Sennheiser Momentum 4 vs. Sony WH-1000XM6 Headphones: Reviewed

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Despite 80 years of being in audio In the consumer headphone space, Sennheiser has gone somewhat under the radar, at least compared to giants like Sony. Bose, Appleand Bits. But this headphones deliver the high-tech features, all-day comfort and superior sound quality you expect from flagship headphones, often at a fraction of the price.

Sennheiser's Momentum 4 is the brand's most popular in-ear headphones. They have the same controls and features as Sony's latest flagship headphones – WH-1000XM6. But how is Momentum 4 different from XM6? We tested both headphones and evaluated the design. sound quality, noise reductionand more to see how they compare.

Design and construction

Both earbuds have a minimalist plastic design. The Momentum 4 headphones have a fairly anonymous design with minimal branding on the headband. Sony headphones have a distinctive, bulky appearance, and the Sony logo is printed on the hinges of the earcups. Both headphones will likely appeal to minimalists who might be put off by the more overt branding of brands like Bose, Bowers & Wilkins, and Beats.

Both headphones have foldable earcups, but the Momentum 4 earcups don't rotate, unlike the XM6. This means the Momentum 4's body is slightly larger and bulkier. The Momentum 4 headphones also feel heavier than the XM6, although the Momentum 4 has a softer headband and ear cups to compensate for the extra bulk. Comfort is subjective, but I might give the Sennheiser a preference for its deeper, softer ear cups.

The Momentum 4 case comes with a charging cable, an audio cable, and a two-pin airplane adapter, which is a convenient extra.

Features and Controls

The XM6 and Momentum 4 headphones have similar features; both use touch controls on the right earbud. Swiping up and down increases and decreases volume, skips forward and backward, and tapping controls playback. The Sennheiser headphones also feature a two-finger dial that adjusts the level of noise-canceling transparency. This works, but is somewhat difficult to use without accidentally prompting another command.

Like Apple's AirPods Max, the Momentum 4 headphones have a magnet in the case that automatically turns off the headphones. This means that when you put the headphones on, they automatically turn on and connect. At the same time, Sony headphones use a traditional power button.

Sennheiser headphones use the Smart Control+ app, while Sony headphones use the Sound Connect app. Both have plenty of features, including the ability to adjust noise cancellation, EQ, and customize controls, although the Sennheiser app is more basic.

Sound quality and noise reduction

Both headphones provide excellent sound quality—both have a more natural sound profile rather than over-emphasizing the bass. Both feature exquisite clarity and detail, as well as stereo imaging for an immersive listening experience.

And if you don't immediately like the sound, both headphones have extensive equalizer options in the app. In terms of clean sound, a slight edge must be given to the Sennheiser for its detailed yet neutral sound.

Where the Sony has an advantage is in noise cancellation. The Sennheiser Momentum 4 headphones do an excellent job of this, effectively dealing with a variety of everyday noises and distractions. But the Sony XM6 headphones are at the top of the charts when it comes to noise cancellation. If ANC is your top priority, then you'll likely choose the Sony.

The Sennheiser Momentum 4 headphones have an advantage in battery life – up to 60 hours compared to the Sony's 30 hours. If you regularly forget to charge your headphones, you may prefer the Momentum 4's longer battery life.

Verdict

Both headphones offer top-tier features, with the Sennheiser taking the lead in battery life, a more user-friendly app, and slightly improved sound. Sony leads the way with its lightweight design, smaller carrying case, and top-notch ANC. If you often find yourself on noisy trains and commutes, and ANC is a top priority, then Sony's headphones are probably the way to go.

If sound quality is more important—and you can live with occasional voice sounds or distractions—then Sennheiser's excellent headphones may be a better buy, especially given their often-on-sale price.

Overall, both headphones are outstanding options in the crowded noise-cancelling headphone market.