Creative Outlier Air
Score: 75/100
Sony WF-1000XM4 Black
Score: 82/100Rankings
The Sony WF-1000XM4 deliver top-tier ANC, LDAC high-resolution audio and up to 12 hours of playback without ANC. They lack wireless charging and are slightly bulkier than newer models. Suited for audiophiles and travelers seeking premium sound and strong noise cancellation.
The Creative Outlier Air provides up to 10 hours of playback per charge and a total of 30-40 hours, with strong bass and an IPX5 sweat-proof design. It lacks active noise cancellation and has a bulky charging case, which may deter users seeking compactness. Best suited for budget-conscious active listeners who prioritize battery life and sound impact.
| Attribute | Creative Outlier Air | |
|---|---|---|
10 hours | 12 hoursbest | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 90 minutesbest |
5.6 mm | 6 mmbest | |
— | 10 metersbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 75 g | 55.6 gbest |
2best | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | Creative Outlier Air | |
|---|---|---|
Build & Design(2) | ||
IP Rating | IPX5 | IPX4 |
Total Weight (Earbuds + Case) (g) | 75 g | 55.6 g |
Battery & Power(1) | ||
Battery Life (Earbuds Only) (hours) | 10 hours | 12 hours |
Features(1) | ||
Active Noise Cancellation | false | true |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | 5.0 | 5.2 |
Audio(2) | ||
Supported Audio Codecs | aptX, AAC | SBC, AAC, LDAC |
Driver Size (mm) | 5.6 mm | 6 mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Outlier Air for its impressive sound signature, long battery life, and durable IPX5 construction, noting it offers a premium audio experience at a budget price. However, they consistently point out the oversized charging case, limited ear-tip options, and the absence of active noise cancellation as notable drawbacks.
Everyday users love the comfort, secure fit, and extended playback time, often describing the earbuds as barely noticeable and praising the natural, bass-rich sound. Recurring complaints focus on the case's bulk, the single extra ear-tip set, a minimum volume that's too loud on iPhones, and occasional sound leakage.
Professional reviewers commend the WF-1000XM4 for its superior sound quality, thanks to 6 mm drivers, the Integrated Processor V1, and LDAC support, while also highlighting the lightweight build and solid ANC performance. However, they warn that the strong noise cancellation can reduce situational awareness, making the earbuds unsuitable for activities like biking, and note the lack of detailed dimension data and reduced call-time battery life as drawbacks.
Everyday users praise the earbuds for their lightweight comfort, effective noise cancellation on commutes and travel, and high-quality audio when using LDAC. Recurring complaints focus on occasional fit issues, safety concerns during outdoor activities due to ANC, and shorter battery life during voice calls.
“"shockingly good" sound with "great clarity" and "bass power"”
“"barely notice them"”
“"very good" sound/controls”
