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Austrian Audio Hi-X65 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.

  • Austrian Audio Hi-X65
  • Sony WH-1000XM6
HearWiki score
74
89
Sound
8.0
9.0
Noise cancelling
-
9.6
Battery
-
8.1
Calls
-
9.6
Value
6.1
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?

Half a step newer

Sony WH-1000XM6 (2025) against Austrian Audio Hi-X65 (2021). The Sony WH-1000XM6 edges ahead on platform, but only just: ANC type Adaptive against None. It also adds Multipoint pairing, USB-C, Wear detection and Transparency mode.

  • Hi-X652021
  • WH-1000XM620254 yr newer
What differsHi-X65WH-1000XM6

Platform

ANC type
None
Adaptive

Everyday features

Multipoint pairing
No
Yes
USB-C
No
Yes
Wear detection
No
Yes
Transparency mode
No
Yes
Custom EQ
No
Yes
Companion app
No
Yes

Specifications

Hi-X65WH-1000XM6
Type
Over-Ear
Over-Ear
Price (USD)
$500
$400
HearWiki score
74
89
Released
2021
2025
Availability
Still sold new
Sold new
Driver
44 mm dynamic
30 mm dynamic
Driver type
dynamic
dynamic
Driver size
44 mm
30 mm
Drivers per side
1
1
Frequency response
5 Hz - 28 kHz
4 Hz - 40 kHz
Impedance
25 Ω
48 Ω
Sensitivity
-
103 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)
110
-
Bluetooth
-
5.3
Codecs
-
SBC, AAC, LC3, LDAC
Multipoint pairing
No
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
No
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
none
buttons
Voice assistant
No
Yes
Weight
310 g
254 g
Water resistance
none
none
Foldable
No
-
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
No
Yes
Pad material
leatherette
-
Connector
3.5 mm
3.5 mm
Microphones
-
12
Microphone type
-
MEMS
Call noise reduction
No
-

What reviewers said

Austrian Audio Hi-X65

The Austrian Audio Hi-X65 is a wired, open-back over-ear headphone built for studio work and critical listening. It combines a lightweight 310g frame with a 44mm dynamic driver to deliver a balanced, detailed sound with low distortion. While it lacks wireless features and controls, its clarity and comfort make it a strong choice for mixing and analytical use at its price point.

  • Pro:Balanced and detailed sound signature
  • Pro:Excellent distortion control for critical listening
  • Pro:Lightweight and comfortable for long sessions
  • Con:No wireless, ANC, or app support
  • Con:Lacks in-line controls or remote
  • Con:Open-back design leaks sound and offers no isolation

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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