There are a good number of high-end wireless earbuds out there. But the recently released Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 got a decent amount of attention. It’s mostly because the new pair is a better version of the 3rd Gen Momentum Bluetooth earbuds from the brand. And the predecessors had a lot of potential, which we got to see in this release. But which pair would come on when it comes to AirPods Pro 2 vs Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4?
Well, this comparison is not an easy one. As mentioned earlier, Sennheiser has done a lot of things right with the Momentum True Wireless 4. On the other hand, AirPods Pro 2 earbuds stand as an easy choice for Apple users. But, yes, some specific aspects do make the buds from Sennheiser a better pick. Want to know which factors are those? Let’s get started!
AirPods Pro 2 vs Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4: Pricing and Availability
Let’s talk money. The AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C version) sticks to its original launch price of $249, making it a familiar option for those who know the brand. Apple even throws in a surprise price drop for the UK market at £229.
The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 comes in at a higher price point of $299, which is $50 more than its predecessor. This premium extends to all regions, costing a bit more than the AirPods Pro 2 across the board.
But note that neither the two options are affordable. They are both flagship earbuds. You’re paying for top-notch performance and high-end features.
Fit and Design of the Wireless Earbuds
Apple stays true to its iconic design with the AirPods Pro 2. This familiar drop-stem silhouette remains unchanged in the 2nd version. The only difference is the USB-C port on the charging case for the new version. They also come with a handy lanyard loop and a built-in speaker, both introduced in 2022.
Sennheiser took a different approach. The Momentum True Wireless 4 maintains the design of the TW3, which some might find a bit bulky compared to the AirPods Pro. While Apple offers only white, Sennheiser provides a sleek black copper finish alongside classic silver and graphite options.
Fit is crucial for comfort and sound quality. Both earbuds come with many ear tip sizes to ensure a secure and personalized fit. During commutes and workouts, both the AirPods Pro 2 and Momentum True Wireless 4 felt comfortable and secure.
Durability is important too. The Sennheiser earbuds boast an IP54 rating. And the AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) have received an upgrade to the same IP54 rating. This rating protects both the earbuds and the charging case from dust and water.
AirPods Pro 2 vs Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4: Features
Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 benefit from the recent iOS 17 update. It unlocks a suite of Adaptive Audio features. There’s Conversational Awareness, which automatically lowers volume during talks. And there’s Adaptive EQ that dynamically adjusts noise cancellation based on your surroundings.
Both earbuds feature ear detection sensors that pause playback when you remove a bud. They even resume the audio when you put a bud back in. The AirPods Pro 2 even seem to automatically detect single-bud use, allowing playback with just one bud in.
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Sennheiser’s Momentum True Wireless 4 offer a similar pause/play function with their “Smart Pause” mode. However, they pull ahead with codec support. When connected to compatible Android devices, the TW4 use aptX Lossless and aptX Adaptive. This allows the TW4 to deliver superior audio performance. Additionally, a future firmware update promises Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast audio-sharing. So, the Sennheiser earbuds are future-proof for innovative listening experiences.
But, yes, the feature set that matters most depends on your individual needs. You also need to consider the device you’ll be using these earbuds with.
Sound Performance of the Two Bluetooth Earbuds
So, how do these earbuds stack up when it comes to the most important factor: sound quality?
While the AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) deliver impressive audio, the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 take things a step further. The AirPods Pro 2 boast a wide frequency range and clear stereo separation, but they lack support for high-fidelity codecs like aptX Adaptive or aptX Lossless. This means you might not be getting the full potential out of high-quality music streaming services.
Sennheiser boasts a redesigned sound system for the TW4, resulting in an even wider soundstage and a more immersive listening experience. Their new sound signature is enjoyable on its own, but you can further personalize it using their advanced Sound Personalization mode.
ANC Performance
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is a game-changer for blocking out unwanted background noise. Here’s a breakdown of how these earbuds perform:
The AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) are widely recognized as some of the best in the business when it comes to ANC. They effectively reduce ambient noise, creating a truly immersive listening experience.
While the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 offer good ANC, they don’t quite reach the same level of noise cancellation as the AirPods Pro 2. During testing, some high-frequency sounds like chirping birds were still audible. It’s worth noting that the Sennheiser’s sound signature changes slightly when ANC is disabled, whereas the AirPods Pro 2 maintain consistent sound quality regardless of the ANC setting.
The Sennheiser earbuds do have a helpful feature called “Anti-Wind” mode, accessible through their Smart Control app. This is useful because the earbuds’ design can catch wind gusts. When activated in windy conditions, the Anti-Wind mode effectively eliminates wind noise.
AirPods Pro 2 vs Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4: Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial factor for any wireless earbuds. Here’s how the AirPods Pro 2 and Momentum True Wireless 4 compare:
The AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) offer around 5.5 hours of playtime with active noise cancellation (ANC) enabled. The charging case provides an extra 30 hours, giving you roughly four full charges for your earbuds.
Sennheiser claims their Momentum True Wireless 4 can deliver 7.5 hours from the earbuds themselves, with an extra 30 hours from the case when ANC is off. However, real-world battery life with ANC enabled is still being evaluated.
Both earbuds offer quick charging options. Sennheiser’s provide 1 hour of playback with 8 minutes of charging, while the AirPods Pro 2 haven’t revealed their quick charge capabilities.
When it comes to charging convenience, the AirPods Pro 2 have the edge. Their case supports wireless charging, MagSafe, and even Apple Watch chargers, giving you more flexibility.
