Editor’s note: this article was published on June 5, 2024, and is the first version of the article. Updates will follow as the market changes.

What’s it like to use the DJI Mic 2 compared to the Rode Wireless PRO?

The DJI Mic 2 is the more compact of the two dual-channel, all-in-one wireless microphone systems. The transmitters, receiver, adaptors, and windscreens all fit inside a durable, locking charging case. You’re also supplied with a carrying bag with some organizational options on the road. The DJI Mic 2’s receiver is designed to be relatively low profile and very gimbal-friendly if you use your phone to make your content.

The Rode Wireless PRO also features a charging case design. However, you’ll need to carry a second carrying case for all the accessories it comes with. This includes two locking Rode Lavalier mics, which provide additional flexibility when wiring up yourself or your guests. The transmitters and receivers are much larger in physical size compared to the Mic 2, but this allows more space for internal recording. Each Wireless PRO transmitter offers 32g of onboard recording, compared to only 8g provided by the Mic 2.

Speaking of internal recording, both systems feature 32-bit float, which can help you recover any compromised audio. However, the Rode Wireless PRO offers two key features that the Mic 2 does not. The first is “Intelligent GainAssist.” When enabled, it will automatically adjust your levels on the fly to help prevent any unwanted audio spikes. The second is timecode. Timecode is a synchronized reference for audio and video recording devices, a valuable feature for professional videographers.

How do you control the DJI Mic 2 and Rode Wireless PRO?

Both microphone systems operate via physical buttons on the transmitters and receivers. However, the DJI Mic 2 receiver also includes a touch screen and a dedicated control wheel to access various menus. If you’re a content creator constantly on the go, you’ll appreciate the convenience and ease of navigation of the Mic 2 receiver.

Should you use DJI Mic 2 or Rode Wireless PRO apps?

Here’s one to consider. You really don’t need to use the DJI app. As mentioned, thanks to its touch screen and control wheel, the receiver allows you to adjust all your input and output settings.

However, downloading and installing the Rode Central companion app is essential for using the Wireless PRO. While you can change some settings and navigate the receiver’s display via the two buttons, connecting a loaded charging case makes it much easier and will let you configure further receiver and transmitter settings. You can also modify settings like file format and sample rate or activate that precious 32-bit float recording mode.

How does the DJI Mic 2 and Rode Wireless PRO connect?

The DJI Mic 2 and Rode Wireless PRO receivers connect to your device or camera via USB-C, Lightning, or 3.5mm audio cable.

Both receivers can physically attach to a camera via a cold shoe mount. However, suppose you’re using your phone’s camera as your primary video source. In that case, the Mic 2’s receiver is designed to attach and sit flush with your device with its short adaptor, compared to a short cable connection with the Wireless PRO. This makes using the Wireless PRO with a gimbal setup challenging, limiting its movement.

Does the Rode Wireless PRO sound better than the DJI Mic 2?

When it comes to sound, both of these wireless microphone systems are capable of capturing a quality recording of your voice. However, noise canceling is one feature the Mic 2 offers over the Wireless PRO. Once engaged, it does a decent job at keeping traffic noise at bay while in our outdoor tests and suppressing office background noise inside. Take a listen to our examples of the DJI Mic 2 in various environments.

DJI Mic 2 microphone demo:

Rode Wireless PRO microphone demo:

We used the Dynamic GainAssist setting for these demos to ensure consistent performance. In a controlled environment, the Wireless PRO sounds full and clear. In our outdoor tests, you can hear passing vehicles and sounds from the adjacent park. While they’re not distracting from my voice, without any noise canceling feature on the Wireless PRO, you’ll want to consider your surroundings before you hit that record button.

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Should you get the DJI Mic 2 or Rode Wireless PRO?

As mentioned, both of these wireless microphone systems sound great. It really depends on what type of content creator you are.

If you’re a casual content creator looking for a wireless mic that’s more suited for use with a gimbal and phone camera, the DJI is the way to go. The Mic 2’s low-profile receiver connection is much more gimbal-friendly, and the touch screen is easier to navigate to make adjustments in the heat of battle. The noise canceling feature is also a valuable tool for on-the-go vloggers.

However, if you’re a serious videographer making content in more controlled environments, you should spend the extra $50 and get the Rode Wireless PRO. Its more camera-friendly design, two discreet lavalier microphones, and the timecode feature ensure videographers get the most out of the Wireless PRO.

