A real-world comparison between Beats Studio Pro and Sony WH-1000XM4. Which one has better ANC, battery, comfort, and value? Let’s break it down.
You ever stand in an electronics store staring at two premium headphones, wondering which one’s going to change your life (and which one’s just expensive disappointment)?
That was me last month — torn between the Beats Studio Pro and the Sony WH-1000XM4. Two heavyweight ANC contenders. Both hyped, both pricey. But only one ended up in my travel bag.
This post is a brutally honest take from someone who actually used both — not just skimmed spec sheets.
Check WH-1000XM4 Price on Amazon
Check Beats Studio Pro on Amazon
First Impressions
- Beats Studio Pro: Sleek, bold, built to be seen. The case is nice and sturdy, and the feel screams "premium."
- Sony WH-1000XM4: Understated, lightweight, and comfy right out of the box. The packaging is minimal, and the foldable design makes it travel-friendly.
Both give off high-end vibes — but their personalities are completely different.
Key Features and Benefits
Feature | Beats Studio Pro | Sony WH-1000XM4 |
ANC | Powerful, a bit aggressive | Best-in-class, adaptable |
Battery Life | 24 hrs w/ ANC | 30 hrs w/ ANC |
Comfort | Tight fit, warm padding | Soft, all-day wearable |
Sound Signature | Bass-heavy, energetic | Balanced, customizable EQ |
Voice Assistant | Siri/Google | Google + Alexa |
Multipoint Bluetooth | No | Yes |
Real-Life Use (The Good Stuff)
Let’s talk noise canceling. Sony still holds the crown. Whether I was on a plane, in a café, or next to construction (thanks, neighbors), the WH-1000XM4 consistently blocked more noise — without that ear-pressure feeling some ANC headphones give.
But the Beats? They’re fun. Listening to hip-hop or electronic? It hits hard. The bass isn’t subtle, but it’s clean and deep. They make you feel the music, even if they color it a bit.
Sony’s app lets you tweak EQ, set up adaptive sound based on your environment, and even adjust ambient levels — which is surprisingly useful when walking outdoors.
The Drawbacks (Keep It Honest)
Beats Studio Pro:
- No multipoint Bluetooth (huge miss in 2025)
- Gets warm during long sessions
- ANC is strong but less refined than Sony’s
Sony WH-1000XM4:
- Not as stylish or bold visually
- Touch controls can be finicky in cold weather
- The included case is a bit bulky
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
If you want:
- Precision, comfort, and control → Go Sony WH-1000XM4
- Bold sound and aesthetic → Go Beats Studio Pro
Personally, I stuck with the Sonys. The sound neutrality, 30-hour battery life, and multipoint Bluetooth made them perfect for work and travel.
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But if I was commuting daily or just vibing in the gym? I’d lean Beats. They feel more energetic.
Check Beats Studio Pro on Amazon
Who This Comparison is For
- Remote workers needing serious focus
- Travelers looking for all-day battery
- Bass-lovers wanting high energy
- Audiophiles who tweak their EQ profiles
FAQ
Q: Are either of these sweat-proof?
A: Neither are officially IP-rated for workouts. Use with caution.
Q: Can I use them for Zoom or Teams?
A: Yes, both have good built-in mics — Sony’s is slightly clearer for calls.
Q: Can I sleep with them on?
A: You can, but Sony’s lighter build makes it more feasible for long laybacks.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.