We do understand the current hype favors in-earbuds which of course almost every company in the smartphone business is probably molding their own version. But we also need to take a step back and appreciate some of the latest trendy gadgets that are particularly perfect for a particular niche such as Sony’s latest WH-1000XM4 wireless headphones. The WH-1000MX4 replaces the WH-1000MX3 that are currently selling in Kenya for Ksh.32,900. And for those of us who find value in over-the-ear headphones, in-earbuds might not really be an option especially on those occasions when you’ll be away from home for a while such as travelling or camping, they don’t just have enough oomph for us to completely switch over at the moment.
First of all, let’s get some things out of the way, I’m not entirely against wireless in-earbuds, I just think they have their occasion and sometimes might not be ideal for your needs. Sony is one company I always turn to for my sound needs; so far, I’ve not been disappointed but do acknowledge other companies such as Beats, Bosch do have notable mentions. I’ve had excellent experience on the previous model and I’m particularly hopeful for this one, at least once they become available here in Kenya.
When it comes to pricing, don’t expect these headphones to be outrightly cheap, while churning out in excess of Ksh. 30,000 might not be a deal in other economies, here in Kenya, you must really need them to invest that amount. That doesn’t mean that some folks can’t buy them in a glance, of course if you’ve got enough change and somehow loaded, it’s a no brainer, these headphones will prove to be worthy of your investment.
What we like about the headphones;
- Better Noise cancelling than predecessor
If you’ve owned any of Sony’s previous models – in our case the WH-1000XM3, you’ll definitely be amazed with what the XM4 has to offer. While the M3 had a superb way of getting rid of those surrounding noise, this model ups the game to be even more effective with new algorithm to handle background noise.
- Proves to be even more comfortable
When it comes to ergonomics, nothing comes close when shopping for your next sets of over the ear headphones. We always need to feel comfortable while listening to our tunes and these headphones offers just that. In comparison with our previous model, these ones are particularly lighter and more comfortable when listening for an extended period.
- Better sound quality
True to it’s promise, Sony hasn’t changed much from the previous model which was superb in its own way. You’ll still get the same premium experience generated depending on the kind of music you’re listening to. You’ll be amazed when listening to high-resolution audio and might just edge the previous model for having additional space over your ears.
- Speak-to-chat
If speech recognition is something you really need, then the Sony WH-100XM4 are indeed the headphones you should look out for. The feature basically notes when you’re speaking so it pauses playing music and activates ambient to pass through audio. In a nutshell, this will ensure you have a conversation even without taking the headphones off.
- Support Multiple connections
Easily move between devices. You can simultaneously pair two devices which the headphones remember by default so you can move between them without a hustle. A good example is your laptop and smartphone, you can change to any of the devices without having to pair the headphones a fresh.
- Impressive battery life
Capable of all-day power and quick charging. Touted to last 30hours that essentially is more than enough for your needs even on those long trips upcountry. According to Sony, you can get 5 hours’ worth of charge within just 10 minutes with the optional AC adapter.
What we don’t like about the headphones;
- Small charging cable
The included USB type C cable is quite small for any practical use. You might need to look for an aftermarket cable or utilize your phone’s in case it’s a USB Type-C.
- Battery life is just a tad lesser than previous models
Price in Kenya: Once available, should cost somewhere around Ksh. 38,000