Main points
- The Surface Headphones 2 have a battery life of up to 20 hours with ANC on and up to 30 hours with ANC off.
- If you prioritize comfort, a balanced sound, and a lower price point, the Surface Headphones 2 are a great choice.
- The Sony WH-1000XM4 have a longer battery life of up to 38 hours with ANC off, compared to the Surface Headphones 2’s 30 hours.
In the realm of premium headphones, the Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 and the Sony WH-1000XM4 stand as two formidable contenders. Both boast exceptional features, promising a superior audio experience. However, which one reigns supreme? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison of these two headphones to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Comfort
Surface Headphones 2:
The Surface Headphones 2 feature a sleek and minimalist design with a comfortable headband and plush earcups. The headband is adjustable to fit various head sizes, and the earcups are made of soft Alcantara fabric that feels luxurious against the skin.
WH-1000XM4:
The WH-1000XM4 also offers a stylish design with a slightly more compact form factor. The headband is well-padded and adjustable, while the earcups are made of soft protein leather. The earcups are slightly larger than the Surface Headphones 2, providing more coverage for your ears.
Audio Quality
Surface Headphones 2:
The Surface Headphones 2 deliver impressive audio quality with a wide soundstage and detailed reproduction. The bass is deep and impactful without overpowering the mids and highs. The headphones also feature active noise cancellation (ANC) that effectively blocks out external noise.
WH-1000XM4:
The WH-1000XM4 is renowned for its exceptional audio quality. The sound is balanced and natural, with rich bass, clear mids, and sparkling highs. The ANC is top-notch, creating a truly immersive listening experience.
Battery Life
Surface Headphones 2:
The Surface Headphones 2 have a battery life of up to 20 hours with ANC on and up to 30 hours with ANC off. This is a decent battery life, but it falls short of the WH-1000XM4.
WH-1000XM4:
The WH-1000XM4 boasts an impressive battery life of up to 30 hours with ANC on and up to 38 hours with ANC off. This makes them ideal for extended listening sessions without the need for frequent charging.
Features
Surface Headphones 2:
The Surface Headphones 2 offer a range of features, including touch controls, voice assistant integration, and the ability to pair with multiple devices simultaneously. They also have a built-in microphone for taking calls.
WH-1000XM4:
The WH-1000XM4 is packed with even more features. In addition to the features found on the Surface Headphones 2, they also include multipoint Bluetooth connectivity, speak-to-chat, and a customizable EQ.
Price
Surface Headphones 2:
The Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 are priced at $249.99.
WH-1000XM4:
The Sony WH-1000XM4 are priced at $349.99.
Which Headphones Are Right for You?
The Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 and Sony WH-1000XM4 are both excellent headphones, but they differ in certain key areas. If you prioritize comfort, a balanced sound, and a lower price point, the Surface Headphones 2 are a great choice. However, if you demand the best possible audio quality, extended battery life, and a wide range of features, the WH-1000XM4 are the clear winners.
The Verdict: A Matter of Preference
Ultimately, the choice between the Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 and the Sony WH-1000XM4 comes down to your individual preferences and budget. Both headphones offer a premium audio experience, but the WH-1000XM4 have a slight edge in terms of audio quality, battery life, and features. However, the Surface Headphones 2 are more affordable and offer a comfortable fit.
Answers to Your Questions
Q1: Which headphones have better noise cancellation?
A: The Sony WH-1000XM4 have superior noise cancellation compared to the Microsoft Surface Headphones 2.
Q2: Which headphones are more comfortable for long listening sessions?
A: Both headphones are comfortable, but the Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 have a slightly more luxurious feel due to their Alcantara earcups.
Q3: Which headphones have a longer battery life?
A: The Sony WH-1000XM4 have a longer battery life of up to 38 hours with ANC off, compared to the Surface Headphones 2’s 30 hours.