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APOS Caspian vs Sony WH-1000XM6: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Sony WH-1000XM6 comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 89. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Sony WH-1000XM6 - Outstanding overall at around $398.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

Sony WH-1000XM6 leads on 7 of 7 measures.

  • APOS Caspian
  • Sony WH-1000XM6
HearWiki score
64
89
Sound
7.8
9.0
Noise cancelling
-
9.6
Battery
-
8.1
Calls
-
9.6
Value
-
8.2
Price (USD)
$500
$400

Generation & platform

The scores rank quality. This is the other question: is the newer one actually newer technology, or the same platform in a new shell?

Same generation

The Sony WH-1000XM6 is 4 years newer, but it is the same generation of hardware: nothing in the radio, the codecs or the noise cancelling separates them. The platform is level; the newer hardware shows up in convenience features instead - the Sony WH-1000XM6 adds USB-C. For 4 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • Caspian2021
  • WH-1000XM620254 yr newer
What differsCaspianWH-1000XM6

Everyday features

USB-C
No
Yes

Specifications

CaspianWH-1000XM6
Type
Over-Ear
Over-Ear
Price (USD)
$500
$400
HearWiki score
64
89
Released
2021
2025
Availability
Discontinued
Sold new
Driver
50 mm dynamic
30 mm dynamic
Driver type
dynamic
dynamic
Driver size
50 mm
30 mm
Drivers per side
1
1
Frequency response
5 Hz - 45 kHz
4 Hz - 40 kHz
Impedance
33 Ω
48 Ω
Sensitivity
115 dB/mW
103 dB/mW
Bluetooth
-
5.3
Codecs
-
SBC, AAC, LC3, LDAC
Multipoint pairing
-
Yes
Wireless range
-
10 m
Battery life
-
40 h
Battery life (ANC on)
-
30 h
Full charge time
-
210 min
Quick charge
-
3 min → 3 h
Wireless charging
-
No
Active noise cancelling
-
Yes
ANC type
-
adaptive
Transparency mode
-
Yes
Companion app
-
Yes
Custom EQ
-
Yes
Wear detection
-
Yes
Controls
-
buttons
Voice assistant
-
Yes
Weight
378 g
254 g
Water resistance
-
none
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
No
Yes
Pad material
leather
-
Connector
6.35 mm
3.5 mm
Microphones
-
12
Microphone type
-
MEMS

What reviewers said

APOS Caspian

The APOS Caspian is a premium open-back over-ear headphone with a lively, bass-forward signature that prioritizes enjoyment over neutrality. Its 50mm dynamic driver and high sensitivity make it easy to drive from a variety of sources, while the comfortable build and detachable cable support long listening sessions. The tuning delivers strong low-end impact and a non-fatiguing character, though it comes with some compromises in vocal presence and treble sparkle.

  • Pro:Robust and premium build quality
  • Pro:Punchy, well-defined bass response
  • Pro:High sensitivity makes it easy to drive
  • Con:Vocals can sound recessed
  • Con:Limited treble extension
  • Con:Tuning is far from neutral

Sony WH-1000XM6

The Sony WH-1000XM6 is a premium over-ear wireless headphone that combines adaptive active noise cancellation with a long-lasting battery and support for high-quality audio codecs. It features multipoint Bluetooth connectivity and a transparent mode, making it a versatile choice for both focused listening and everyday commutes. With a lightweight build and tactile controls, it balances comfort and functionality for extended use.

  • Pro:Adaptive active noise cancellation for personalized silencing
  • Pro:Multipoint Bluetooth 5.3 for seamless device switching
  • Pro:Transparency mode for ambient awareness when needed
  • Con:No water resistance rating for wet conditions
  • Con:No wireless charging option
  • Con:Relies on physical buttons rather than touch controls

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

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New comparisonAPOS CaspianSony WH-1000XM6