Sony's WH-1000XM4C, a more affordable version of the six-year-old WH-1000XM4, is expected to arrive on September 7, 2026. The new model is being developed as a budget-friendly option for consumers. They want the performance of the original but prefer to spend less. According to leaks shared by the reliable leaker billbil-kun and prominent leaker Roland Quandt, the WH-1000XM4C will come with the same core features. It will be priced at €249.99 or £219.99. That translates to about $289 to $297.
Design and Features
The WH-1000XM4C will include noise-canceling powered by Sony's QN1 chip, which was used in the earlier WH-1000XM4. It will also offer spatial audio and support for high-resolution audio, with touch controls built into the earcups. This lineup of features mirrors the original model but omits some of the newer components found in the WH-1000XM6, such as the QN3 chip. Despite these similarities, the only trade-off is a slightly reduced battery life compared to the original.
Battery Performance and Pricing
The original WH-1000XM4 delivered up to 38 hours of playback when noise-canceling was disabled and 30 hours with it active. The new WH-1000XM4C will provide up to 34 hours with ANC off and 27 hours when noise-canceling is engaged. These reductions in battery life are considered a minor compromise for the lower price point.
Comparisons with Previous Models
The WH-1000XM4 was first introduced in 2020 with a starting price of $349.99. Sony later launched the WH-1000XM6. It came at a steeper $449 and featured a more advanced QN3 noise-canceling chip. The WH-1000XM4C seems to be the company's strategy for filling the gap between the older and newer models. It offers a middle-ground option with a blend of performance and reduced cost.
Although there have been two major updates to the 1000X line since the WH-1000XM4 was first released, the design of the original model is still favored by many users. The WH-1000XM5 introduced a significant redesign in 2022. It eliminated the folding earcups, requiring a larger carrying case. Still, some consumers, including those who owned the first model, prefer the form factor and usability of the WH-1000XM4.
For individuals who still own the aging WH-1000XM4 and have experienced battery degradation, the new model could be a welcome replacement. The WH-1000XM4C is expected to be released in black, silver, and lavender color options, offering a fresh look while retaining the familiar feel of the original design. This approach might attract a wide range of users, from those who want a cost-effective update to those who appreciate the classic style.