Beats Studio Pro vs Sony Wh-1000xm4: Which Should You Buy?
Tired of tangled wires and subpar sound? You’re in the right place. We’re diving headfirst into a battle of the titans: the Beats Studio Pro versus the Sony WH-1000XM4. These two headphones are top contenders in the noise-canceling, over-ear category, promising immersive audio experiences.
Both the Beats Studio Pro and the Sony WH-1000XM4 have earned their stripes as favorites among audiophiles and casual listeners alike. But which one reigns supreme? This comparison will break down everything you need to know, from sound quality and comfort to features and value for money.
Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a podcast aficionado, or a frequent traveler, finding the perfect pair of headphones is crucial. Get ready to discover which headphones will best suit your needs and preferences as we pit the Beats Studio Pro against the Sony WH-1000XM4.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | beats studio pro | sony wh 1000xm4 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) | Yes | Yes |
| Transparency Mode | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.3 | 5.0 |
| Codec Support | AAC, SBC, Lossless Audio (Apple) | AAC, SBC, aptX, aptX HD |
| Driver Size | 40mm | 40mm |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | None |
| Charging Port | USB-C | USB-C |
| Built-in Microphone | Yes | Yes |
| Multipoint Pairing | Yes | Yes |
| Wear Detection | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 270g | 254g |
| Fast Charging | Yes (5 mins charge = 4 hours playback) | Yes (10 mins charge = 5 hours playback) |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design & Comfort
- Beats Studio Pro: Over-ear design with a focus on a modern aesthetic. Features plush earcups and a lightweight build for improved comfort. Some users may find the clamping force a bit tight.
- Sony Wh 1000xm4: Over-ear headphones known for their comfortable design, utilizing soft earcups and a pressure-relieving headband. Known for their all-day comfort, but may feel bulky for some.
- Winner: Sony
Sound Quality
- Beats Studio Pro: Delivers a balanced sound profile with a focus on clarity and detail. Features custom acoustic platform for a wide soundstage. Bass can be punchy but may overpower some tracks.
- Sony Wh 1000xm4: Produces a rich and balanced sound signature with strong bass and clear highs. Offers customizable EQ settings via the Sony Headphones Connect app. Some may find the bass slightly overpowering.
- Winner: Tie
Noise Cancellation
- Beats Studio Pro: Boasts impressive noise cancellation, effectively blocking out ambient sounds. Provides a good level of isolation for both music and calls. Performance is very good but not the best.
- Sony Wh 1000xm4: Renowned for its industry-leading noise cancellation, excelling at blocking out a wide range of frequencies. Provides excellent isolation in various environments. The benchmark for ANC.
- Winner: Sony
Microphone Quality
- Beats Studio Pro: Features built-in microphones for clear voice pickup during calls. Designed for good voice clarity in various environments. Performance is good, but not exceptional.
- Sony Wh 1000xm4: Equipped with microphones for calls, but some users have reported issues with voice clarity. Call quality is acceptable, but not as clear as some competitors.
- Winner: Beats
Battery Life
- Beats Studio Pro: Offers a long battery life, with up to 24 hours of listening time with ANC on. Fast charging allows for several hours of playback with a short charge. Battery life is impressive.
- Sony Wh 1000xm4: Provides excellent battery life, typically lasting around 30 hours with ANC enabled. Fast charging is also available. Battery life is outstanding.
- Winner: Sony
Connectivity
- Beats Studio Pro: Supports Bluetooth connectivity, and USB-C audio with lossless audio support. Seamless pairing with Apple devices. Provides a stable connection.
- Sony Wh 1000xm4: Primarily Bluetooth connectivity, supporting multiple device pairing. Offers a stable connection. Lacks some of the advanced features of the Beats.
- Winner: Beats
Price
- Beats Studio Pro: Generally positioned at a premium price point, reflecting its features and brand recognition. Price fluctuates based on sales and retailers.
