Most reviewers describe the noise canceling as top-tier and often class-leading, especially for low-frequency rumble, but a few still prefer Apple or Bose in some real-world situations. Performance is very dependent on getting a tight seal with the tips. Sound Connect adds adaptive NC optimization plus auto ambient and voice passthrough options. Some reviewers still note the core ANC toggle feels more like on or off than truly granular, but the ambient controls are highly adjustable.
The app is useful for firmware, library management, and Playlist+ tasks, but it is basic rather than feature rich and can feel awkward compared with more polished headphone apps.
Sony’s Sound Connect app is central to the experience, offering seal tests, device priority, EQ, and many feature toggles. It enables deep customization, but some users want a cleaner, more straightforward layout.
Latency and sync are generally reported as good for video and casual gaming, especially with LE Audio features on compatible devices. Some modes are described as beta or device-dependent, so results can vary by source device.
Bass is inconsistent. Some reviewers hear solid or even punchier bass, especially underwater or with earplugs, but others call it hollow, woolly, or nearly absent on land.
Bass is described as deep, rich, and punchy with better control than prior generations, though some call it intentionally boosted. EQ tools make it easy to rein in low-end weight or add more slam.
Battery life is solid for the category, with most reviews landing around the claimed 9 hours over Bluetooth and 6 hours from memory mode, though some testing suggests real-world endurance can fall short of the marketing numbers.
Battery life is commonly reported around the quoted 8 hours with ANC and roughly 24 hours including the case, with some testing exceeding the claim and other heavy-use tests landing closer to 7 hours. Overall longevity is considered solid but not a generational leap.
Bluetooth is fine for some above-water use, but stability is not flawless. Multiple reviewers mention stutters, disconnects, or pairing friction, and underwater Bluetooth remains impractical as expected.
Connectivity is usually rock-solid and improved over prior models, helped by an updated antenna and device-priority settings. A few testers report occasional drops in crowded areas when prioritizing sound quality, with stability mode reducing issues.
Build quality comes across as sturdy, flexible, and ready for abuse in the pool or during training. The sealed construction and soft exterior inspire confidence.
Build quality is typically described as premium, with better grip textures and durability touches like improved hinges. Reviewers rarely report concerns beyond case magnet confidence in a few impressions.
The controls are the most common complaint. Physical buttons offer tactile feedback, but many reviewers found them too small, too close together, slow on secondary presses, or easy to trigger incorrectly while moving.
The magnetic proprietary cable supports the waterproof design, but it adds one more special accessory to keep track of, and one reviewer reported unreliable wired file transfers.
The included cases are generally well regarded. Reviewers call them protective and practical, though some found the standard case bulkier than necessary.
The case redesign draws mixed reactions: many like the matte texture and flat surfaces, while others dislike the taller, blockier shape. Magnet strength and wireless-pad fit are occasional complaints, but pocketability remains good.
Charging is straightforward once aligned with the magnetic connector, and case-based charging options add convenience, but the waterproof-focused approach means living with a proprietary setup.
Charging options are praised for USB-C and Qi wireless, plus quick-charge top-ups that deliver about an hour from a few minutes. A few reviewers note the case shape can sit awkwardly on some wireless pads, so charger compatibility can matter.
Codec support is broad for the class, commonly listed as SBC and AAC plus LDAC and LC3/LE Audio with Auracast readiness. iPhone users are typically limited to AAC, while Android users get the most benefit.
Comfort is one of the strongest recurring positives. The open-ear design avoids ear-canal fatigue, vibrations are generally well controlled for the category, and several reviewers found them easy to wear for long swims or runs.
Many reviewers can wear the XM6 for hours or a full workday, but comfort is more variable than some rivals. Protrusion, sleeping discomfort, and foam-tip feel are the most common complaints.
The design is sporty and practical rather than stylish. Reviewers like the soft-touch finish and purpose-built form, even if it looks more specialized than everyday headphones.
Design shifts to a more minimalist, matte look with improved grip and fewer flashy accents. Some find the buds and case plain or bulky, but most agree the finish is practical and modern.
Tip options usually include four sizes and foam-style material that boosts isolation, but comfort is polarizing. Multiple reviewers suggest third-party silicone tips to improve comfort or seal, and a few still want a larger size option.
EQ tuning is essentially missing, so you are mostly stuck with the default sound signature.
The 10-band EQ is widely praised for giving meaningful control over the sound, including taming bright treble or tuning bass. Find My EQ-style tools and presets make it approachable for non-tweakers.
Accessories are a plus. Earplugs and a protective case show up repeatedly as useful inclusions, and they materially improve the swim experience.
Included accessories are adequate but basic, usually focused on multiple foam tip sizes and a short charging cable. Several reviews wish for more tip materials or more generous extras at the price.
Layering and instrument separation are repeatedly noted as strong, especially on busy tracks where many earbuds smear details. Imaging and placement remain stable with a good seal.
LDAC is repeatedly called a major advantage for Android listeners who want higher-resolution wireless audio. Reviewers also note it is not available to iPhone users.
Pushing volume too high hurts sound quality. At max levels, reviewers noted distortion, harsher vibrations, and less pleasant listening.