Frequently asked questions

Editor’s note: this article was updated on May 2, 2024, to include the versus article with the new Nothing Ear vs the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation).

What’s it like to use the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) compared to the Nothing Ear (2)?

Both the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) and Nothing Ear (2) have a lot of time and effort dedicated to design, so it’s not surprising, then, that they have very similar forms. Each set of earbuds is based around the lollipop design of the original AirPods, with pinch controls hidden in the protruding stick. The short nozzles of each product have silicone tips, and are meant to nestle into your ear canal with a shallow seal. Both products also offer an ear tip fit test to ensure you can hear your tunes optimally, but only the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) has a large selection of aftermarket ear tips to choose from online should you find that you need something other than silicone tips.

The Ear 2 is notably more busy looking than the Pixel Buds Pro.

As the flagship models for both Nothing and Apple, the Nothing Ear (2) and Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) bear price tags and features to match that level of prominence. You may find you don’t actually end up using all the bells and whistles available to you, but that’s okay. It’s better to have things like an app (or your operating system) to supplement the functionality of your earbuds even if you don’t end up using the spatial audio, equalizer, or voice assistant integration.

Though the earphones are quite similar, people who are less gentle with their toys will much prefer the Nothing Ear (2) over the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation), as it boasts an IP54 rating, while the Apple competitor only has an IPX4 rating. While that means both stand up equally well to moisture, only the Nothing Ear (2) is rated against dust ingress.

The pressure-sensitive stems now support swipes to adjust the volume.

The most likely deciding factor between two products isn’t even related to the headphones themselves—in this case Android users may have more trouble deciding between the two. The baseline aspects of the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) like sound, ANC, and build quality are very impressive. However, it relies on iOS to grant virtually all its additional features (basically anything you can’t do with the default on-ear control settings), so Android users won’t benefit as much from buying it. Basically, people without iPhones will have to weigh the importance of hardware excellence against the software features of the Nothing Ear (2)—not that its hardware is anything to sneeze at.

How do you control the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) and Nothing Ear (2)?

Controls for both the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) and Nothing Ear (2) are relatively straightforward, with the former relying on a mix of physical control via pinching the ear stems. You can customize the exact function of the tap-to-hold function through the settings app of the iPhone, but for Android this isn’t customizable.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) controls:

The Nothing Ear (2) offers a customizable control in the double-tap and hold via the Nothing X app. The actual pressure control point is a little higher up on the stem than you might expect, so those with longer lobes may end up having to dig their finger in between the ear and the stem a bit to reach it.

Nothing Ear (2) controls:

Should you use the apps of either Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) or Nothing Ear (2)?

The screenshot on the right is the in the Siri menu, the other two are found by selecting the AirPods in the Bluetooth menu.

The whether you use iOS or Android makes a lot of difference here, as there is no native app for the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) on Android. Additionally, many of the features and customizations for the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) live in iOS for Apple devices. Consequently, there’s really nothing to download for that product.

It’s “equaliser,” not “equalizer,” shown with an intuitive if limited visual representation.

On the other hand, the Nothing X app for the Nothing Ear (2) is quite useful, though slightly less convenient than being baked into the operating system of your smartphone. The app offers a 3-band equalizer, adjustable ANC, and the occasional notification for firmware updates. The app is pretty straightforward, though if you don’t like sharing personal info at all you could probably skip downloading it.

How do the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) and Nothing Ear (2) connect?

Make sure to update your iPhone to iOS 16 to get the most out of your new AirPods Pro.

As true wireless earphones, both the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) and Nothing Ear (2) connect to their source devices via a wireless Bluetooth connection. The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) over Bluetooth 5.2, and the Nothing Ear (2) over Bluetooth 5.3. While both use the same codecs to transmit audio, the Nothing Ear (2) also supports the LHDC 5.0 codec, which isn’t widely adopted yet, but capable of transmitting 24-bit/95kHz audio.

Given very few smartphones support LHDC 5.0, the best available codec you will probably have access to for both the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) and Nothing Ear (2) for Android and iOS is AAC. You shouldn’t notice any appreciable latency with either product on either platform. However, you may notice a slight delay over SBC, peaking at around 340ms for the Nothing Ear (2).

Is battery life better on the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) or Nothing Ear (2)?