- Sony Wh 1000xm4: Often available at a slightly lower price point, especially considering its age and frequent sales. Price is competitive.
- Winner: Sony
Special Features
- Beats Studio Pro: Features Spatial Audio for immersive listening experiences. Integration with Apple’s ecosystem is a key selling point. Includes a carrying case.
- Sony Wh 1000xm4: Offers features like Speak-to-Chat and adaptive sound control. Supports the Sony Headphones Connect app for customization.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancellation | Sony WH-1000XM4 |
| Sound Quality | Tie |
| Design | beats studio pro |
| Codec Support | sony wh 1000xm4 |
| Ecosystem Integration | beats studio pro |
| Battery Life | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- Active Noise Cancellation: Both the Beats Studio Pro and Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones feature active noise cancellation technology, effectively blocking out ambient sounds for an immersive listening experience. This is a crucial feature for both models, providing a quiet environment in noisy surroundings.
- Transparency Mode: Both headphones include a transparency mode, allowing you to hear your surroundings without removing the headphones. This is useful for conversations or staying aware of your environment.
- Comfort: Both models are designed with comfort in mind, featuring over-ear designs and comfortable earcups, allowing for long listening sessions. They both prioritize a comfortable fit for extended use.
- Built-in Microphone: Both headphones have built-in microphones, enabling hands-free calls and voice assistant support. This allows for convenient communication on the go.
- Multipoint Pairing: Both headphones support multipoint pairing, allowing you to connect to two devices simultaneously. This feature enhances productivity by allowing seamless switching between devices.
- USB-C Charging: Both headphones utilize USB-C for charging, offering a modern and convenient charging solution. This universal port makes it easy to charge the headphones with various devices.
Beats Studio Pro Vs Sony Wh-1000XM4 Buying Guide
Sound Quality for Music Listening
Both the Beats Studio Pro and Sony WH-1000XM4 deliver excellent sound quality, but they cater to slightly different preferences. The Beats Studio Pro tends to emphasize bass, providing a punchy and energetic sound signature that’s ideal for genres like hip-hop and electronic music. The Sony WH-1000XM4 offers a more balanced and refined sound profile, with a wider soundstage and better detail retrieval, suitable for a broader range of musical styles. Consider your preferred music genres and sound signature when making your choice. If you love bass, go for Beats. For balanced sound, consider Sony.
Noise Cancellation Performance
Noise cancellation is a key feature in both headphones. The Sony WH-1000XM4 is renowned for its industry-leading noise cancellation, effectively blocking out a wide range of ambient sounds, making it perfect for travel or noisy environments. The Beats Studio Pro also offers excellent noise cancellation, though it might not quite match the Sony’s performance in extremely loud situations. However, the Beats’ noise cancellation is still very effective for everyday use. Evaluate your typical listening environments to determine your needs.
Comfort and Design
Comfort is crucial for extended listening sessions. The Sony WH-1000XM4 is known for its plush earcups and lightweight design, providing a comfortable fit for most users. The Beats Studio Pro features a more modern and sleek design, with comfortable earcups, but its clamping force might be slightly tighter for some. Consider trying both headphones on to assess their fit and comfort, especially if you plan to wear them for long periods. Also consider the style that suits your personal preference.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is an important consideration for on-the-go use. The Sony WH-1000XM4 boasts impressive battery life, often providing over 30 hours of playback with noise cancellation enabled. The Beats Studio Pro offers a competitive battery life, but it may not quite match the Sony’s endurance. Both headphones offer fast charging capabilities, allowing you to quickly replenish the battery. Assess your typical usage patterns to determine your battery life requirements.
Connectivity and Features
Both headphones offer excellent connectivity options. The Sony WH-1000XM4 supports Bluetooth 5.0 and offers features such as Speak-to-Chat, which automatically pauses music when you start talking. The Beats Studio Pro also supports Bluetooth and includes features like spatial audio, which can create a more immersive listening experience. Consider the features that are most important to you, such as multipoint pairing or voice assistant integration, when making your decision. Consider also the codecs supported.
