In a move that has caught many by surprise, Sony appears to be breathing new life into its beloved WH-1000XM4 headphones. The iconic 2020 model, which has been officially discontinued and replaced by the WH-1000XM5 and then the WH-1000XM6, is reportedly set to make a comeback under a slightly different name: the WH-1000XM4C. According to recent leaks, this refreshed version will hit the market on September 7, carrying a price tag of €249.99 in Europe and £219.99 in the UK.
That pricing is particularly interesting. When the original WH-1000XM4 launched back in 2020, they debuted at €349.99, meaning the new C variant undercuts the original by a solid €100. But here’s the twist: the original XM4s have been spotted at even lower prices in recent months, sometimes dipping below €200 during flash sales. So, while the official launch price seems like a bargain, the real-world value might depend on how Sony positions this product against its own current lineup, especially the newer XM5 and XM6 models.
What Is the WH-1000XM4C?
The WH-1000XM4C appears to be a rebadged or slightly tweaked version of the original WH-1000XM4, rather than a brand-new design. The ‘C’ suffix is a bit of a mystery, but it could stand for ‘Classic’, ‘Compact’, or simply be a marketing designation to differentiate it from the original model. What we know so far is that the core specs are expected to remain largely identical to the 2020 release, which was praised for its exceptional noise cancellation, comfortable fit, and impressive sound quality.
Design and Build: Familiar but Refreshed
If you’ve ever held the WH-1000XM4, you’ll know exactly what to expect from the XM4C. The design is likely to be a carbon copy: the same plush ear cushions, the same lightweight frame (around 254 grams), and the same foldable design that made the XM4 a favorite among frequent travelers. The matte finish and subtle Sony branding are expected to return, possibly in the same classic black and silver colorways, though a new shade isn’t out of the question. The leak doesn’t specify any color changes, so we’re assuming the same aesthetic.
Audio Performance and Features: The Same Magic
Under the hood, the WH-1000XM4C is expected to retain the same 40mm drivers that deliver that signature Sony sound—warm, detailed, and with a punchy bass. The proprietary QN1 chip, which powers the adaptive noise cancellation, should also be back. This chip is still considered one of the best in the business, even in 2026, because it can automatically adjust the noise-canceling level based on your environment. You’ll also get the same 30-hour battery life with ANC on, and the quick-charge feature that gives you 5 hours of playback from just a 10-minute charge.
Other hallmark features include Speak-to-Chat, which pauses your music when you start talking, and the wear detection that pauses playback when you take them off. The multipoint connection, allowing you to pair with two devices simultaneously, is also likely to be included. These are the features that made the XM4 a benchmark, and it’s smart of Sony to bring them back at a lower price point.
Why Is Sony Reviving the XM4?
This move raises an obvious question: why would Sony resurrect a model that was discontinued? There are a few plausible reasons. First, the WH-1000XM4 still has a cult following. Many audiophiles and casual listeners alike considered it the sweet spot in the XM series—better than the XM3 but not as polarizing as the XM5’s redesign. The XM5, while technically superior, changed the design to a non-folding, slimmer profile that some users found less portable. The XM6, released just last year, continued that trend. By bringing back the XM4, Sony can cater to those who prefer the older, more practical form factor.
Second, it’s a smart market segmentation play. The premium headphone market is crowded, with competitors like Bose, Apple, and Sennheiser all vying for attention. By offering the XM4C at a mid-range price, Sony can capture budget-conscious consumers who still want flagship-level noise cancellation without paying flagship prices. It’s a way to undercut rivals like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra or the AirPods Max, which still retail for over $400.
Potential Impact on the XM5 and XM6
One concern is whether the XM4C will cannibalize sales of the newer models. The XM5 and XM6 are both excellent, but they come with higher price tags. The XM6, for instance, launched at $399.99, and even with discounts, it’s unlikely to drop below $300 anytime soon. The XM4C at €249.99 (roughly $270) offers 90% of the performance for a significantly lower price. This could push some undecided buyers toward the older model, but Sony might be banking on the fact that those who want the absolute best will still opt for the XM6, especially with its improved call quality and slightly better ANC.
It’s also worth noting that the XM4C won’t have the newer Bluetooth 5.3 or the upgraded codec support that the XM6 introduced. The original XM4 uses Bluetooth 5.0 and supports AAC, SBC, and LDAC, but not the newer LC3 codec. For most users, this won’t be a dealbreaker, but it’s a technical differentiator that keeps the XM6 ahead.
Price and Availability: What We Know
The leaked price of €249.99 / £219.99 positions the XM4C as a compelling option. In the US, we might see a price around $249.99, though that hasn’t been confirmed. The launch date is set for September 7, which is just around the corner. Given that the original XM4s have been discontinued, retailers have been clearing stock, and some have even sold them for as low as $179. So, the XM4C’s official price might seem high in comparison, but it’s a fresh unit with a warranty, and likely to be available in large quantities.
Comparison with Current Alternatives
Let’s put the XM4C in context. At $249.99, it will go head-to-head with the Sony WH-CH720N (which is cheaper but has worse ANC), the Bose QuietComfort 45 (which is often on sale for around $199), and the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless (which can be found for $279). The XM4C’s advantage is its proven track record. It’s a known quantity with years of user reviews praising its performance. The Bose QC45 might be lighter, but the XM4C’s ANC is widely considered superior. The Momentum 4 has better battery life (60 hours), but the XM4C’s 30 hours is still more than enough for a week of commuting.
Who Should Buy the WH-1000XM4C?
If you’re in the market for a pair of wireless noise-canceling headphones and you don’t need the absolute latest features, the XM4C is an easy recommendation. It’s perfect for commuters, frequent flyers, and office workers who want reliable performance without breaking the bank. The foldable design is a major plus for travel, and the sound signature is crowd-pleasing. If you already own the original XM4, there’s no reason to upgrade—it’s the same hardware. But if you missed out on the XM4 and have been waiting for a good deal, this is your chance.
Potential Downsides to Consider
However, it’s not all roses. The XM4C is still a 2020 product, and that means a few compromises. The microphones are not as good as those on the XM6, so phone calls might sound a bit muffled to the person on the other end. The ear cushions are prone to wear and tear, and Sony’s replacement parts can be pricey. Also, the touch controls, while intuitive, can be finicky, especially in cold weather. And, of course, there’s no USB-C fast charging—wait, actually, the XM4 does have USB-C, so that’s fine. The point is, it’s an older design, and you should be aware of its quirks.
Final Thoughts: A Smart Move by Sony
In a market where prices keep climbing, the WH-1000XM4C feels like a breath of fresh air. Sony is essentially giving a second life to a product that many considered the best in its class, and at a price that’s hard to ignore. It’s a win-win: Sony gets to clear out inventory and capture a new segment, and consumers get a proven, high-quality product at a discount. Whether you call it a re-release, a revival, or a refresh, the XM4C is shaping up to be one of the most interesting headphone launches of the year.
So, mark your calendars for September 7. If the leaks are accurate, we’ll see the WH-1000XM4C in stores and online shortly after. For now, keep an eye on Sony’s official channels and major retailers. And if you’ve been holding off on buying a pair of premium headphones because of cost, this might be the perfect moment to pull the trigger.
