Sony’s WH-1000XM6 has had more than a year to make its case. Beats is arriving later — and $110 cheaper.
The new Beats 360 reached stores Sept. 24 at $349.99, $110 below Sony’s current $459.99 US price for the WH-1000XM6. Both are premium over-ear active noise cancellation (ANC) headphones, but they take different approaches: Sony emphasizes audio flexibility and codec support, while Beats brings IPX4 protection, swappable cushions, and a lower price.
Beats announced the 360 on Sept. 22, with orders opening the same day. Sony introduced the WH-1000XM6 in May 2025 at $449.99 and has since spent more than a year as the company’s flagship over-ear noise-canceling model.
| Beats 360 | Sony WH-1000XM6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Current US price | $349.99 | $459.99 |
| Audio connection | Bluetooth; no wired audio | Bluetooth, 3.5mm |
| Hi-res Bluetooth codec | None advertised | LDAC |
| Battery with ANC | Up to 32 hours | Up to 30 hours; 26 with LDAC |
| Water resistance | IPX4 | No advertised IP rating |
| Replaceable padding | Ear and headband cushions | User-replaceable earpads |
How we compared them: Official specifications and current US pricing were used for connectivity, battery life, water resistance, codecs, and platform features. Hands-on testing from several independent publications informed sound, ANC, call quality, comfort, and workout observations. Manufacturer battery claims are not treated as controlled head-to-head results.
Sony’s premium buys more audio flexibility
Sony’s official specifications list SBC, AAC, LDAC, and LC3, plus a 3.5mm input. Beats 360 drops both 3.5mm and USB-C audio, giving Sony more flexibility for wired listening and higher-bitrate Bluetooth.
Independent testing gives Sony the clearer advantage in noise cancellation, while sound is less settled. Engadget’s direct comparison preferred the XM6 overall and found its ANC slightly more effective. Across the independent testing reviewed for this comparison, Beats drew praise for bass and detail but showed less consistency through the midrange.
The available call-quality testing also favors Sony, particularly for microphone clarity and separating speech from background noise.
Platform fit can still change the choice. Beats supports Automatic Switching and Find My on compatible Apple devices, plus Fast Pair, Find Hub, and Audio Switch on Android. Similar ecosystem trade-offs shape the choice between AirPods Pro 3 and Galaxy Buds4 Pro.
Beats cuts the price and leans into workouts
Beats 360 carries an IPX4 rating, a first for Beats over-ear headphones, with removable Performance Knit ear and headband cushions. Its swappable-cushion design lets buyers change materials and colors.
The workout testing reviewed here supports that positioning: Beats 360 stayed secure during moderate exercise, though more intense movement could require readjustment. The sweat-resistant design also gives Beats an advantage over Sony for buyers who want one pair for commuting and workouts.
Additional cushion kits normally cost $49.99, with a $9.99 US introductory price through Oct. 31, 2026, while supplies last. Similar priorities around fit and durability shape newer open-ear fitness headphones.
Battery life is close on paper. Beats claims up to 32 hours with ANC, while Sony claims 30 hours with ANC using AAC, SBC, or LC3 and 26 hours with LDAC.
Sony’s extra $110 buys broader audio options, stronger tested ANC, and better-established call performance. Beats counters with IPX4 protection, swappable cushions, cross-platform features, and a considerably lower price.
Also read: If earbuds are still in the mix, the best AirPods Pro 3 alternatives for 2026 compare Sony, Bose, Samsung, CMF, and Sennheiser on ANC, battery life, platform support, comfort, and price.