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Audio-Technica M60x 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 6 of 7 measures.

  • Audio-Technica M60x
  • Sony WH-1000XM6
HearWiki score
58
89
Sound
7.0
9.0
Noise cancelling
-
9.6
Battery
-
8.1
Calls
-
9.6
Value
4.6
8.2
Price (USD)
$240
$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?

Half a step newer

Sony WH-1000XM6 (2025) against Audio-Technica M60x (2014). The Sony WH-1000XM6 edges ahead on platform, but only just: ANC type Adaptive against None. It also adds USB-C.

  • M60x2014
  • WH-1000XM6202511 yr newer
What differsM60xWH-1000XM6

Platform

ANC type
None
Adaptive

Everyday features

USB-C
No
Yes

Specifications

M60xWH-1000XM6
Type
Over-Ear
Over-Ear
Price (USD)
$240
$400
HearWiki score
58
89
Released
2014
2025
Availability
Still sold new
Sold new
Driver
45 mm dynamic
30 mm dynamic
Driver type
dynamic
dynamic
Driver size
45 mm
30 mm
Drivers per side
1
1
Frequency response
15 Hz - 28 kHz
4 Hz - 40 kHz
Impedance
38 Ω
48 Ω
Sensitivity
102 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
No
Yes
ANC type
-
adaptive
Transparency mode
-
Yes
Companion app
-
Yes
Custom EQ
-
Yes
Wear detection
-
Yes
Controls
-
buttons
Voice assistant
-
Yes
Weight
200 g
254 g
Water resistance
-
none
Foldable
Yes
-
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
No
Yes
Connector
-
3.5 mm
Microphones
-
12
Microphone type
-
MEMS

What reviewers said

Audio-Technica M60x

The Audio-Technica M60x is a closed-back, on-ear headphone that prioritizes accurate, detailed sound for studio and critical listening tasks. Its lightweight, foldable frame and low-impedance drivers make it easy to drive from standard devices, while the detachable cable system adds practical flexibility. It offers a portable alternative to the larger M50x without sacrificing the M-series' signature clarity.

  • Pro:Accurate and detailed sound signature for critical listening
  • Pro:Lightweight and foldable design for easy transport
  • Pro:Easy to drive from phones, laptops, and audio interfaces
  • Con:On-ear design may not suit all ear sizes or preferences
  • Con:No active noise cancellation or wireless support
  • Con:Bass response may be less impactful than some competitors

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 comparisonAudio-Technica M60xSony WH-1000XM6