Sony WH-1000XM4C headphones debut at $299, expanding budget lineup

In a move that reshapes the premium audio market, Sony introduces the Sony WH-1000XM4C headphones at a price of ↑ $299.99, positioning them between the flagship XM6 and the brand’s older mid‑range offerings.

Sony WH-1000XM4C headphones: specs, price, availability

Equipped with the same QN1 processor and quad‑mic array as the original XM4, the XM4C retains industry‑leading noise cancellation while adding a 10‑band equalizer and a dedicated gaming preset. Battery life drops slightly to 27 hours, but the trade‑off is a slimmer price tag.

“We wanted to give the next generation a device that feels fresh without abandoning what made the XM series iconic,” said a Sony spokesperson,

“the XM4C is the bridge between legacy performance and future‑forward value.”

Mid‑range and entry‑level options

The WH‑CH730N arrives at $179.99, offering 50 hours of ANC‑enabled playback, foldable cups, and multipoint Bluetooth. Available in five hues, it replaces the popular CH720N that once topped sub‑$200 lists on Reuters. The entry‑level WH‑CH530 drops to $69.99 and extends battery life to ↑ 55 hours, adds a 10‑band EQ, gaming preset, and AI‑enhanced mic for clearer calls—though it lacks active noise cancellation.

All three models launched on September 7 across Sony’s website, Amazon, and major retailers such as Best Buy. Color selections range from classic black to pastel palettes, echoing the brand’s recent aesthetic shift.

Collectors can also look forward to limited‑edition Hello Kitty variants of the XM6, CH730N, and CH530, slated for a holiday‑season drop with exclusive packaging. Sign‑up notifications are live on Sony’s portal.

These releases come as the industry rebounds from the post‑pandemic surge in remote work and streaming, underscoring a demand for versatile, affordable premium audio.