Over-Ear
ASTRO Gaming A40 Gen 4
72Good
$249
Full review dataASTRO Gaming A40 Gen 4 vs Sony WH-1000XM4: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the Sony WH-1000XM4 comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 88. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Our pick: Sony WH-1000XM4 - Outstanding overall at around $300.
Over-Ear
Sony WH-1000XM4
88Outstanding
$300
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
ASTRO Gaming A40 Gen 4
Sound7.5
Calls6.0
Value6.5
Sony WH-1000XM4
Sound9.0
Noise cancelling9.0
Battery8.0
Calls8.0
Value8.0
Specifications
| Spec | ASTRO Gaming A40 Gen 4 | Sony WH-1000XM4 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Price (USD) | $249 | $300 |
| HearWiki score | 72 / 100 · Good | 88 / 100 · Outstanding |
| Released | 2019 | 2020 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | Dynamic | dynamic |
| Driver size | 40 mm | 40 mm |
| Drivers per side | 2 | 2 |
| Frequency response | 20Hz-20kHz | 4 Hz - 40,000 Hz |
| Impedance | 48 Ω | 16 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 104 dB/mW | 105 dB/mW |
| Wireless | ||
| Bluetooth | none | 5 |
| Bluetooth version | - | 5.0 |
| Codecs | - | SBC, AAC, LDAC |
| Multipoint pairing | No | Yes |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | - | 38 h |
| Battery life (ANC on) | - | 30 h |
| Full charge time | - | 180 min |
| Quick charge | - | 10 min = 5 h |
| Wireless charging | - | No |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | No | Yes |
| ANC type | none | adaptive |
| Transparency mode | No | Yes |
| Companion app | No | Yes |
| Custom EQ | No | Yes |
| Wear detection | No | Yes |
| Controls | buttons | touch |
| Voice assistant | none | Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 369 g | 254 g |
| Water resistance | - | none |
| Foldable | No | - |
| Detachable cable | Yes | - |
| USB-C | No | Yes |
| Calls | ||
| Microphones | 1 | 2 |
| Call noise reduction | noise cancelling | - |
| Microphone | Yes | - |
What reviewers said
ASTRO Gaming A40 Gen 4
The ASTRO Gaming A40 Gen 4 is a wired, open-back style gaming headset that pairs with the optional MixAmp Pro TR to deliver clean, flat audio and virtual surround processing. It's built for serious console and PC players who prioritize precise sound staging and streaming-friendly connectivity over portability or wireless freedom. The package feels premium, though its price and lack of modern conveniences like Bluetooth or EQ control may limit its appeal to a niche audience. Pros and cons are listed below.
- Pro:Very clean, neutral audio response when paired with the MixAmp
- Pro:Excellent build quality and durable materials
- Pro:Strong Dolby Digital surround processing for gaming immersion
- Con:No wireless, Bluetooth, or ANC options at a high price
- Con:Requires the separate MixAmp for full functionality
- Con:Heavy design may not suit all users
Sony WH-1000XM4
The Sony WH-1000XM4 are premium wireless over-ears that blend top-tier adaptive noise cancellation with a well-balanced, detailed sound signature. They offer a lengthy 30-hour battery, LDAC support, and a comfortable, lightweight build that still holds up well against newer competitors. With handy features like multipoint pairing, touch controls, and a quick charge function, they remain a versatile choice for daily use and travel.
- Pro:Excellent adaptive noise cancellation
- Pro:Detailed, accurate audio with LDAC support
- Pro:Comfortable and lightweight for long sessions
- Con:No dedicated aptX codec support
- Con:Touch controls can be finicky for some users
- Con:Plastic build feels less premium than price suggests
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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