Bose QuietComfort SE vs Sony WH-1000XM4
When it comes to premium over-ear headphones, the Bose QuietComfort SE (QC SE) and the Sony WH-1000XM4 have long been top contenders. Both models cater to audiophiles and casual listeners alike, delivering strong performances in noise cancellation, comfort, and sound quality. Let’s delve into how these two headphones stack up, incorporating insights from users and technical reviews.
Comfort and Design
The Bose QC SE shines in terms of comfort and ergonomics. Its lightweight build and large ear cups provide excellent ear coverage, reducing sweat and making them perfect for extended listening sessions or travel. Additionally, the physical controls on the QC SE are user-friendly, eliminating the frustrations associated with Sony’s capacitive touch controls, especially in situations like crowded commutes or with sweaty fingers.
Sony’s WH-1000XM4, while also comfortable, features smaller ear cups that may not suit everyone. It’s slightly heavier than the QC SE, and users often note that it doesn't fold as compactly, which can be a drawback for frequent travelers. That said, the WH-1000XM4 comes with a hard case, which many users find more protective compared to the soft case provided with the QC SE (unless you upgrade to the standard QC45 variant).
Audio Quality
Audio preferences often divide users between Bose and Sony. The QC SE has taken a step toward a more peaky bass and treble profile with its 2023 update, appealing to those who prefer a crisp, clear sound. However, some find it slightly harsh, especially when compared to the warmer and bass-heavy sound of the WH-1000XM4, which excels in genres like electronic, hip-hop, and bass-heavy music.
Another downside for the QC SE is its limited equalizer options—just a basic 3-band EQ—compared to Sony’s app, which provides a much more robust set of customization tools.
Noise Cancellation and Microphone Quality
When it comes to Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), both models deliver excellent performance, but Bose edges slightly ahead. The QC SE provides a level of noise isolation that many users describe as being closer to Sony’s newer XM5 model than the XM4. This makes the QC SE ideal for flights and noisy environments.
Microphone quality is another area where Bose pulls ahead. While Sony’s WH-1000XM4 performs well, Bose’s updated QC SE features a better in-line microphone for wired use cases and enhanced mic performance for calls. However, it still doesn’t match the XM5 or other premium models like the Sennheiser Momentum 4 in this department.
Battery Life
The WH-1000XM4 boasts an impressive 30-hour battery life, while the QC SE lags slightly behind with 20+ hours. Although both are sufficient for most use cases, Sony's extended battery life could be a deciding factor for heavy users or long trips.
Price and Value
If available at a retail price of INR 16K during sale, the Bose QC SE is often regarded as a steal. It offers high-end features at a competitive price, making it an excellent value proposition for those who prioritize comfort, ANC, and microphone quality. The Sony WH-1000XM4, while pricier, justifies its cost for users who value customizable sound profiles and longer battery life.
Conclusion
If your priority is comfort, travel convenience, and noise cancellation, the Bose QuietComfort SE is the clear winner. Its lightweight design, large ear cups, and excellent ANC make it ideal for flights, commutes, and long listening sessions.
On the other hand, if you’re an audiophile who enjoys bass-heavy music and app-based sound customization, or need a longer-lasting battery, the Sony WH-1000XM4 is the better choice.
Ultimately, the decision boils down to personal preferences and priorities. For those lucky enough to find the QC SE at its lower price point, it offers unbeatable value. However, those seeking more features and extended usability might find the XM4 to be worth the investment.
Thanks @godspeed4476, @t3chg33k and @Afxal for contributing to these insights in https://techenclave.com/threads/bose-quietcomfort-vs-sony-wh1000xm4.220113/
