Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Use the WH-1000XM6’s NC/AMB button to cycle through noise-canceling and ambient-sound modes. For finer adjustments, or to change the button’s switching sequence, connect the headphones to Sony | Sound Connect over Bluetooth. Playback and volume gestures use the touch sensor panel on the right earcup; you can turn that panel off in the app.
Switch noise canceling and Ambient Sound Mode
- Turn on the headphones. Sony says noise canceling is on the first time the headphones are used and after initialization. Subsequent setting changes are retained.
- Press the NC/AMB button. The headphones play a notification sound and move to the next mode in the configured sequence.
- Change the sequence or sound behavior in Sony | Sound Connect. Connect the headphones to the app over Bluetooth, then adjust the noise-canceling or Ambient Sound settings and select the NC/AMB switching pattern you want. Depending on the selected pattern, modes can include noise canceling on, Ambient Sound on, and both off. Available options are shown in the app.
Sony calls the microphone-assisted listening feature Ambient Sound Mode. It lets outside sound be heard during playback. Settings you change for Ambient Sound Mode in Sound Connect are stored on the headphones, so they remain available when the headphones are connected to a device without the app. Sony WH-1000XM6 Help Guide: Listening to ambient sound during music playback (Ambient Sound Mode)
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Auto Ambient Sound is a separate setting
Auto Ambient Sound adjusts how much ambient sound is captured in relation to the surrounding noise level. In Sound Connect, you can turn it on or off and change its sensitivity. It is an automatic adjustment, not another name for pressing NC/AMB to switch modes.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Use the touch controls on the right earcup
The touch sensor control panel is on the right earcup. Use these gestures for common playback, call, and listening controls; availability can depend on the connected device or app.
#1 Best Overall
Sony WH-1000XM6 The Best Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones, Black | HD NC Processor QN3, 12 Microphones, Adaptive NC Optimizer, Mastered by Engineers, Studio-Quality, Up to 30 Hrs of Battery
- THE BEST NOISE CANCELLATION: Powered by advanced processors and an adaptive microphone system, the WH-1000XM6 headphones deliver real-time noise cancellation for an immersive, distraction-free listening experience.
- CO-CREATED WITH MASTERING AUDIO ENGINEERS: Developed in collaboration with world-renowned mastering audio engineers, these headphones deliver unparalleled sound clarity and precision. A specially designed driver with a lightweight carbon fiber dome delivers high fidelity sound, where rich vocals and every instrument remains pure and balanced. Optimized for advanced noise cancellation, the WH-1000XM6 headphones keep every frequency crisp and true to the artist’s intent.
- HD NOISE CANCELING PROCESSOR QN3: The HD Noise Canceling Processor QN3 is 7x faster than the QN1 (found in our WH-1000XM5 headphones), optimizing 12 microphones in real time for superior noise cancellation, sound quality, and call clarity. With more microphones than ever, we can precisely detect external noise and counteracts it with opposite soundwaves, delivering a new level of noise cancellation.
- ULTRA-CLEAR CALLS, FROM ANYWHERE: A six-microphone AI-based beamforming system, intelligent noise reduction technology, and wind-resistant design, work together to isolate your voice, filter out background noise, and ensure every word comes through crisp and clear—even in the busiest environments.
- COMPACT CARRYING CASE & FOLDABLE DESIGN: Crafted for durability and style, the foldable design features precision metalwork and a compact case with a magnetic closure—ready to go wherever you do.
| Gesture | Function |
|---|---|
| Double-tap quickly | Play or pause music; answer or end a call in supported conditions. |
| Swipe forward and release | Skip to the next track. Hold the swipe to fast-forward. |
| Swipe backward and release | Go to the previous track or the beginning of the current track during playback. Hold the swipe to fast-reverse. |
| Swipe up or down | Raise or lower the volume. Keep holding the swipe to continue adjusting it. |
| Hold a finger on the panel | Start voice input when using the voice-assist function. |
| Cover the whole panel with your hand | Activate Quick Attention Mode while your hand remains in place; remove it to deactivate the mode. |
Sony notes that normal music, call, and other operations cannot be performed when the headphones are removed, even if you tap the panel. For the complete control details, see Sony WH-1000XM6 Help Guide: About the touch sensor control panel.
Turn the touch sensor panel off or back on
Open Sony | Sound Connect while the headphones are connected to the app by Bluetooth and use the touch sensor control panel setting to switch it off or on. The app’s current labels and screen layout may vary as it is updated. The NC/AMB button remains the separate control for sound-mode switching.
Rank #2
Sony WH-1000XM6 The Best Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones Midnight Blue | HD NC Processor QN3, 12 Microphones, Adaptive NC Optimizer, Mastered by Engineers, Studio-Quality, Up to 30 Hrs of Battery
- THE BEST NOISE CANCELLATION: Powered by advanced processors and an adaptive microphone system, the WH-1000XM6 headphones deliver real-time noise cancellation for an immersive, distraction-free listening experience.
- CO-CREATED WITH MASTERING AUDIO ENGINEERS: Developed in collaboration with world-renowned mastering audio engineers, these headphones deliver unparalleled sound clarity and precision. A specially designed driver with a lightweight carbon fiber dome delivers high fidelity sound, where rich vocals and every instrument remains pure and balanced. Optimized for advanced noise cancellation, the WH-1000XM6 headphones keep every frequency crisp and true to the artist’s intent.
