ANC is one of the strongest recurring positives, with several reviewers calling it impressive for the price, though one reviewer finds it only decent and another says it is not great.
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.
One review reports easy Android pairing, with no Android-specific problems mentioned.
The JBL app is repeatedly described as useful for this price, adding audio modes, EQ changes, controls, and extra features.
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.
Multiple reviews say video mode or newer tuning helps lip-sync and reduces audio lag when watching video.
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.
The sound is generally bass-forward, but reactions split: some reviewers like the punch and weight, while others think the bass is weak or could go further.
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 a clear standout across the reviews, with repeated praise for 40-hour total endurance and strong single-charge runtime.
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 performance is consistently positive, with stable connections, Bluetooth 5.3 mentions, and smooth pairing to watches and other devices.
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 is viewed as solid for the money, with reviewers saying the buds do not feel flimsy even if they are not ultra-premium.
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 case is easy to dock buds into and pocket-friendly, but one reviewer finds removing the buds a little awkward.
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.
USB-C charging and fast top-ups are positives, but one reviewer notes the lack of wireless charging.
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.
Several reviewers say the earbuds stay comfortable over longer sessions and do not create much fatigue.
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 a familiar stem style, and reviewers generally like the clean, simple look.
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.
Fit is secure for several reviewers, including during movement, but one reviewer says their ear shape still caused fit problems.
The box includes multiple ear tip sizes, giving users some room to improve fit.
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.
The app supports both preset EQ choices and user-made custom EQ profiles, which reviewers see as a meaningful feature.
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.
The app includes a Find My Buds feature that can make a misplaced earbud beep.
At least one review confirms the package includes a USB-C charging cable and multiple ear tip sizes.
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.
One review says the earbuds do not offer the nuanced separation you would get from a higher-end model.
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.
A four-microphone setup is repeatedly called out as a key hardware feature, even though call-performance opinions still vary.
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.
One review specifically says wind and background noise make the mics sound worse on calls.
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 the main tradeoff area: some reviewers say the mic setup sounds clear enough, while another says voices get muddy and distant in noise.
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.
Midrange is generally described as decent to clear, without major praise or major complaints.
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.
One reviewer says the earbuds paired easily across multiple device types, suggesting broad everyday compatibility.
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.
One review explicitly says multipoint lets you switch between devices instantly.
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.
Isolation is usable but mixed: one review says you do get some isolation, while another says outside sound still gets in.
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.
One reviewer says the case slides into a pocket easily, supporting good day-to-day portability.
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 EQ options are useful rather than gimmicky, with reviewers saying presets can improve the sound to better match preferences.
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.
Voice Aware exists, but one reviewer says it is hard to notice working in practice.
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 described as straightforward, with quick pairing and little friction across the reviews that mention it.
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.
One reviewer explicitly reports noticeable sound leakage.
Overall sound quality ranges from decent to very good depending on taste, with stronger reactions from reviewers who like a consumer-friendly tuning.
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.
The spatial sound feature is present, but one review says it does not create a truly immersive result.
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.
Two reviews say the buds stay put well during movement, including casual activity and running.
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 described as easy to use and feature-rich enough for playback, ANC, and other basic actions.
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 and ambient modes work, but the detailed reviews call them basic, digital-sounding, or less natural than pricier alternatives.
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 gets mixed feedback, from washed out in one review to crisp and clear in others.
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.
Multiple reviews confirm USB-C charging support on the case or in-box cable.
USB-C charging is standard and consistently mentioned as the primary wired charging method for the case.
Value is one of the clearest strengths, with repeated praise for how much battery, ANC, and features JBL fits into the price.
Hold controls can trigger the phone's voice assistant, with one review specifically noting Android and iOS behavior.
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.
One review says the earbuds get pretty loud.
The earbuds are consistently described as IP54-rated or sweat/splash resistant, making them suitable for workouts and light rain.
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.
Reviewers call them lightweight and easy to keep in the ear for long stretches.
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.