When it comes to premium over-ear noise-cancelling headphones, Bowers & Wilkins and Sennheiser are two brands that consistently produce outstanding products. The PX7 S2 by Bowers & Wilkins and the Momentum 4 by Sennheiser are two of the latest contenders in this category, each offering top-tier sound quality, excellent noise cancellation, and sophisticated features. But which one should you choose? In this detailed comparison, we’ll analyze the key differences, strengths, and potential drawbacks of these two impressive models to help you make the best decision.
Design and Build Quality
Materials, Comfort, and Durability
Both the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 and Sennheiser Momentum 4 offer premium build quality and comfortable designs, but there are notable differences in their approach.
- Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2: The PX7 S2 features a refined design with high-quality materials, including a combination of aluminum and mildly padded fabric. The ear cups are generously cushioned with memory foam, offering a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions. The headband is adjustable, and the overall build feels durable but lightweight.
- Sennheiser Momentum 4: The Momentum 4 has a more modern, sleek design, with premium matte plastic and soft-touch finish. The ear cups are made from soft, plush leatherette, and the headband is padded with memory foam for a comfortable and secure fit. The build feels robust and premium, but it’s slightly heavier than the PX7 S2.
| Feature | Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 | Sennheiser Momentum 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Sleek, Lightweight | Modern, Premium |
| Materials | Aluminum, Fabric | Matte Plastic, Leatherette |
| Weight | 10.2 oz | 10.5 oz |
| Ear Cup Padding | Memory Foam | Leatherette, Memory Foam |
Both headphones offer excellent build quality, but the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 is slightly lighter, while the Sennheiser Momentum 4 feels a bit more premium with its leatherette ear cups.
Sound Quality and Performance
Audio Signature and Clarity
Both headphones deliver incredible sound quality, but they have different audio profiles that cater to different preferences.
- Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2: The PX7 S2 offers a balanced sound signature, with a slight emphasis on bass. The mids are clear and detailed, and the treble is smooth without being too harsh. The bass is deep and controlled, providing a punchy and engaging experience, especially for genres like EDM, rock, and pop. The overall soundstage is wide, and the headphones deliver excellent clarity at all frequencies.
- Sennheiser Momentum 4: The Momentum 4 offers a more neutral sound profile with a slight emphasis on highs for a bright and airy feel. The bass is well-defined, but not as punchy as the PX7 S2, which may appeal to listeners who prefer a more balanced or natural sound. The mids are clear, and the treble is bright without being piercing. The Momentum 4 offers an expansive soundstage with great instrument separation, ideal for genres like classical and acoustic music.
| Feature | Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 | Sennheiser Momentum 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Sound Signature | Balanced, Bass-Forward | Neutral, Bright |
| Bass Performance | Punchy, Deep | Defined, Subtle |
| Mids and Highs | Clear, Smooth Treble | Bright, Clear Mids |
| Soundstage | Wide, Spacious | Expansive, Detailed |
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 is better for listeners who enjoy deep bass and a more energetic sound, while the Sennheiser Momentum 4 offers a more balanced, natural sound with a focus on clarity and instrument separation.
Noise Cancellation and Ambient Sound
Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Ambient Sound Modes
Both headphones come equipped with active noise cancellation (ANC), but the technologies differ in their performance.
- Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2: The PX7 S2 offers excellent adaptive noise cancellation that adjusts based on the level of external noise. It provides strong isolation, especially in mid to high-frequency ranges. The Transparency Mode allows users to hear their surroundings when needed, making it a versatile option for both noisy and quiet environments.
- Sennheiser Momentum 4: The Momentum 4 features Sennheiser’s advanced hybrid ANC, which is highly effective at blocking out external noise. It’s particularly strong in eliminating low-frequency noise like engine hums and chatter. The Transparency Mode in the Momentum 4 works exceptionally well, allowing you to hear the environment clearly while still enjoying your music.
| Feature | Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 | Sennheiser Momentum 4 |
|---|---|---|
| ANC Performance | Adaptive, Effective | Hybrid, Highly Effective |
| Transparency Mode | Yes | Yes |
Both headphones perform excellently when it comes to ANC, but the Sennheiser Momentum 4 edges out the PX7 S2 with its more refined hybrid ANC, particularly in terms of blocking out low-frequency sounds.
Battery Life and Charging
Playtime, Fast Charging, and Efficiency
Battery life is an important consideration for wireless headphones, especially for frequent travelers or long listening sessions.
- Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2: The PX7 S2 offers up to 30 hours of playtime with ANC activated, which is excellent for long trips or extended listening sessions. The headphones also feature a fast-charging option that provides 7 hours of playtime with just a 15-minute charge.
- Sennheiser Momentum 4: The Momentum 4 surpasses the PX7 S2 in battery life, offering an impressive 60 hours of playtime with ANC on. It also supports fast charging, providing 6 hours of playback with a 10-minute charge.
| Feature | Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 | Sennheiser Momentum 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Life | 30 hours | 60 hours |
| Fast Charging | 15 mins = 7 hours | 10 mins = 6 hours |
If you’re looking for the longest battery life, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 is the winner with up to 60 hours of playback, doubling that of the PX7 S2.
Connectivity and Smart Features
Bluetooth and Customization
Both the PX7 S2 and Momentum 4 feature Bluetooth 5.2 for stable and high-quality wireless audio, but there are some additional features that might sway your decision.
- Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2: The PX7 S2 offers aptX Adaptive for low-latency audio streaming and AAC support for high-quality audio on Apple devices. The headphones come with the Bowers & Wilkins Music App, which allows users to customize sound settings, ANC levels, and more.
- Sennheiser Momentum 4: The Momentum 4 supports aptX Adaptive and AAC, ensuring high-quality streaming for both Android and Apple users. It also has the Sennheiser Smart Control App, which lets users fine-tune their sound profile, adjust ANC, and even activate an EQ for more personalized sound.
| Feature | Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 | Sennheiser Momentum 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.2 |
| App Support | Bowers & Wilkins Music | Sennheiser Smart Control |
| Sound Customization | Yes (App) | Yes (App, EQ) |
Both headphones offer robust customization options, but the Sennheiser Momentum 4 provides more detailed sound tuning through its app, including a customizable EQ.
Price and Value for Money
| Feature | Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 | Sennheiser Momentum 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | Premium | Premium |
| Value for Money | Excellent | Excellent |
Both headphones are priced similarly in the premium range, offering excellent value given their sound quality, build, and features. The Sennheiser Momentum 4 offers better battery life and longer ANC performance, while the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 excels in sound signature and build quality.
Who Should Choose Which?
| User Type | Recommended Model |
|---|---|
| Bass Lovers | Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 |
| Audiophiles | Sennheiser Momentum 4 |
| Long Battery Life | Sennheiser Momentum 4 |
| Sound Customization | Sennheiser Momentum 4 |
| Premium Sound | Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 |
Final Verdict
Both the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 and the Sennheiser Momentum 4 are exceptional headphones that deliver premium sound, excellent ANC, and comfortable designs.
- Choose the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 if you prefer a bass-forward sound signature, a lightweight design, and premium build quality with a slightly more refined audio experience.
- Opt for the Sennheiser Momentum 4 if you prioritize long battery life, advanced ANC performance, and detailed sound customization.
At the end of the day, your choice depends on what features matter most to you — whether that’s sound quality, ANC effectiveness, or battery life.