Apple EarPods
Apple
39 Overall Score
vs
Sony WH-1000XM6
Sony
95 Overall Score
What Buyers Say
Apple EarPods
78 out of 100 medium confidence 13 reviews
The Apple Lightning EarPods are praised for their crisp, well-balanced audio and comfortable, lightweight design that fits securely during daily use. Reviewers highlight the zero-latency Lightning connection as a major advantage over Bluetooth, along with the reliable inline microphone and volume controls. Some users note durability concerns, especially when pulled too hard, and one reviewer found sound quality below average compared to earlier models. The value perception drops when purchased separately versus included with an iPhone, but overall they are seen as an affordable, convenient wired option for Apple users.
Pros
- Zero-latency Lightning connection
- Crisp and balanced audio quality
- Comfortable lightweight design
- Reliable inline microphone
- Responsive volume controls
Cons
- Fragile build quality
- Poor fit during vigorous activity
- Below-average sound quality (some users)
- Lower value when purchased separately
- Requires careful handling to avoid breaking
Sound quality 5
Build quality 3
Comfort and fit 4
Lightning connection 4
Value for money 4
Microphone quality 3
Sony WH-1000XM6
No customer feedback yet
Scores
Commute
Budget
Gaming
Work
Studio
Calls
Music
Specifications
| Apple EarPods | Sony WH-1000XM6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Design | ||
| Form Factor | on-ear | over-ear |
| Open/Closed | closed | closed |
| Foldable | ✗ | ✓★ |
| Weight | — | 0.25 kg★ |
| Ear Cushion | — | synthetic leather |
| Headband | — | synthetic leather |
| Audio | ||
| Driver Type | — | dynamic |
| Driver Size | — | 30 mm★ |
| Freq Min | — | 5 Hz★ |
| Impedance | — | 48 Ω |
| Hi-Res Audio | ✗ | ✓★ |
| Codecs | — | LDAC |
| Noise Control | ||
| ANC | ✗ | ✓★ |
| ANC Type | — | adaptive |
| Transparency | ✗ | ✓★ |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wireless | ✗ | ✓★ |
| Bluetooth | — | 5.3★ |
| Multipoint | ✗ | — |
| Wired Connector | Lightning | 3.5mm |
| Detachable Cable | ✗ | ✓★ |
| Battery | ||
| Battery Life | — | 30 hrs★ |
| Charge Time | — | 3 hrs★ |
| Fast Charging | — | 10 min for 3 hours playback |
| Charging | — | USB-C★ |
| Microphone | ||
| Microphone | ✓ | ✓ |
| Mic Count | — | 12★ |
| NC Mic | ✗ | ✓★ |
| Boom Mic | ✗ | ✗ |
| Detachable Mic | ✗ | ✗ |
| Features | ||
| Voice Assistant | Siri | — |
| Touch Controls | ✗ | ✓★ |
| App | — | Sony | Sound Connect |
| Gaming Mode | ✗ | — |
| Water Resistance | Water-Resistant | — |
Pros & Cons
Apple EarPods
- Strong social proof (95th percentile)95th %ile
- Strong build (86th percentile)86th %ile
- Below average sound (20th percentile)20th %ile
- Below average comfort (30th percentile)
- Below average anc (32nd percentile)
Sony WH-1000XM6
- Strong social proof (99th percentile)99th %ile
- Strong mic (98th percentile)98th %ile
- Strong anc (98th percentile)98th %ile
- Strong connectivity (89th percentile)89th %ile
Verdict
Winner: Sony WH-1000XM6
Scores 95 overall, wins 7 of 7 usage categories and 16 of 34 specs.