Sony WF-1000XM4 vs Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II
By Linus Tan
Updated Aug 2023
Both the Sony WF-1000XM4 and the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II offer impressive sound quality, with the former boasting immersive audio and the latter providing clear, balanced sound.
In this review, we compare the Sony WF-1000XM4 vs Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II on price, design, and sound performance to determine the best wireless earbuds for you.
On our list
#1 Price
#2 Design & Specs
#3 Sound & Performance
Sony WF-1000XM4
✓ Exceptional sound quality
✓ Powerful active noise cancellation
✓ Up to 8 hours of battery life
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II
✓ All-new CustomTune technology
✓ Bluetooth 5.3 capabilities
✓ Up to 6 hours of battery life
#1 Price
Sony WF-1000XM4 vs Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II
Price is an important factor to consider when choosing between the Sony WF-1000XM4 and the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II. While both earbuds offer high-quality sound and advanced features, there is a slight difference in their price points.
At the time of writing, the Sony WF-1000XM4 is priced at around US$279, making it a more affordable option compared to the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II which are priced at around US$299. However, it's worth noting that the difference in price between the two earbuds is relatively small, and we feel price would be less of a deciding factor between the two models.
#2 Design & Specs
Sony WF-1000XM4 vs Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II
When it comes to design, both the Sony WF-1000XM4 and the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II have a sleek and modern look. The Sony earbuds come in black or silver, while the Bose earbuds are available in black or white. Both earbuds have an IPX4 water resistance rating, making them sweat and splash-proof.
In terms of specs, the Sony WF-1000XM4 has a 6mm driver unit and supports SBC, AAC, & LDAC audio coding technology for higher-quality streaming. On the other hand, the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II has a slightly larger 9.3mm driver unit and supports SBC & AAC audio coding technology.
When it comes to connectivity, the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II outperforms the Sony WF-1000XM4 thanks to its use of Bluetooth 5.3 technology. This allows for stable connections and minimal latency, whereas the Sony earbuds rely on Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity which may not be as reliable.
Both earbuds are equipped with touch controls for easy operation. However, the Sony WF-1000XM4 has more customisable touch controls than the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II. You can adjust what each tap and hold gesture does through the companion app.
In terms of battery life, the Sony WF-1000XM4 stands out with its 8 hours of battery life and a compact charging case that can provide an additional 3 full charges for a total of 32 hours. On the other hand, the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II offer up to 6 hours of battery life and also provides 3 extra charges with its case but for a total of 24 hours.
The charging cases for both earbuds are compact and easy to carry around. The Sony WF-1000XM4's case is slightly smaller than the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II's case, but both cases offer USB-C charging and wireless charging capabilities.
#3 Sound & Performance
Sony WF-1000XM4 vs Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II
When it comes to sound quality and performance, both the Sony WF-1000XM4 and the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II deliver exceptional results. The Sony earbuds have a bass-heavy sound profile that is well-suited for electronic, hip-hop, and pop music genres. The mids and highs are also well-balanced, ensuring that vocals and instrumentals come through clearly.
On the other hand, the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II provide a more balanced sound signature with clear mids and highs. The bass is not as prominent as on the Sony earbuds but still delivers solid low-end frequencies.
When it comes to noise cancellation, both the Sony WF-1000XM4 and the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II excel. However, the Sony earbuds have a slight edge in this area. The WF-1000XM4's new V1 processor is designed to deliver industry-leading noise cancellation. In addition, Sony's earbuds come with an updated algorithm that helps reduce wind noise and other environmental sounds.
On the other hand, Bose's QuietComfort Earbuds II offer excellent noise-cancelling performance as well. They use a combination of active and passive noise cancellation technology to block out unwanted sounds. Furthermore, they come with a transparency mode that allows you to hear your surroundings when needed.
Overall, both the Sony WF-1000XM4 and the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II offer impressive sound quality and performance that will satisfy even the most discerning audiophile. It ultimately comes down to personal preference when deciding between these two options based on your preferred music genres or listening habits.
Compare Sony WF-1000XM4 vs Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II
Verdict
Sony WF-1000XM4 vs Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II
Overall, both the Sony WF-1000XM4 and Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II are great options for anyone looking for high-quality wireless earbuds with excellent noise-cancelling capabilities. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and which features are most important to you.
If you're looking for a more affordable option with exceptional sound quality and noise cancellation, the Sony WF-1000XM4 is a great choice. However, if you prioritise connectivity and prefer a more balanced sound profile, the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II may be the better option.
If you like to read more on wireless earbuds, check out our other relevant guides here:
Best Wireless Earbuds
Apple AirPods Pro (Gen 2) vs Beats Fit Pro
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II vs Bose QuietComfort Earbuds I
Sony WF-1000XM4 vs Sony Linkbuds S
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