When it comes to consumer tech, re-releases of beloved devices are relatively rare. Yet Sony has revived its popular XM4 noise-cancelling headphones with a refreshed model called the WH-1000XM4C — also referred to as the M4 2nd Gen. This latest release leans on the strengths of the original XM4 design while updating key specs and clarifying its position for buyers who want proven performance with modern connectivity.
Priced at $300, the M4 2nd Gen offers a robust set of features aimed at travelers, commuters, and anyone who prioritizes long battery life and effective noise cancellation. Sony lists Bluetooth 6.0 connectivity, 40 mm driver units with a frequency response that spans from 4 Hz to 40,000 Hz, and impressive battery figures: roughly 27 hours of continuous playback with active noise cancellation enabled and up to 34 hours with ANC turned off. For continuous communication — voice calls or long conference sessions — the company reports up to 20 hours with ANC on, and up to 27 hours with ANC off.
Image: Sony
Physically, the M4 2nd Gen closely mirrors the look and foldable design of the original XM4. That familiar silhouette and hinge mechanism make the headphones easy to pack and store, preserving the portability that made the earlier model popular. Sony is offering the new version in three color options: lavender, silver, and black, giving buyers modest variety while maintaining a classic aesthetic.
Audio and Connectivity
On the audio front, the headphones support the common wireless codecs SBC and AAC, and also Sony’s high-bitrate LDAC for higher-resolution streaming where supported. The product description highlights LDAC capability at up to 96 kHz sampling with frequency response reaching as high as 40,000 Hz when using high-bitrate LDAC streams. The wireless stack includes support for standard Bluetooth profiles such as A2DP, AVRCP, HFP, and HSP, ensuring broad compatibility with phones, tablets, and laptops.
Noise Cancellation and Controls
Sony equips the M4 2nd Gen with an advanced noise-cancelling optimizer that adapts to your environment and usage, plus a Quick Attention mode that temporarily reduces playback so you can hear announcements or talk with someone without removing the headphones. Ambient sound controls let you tune how much of the outside world you want to admit, which is useful for safety when walking or for situational awareness during travel.
Who Should Consider the M4 2nd Gen?
If you appreciated the original XM4 for its comfortable fit, effective ANC, and long battery life, the WH-1000XM4C offers a familiar experience with incremental improvements in connectivity and codec support. The 40 mm drivers and extended frequency response aim to satisfy listeners who want clarity and detail, while the long playback times address the needs of frequent flyers and commuters who require endurance without frequent charging.
All told, the M4 2nd Gen positions itself as a sensible refresh of a proven design: the benefits are most meaningful for users who value a combination of comfort, portable folding design, strong noise-cancelling performance, and wide codec support for high-quality wireless audio. At $300, it sits in a competitive segment for premium wireless headphones that balance features with everyday usability.