Just six years after the Sony WH-1000XM4 became a benchmark for wireless noise-canceling headphones, the company is reportedly set to reissue the beloved model in a more affordable form. According to reliable leaker billbil-kun, as reported by The Verge, Sony plans to launch a refreshed version dubbed the WH-1000XM4C in early September 2026. The new model is expected to deliver similar performance and specs as the original, but at a significantly lower pricepoint: €249.99 or £219.99 (roughly $289–$297 after conversion), available in black, silver, and lavender.

The news has sparked excitement and speculation across the audio community. The WH-1000XM4 has long been hailed as one of the best noise-canceling headphones ever made, and many see this refresh as Sony's acknowledgment that not everyone needs or wants the premium $500+ XM6 or the $650 'The Collexion' edition. By bringing back the XM4's proven design with a cheaper price tag, Sony could be aiming to capture a broader audience looking for flagship-level ANC without the flagship-level cost.

A Legacy Worth Revisiting

The original WH-1000XM4, launched in 2020, earned near-universal critical acclaim. Reviewers praised its exceptional noise cancellation, comfortable fit, and insightful sound quality. TechRadar called them "the best headphones of 2022" and they've remained a staple on recommendation lists from RTINGS.com, What Hi-Fi?, and SoundGuys. Android Central's coverage even described them as "my favorite Sony headphones EVER," noting a historic 54% Black Friday discount that made them irresistible.

Even as newer models arrived—the XM5 in 2022 and the XM6 in 2025—many users continued to prefer the XM4's more foldable design, physical controls, and slightly warmer tuning. A TechRadar comparison between the XM6, XM5, and XM4 concluded that while the XM6 offers the best ANC, the XM4 remains the smartest buy for most people, especially when discounted. This sentiment is echoed in countless comment sections and forums, where the XM4 is often described as "the last great Sony headphones before they went minimalist."

What the Leak Tells Us

According to billbil-kun, the WH-1000XM4C will essentially be a re-release of the original design with updated internals to keep costs down. The pricing is notably aggressive: at roughly $290, it would undercut the XM4's launch price of $350 and sit far below the XM6's $450 MSRP. The color options—black, silver, and lavender—suggest Sony is targeting younger, fashion-conscious consumers, similar to the approach taken with its mid-range WH-CH720N and WH-CH520 models.

It's worth noting that Sony has not officially confirmed this product. As with most leaks, there's always a chance plans could change or the product could be delayed. However, billbil-kun has a strong track record with Sony product leaks, and the specificity of the pricing and date adds credibility.

Market Context: Sony's Expanding Audio Arsenal

Sony's headphone lineup has grown increasingly stratified. The premium tier is dominated by the WH-1000XM6, which launched in late 2025 with smarter ANC and a folding design, as covered by SoyaCincau. The retro-inspired 'The Collexion' edition pushed the price even higher, targeting collectors and fashion enthusiasts. Below that, the ULT Wear offers heavy bass for audiophiles on a budget, while the budget WH-CH710N and WH-CH520 provide basic ANC at entry-level prices.

But there's a noticeable gap: a sub-$300 option with flagship-grade noise cancellation and sound quality. The WH-1000XM4C would fill that gap perfectly, challenging competitors like the Anker Soundcore Space One Pro and the Nothing Headphone (a), both of which have been praised for offering excellent features at low prices. TechRadar's review of the Nothing Headphone (a) noted, "how did they make way better headphones while cutting the price in half?" — a question Sony seems eager to answer with its own budget flagship.

Expert Perspectives and Reviews

Audio review sites have consistently placed the WH-1000XM4 among the best in class. RTINGS.com currently ranks them as one of the top Sony headphones and top over-ear models for travel and work. What Hi-Fi?'s team recommends them for "every budget," while SoundGuys compares them favorably to the XM5, noting that the XM4 is often the better value. Even the XM5 review from BBC Science Focus mentioned that the older XM4 remained a compelling choice.

The only criticisms of the XM4 are its outdated micro-USB charging and slightly dated Bluetooth version—both of which Sony could address in the revision without a major redesign. If the company upgrades to USB-C and Bluetooth 5.3, the XM4C would be an easy recommendation at $290.

Deals and Discounts: The XM4's Second Life

In recent months, the original XM4 has seen record-low prices across retailers. Kiran from Kotaku noted that the XM4 was "3x cheaper than AirPods Max or Bose" after a 50% discount. The Verge also reported that the XM4 was "cheaper now than during Prime Day," with prices approaching $200. This fire-sale pricing signals Sony may be clearing inventory ahead of the XM4C's release, making it a smart time for buyers to jump on the current deals or wait for the new model.

What This Means for Consumers

If the WH-1000XM4C launches as expected, it will offer a rare combination: trusted performance, proven ANC, and a price that doesn't require a second mortgage. For commuters, travelers, and office workers, this could be the most compelling headphone release of 2026. It also suggests Sony is listening to consumer demand for a return to the XM4's design and value.

Until Sony makes an official announcement, we'll have to wait. But the leak has already ignited a wave of nostalgia and anticipation. As one Redditor put it, "If Sony re-releases the XM4 with USB-C, I'll buy it day one." The XM4C could be exactly that—and more.

"The WH-1000XM4 are cheaper now than during Prime Day." — The Verge

Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer to high-quality audio, the WH-1000XM4C is shaping up to be a headline act in the fall's tech calendar. After all, great sound never goes out of style.