Miter Sony WF-1000XM4 Leather Case Review

Introduction –

I’ve always had a fascination with TWS earphones, especially ANC models. There’s something magical about having the ability to switch off the world and this was especially so for Sony’s unreal WF-1000XM3’s which had truly prodigious world-quieting ability. Yet, I did find the ergonomics awkward and the sound a little fuzzy around the edges. So, upon hearing Sony had shrunk and updated their design from the ground up, I instantly jumped on the new WF-1000XM4’s. If you’ve read the reviews, these earphones rock and they sound pretty darn good too. The case is miniscule as well which makes them extra portable. If I had one complaint, it would be that the soft, heavily textured plastic used doesn’t feel especially hard wearing and it seems especially prone to scratches and scuffs. Korean audio accessory brand Miter has the solution and, as always, they do this affordably with both quality and class.

Miter’s WF-1000XM4 cases are available for $29.99 USD and $34.99 USD for the Faux leather and Pueblo leather models respectively. Please see my Amazon (affiliate) links for the most recent pricing.

Design –

The Miter cases adopt a typical two-piece design that slides onto the top and bottom of the Sony charging case and are held in place with their snug fit. I experienced no issue with them falling off nor becoming loose after being repeatedly taken off and re-installed. There are two material choices at present, each offered in 3 colours. The black case here is an Italian faux leather that feels reminiscent of their DAP cases. This leather has a smooth grain and slightly padded feel, you can order in red or navy in addition to black. It is opulent yet offers great drop protection due to its thicker construction. The Miter logo debossed on the front adds some style to my eyes.

The blue case (also available in turquoise and pink), however, assumes a genuine Pueblo Italian vegetable tanned leather construction. It has a more authentic, rustic texture but a similar smooth grain feel. It feels slightly less padded than the PU leather cases but has similar thickness and overall design. Theoretically, these would age better over time by developing a natural patina that faux leathers do not. However, in terms of in-hand quality and feel, I would posit that it will be more a matter aesthetics for most buyers as the two share more similarities than differences.

The cases don’t just look great in pictures, their quality can be further appreciated in the hand and during use. For instance, the edges are sealed immaculately with heat and glue, absent of sharp or abrupt edges and stitches. Meanwhile, a soft, non-scratch suede interior provides additional traction and protection for the charging case. Though it is brown on both of the colours featured here, the interior is not visible when the case is installed. I should note that, though not much bulk is added overall – no more than any other case – the dimensions do become slightly more squared off. Those who want maximum compactness will have to live without the protection of a case, unfortunately.

I also have to commend the OEM-like fit; Joey has done a fantastic job at aligning the two halves and also retaining smooth operation of the lid. There’s a curved cut out on the rear which ensures that both halves never impede articulation of the hinge. A slightly enlarged cut-out around the Type-C charging port also ensures larger plugs remain supported. There’s also a divot on the front where the status LED can shine through. The case is flexible so you can simply hold the sides and push the centre to pop the charging case out if you want to remove it for cleaning.

Verdict –

I suppose one can make the argument that faux leather is not conducive towards a specialty, artisan product. I would argue that the end results beg to differ with Miter’s products as all have impressed me with their quality and feel. They’ve also aged well over time and I frequently receive compliments from friends in the hobby, many of which become fans of Miter too. Perhaps most imperative is Joey’s transparency on the exact kind of leather used as many attempt to sidestep the use of inferior quality materials with simple, generic descriptors.

A word on these generic cases, one will run you about $10 as opposed to $30/35 for the Miter cases. I personally purchased a handful and found that all obscured the Type-C port and some covered the hinge, affecting its ability to lock out. None offered the same quality construction and feel of the Miter cases, a few fell apart at the seams after a month’s use. I found the general refinement of the haptics and usability on the Miter cases to be the key differentiator.

The Miter cases have essentially zero impact on the actual functioning of the earphone case which makes them a pleasure to use day to day. For me, I do enjoy a compact case, so if the added cover affects usability in anyway then that’s a deal breaker. As always, it depends on your priorities. And, if that is for a premium quality, protective and perfectly fitting case, then Miter’s $35 asking price feels heavily justified. It is my pleasure to recommend these cases.  

Miter’s WF-1000XM4 cases are available for $29.99 USD and $34.99 USD for the Faux leather and Pueblo leather models respectively. Please see my Amazon (affiliate) links for the most recent pricing.