Price and Value
Price is always a factor when choosing headphones. Both the Beats Studio Pro and Sony WH-1000XM4 are premium headphones, but their prices can fluctuate. Compare prices from different retailers to find the best deal. Evaluate the features, sound quality, and comfort offered by each headphone and consider whether the price aligns with your budget and expectations. Think about what features are critical to you, and how much you are willing to spend.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy beats studio pro If…
- You’re deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem and prioritize seamless integration with Apple devices.
- You value a more balanced sound signature with a focus on clarity.
- You prefer a slightly more stylish and modern design.
- You want the convenience of lossless audio playback on Apple devices.
Buy sony wh 1000xm4 If…
- You prioritize a wider range of codec support, including aptX and aptX HD.
- You want a slightly more customizable and feature-rich experience via a dedicated app.
- You’re looking for a slightly lighter and more compact design.
- You prioritize a longer battery life in some use cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference in sound quality?
The Sony WH-1000XM4 offers a more balanced and refined sound with a wider soundstage, suitable for various music genres. The Beats Studio Pro emphasizes bass, delivering a punchy and energetic sound signature ideal for genres like hip-hop and electronic music. The choice depends on your preferred music styles and sound signature. Consider which sound profile best suits your listening preferences and the music you enjoy most.
Which headphone has better noise cancellation?
The Sony WH-1000XM4 generally has superior noise cancellation, effectively blocking out a wider range of ambient sounds, making it ideal for travel and noisy environments. The Beats Studio Pro also offers excellent noise cancellation, suitable for everyday use. While the Beats excel, the Sony’s advanced noise cancellation technology provides a slight edge in extremely loud situations. Evaluate your typical listening environments.
How does battery life compare?
The Sony WH-1000XM4 usually provides slightly better battery life, often exceeding 30 hours with noise cancellation enabled. The Beats Studio Pro offers a competitive battery life, sufficient for most users. Both headphones offer fast charging. Consider your usage patterns to determine whether the slight difference in battery life is a significant factor for your needs. Both are very good.
Are the headphones comfortable for long listening sessions?
The Sony WH-1000XM4 is known for its plush earcups and lightweight design, providing a comfortable fit for most users. The Beats Studio Pro features comfortable earcups and a modern design. Try both headphones on to assess their fit and comfort, especially if you plan to wear them for long periods. Comfort is subjective, so trying them on is recommended.
What connectivity options do they offer?
Both headphones offer excellent connectivity. The Sony WH-1000XM4 supports Bluetooth 5.0. The Beats Studio Pro also supports Bluetooth and includes features like spatial audio. Consider features like multipoint pairing, voice assistant integration, and codec support. Both offer reliable wireless connections, but specific features may vary. Ensure the features align with your needs.
Which headphone is better for phone calls?
Both headphones offer good call quality, but the Sony WH-1000XM4 often has a slight edge due to its advanced microphone system that excels in noisy environments. The Beats Studio Pro also provides clear call quality, but the Sony may be preferable for frequent calls in challenging conditions. The choice depends on your call environment. Both are suitable for calls.
What is the warranty like for each product?
Both Sony and Beats typically offer a standard one-year limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. The specifics of the warranty, like what is covered and the process for claiming, can vary. It’s best to check the manufacturer’s website or the product packaging for detailed warranty information. Always keep your proof of purchase.
Final Verdict
Both the Beats Studio Pro and Sony WH-1000XM4 are excellent choices, with each excelling in different areas. The Sony WH-1000XM4’s superior noise cancellation and balanced sound make it a versatile option, while the Beats Studio Pro’s bass-heavy sound and sleek design appeal to a different audience. Choose based on your priorities.
Winner: Sony WH-1000XM4