Sony WF-1000XM4 Review: Still Worth It? (2025 vs XM5)

A few years ago, the Sony WF-1000XM4 set a new bar for noise-cancelling earbuds. But as battery drain stories piled up and the WF-1000XM5 arrived, many owners are asking: are these still worth it? This review digs into the real-world performance, the firmware fixes, and how they stack up against the newer model.

Battery life (buds): 8 hours ·
Battery life (with case): 24 hours ·
Driver size: 6 mm ·
Water resistance: IPX4

Is the Sony WF-1000XM4 still worth it?

Current pricing and value

As of mid-2025, the WF-1000XM4 still sells for around $279.99 new, according to Laptop Mag. That puts it only $20 below the WF-1000XM5. For that price, you get excellent adaptive noise cancelling and LDAC support — features that still compete well with newer rivals. The catch: battery drain reports have made some buyers cautious.

How long will Sony support WF-1000XM4?

Sony released firmware updates after battery drain complaints, though the company has not disclosed a formal end-of-support date. SoundGuys noted that any battery-drain issues may not affect all units equally. Given that the XM5 is now the flagship, major software updates for the XM4 are unlikely.

Sony WF-1000XM4 vs WF-1000XM5: Which is better?

Four key areas separate the two Sony generations, with one consistent pattern: the XM5 refines nearly every aspect without a radical redesign.

Sources: review site SoundGuys, tech publication Laptop Mag

Design and comfort

The XM5 is 20% smaller and 1.4g lighter per bud, making it more comfortable for long sessions. Both use foam tips, but the XM5’s redesigned shape fits more ears. Major HiFi calls the XM5 “noticeably more comfortable.” The implication: if the XM4’s bulk bothered you, the XM5 is a clear upgrade.

Sound quality comparison

Both support LDAC, DSEE Extreme, and 360 Reality Audio. The XM5 has a larger 8.4mm driver and a more natural sound signature. Major HiFi notes the main difference is the XM5’s refined tuning and personalized EQ.

Noise cancelling performance

SoundGuys measured the XM5 attenuating sub-bass up to 32 dB versus 28 dB for the XM4. Both use adaptive ANC, but the XM5 has a clear edge on deep low frequencies. The catch: the XM4 still delivers top-tier isolation that rivals most 2025 competitors.

Battery life and features

SoundGuys tested the XM5 at 9 hours 32 minutes with ANC on, versus 7 hours 43 minutes for the XM4 — a meaningful gap. The XM5 also charges faster: 3 minutes for 1 hour of playback, compared to 5 minutes for the XM4, per Laptop Mag.

Is it worth upgrading from WF-1000XM4 to WF-1000XM5?

Key upgrades in XM5

• Better call quality with new beamforming microphones
• Longer battery life (9h32m vs 7h43m in SoundGuys testing)
• Smaller, lighter design with improved comfort
• Faster quick charging and Bluetooth 5.3

Sources: SoundGuys, Laptop Mag

Who should upgrade?

If you take frequent calls, need all-day battery, or find the XM4 uncomfortable, the XM5 is a meaningful step up. Laptop Mag highlights the improved quick charge as a daily convenience.

Who should stick with XM4?

If you’re happy with the XM4’s ANC and sound quality and haven’t experienced battery drain, the upgrade is not essential. The XM4 still delivers top-tier noise cancelling and LDAC.

Common issues with Sony WF-1000XM4: battery drain and fixes

Battery drain problem explained

After a 2022 firmware update, some users reported rapid battery drain — one earbud dying much faster than the other. SoundGuys tested their unit and did not observe the issue, suggesting it may be unit-specific or related to certain firmware versions.

How to fix battery drain

• Update to the latest firmware via the Sony Headphones Connect app
• Perform a reset: hold both touch sensors for 20 seconds until the light flashes blue
• Disable “Speak-to-Chat” and “Adaptive Sound Control” to save power
• If drain persists, contact Sony support for possible replacement

Other known issues

Some users report occasional Bluetooth dropouts, especially in crowded areas. The IPX4 rating means the buds resist sweat but are not fully waterproof. Laptop Mag lists both models as having IPX4 protection.

Sony WF-1000XM4: Key features and specifications

Noise cancelling performance

The WF-1000XM4 uses the V1 processor to deliver adaptive ANC that adjusts to your environment. SoundGuys measured sub-bass attenuation at 28 dB, nearly matching the XM5.

Sound quality

LDAC support allows high-resolution wireless audio. The 6mm driver with DSEE Extreme upscaling delivers a warm, detailed sound. Major HiFi describes the XM4’s presentation as “confident and nonchalant.”

Battery and charging

Rated at 8 hours with ANC on (24 hours with case), the actual test by SoundGuys showed 7h43m. The case supports Qi wireless charging. Quick charge gives 60 minutes from 5 minutes.

Water resistance and fit

IPX4 means protection from splashes and sweat — fine for workouts, but not submersion. The foam eartips help with passive isolation but can be bulky for small ears.

What’s clear and what’s not

Expert perspectives

The WF-1000XM4 has a confident, nonchalant way with music that makes the XM5 feel more analytical in comparison.

— Major HiFi (Major HiFi)

The WF-1000XM5 offers better noise cancellation than the XM4, with sub-bass attenuation up to 32 dB compared to 28 dB.

— SoundGuys (SoundGuys)

The Sony WF-1000XM4 is a case study in how quickly flagship tech can feel like a gamble. Its ANC and LDAC remain best-in-class, but the battery drain controversy and the arrival of the refined XM5 have shifted the calculus. For owners in Ireland or the UK who are happy with battery life, there’s no rush to upgrade. For anyone buying new, the XM5’s extra reliability and better call quality make the small price jump worthwhile — or risk the XM4’s quirks for a slight discount.

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