In our labs, the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) was able to last 5 hours and 43 minutes, whereas the Nothing Ear (2) was able to survive our test protocol for 6 hours and 2 minutes. Sure, it’s not a huge gap, but even little advantages can pay dividends long-term. The fewer charge cycles you subject those small batteries to, the longer they’ll last.

When you first pair the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) to your iPhone, you’re met with a battery indicator card, among other things.

To Apple’s credit, though, it should be pointed out that the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) does make use of a feature called optimized battery charging that limits the time your earbuds spend fully charged. By doing this, the cell should survive your use for a while longer than it would have otherwise. Unfortunately, the Nothing Ear (2) has no such feature, but it should take over a year for any difference to become apparent at worst.

Charging the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) and the Nothing Ear (2) can be accomplished via any Qi-compatible surface. However, the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) is not compatible with USB-C cables like the Nothing Ear (2)—instead, it uses a Lightning cable. If you’re not already buried deep in the Apple ecosystem, you may find relying on a different cable is a bit of a pain, whereas USB-C cables are probably more common in your house. Unless you already have a Qi charger, the AirPods could be an exercise in constant frustration for Android users.

Does the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) or Nothing Ear (2) block noise better?

The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) pretty clearly cancel out—and block out—more noise than the Nothing Ear (2). Apple has been among the leaders in the active noise canceling pack for a couple years now, so it’s not very surprising that it released a product other earphones have trouble chasing. The Nothing Ear (2) isn’t bad at the task, the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) is just far more effective here.

It’s not really much of a contest: the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) are better at attenuating noise than the Nothing Ear (2).

The benefits of better isolation and ANC include being able to keep the levels of your music much lower than you would in the presence of outside noise. By limiting the sound pressure of what does make it to your eardrum (and your overall exposure), you can stave off noise induced hearing loss. However, this is only true if you keep your tunes at a reasonable level—so don’t get too crazy with the volume slider.

Does the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) sound better than the Nothing Ear (2)?

Despite the fact that what makes “good” sound quality is often just a matter of taste, we’re pretty confident in saying you’ll probably enjoy the sound of the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) a bit more than the Nothing Ear (2). As evidenced by our test results, the Nothing Ear (2) frequency response overemphasizes treble a lot, making a lot of high-pitched sounds stand out fairly noticeably. Though on its own it’s not a huge deal, it can make some sounds—like cymbals—very distracting or even annoying. Additionally this is also the range where mouth sounds from people eating the mic will live too, so if you’re into ASMR I guess that’s something to be aware of. Keep in mind you can turn this down a bit in the app, and we strongly suggest doing so.

The Nothing Ear (2) overemphasizes treble quite a lot, where the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) do not.

If you’re using an iPhone to listen to music, the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) will have a few extra features that you might enjoy, specifically the Adaptive EQ feature. This feature compensates the sound to compensate for a less than ideal fit. In theory, this means that the sound quality of the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) will be more consistent from person to person in a way that’s unlikely with other earbuds.

Does the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) or Nothing Ear (2) have a better microphone?

Though the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) does have a lot of wins in the head-to-head against the Nothing Ear (2) at this point, the microphone category is a tossup. Both headsets do a decent job with audio quality, even if neither is stellar at noise rejection. Both products do a good job at managing shortcomings inherent in mics that are far from your mouth.

You can hear the samples below demonstrating just how similar each microphone performs in the exact same conditions.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

Nothing Ear (2) microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) microphone demo (Office conditions):

Nothing Ear (2) microphone demo (Office conditions):

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In our experience, there really aren’t any huge dealbreakers here for typical conditions like video calls or phone calls. However the relatively poor noise rejection from both models means practicing video call etiquette is much more important. If you absolutely must have something better for work calls, we did scrape together a list of headsets with decent microphones for you to check out.

Should you get the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) or Nothing Ear (2)?

For the iOS ecosystem, there really isn’t much better than the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation).

Most of the time our comparisons are pretty lopsided, and this one is the same. The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) is a much better product than the Nothing Ear (2) in most regards, including sound quality, noise cancellation, and features—but the advantage slips a bit if you’re not using an iPhone, or you simply can’t justify spending an extra $100 on earphones. Without iOS’ baked-in software features, the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) is still the better product, but it has quite a bit less to justify the extra price tag compared to the Nothing Ear (2).

