Sony WH-1000XM6 vs Sennheiser Momentum 4: The Headphone Face-Off

The wireless headphone market has turned into a battleground of innovation. Sony and Sennheiser stand tall with their premium models — the Sony WH-1000XM6 and the Sennheiser Momentum 4 80th Anniversary Edition. Both offer strong features, stylish design, and advanced sound technology. But the question remains: which headphone should you buy?

Design and Comfort

Sony WH-1000XM6 arrives with a sleek design and a soft-fit vegan leather headband. It feels lightweight and fits snugly, making it comfortable for long listening sessions. The fold-and-swivel mechanism and compact case add everyday convenience.

In contrast, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 80th Anniversary Edition offers a bold artistic design with graffiti-inspired details. It maintains the classic Momentum 4 shape with oval earcups and soft cushioning. At just over 290 grams, it ensures comfort even during extended use.

Both headphones excel in comfort, but Sony focuses on industrial elegance while Sennheiser adds individuality through style.

Controls and App Support

Sony WH-1000XM6 blends tactile buttons with responsive touch controls. The companion app goes further with EQ adjustments, activity tracking, and 360 Spatial Sound Personalizer for an immersive experience.

Sennheiser Momentum 4 Anniversary Edition relies mostly on touch controls. Its Sennheiser Control app provides EQ presets, sound zones, and detailed ANC adjustments. The app is intuitive and essential for tailoring the sound experience.

Both apps enhance personalization, but Sony adds spatial sound features that give it an edge for tech-driven users.

Connectivity Features

Sony WH-1000XM6 supports multipoint connectivity, Swift Pair, and Fast Pair. Switching between devices works seamlessly, making it ideal for multitaskers.

Sennheiser Momentum 4 also offers strong connectivity with Bluetooth 5.2 and codec support for AptX, AptX Adaptive, AAC, and SBC. Its connection manager inside the app makes handling multiple devices smooth.

Both stand out in connectivity, but Sony slightly edges ahead with faster device pairing.

Sound Performance

Sony WH-1000XM6 is known for detail-rich sound. The carbon-fiber composite driver unit delivers clear vocals, defined instruments, and tight bass. LDAC support ensures high-resolution wireless listening, making it ideal for audiophiles.

Sennheiser Momentum 4 focuses on balanced sound. Its Adaptive ANC adjusts automatically to surroundings, while the sound remains rich, natural, and fatigue-free. For long sessions, it gives a smooth and immersive experience.

Both headphones impress, but Sony shines in versatility across music, gaming, and cinema, while Sennheiser leans on clarity and balance.

Call Quality

Sony WH-1000XM6 uses six beamforming microphones with AI optimization. It reduces noise but still falls slightly behind Bose and Sennheiser in clarity.

Sennheiser Momentum 4 Anniversary Edition uses dual microphones with Sidetone adjustment. It performs consistently, even in crowded environments, making it reliable for calls.

For frequent callers, Sennheiser takes the lead.

Battery Life

Battery life becomes the deciding factor for many buyers. Sony WH-1000XM6 offers 30 hours of playback, with quick charging delivering one hour from three minutes of charge.

Sennheiser Momentum 4 Anniversary Edition dominates with up to 60 hours of playback. This makes it more suitable for long trips or heavy users.

On endurance, Sennheiser is the clear winner.

Price and Value

Sony WH-1000XM6 is priced at ₹39,990 in India. It offers premium features, spatial sound personalization, and strong all-round performance.

Sennheiser Momentum 4 80th Anniversary Edition costs ₹26,990. It delivers long battery life, detailed sound, and unique design at a more affordable price.

Both headphones belong to the premium category, but Sennheiser undercuts Sony with aggressive pricing and marathon battery life.

Final Take

The Sony WH-1000XM6 excels in immersive sound, connectivity, and app-driven personalization, making it a feature-packed all-rounder. However, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 80th Anniversary Edition delivers excellent performance, reliable call quality, and industry-leading battery life at a lower price.

For those seeking the most versatile and tech-rich experience, Sony WH-1000XM6 is hard to beat. But if you want an affordable headphone with premium sound and outstanding endurance, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 80th Anniversary Edition offers more value.