Sony WF-1000XM3 True Wireless Noise-Canceling Bluetooth Earbuds Review: A Classic Continuation of Wireless Noise Cancellation

Sony WF-1000XM3 True Wireless Noise-Canceling Bluetooth Earbuds Review: A Classic Continuation of Wireless Noise CancellationIntroductionIn our previous review, we recommended the HIFIMAN TWS600, which stands out with its unique sound quality. This time, we've set our sights on a rare breed in the realm of true wireless earbuds: true wireless noise-canceling Bluetooth earbuds

Sony WF-1000XM3 True Wireless Noise-Canceling Bluetooth Earbuds Review: A Classic Continuation of Wireless Noise Cancellation

Introduction

In our previous review, we recommended the HIFIMAN TWS600, which stands out with its unique sound quality. This time, we've set our sights on a rare breed in the realm of true wireless earbuds: true wireless noise-canceling Bluetooth earbuds. Integrating Bluetooth, battery, and a noise-canceling module within such a small earbud form factor presents a significant challenge, leading to a situation where true wireless earbuds are plentiful, but those with noise cancellation are scarce.

For our second review, we chose the Sony WF-1000XM3. Sony's noise-canceling prowess is unquestioned, consistently delivering surprises. Can wireless noise cancellation uphold this legacy? Let's find out.

Design

I once thought the HIFIMAN TWS600 was a large true wireless earbud. Upon receiving the Sony WF-1000XM3, I realized my naivet. Both the charging case and the earbuds themselves are the largest I've seen among true wireless earbuds.

The charging case boasts an oval shape with a soft touch finish, providing a smooth and comfortable feel. It features a magnetic opening mechanism, making it effortless to open with a single hand. Offering 18 hours of battery life with approximately three full charges, a single charge can sustain a full day of continuous use. In practice, I usually only need to charge the case once a week. Notably, the charging case also utilizes fast charging, allowing for about 90 minutes of playback time after just 10 minutes of charging a rare feature for charging cases.

Six different ear tip sizes are included, enabling users to choose the most suitable fit for a secure and comfortable wearing experience.

Experience

A stable connection is paramount for Bluetooth earbuds. The Sony WF-1000XM3 employs a new Bluetooth 5.0 chip and optimized antenna design to ensure a prolonged and stable wireless connection. As my primary listening device is always my phone, disconnections are infrequent. I conducted a test with a challenging distance of about 20 meters with no obstructions, and the connection remained uninterrupted.

Contrary to most true wireless earbuds that utilize a master/slave connection (where one earbud connects to the audio source and the other connects to the master earbud), Sony has adopted a simultaneous connection method for both earbuds. Both earbuds are capable of independently connecting to the playback device, meaning the Bluetooth chip transmits audio signals to each earbud simultaneously. This results in a more stable connection and further reduces audio latency.

In terms of sound quality, the Sony WF-1000XM3 is equipped with 6mm dynamic drivers, allowing these small earbuds to deliver rich detail, clear transparency, and a wide frequency response. They also support the SBC and AAC codecs. The DSEE HX Digital Sound Enhancement Engine compensates for high-frequency signals and tail tones lost due to digital audio compression, providing a near-Hi-Res audio experience.

For our listening test, we chose "Hua Yin Lao Qiang Yi Sheng Han" (A Shout from the Old Voice of Hua Yin) by Tan Weiwei. This song features prominent vocals and a complex interplay of instruments, demanding a high level of performance from the earbuds, as it can easily lead to a muddy sound. With the Sony WF-1000XM3, Tan Weiwei's powerful and full voice is showcased to its fullest, delivering a rich tone along with clear differentiation between the various instruments. While this sound quality may not be top-tier, it is unquestionably excellent.

Noise Cancellation is the Gold Standard

Noise cancellation is the defining feature of these earbuds. Having experienced numerous noise-canceling earbuds, I can confidently say Sony's noise cancellation ranks among the best. The