Additionally, as both products fit slightly different ear shapes, you may find that the Nothing Ear (2) simply fits you better. And that’s reason enough to get a product that isn’t “as good” on paper. Though these products are a bit mismatched when it comes to test results, there really isn’t a “wrong” answer here, just one that will be more likely to fit your life than the other.

If you’re an Android user, there are plenty of options to choose from that will offer a similar level of support and features, though replicating the native features of AirPods is going to be difficult. If you have larger ears, you may find that feature-dense options like the Sony WF-1000XM4 or the Sennheiser CX Plus True Wireless are more your speed. However, those with smaller ears will find that there aren’t a ton of really comfortable options out there beyond Apple and Nothing’s offerings, as most other earbud manufacturers have settled on a much larger nozzle than the aforementioned.

What should you get instead of the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) and Nothing Ear (2)?

If you’re looking to save a little bit of money, there are a number of other earphones out there that you could potentially take a peek at. Just keep in mind, most products at the sub-$200 price point will have some tradeoffs, especially if you’re hoping to get advanced or software-reliant features.

The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro performs better all-around, but at a price to match

The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro has an IPX7 rating, and the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) has the lesser, IPX4 rating. Neither case has a IP rating.

If you’re hoping to do better than Nothing (rimshot), the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro offer performance competitive to the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) at a typical price point of $155 USD. Though it may not fit your ears if you have a small ear canal, the Samsung buds do a great job with its sound quality, and a stellar job with noise cancellation. Of course, the IPX7 waterproof rating isn’t exactly a bad thing either, as it’s much more resistant to casual abuse than either the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) or Nothing Ear (2).

Like the Nothing Ear (2) there’s no OS-level features offered on iOS phones, but Samsung’s app does have a boatload of features baked into it if you download it. Features include EQ presets (but no custom EQ), a fit test, and customizable gestures. Unfortunately, the particular app you’d need for these features to work isn’t on the App Store, and what is there is… very broken at the moment.

Earbud haters should try the Beats Fit Pro

The Beats Fit Pro is a great set of workout earbuds for those who swap between iOS and Android.

If your ears just won’t cooperate with the design of AirPods or the Nothing Ear (2), you may want to look into products with extra features to hold earphones in place before giving up on the form factor entirely. In that case, you may be happier with something like the Beats Fit Pro, which uses a concha fin to hold the earbuds where they should be.

Though the sound doesn’t quite beat that of the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation), the price is a full $50 cheaper with comparable ANC performance. An excellent step between the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) and Nothing Ear (2), this is a model to keep on your radar if you’re seriously considering either earbuds.

Frequently asked questions

We’re pitting the Google Pixel Buds Pro against the Sony WF-1000XM4 to see which true wireless earbuds are worth your hard-earned cash.

Editor’s note: this versus article was updated on September 22, 2023, to acknowledge spatial audio with head tracking on the Google Pixel Buds Pro, add the Sony WF-1000XM5 to alternatives, and update formatting.

Does the Google Pixel Buds Pro have a better design than the Sony WF-1000XM4?

The addition of the copper ANC mic housings make the Sony WF-1000XM4 a bit more glam.

With copper accents, the Sony WF-1000XM4 stands out more than the subdued design of the Google Pixel Buds Pro. Both sets of earbuds are made primarily from sturdy plastic. While the Sony WF-1000XM4 is constructed from a traditional matte plastic, the Google Pixel Buds Pro features a sandstone-like texture on the outside of each earbud. You’ll also find a couple more color options available with the Google earbuds.

The Sony WF-1000XM4 ships in recycled paper packaging with reduced plastic to mitigate environmental impacts. That said, the inherently flawed design of using non-replaceable batteries in true wireless earbuds means neither the Google nor Sony buds are particularly kind to the environment in the long run.

The ear tips are easier than most earbuds to swap out and fit on the Pixel Buds Pro.

With an IPX4 water-resistance rating, the Sony WF-1000XM4 handles encounters with water better than the Google Pixel Buds Pro. The IPX2 rating on the Google Pixel Buds Pro still protects the earbuds from a bit of sweat and rain, you’ll just want to make sure not to get the earbuds soaking wet.

You get foam ear tips with the Sony WF-1000XM4, which makes it easier to find a secure and comfortable fit compared to the three silicone ear tips that ship with the Google Pixel Buds Pro. Both sets of earbuds come with an earbud fit test to help ensure you use the proper ear tips. The usefulness of the Google fit test is highly questionable though, as in our testing it claims every size ear tip is a great fit, which obviously isn’t true.

