Apple AirPods Pro 3 vs Sony WF-1000XM6
Sony updated its flagship earbuds two months ago, launching the Sony WF-1000XM6 to compete with the Apple AirPods Pro 3, which were released in September of last year. MacRumors has now compared the two earphones in a comprehensive test.
Although the Sony WF-1000XM6 offer a more secure fit and are therefore ideal for fitness activities, the Apple AirPods Pro 3 feature heart rate monitoring and better sweat protection. The XM6 are IPX4 water-resistant, while the AirPods Pro 3 are IP57 dustproof and waterproof. In terms of sound quality, both of these high-end flagship earbuds are among the very best.
Sony WF-1000XM6 with more customization options
Sony offers support for the high-resolution LDAC codec on Android devices for improved sound quality, as well as an app with equalizer adjustment, custom presets, bass and treble controls, and more. Apple does not offer a built-in equalizer, but the AirPods have a balanced sound tuning that many users appreciate.
Those who enjoy experimenting with sound settings will find the Sony earbuds a good choice. However, those who want good sound without any adjustments will be ready to go right away with the Apple AirPods Pro 3.
As with sound quality, both models offer some of the best active noise cancellation available in earbuds. The Sony WF-1000XM6 seem to block out low frequencies like airplane engines and higher frequencies like office noise slightly better, but the difference is minimal. How well the noise cancellation works for each individual depends on the fit of the earbuds and personal preference.
Apple AirPods Pro 3 with improved transparency mode
The Apple AirPods Pro 3 have the edge when it comes to Transparency mode, as the sound transmitted through the microphones sounds more natural. Sony’s version of Transparency mode is decent, but sounds somewhat robotic. The difference is particularly noticeable with voices. The Sony WF-1000XM6 seem to offer better noise isolation during outdoor calls, but the AirPods sound clearer indoors.
The AirPods can also be used as an alternative to over-the-counter hearing aids, unlike the Sony WF-1000XM6. Additionally, they offer spatial audio, real-time live translation, and heart rate monitoring for workouts. Sony’s earbuds feature improved gesture control, 360 Reality Audio, and more software customization options.
The XM6 offer eight hours of playback time with ANC enabled, which is comparable to the battery life of the AirPods Pro 3. While Spatial Audio with head motion detection and heart rate monitoring slightly reduces the AirPods’ battery life, overall it remains nearly identical. The charging case for the Pro 3, like that of the XM6, provides enough power for 24 hours of music playback.
Users of the Apple ecosystem benefit from the Apple AirPods Pro 3 with iCloud-based features such as one-click pairing, automatic device switching wherever you’re signed in with your Apple ID, and support for Apple features like Live Translation. Sony cannot offer comparable integration with Apple devices – in this respect, the Sony headphones clearly have a disadvantage for Apple users.
The XM6 earbuds are connected via the iPhone Bluetooth menu or via the Sony Sound Connect app. This doesn’t work with just one tap, and although Sony now supports simultaneous connection with two devices, it’s still not as convenient as with Apple.
Conclusion
For Apple users, the AirPods Pro 3 are probably the better choice and are also $80/€50 cheaper. The XM6 are the best choice for Android users or anyone who wants to optimize the sound particularly intensively. You should also take a look at our Sony WF-1000XM6 price comparison and our Apple AirPods Pro 3 price comparison – we are now quite a way away from the RRP of $330/€299 and $/€249.
