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The arrival of the Sony WH-1000XM6 has shaken up the premium headphone market, setting a new standard for noise-canceling performance—and triggering some of the lowest prices we’ve ever seen on the previous-generation XM5, XM4, and even XM3 models. Whether you’re a die-hard audiophile, a frequent traveler, or just looking to score top-tier Sony headphones at a deep discount, this price tracker is your one-stop hub for the best deals on every model.
We continuously track new and refurbished prices across the full Sony XM lineup, making it easy to compare the latest flagship with the proven value of the XM5, the versatile XM4, and the unbeatable bargain of the XM3. Not sure whether you should upgrade to the XM6 or grab a discounted XM5 instead? Don’t miss our Sony WH-1000XM6 vs XM5 deep dive for a side-by-side comparison.
No matter which generation you’re considering, you’ll find the lowest prices, key specs, and expert buying tips right here—so you never pay full sticker price again.
Sony WH-1000XM Series Price Comparison (April 2025)
| Model | MSRP | Best Current Price (New) | Best Price (Refurbished) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sony WH-1000XM5 | $449 | $449 | N/A |
| Sony WH-1000XM5 | $399 | $294 | $219 |
| Sony WH-1000XM4 | $349 | $229 | $204 |
| Sony WH-1000XM3 | $349 | N/A | $199 |
Sony WH-1000XM6 – Sony’s Most Advanced Flagship Yet
The Sony WH-1000XM6 sets a new standard for wireless noise-canceling headphones in 2025, refining everything that made the XM5 so popular while pushing performance even further. Developed alongside renowned mastering engineers, the XM6 delivers studio-grade sound with exceptional vocal clarity and detail. Its upgraded HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3—now seven times faster—works with a 12-microphone adaptive system to optimize noise cancellation in real time, adapting intelligently to your environment, fit, and even if you’re wearing glasses or a hat.
Sony has brought back the foldable design with sturdy, metal-reinforced hinges and a compact magnetic case for easy travel, while the new wider headband and plush earpads make all-day comfort effortless. Battery life holds strong at up to 30 hours with ANC, and a quick 3-minute charge gives you up to 3 hours of playback. You also get multipoint Bluetooth, LDAC support, top-tier call quality, and Sony’s latest spatial audio features.
If you want a deeper look at the differences between this latest flagship and its predecessor—including performance, comfort, and value—be sure to check out our in-depth XM6 vs XM5 comparison.
With best-in-class noise cancellation, cutting-edge audio, and unmatched convenience, the WH-1000XM6 is the go-to pick for those who want Sony’s most advanced headphones yet.
Sony WH-1000XM5 – The New Value Flagship in 2025
The Sony WH-1000XM5 has quickly become the value flagship in Sony’s noise-canceling lineup—especially now that the newer XM6 has hit shelves. With prices dropping well below launch levels, the XM5 offers a premium listening experience without the premium price tag.
You still get industry-leading noise cancellation, a lightweight and comfortable design, and crystal-clear call quality thanks to Sony’s advanced microphone system. The 30mm carbon fiber drivers deliver crisp, balanced sound that holds up to the best in the category. While the XM6 may edge out the XM5 with a few incremental upgrades, the XM5’s performance, comfort, and ANC remain top-tier for anyone who doesn’t need the absolute latest.
The main compromise is the non-foldable design, which isn’t as portable as previous generations, but for most people, that’s a small trade-off considering the feature set and the savings. Refurbished units often dip under $300, making the XM5 an unbeatable deal for audiophiles, commuters, and anyone seeking flagship performance at a far better price.
If you’re looking for the smart buy of 2025—premium Sony headphones with flagship-level features and big savings—the WH-1000XM5 is hard to beat.
Sony WH-1000XM4 – Best All-Round Value
When comparing Sony XM4 vs XM5, the WH-1000XM4 still holds its ground as one of the most well-rounded headphones Sony has ever made. It delivers excellent active noise cancellation, powerful bass, and reliable battery life—all in a foldable, travel-friendly package. Its 40mm drivers produce a warmer, punchier sound than the XM5, which many users still prefer for music genres like EDM and hip-hop. It also includes Bluetooth multipoint pairing, allowing users to stay connected to two devices at once, a key convenience that’s especially helpful for office workers or multitaskers.
While the Sony XM5 outperforms the XM4 in microphone quality and overall ANC, the difference isn’t night and day for most casual listeners. Plus, the XM4 feels more durable, folds for easier packing, and often drops below $250—making it a top-tier value among premium ANC headphones. For anyone seeking the best mix of features, price, and portability, the Sony WH-1000XM4 remains a superb choice. And for bargain hunters, refurbished Sony XM4 units often deliver flagship performance for under $230.
Sony WH-1000XM3 – Best Budget Pick (Refurbished)
The Sony WH-1000XM3 might be a generation behind, but it’s still a strong contender in 2025—especially if you’re looking for the best refurbished Sony headphones under $200. Its ANC system, while not quite as advanced as the XM4 or XM5, remains effective for low-end sounds like engine rumbles and crowd noise. Combined with its rich, bass-forward sound profile and lightweight foldable design, the XM3 remains a favorite among budget-conscious listeners who still want the Sony ANC experience.
That said, you’ll sacrifice a few features: no Bluetooth multipoint, slightly muddier mids, and microphone performance that can’t match newer models. If you’re comparing Sony XM3 vs XM4, the latter brings a more balanced sound and better feature set—but the XM3 is often less than half the price when refurbished. For casual music lovers or frequent travelers who want refurbished Sony noise cancelling headphones at the lowest price possible, the WH-1000XM3 is hard to beat—just don’t expect the cutting-edge polish of the newer models.
Final Thoughts: Which Sony WH-1000XM Headphones Should You Buy?
If you’re tracking the best Sony XM5 deals or deciding between the latest Sony WH-1000XM6, the trusty XM5, the value-packed XM4, or a budget-friendly XM3, you’re in a great spot this year. The launch of the XM6 has shaken up the market, driving down prices on the Sony XM5 and previous models—making flagship-level noise cancellation more affordable than ever.
The Sony XM6 is the top pick if you want Sony’s most advanced noise-canceling headphones with studio-grade sound, unbeatable call quality, and all the latest features. For those who want near-flagship performance at a better price, the Sony XM5 is now the value leader—offering top-tier ANC, premium comfort, and stellar sound for less. If you need a foldable design or multipoint Bluetooth, the Sony XM4 remains a fantastic all-rounder for travelers and commuters. And for bargain hunters, the XM3 still stands out as the best refurbished Sony headphones under $200.