How do you control the Google Pixel Buds Pro and the Sony WF-1000XM4?

On both the Sony WF-1000XM4 and Google Pixel Buds Pro, you’ll find a touchpad adorning the outside of the earbuds for access to onboard playback controls. The Pixel Buds Pro uses swipes to control volume, a feature also found on Sony headphones, but not its earbuds such as the WF-1000XM4.

Google Pixel Buds Pro controls:

Both sets of earbuds feature automatic ear detection that pauses your music when you take an earbud out, and resumes playback when you reinsert the earbud in your ear. You can also use mono mode through a single earbud on both the Sony and Google buds.

Sony WF-1000XM4 controls:

If you aren’t a fan of taps and swipes, you can control either set of earbuds using your voice. Additionally, you can customize the default touch controls from within the companion apps of each set of earbuds.

Does the Google Pixel Buds Pro have more features than the Sony WF-1000XM4?

If you’ve got a Pixel phone, the Pixel Buds Pro control options are in the Bluetooth settings.

Android users can download the Pixel Buds app to control the earbuds, whereas Pixel phone owners get access to the earbud controls from right within the Bluetooth settings. If you own an iPhone, you’re out of luck, and won’t be able to download new firmware updates or customize your Google Pixel Buds Pro.

The main benefit of the Pixel Buds app is to get the earbuds set up to your liking and install new updates and features. Beyond that, you probably won’t use the app, unless you need to locate your earbuds using the location tracking.

The Pixel Buds app isn't available for iPhone users.

The Pixel Buds app lacks a custom equalizer, and instead offers a Volume EQ. This feature automatically adjusts bass and treble frequencies as you adjust the volume of the earbuds, in an attempt to ensure the earbuds sound the same at all volume levels.

The capacitive touch controls are straightforward, but somewhat customizable.

Available on both Android and iOS, the Sony Headphones Connect app enhances the Sony WF-1000XM4. The app downloads the latest features and firmware updates to the earbuds, while also enabling you to customize the onboard controls and listening modes.

Similar to the Google Pixel Buds Pro, the Sony WF-1000XM4 supports Google Fast Pair, which instantly connects the earbuds to your Android phone while also enabling Find My Device location tracking.

The Sony WF-1000XM4 works well on both iOS and Android

You can enable a couple of different modes within the Headphones Connect app for quick conversations through your earbuds. Quick Attention allows you to drop the volume of your music with a tap. Alternatively, Speak-to-Chat mode will mute your earbuds once you start talking.

What Bluetooth codecs do the Google Pixel Buds Pro and the Sony WF-1000XM4 support?

The fit feels fine for working at a desk, or sitting, but requires adjustments if you go out for a walk or jog.

The Google Pixel Buds Pro only supports the SBC or AAC codec over Bluetooth 5.0. This is an interesting choice for a product targeted toward Android device owners, as AAC typically works best on Apple devices. Without support for high-quality codecs such as aptX, there is often a noticeable latency when watching content or playing games.

While the Sony WF-1000XM4 also lacks support for aptX, it at least has support for LDAC. This provides a substantially higher 990kbps bit-rate compared to other codecs. However, the Pixel Buds Pro holds the advantage when it comes to connecting to multiple devices, as the Sony WF-1000XM4 doesn’t support Bluetooth multipoint.

Do Google or Sony’s earbuds have better battery life?

The polyurethane foam ear tips of the Sony WF-1000XM4 make for an easy fit every time.

Battery life between these two headsets is very close. In our battery testing of continuous music playback peaking at 75dB(SPL), the Google Pixel Buds Pro lasted 7 hours and 6 minutes on a single charge with ANC on, while the Sony WF-1000XM4 lasted about 7 hours and 43 minutes per charge. Combined with the charging case, you’ll get over 20 hours of total battery life from either headset.

Additionally, placing the Google Pixel Buds Pro or Sony WF-1000XM4 in its respective charging case for only five minutes yields 60 minutes of playtime. You can charge either case wirelessly or via USB-C.

Which has better noise canceling, the Google Pixel Buds Pro or the Sony WF-1000XM4?

With ANC enabled, the Google Pixel Buds Pro attenuates nearly as much noise as the Sony WF-1000XM4 across the audible frequency range.

