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Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro 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.

  • Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro
  • Sony WH-1000XM6
HearWiki score
69
89
Sound
7.5
9.0
Noise cancelling
-
9.6
Battery
-
8.1
Calls
-
9.6
Value
8.0
8.2
Price (USD)
$200
$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 Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro (2015). The Sony WH-1000XM6 edges ahead on platform, but only just: ANC type Adaptive against None. It also adds USB-C, Wear detection, Transparency mode and Custom EQ.

  • DT 990 Pro2015
  • WH-1000XM6202510 yr newer
What differsDT 990 ProWH-1000XM6

Platform

ANC type
None
Adaptive

Everyday features

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

Specifications

DT 990 ProWH-1000XM6
Type
Over-Ear
Over-Ear
Price (USD)
$200
$400
HearWiki score
69
89
Released
2015
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
-
4 Hz - 40 kHz
Impedance
80 Ω
48 Ω
Sensitivity
-
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
none
adaptive
Transparency mode
No
Yes
Companion app
No
Yes
Custom EQ
No
Yes
Wear detection
No
Yes
Controls
buttons
buttons
Voice assistant
-
Yes
Weight
250 g
254 g
Water resistance
none
none
Foldable
No
-
Detachable cable
No
Yes
USB-C
No
Yes
Connector
6.35 mm
3.5 mm
Model code
459038
-
Microphones
-
12
Microphone type
-
MEMS

What reviewers said

Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro

The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is a wired, open-back over-ear headphone designed for accurate audio reproduction in studio settings. It features a lightweight build and comfortable fit, though its high impedance requires a dedicated amplifier for optimal performance. With a detailed, open sound signature and durable construction, it's a solid choice for critical listening at home or in the studio.

  • Pro:Accurate and detailed sound reproduction
  • Pro:Very low distortion across the frequency range
  • Pro:Comfortable for long listening sessions
  • Con:Requires an external amplifier due to high impedance
  • Con:Non-detachable cable limits repairability
  • Con:No active noise cancellation or 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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New comparisonBeyerdynamic DT 990 ProSony WH-1000XM6