Noise rejection is a standout: beamforming and sensors help suppress background noise and wind so callers hear less of the environment. Even when voice tone is only average, most reports agree background suppression is strong.
Call quality is usable but not a strength. Voices tend to sound quiet, distant, or light on detail, which fits the swim-first design but limits all-purpose appeal.
Call quality is often described as excellent for earbuds, with clear articulation indoors and solid performance on the go. A minority of reviewers still report merely average or slightly muffled voice capture compared with top competitors.
Mids and vocals are serviceable rather than standout. They come through well enough for workouts and can sound more balanced underwater, but several reviews say voices lose body or detail above water.
Midrange and vocals are frequently called clearer and more forward than older Sony generations, with good texture and layering. Some listeners may want to slightly tame upper-mids via EQ depending on preference.
Compatibility across iOS and Android is solid, but the feature balance favors Android for LDAC and some spatial features. Apple users may miss tighter ecosystem integrations and may prefer AirPods for convenience.
Multipoint support is absent, which limits convenience if you switch between devices often.
Multipoint is widely reported as reliable for switching between a phone and laptop with minimal lag. It is frequently highlighted as a key work-and-travel convenience feature.
The open-ear design provides almost no passive isolation on its own. The included earplugs make a noticeable difference in the pool by reducing splash noise and improving perceived clarity and bass.
The stock foam-style tips deliver strong passive isolation and help the buds feel like a quiet-zone switch. Fit and comfort vary, and multiple reviewers report better results after swapping to third-party tips for a tighter seal or softer feel.
The local-memory feature is the reason to buy these. Reviewers like the 8GB storage, drag-and-drop loading, and true phone-free swimming, but Playlist+ is often described as clunky, slow, or awkward, and 8GB trails some rivals.
Portability is generally strong for a flagship: the case stays pocketable, and many reviewers find it easy to carry daily. The tradeoff is a taller case and buds that can protrude more than some competitors.
Preset profiles and EQ wizards are described as useful starting points, with soft/clear/heavy-style options commonly referenced. Most power users still prefer manual tuning, but the presets are considered above average.
Sensors like ear detection, head gestures, and adaptive features are commonly described as reliable and easy to toggle in the app. These features add convenience for calls and auto playback behavior.
Sidetone is mentioned as available for calls so you can hear yourself, but the control is basic compared with the best implementations. It is helpful, though not a headline feature.
The matte finishes are frequently praised for resisting fingerprints and being easier to grip than glossy prior models.
Setup is generally easy, but the overall software experience is a frequent weak spot due to dense menus and many tap/gesture options. Several reviewers call the UI or feature automation unintuitive, while others find it improved compared with older Sony apps.
Sound quality is the main compromise. Underwater playback is often described as good or at least satisfying for the category, while above-water listening ranges from merely okay to clearly weak compared with better open-ear or in-ear alternatives.
Sound is consistently praised as refined and engaging, with strong detail retrieval for a mainstream-tuned true wireless. A few listeners prefer the last bit of precision from rivals, but the overall tuning quality is a highlight across reviews.
Multiple reviews highlight a wide, layered soundstage with strong imaging that feels natural rather than artificial. Separation and left-right placement are commonly cited strengths.
Spatial audio support exists via Sony formats and platform-specific options, but availability and streaming-service support are inconsistent. Several reviewers call spatial features secondary to the core strengths of ANC and sound.
Once the fit suits your head, stability is excellent. Reviewers regularly say the headset stays put through swimming, running, and vigorous movement, though smaller heads can end up with extra rear loop.
Stability is generally strong for commuting and gym use when fit is correct, with foam tips helping seal retention. Some reviewers still hesitate to recommend them for running or high-impact movement due to the lack of stabilizing wings and fit variability.
Touch controls are usually described as responsive and highly customizable, with reliable tap registration. The main criticism is usability: some gestures require many taps or can be triggered accidentally during adjustment.
Transparency/ambient mode is widely improved with less hiss and more natural volume, and features like Quick Attention and voice passthrough help for quick chats. Several comparisons still call Apple’s transparency more natural, and some users hear their own voice as slightly occluded.
Treble is acceptable for exercise use, not refined listening. Highs are often described as rolled off, grainy, or slightly distorted when volume climbs.
Treble is more energetic and airy than previous models, adding detail and space, but it can read as bright or slightly metallic for sensitive listeners. The 10-band EQ and softer presets help smooth it out.
USB-C charging is standard and consistently mentioned as the primary wired charging method for the case.
Voice assistant features are present, but reviewer impressions are mixed, with some noting inconsistent announcements or limited app support. Most reviews treat it as a nice-to-have rather than a primary reason to buy.
There is enough output for workouts and spoken-word listening, but open-ear use in noisy settings often requires higher volume than ideal.
Water performance is the standout strength. The IPX8 rating and real underwater playback are consistently praised, making these far more convincing for swimmers than most open-ear alternatives.
The IPX4 rating is routinely cited as suitable for sweat and light rain. Reviewers consistently warn it is not intended for submersion or heavy water exposure.
These are repeatedly described as lightweight and unobtrusive, which helps during long sessions and makes the headset easy to forget once positioned.
Weight is generally described as light with improved distribution, though a few testers still call the buds slightly top-heavy. Most find fatigue minimal during long sessions once fit is dialed in.