Both earbuds do an exceptional job of blocking out environmental noise. The foam ear tips of the Sony WF-1000XM4 passively isolate more noise, but the ANC of the Google Pixel Buds Pro performs better at canceling out common low-mid frequency noise.

No matter which headset you go with, most noise will sound at least 75% quieter once you put the earbuds in and turn on ANC. If you don’t like using ANC, you’ll prefer the Sony WF-1000XM4, as you don’t need to use ANC to quiet your surroundings by a significant amount. Everyone else will be just as fine with the Google Pixel Buds Pro.

Does the Google Pixel Buds Pro sound better than the Sony WF-1000XM4?

The Google Pixel Buds Pro amplifies high frequencies significantly more than the Sony WF-1000XM4.

The Google Pixel Buds Pro and Sony WF-1000XM4 each feature what is commonly referred to as a “consumer-friendly” sound, with increased emphasis on bass and low-frequency content. Primarily, the difference between the way these headsets sound is in the treble range, where the Pixel Buds Pro amplifies high frequencies significantly more than the Sony WF-1000XM4.

While neither headset closely follows our headphone preference curve, both earbuds sound good enough out of the box for most people to enjoy. Which headset you think sounds better will entirely depend on your own preferences; however, a significant feature to take note of is the fact that the Google Pixel Buds Pro does not include native equalizer functionality.

When listening to a track such as Dream About Me by The Depreciation Guild, the kick and sub-bass on the Google Pixel Buds Pro is overpowering in contrast to the backing instruments. These earbuds work best when listening to something that doesn’t have too much sub-bass content, such as Lay Myself Down by Mazzy Star.

Similarly, the Sony WF-1000XM4 performs best on older tracks that don’t over-emphasize bass such as Dreams by Fleetwood Mac. That being said, if you really just want to feel some thumping bass in your music, you’ll get that on either of these earbuds.

Which headset has a better microphone?

The microphones on both sets of earbuds are good enough for taking calls on the go. The Pixel Buds Pro microphones sound noticeably clearer since they emphasize high frequencies more than the Sony WF-1000XM4. This makes some words easier to understand, but can also make sibilant sounds (s-, sh-, z-) come through with too much emphasis. Most of our simulated office noises get transmitted by both these sets of earbuds, so noise suppression isn’t the best on either. The Pixel Buds Pro does a good job of eliminating wind noise, but loses a lot of the wanted speech signal in the process, whereas the Sony WF-1000XM4 keeps the speech but is a little garbled. Both are best used in indoor, quiet environments where external noise won’t be such an issue.

This one is really a toss-up, so listen to the demos below and let us know which microphone you think sounds better.

Google Pixel Buds Pro microphone demo (Ideal):

Google Pixel Buds Pro microphone demo (Office):

Google Pixel Buds Pro microphone demo (Wind):

Sony WF-1000XM4 microphone demo (Ideal):

Sony WF-1000XM4 microphone demo (Office):

Sony WF-1000XM4 microphone demo (Wind):

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Should you buy the Google Pixel Buds Pro or the Sony WF-1000XM4?

This might sound a bit obvious, but iPhone users shouldn’t buy the Google Pixel Buds Pro. Since there’s no companion app for the earbuds available on the Apple App Store, you miss out on many of the features you’re paying for. Instead, the Sony WF-1000XM4 makes for a great option, as you won’t miss out on any significant features with these buds.

For Android device owners—especially Pixel phone users—the choice might be a bit harder. For the most part, the Google Pixel Buds Pro holds up to the Sony offering in performance and features, at a cheaper starting price. The biggest downside is the overpowering bass and treble, though you could always EQ this away with a third-party equalizer app.

What are some alternatives to the Google Pixel Buds Pro and the Sony WF-1000XM4?

The WF-1000XM5 (left) and WF-1000XM4 (right) support SBC, AAC, and LDAC.

There are many great earbud options out there beyond Google and Sony. Be aware that while the Sony WF-1000XM4 is still available, but Sony released the updated Sony WF-1000XM5. These are smaller than the XM4, and have improved noise canceling, battery life, and sell at a premium ().

Apple users should start by looking at the AirPods Pro (1st generation), which is the best bang-for-your-buck () offering in the Apple headphone lineup. You can also check out the newer Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation), which brings a couple of feature updates, .

The Bose QC Earbuds II looks completely different from the first-gen model.

