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Sennheiser HD 660s2 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.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

Sennheiser HD 660s2
Sound8.5
Value7.0
Sony WH-1000XM4
Sound9.0
Noise cancelling9.0
Battery8.0
Calls8.0
Value8.0

Specifications

Specification comparison of Sennheiser HD 660s2 vs Sony WH-1000XM4
SpecSennheiser HD 660s2Sony WH-1000XM4
TypeOver-EarOver-Ear
Price (USD)$480$300
HearWiki score78 / 100 · Great88 / 100 · Outstanding
Released20232020
Audio
Driverdynamicdynamic
Driver size38 mm40 mm
Drivers per side12
Frequency response8Hz - 41.5kHz4 Hz - 40,000 Hz
Impedance300 Ω16 Ω
Sensitivity100 dB/mW105 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)104-
Wireless
Bluetooth-5
Bluetooth version-5.0
Codecs-SBC, AAC, LDAC
Multipoint pairingNoYes
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 cancellingNoYes
ANC type-adaptive
Transparency mode-Yes
Companion app-Yes
Custom EQ-Yes
Wear detection-Yes
Controls-touch
Voice assistant-Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa
Design
Weight260 g254 g
Water resistance-none
Detachable cableYes-
USB-CNoYes
Balanced connectionYes-
Calls
Microphones-2

What reviewers said

Sennheiser HD 660s2

The Sennheiser HD 660S2 is an open-back, dynamic driver headphone that refines the classic 600-series formula with a warmer, more extended low end and improved imaging. While it excels with high-impedance amplifiers and offers a comfortable, detailed listening experience, it demands a powerful source and may not satisfy bass-heavy listeners or those seeking a portable option. Its $599 price point positions it as a solid, but not class-leading, value for critical listening at home.

  • Pro:Warm, extended bass response that adds body without overwhelming the mids
  • Pro:Excellent imaging and soundstage for a dynamic open-back design
  • Pro:Comfortable fit with plush earpads and a lightweight 260g build
  • Con:Requires a strong amplifier to reach full potential due to 300-ohm impedance
  • Con:Upper mids can sound recessed and may benefit from EQ
  • Con:Initial clamp force is quite strong and needs time to loosen

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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