AirPods Pro 2 vs Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4: Choose the right high-end wireless headphones

There are a large number of high-end wireless headphones. But the recently released Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 has received a decent amount of attention. Mainly because the new pair is a better version of the brand’s 3rd generation Momentum Bluetooth headphones. And the predecessors had a lot of potential that we should see in this version. But which pair will emerge when it comes to AirPods Pro 2 vs Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4?

Well, this comparison is not easy. As mentioned earlier, Sennheiser did a lot of things right with the Momentum True Wireless 4. On the other hand, the AirPods Pro 2 headphones are an easy choice for Apple users. But, yes, some specific aspects make Sennheiser buds a better choice. Want to know what those factors are? Let’s start!

AirPods Pro 2 vs Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4: Pricing and Availability

Let’s talk about money. The AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C version) sticks to its original starting price of $249, making it a familiar option for those in the know. Apple is even throwing in a surprise price drop for the UK market to £229.

The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 is priced higher at $299, which is $50 more than its predecessor. This premium extends to all regions, costing slightly more than the AirPods Pro 2 everywhere.

But note that neither option is available. Both are flagship headphones. You’re paying for premium performance and high-end features.

The design of the wireless headphones is also suitable

Apple stays true to its iconic design with the AirPods Pro 2. That familiar drop-stem silhouette remains unchanged in the second version. The only difference is the USB-C port on the charging case for the new version. They also come with a convenient rope loop and 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 may find a bit bulky compared to the AirPods Pro. While Apple only offers white, Sennheiser offers a sleek black copper finish along with classic silver and graphite options.

Fit is critical to comfort and sound quality. Both headphones come with multiple sizes of ear tips 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.

Sustainability is also important. Sennheiser headphones boast an IP54 rating. And the AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) have been upgraded to the same IP54 rating. This rating protects both the headphones 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 range of adaptive audio features. It has Conversational Awareness, which automatically lowers the volume during conversations. There’s also an adaptive equalizer that dynamically adjusts the noise cancellation according to your surroundings.

Both headphones have ear detection sensors that stop playback when you remove the headphones. They even resume sound when you put the earpiece back on. AirPods Pro 2 even seem to automatically recognize the use of one earbud, allowing playback with just one earbud.

Sennheiser’s Momentum True Wireless 4 offers a similar pause/play feature with their ‘Smart Pause’ mode. However, they are pushing ahead with codec support. When connected to compatible Android devices, the TW4 uses lossless aptX 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 Sennheiser headphones are future-proof for innovative listening experiences.

But, yes, the feature set that matters most depends on your individual needs. You should also consider the device you will be using these headphones with.

Sound characteristics of both Bluetooth headphones

So how do these headphones 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 takes things one step further. AirPods Pro 2 boast a wide frequency range and clear stereo separation, but lack support for high-fidelity codecs like aptX Adaptive or aptX Lossless. This means you may not get the full potential 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 nice on its own, but you can further customize it using their advanced sound customization mode.

Implementation of ANC

Active noise cancellation (ANC) is a game changer for blocking out unwanted background noise. Here’s a breakdown of how these headphones perform:

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.

Although 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 such as birds chirping were still audible. It’s worth noting that the Sennheiser’s sound signature changes slightly when ANC is disabled, while the AirPods Pro 2 maintain consistent sound quality regardless of the ANC setting.

Sennheiser headphones have a useful feature called “Anti-Wind” mode, accessible through their Smart Control app. This is useful because the design of the headphones 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 deciding factor for all wireless headphones. Here’s how the AirPods Pro 2 and Momentum True Wireless 4 compare:

AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) offer around 5.5 hours of playtime with active noise cancellation (ANC) enabled. The charging case provides an additional 30 hours, giving you approximately four full charges for your headphones.

Sennheiser claims that their Momentum True Wireless 4 can deliver 7.5 hours from the headphones themselves, with an additional 30 hours out of the box when ANC is turned off. However, real-world battery life with ANC enabled is still being evaluated.

Both headphones offer fast charging options. Sennheiser provide 1 hour of playback with 8 minutes of charging, while the AirPods Pro 2 have not revealed their fast charging capabilities.

When it comes to charging convenience, AirPods Pro 2 have the upper hand. Their case supports wireless charging, MagSafe and even Apple Watch chargers, giving you more flexibility.