- HD NOISE CANCELING PROCESSOR QN3: The HD Noise Canceling Processor QN3 is 7x faster than the QN1 (found in our WH-1000XM5 headphones), optimizing 12 microphones in real time for superior noise cancellation, sound quality, and call clarity. With more microphones than ever, we can precisely detect external noise and counteracts it with opposite soundwaves, delivering a new level of noise cancellation.
- ULTRA-CLEAR CALLS, FROM ANYWHERE: A six-microphone AI-based beamforming system, intelligent noise reduction technology, and wind-resistant design, work together to isolate your voice, filter out background noise, and ensure every word comes through crisp and clear—even in the busiest environments.
- COMPACT CARRYING CASE & FOLDABLE DESIGN: Crafted for durability and style, the foldable design features precision metalwork and a compact case with a magnetic closure—ready to go wherever you do.
Use Ambient Sound Mode safely
- Do not rely on it to hear hazards. Depending on surrounding conditions and the type or volume of playback, Ambient Sound Mode may not make outside sounds audible. Sony warns against using it where missing ambient sounds could be dangerous, including roads with car or bicycle traffic.
- Reduce wind noise if needed. Wind can become more noticeable in Ambient Sound Mode. Sony recommends lowering the ambient volume in Sound Connect; if wind noise remains significant, turn Ambient Sound Mode off.
- Wear the headphones correctly. Touching the external noise-canceling microphones with fingers or hair while Ambient Sound Mode is on may produce a loud sound.
See Sony’s Ambient Sound Mode guidance for further usage cautions.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Quick Recap
Best Value
Sony WH-1000XM6 The Best Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones, Sandstone | HD NC Processor QN3, 12 Microphones, Adaptive NC Optimizer, Mastered by Engineers, Studio-Quality, Up to 30 Hrs of Battery
- NEW SANDSTONE COLOR: Neutral never sounded so good. Meet the new Sony WH-1000XM6 Headphones, now in Sandstone. Our new Sandstone colorway is a sophisticated neutral that feels modern, versatile, and effortlessly stylish for any moment.
- THE BEST NOISE CANCELLATION: Powered by advanced processors and an adaptive microphone system, the WH-1000XM6 headphones deliver real-time noise cancellation for an immersive, distraction-free listening experience.
- CO-CREATED WITH MASTERING AUDIO ENGINEERS: Developed in collaboration with world-renowned mastering audio engineers, these headphones deliver unparalleled sound clarity and precision. A specially designed driver with a lightweight carbon fiber dome delivers high fidelity sound, where rich vocals and every instrument remains pure and balanced. Optimized for advanced noise cancellation, the WH-1000XM6 headphones keep every frequency crisp and true to the artist’s intent.
- HD NOISE CANCELING PROCESSOR QN3: The HD Noise Canceling Processor QN3 is 7x faster than the QN1 (found in our WH-1000XM5 headphones), optimizing 12 microphones in real time for superior noise cancellation, sound quality, and call clarity. With more microphones than ever, we can precisely detect external noise and counteracts it with opposite soundwaves, delivering a new level of noise cancellation.
- ULTRA-CLEAR CALLS, FROM ANYWHERE: A six-microphone AI-based beamforming system, intelligent noise reduction technology, and wind-resistant design, work together to isolate your voice, filter out background noise, and ensure every word comes through crisp and clear—even in the busiest environments.
Rank #4
Sony WH-1000XM5 Premium Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones, Black | Auto NC Optimizer, Up to 30 Hrs of Battery, Carrying Case, Crystal Clear Calls, Touch Control, Multipoint Connection
- PREMIUM NOISE CANCELLATION: Two processors control 8 microphones for unprecedented noise cancellation. With Auto NC Optimizer, noise canceling is automatically optimized based on your wearing conditions and environment.
- MAGNIFICENT SOUND: Engineered to perfection with the new Integrated Processor V1.
- CRYSTAL CLEAR HANDS-FREE CALLING: 4 beamforming microphones, precise voice pickup, and advanced audio signal processing.
- LONG BATTERY LIFE: Up to 30-hour battery life with quick charging (3 min charge for 3 hours of playback).
- ULTRA-COMFORTABLE: Lightweight design with soft fit leather.
Rank #3
Sony WH-1000XM5 Premium Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones, Midnight Blue | Auto NC Optimizer, Up to 30 Hrs of Battery, Carrying Case, Crystal Clear Calls, Touch Control, Multipoint Connection
- PREMIUM NOISE CANCELLATION: Two processors control 8 microphones for unprecedented noise cancellation. With Auto NC Optimizer, noise canceling is automatically optimized based on your wearing conditions and environment.
- MAGNIFICENT SOUND: Engineered to perfection with the new Integrated Processor V1.
- CRYSTAL CLEAR HANDS-FREE CALLING: 4 beamforming microphones, precise voice pickup, and advanced audio signal processing.
- LONG BATTERY LIFE: Up to 30-hour battery life with quick charging (3 min charge for 3 hours of playback).
- ULTRA-COMFORTABLE: Lightweight design with soft fit leather.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
