Marshall Major IV (4) and Major V (5) are easy to confuse: both have compact square earcups and a folding design. The differences go beyond the number, though. Here is what changes in everyday use and what might justify paying more, whether these are your first Marshall headphones or you already own Major IV.
Marshall Major IV
Marshall Major V
The essentials in a minute
- Major IV is worth considering if simple controls without brand-app settings suit you and its current price is more attractive.
- Major V adds app adjustments, an extra M-button and a higher claimed battery-life figure.
- Neither model has active noise cancellation (ANC). If that is essential, look beyond these two.
Specifications compared
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| Feature | Major IV | Major V |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | On-ear | On-ear |
| Claimed playtime | 80+ hours | 100+ hours |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 |
| 3.5 mm cable | Yes | Yes |
| USB-C / wireless charging | Yes / yes | Yes / yes |
| Marshall Bluetooth settings | No | Yes |
| Extra M-button | No | Yes |
| ANC | No | No |
Battery life: a difference, but both last a long time
Marshall quotes more than 80 hours for Major IV and more than 100 for Major V. These are comparison figures, not a guaranteed number of days: your result depends on listening time, volume and battery condition.
Both offer USB-C and wireless charging. There is no need to upgrade to V simply to use a charging pad: IV supports one too. Major V also offers battery-preservation settings in the app. If your current Major IV comfortably cover your usual week, weigh the other changes before replacing them.
Claimed battery life
The app and M-button: the practical control difference
Major IV uses a multifunction control knob. Major V works with the Marshall Bluetooth app, where you can adjust EQ, configure the additional M-button and manage updates.
The benefit is not a guarantee that V sounds better to everyone; it is the ability to tailor settings and quick access to your preferences. Major V can also be used without the app. Extra settings are optional, not a complicated setup ritual before each listening session.
Noise cancellation: what Major V does not offer
Major V does not have active ANC, and neither does Major IV. The earcups can passively reduce some external sound, but that is not electronic cancellation of transport rumble.
If you are buying primarily for flights, a noisy office or commuting, decide whether ANC is essential first. In the headphone catalogue, check the specific model rather than assuming the feature comes with the brand or a newer generation.
Fit and sound: what to try for yourself
Both are on-ear headphones: the pads rest on your ears instead of surrounding them completely. Comfort depends on clamping pressure, ear shape and glasses. If you can try them, allow more than a few seconds and check pressure and stability as you move your head.
The same driver diameter or a newer Bluetooth version cannot establish which will sound better to you. Listen to familiar recordings at a moderate volume. This guide does not claim our own measurements or subjective bass impressions; those require a real listening test.
Is it worth upgrading from Major IV to Major V?
If you already own Major IV and are happy with it, the existence of V is not a reason to replace it urgently. Ask whether you actually miss app control, the M-button or battery life. Upgrading for ANC would not help.
If you are buying for the first time, compare current prices. Major IV may make sense if the saving is meaningful; Major V if you value the extra conveniences. We do not hard-code a price difference here, because a future promotion could make that advice outdated.
The final choice
Choose Major IV for the essentials you need at a suitable price; Major V for extra adjustments and battery headroom. First, make sure on-ear fit suits you and that ANC is not required. Current colours and offers are in the Marshall catalogue. If you are still deciding on the format, read our headphone buying guide or ask for help choosing.
Sources and fact-checking
Specifications checked against Marshall documentation on 6 October 2026. This is a buying guide, not a report of our own measurements or listening tests. Photos from the WaveSound catalogue.