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Meze 99 Classics 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.

  • Meze 99 Classics
  • Sony WH-1000XM6
HearWiki score
64
89
Sound
7.3
9.0
Noise cancelling
-
9.6
Battery
-
8.1
Calls
-
9.6
Value
7.2
8.2
Price (USD)
$350
$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?

New platform

Sony WH-1000XM6 (2025) against Meze 99 Classics (2015). The Sony WH-1000XM6 is the newer platform here: Top codec LC3 against SBC, LE Audio (LC3) and ANC type Adaptive against None. It also adds Multipoint pairing and USB-C.

  • 99 Classics2015
  • WH-1000XM6202510 yr newer
What differs99 ClassicsWH-1000XM6

Platform

Top codec
SBC
LC3
LE Audio (LC3)
No
Yes
ANC type
None
Adaptive

Everyday features

Multipoint pairing
No
Yes
USB-C
No
Yes

Specifications

99 ClassicsWH-1000XM6
Type
Over-Ear
Over-Ear
Price (USD)
$350
$400
HearWiki score
64
89
Released
2015
2025
Availability
Still sold new
Sold new
Driver
40 mm dynamic
30 mm dynamic
Driver type
dynamic
dynamic
Driver size
40 mm
30 mm
Drivers per side
1
1
Frequency response
15 Hz - 25 kHz
4 Hz - 40 kHz
Impedance
32 Ω
48 Ω
Sensitivity
103 dB/mW
103 dB/mW
Bluetooth
-
5.3
Codecs
SBC
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
-
adaptive
Transparency mode
-
Yes
Companion app
-
Yes
Custom EQ
-
Yes
Wear detection
-
Yes
Controls
buttons
buttons
Voice assistant
No
Yes
Weight
260 g
254 g
Water resistance
none
none
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
No
Yes
Connector
3.5 mm
3.5 mm
Balanced connection
Yes
-
Microphones
1
12
Microphone type
-
MEMS

What reviewers said

Meze 99 Classics

The Meze 99 Classics are a wired, closed-back over-ear headphone that blends a striking walnut and metal design with a warm, engaging sound signature. Their 32-ohm impedance makes them easy to drive from most devices, while the detachable cable and included mic-equipped option add everyday practicality. For listeners seeking a stylish, comfortable pair with a fun, bass-forward character rather than analytical neutrality, these deliver strong value.

  • Pro:Beautiful craftsmanship with walnut and metal build
  • Pro:Warm, lively sound with punchy bass and crisp highs
  • Pro:Comfortable fit for extended listening sessions
  • Con:Mid-bass can become excessive for some tastes
  • Con:Limited feature set given the price, lacking Bluetooth and ANC
  • Con:Bulky shape may not suit all users

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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