foldable hinge with swivelling earcups. Its foldable and asymmetrical design aids in portability and clear orientation.
In comparison, the AirPods Max is heavier at 384.8 g and uses a breathable knit mesh canopy on the top, extendable aluminium headband arms, and memory foam ear cushions. The canopy is light but doesn’t offer noticeable comfort over the metallic but cushioned headband of the XM6.
Both headphones charge via USB‑C and have touch gestures and controls/buttons on the earcups. Sony’s headphone has a 3.5mm jack, and the 1.5m aux is bundled in the box.
If you want a lighter headphone, go with the Sony pair and although looks can be subjective, Apple’s industrial design and metallic build may appear more premium to some.
Audio
Sony’s headphones use 30 mm dynamic drivers with a carbon‑fibre composite dome, and support SBC, AAC, LDAC, and LC3 codecs. The XM6 also supports 360 Reality Audio for immersive sound.
AirPods Max uses a 40mm Apple‑designed dynamic drivers with dual neodymium ring magnets. Spatial Audio with head tracking is supported. The headphones use AAC codec over Bluetooth for a good balance between audio quality and efficiency. And in the updated model, you can get lossless playback through the USB‑C port.
While a larger driver could offer more headroom for air movement, allowing for stronger bass response, the XM6’s dome structure could aid it in performing better across a wider frequency range, including the lower end. XM6 also supports higher resolution codecs like LDAC.
Also Read: Sony ULT Tower 9, ULT Field 5, ULT Mic 1 and more launched in India: price, features, availability
Noise cancellation
The WH‑1000XM6 relies on the QN3 processor and a 12‑microphone array for active noise cancellation and adaptive sound control. It also offers ambient and transparency modes. It also offers scene-based listening that automatically switches between Ambient and ANC modes.
AirPods Max employs six outward‑facing and two inward‑facing microphones, alongside computational audio via Apple’s H1/H2 chips for active noise cancellation and a dedicated transparency mode.
Battery life
Sony quotes up to 30 hours of playback with Bluetooth and ANC enabled. And with ANC off, you can expect up to 40 hours. Meanwhile, Apple lists up to 20 hours of listening time with ANC and Spatial Audio on.
For charging, Apple states that a five‑minute charge on the AirPods Max delivers about 1.5 hours of playback. In comparison, the Sony WH-1000XM6 can provide up to 3 hours of playback from just a three‑minute charge when using an optional USB‑PD compatible AC adapter. The XM6 offers a faster top‑up speed, giving more playback per minute of charging.
Connectivity
The WH‑1000XM6 supports Bluetooth 5.3, multipoint connectivity, 3.5 mm wired input, and Auracast/LE Audio for future-ready streaming. The XM6 doesn’t feature USB-C listening, though.
AirPods Max, on the other hand, uses Bluetooth 5.0, automatic switching across Apple devices, on-head detection, and Find My integration. Apple has given lossless audio through USB-C on the latest model.
Software smarts and compatibility
| Aspect | Sony WH-1000XM6 | Apple AirPods Max |
| Voice Assistants | Compatible with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Siri | Siri integration via Digital Crown |
| App | Sony Sound Connect app for EQ settings and firmware updates | No dedicated app; settings managed via device OS settings |
| Device compatability | Android, iOS, iPadOS, Windows, macOS | Device compatibility |
| Other features | Cinema Mode for spatial audio, but needs setup; LE Audio support (LC3 codec), Adaptive Sound Control adjusts noise cancellation by activity/location | Ultra-low latency for music and gaming; supports 24-bit lossless via USB-C, Personalised Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking runs out of the box |
Pricing
The AirPods Max is listed at Rs 59,900 in India. Sony’s WH‑1000XM6 pricing in India is fairly cheaper at Rs 39,990.
Closing line
Both the WH‑1000XM6 and AirPods Max target the premium over‑ear headphone segment with advanced audio, active noise cancellation, and smart features. The XM6 offers longer battery life, faster charging, broader codec support, and versatile device compatibility, while the AirPods Max focuses on ecosystem integration, lossless audio via USB‑C, and seamless feature-rich controls for Apple devices. That price difference could also sway your purchasing decision.
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G. S. Vasan
G.S. Vasan is the chief copy editor at Digit, where he leads coverage of TVs and audio. His work spans reviews, news, features, and maintaining key content pages. Before joining Digit, he worked with publications like Smartprix and 91mobiles, bringing over six years of experience in tech journalism. His articles reflect both his expertise and passion for technology. View Full Profile