If you’re considering high-end earbuds, then Bose is likely on your mind. The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II () is a strong competitor to the best from Sony, Google, and Apple, due to its comfortable fit, good sound, and great noise canceling.

Samsung device owners should consider the Galaxy Buds 2 () for its seamless integration with Samsung products via the Samsung Scalable codec. The more premium, Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro () is essentially direct competition for the Google Pixel Buds Pro. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a cheaper and sportier option that still delivers great sound and features, check out the Jabra Elite 7 Active ().

Frequently asked questions about the Google Pixel Buds Pro and the Sony WF-1000XM4

Editor’s note: this versus article was updated on September 5, 2023, to ensure the timeliness of the information within.

What’s it like to use the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless compared to the Apple AirPods Max  ?

The Apple AirPods Max and Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless have two very different approaches in terms of aesthetics, but there are some commonalities in the overall design of the two headsets. Both headsets are very comfortable so you can wear them for hours at a time. Just be sure you’re not caught in a downpour; they’re not IP rated, so you can’t take them out in the rain without some risk. From there, the two headsets deviate a bit.

The ear cups are magnetically attached and can easily pop off to be replaced.

The AirPods Max is designed like a typical Apple product: minimal and sleek. It has a largely metal build, with aluminum ear cups and a stainless steel headband. The metal frame makes it on the heavier side at 386g (13.6oz), but that doesn’t mean it’s uncomfortable. The headband is just a mesh canopy, and that same material covers the memory foam ear pads. This keeps the weight down and distributes weight evenly across the crown of your head.

Apple provides a Smart Case with its AirPods Max which doesn’t provide much protection. For that, you’ll need to buy a separate case for your AirPods Max. That said, placing the AirPods Max into the case immediately enables low power mode, and when the headset is in there for more than 18 hours, it enters ultra-low power mode. You don’t need to use the Smart Case to power down the headset, because it will enter low and ultra-low power mode after five minutes and 72 hours, respectively.

Thick pads dress the ear cups and band of the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless.

The Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless is made mostly of plastic, making it much more lightweight than the AirPods Max at 293g (10.3oz). Like the AirPods Max, the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless features memory foam ear pads, but Sennheiser wraps them in a leatherette fabric instead of mesh. Unlike the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 3 Wireless, the new model’s ear cups don’t collapse toward the headband. With the fourth-generation headset, you can rotate the ear cups to lay flat, which is good for transport and fitting the angle of your ears.

Sennheiser includes a protective zippered carrying case that can store the charging cable, flight adapter, and aux cable. This is a great inclusion and similar to what you get from Sony’s WH-1000X series headphones.

How do you control the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless and Apple AirPods Max?

The digital crown is used for playback controls, volume controls, and accessing Siri, and only Siri.

You need to interact with a few physical controls on the Apple AirPods Max to command your listening experience. The Digital Crown button on the top of the right ear cup adjusts volume and playback, while the noise control button on the top front of the right ear cup toggles between ANC and transparency mode.

To control the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless, you need to remember a dance of touch gestures on the ear cups, using the same controls for each ear cup. There’s also a power button on the right headphone, so you can actually turn off the headphones, unlike the AirPods Max.

Which wireless headset has better software features?

The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless has more Bluetooth codec options.

The Apple AirPods Max is made specifically for iOS users, meaning you can only get the most out of the headphones with an Apple device. The iPhone Settings app is where all the software features can be found and customized, including installing firmware updates, customizing the Digital Crown, enabling Spatial Audio, and toggling automatic head detection.

The Sennheiser Smart Control app works on iOS and Android, so anyone can access the same software features. In Sennheiser Smart Control, you can change your noise canceling level, get firmware updates, and customize the headphones’ EQ. There’s also a feature called Adaptive ANC that allows you to set ANC levels for different locations, though this requires you to allow location permissions, which isn’t ideal for the very digital privacy-inclined.

How do the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless and Apple AirPods Max connect?

Tapping “connect” on an iOS device will pair these automatically to every device on your iCloud account.

The Apple AirPods Max and Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless both use Bluetooth, and both support wired connections–though you’ll need an Apple accessory to do this with the AirPods Max, which doesn’t support audio over USB. Beyond that, how the two headsets connect to your devices does vary.

The Apple AirPods Max supports only the AAC and SBC Bluetooth codecs, which work perfectly fine on Apple devices, but AAC performance on Android phones varies significantly. While you probably won’t want the AirPods Max if you have an Android phone anyway, it’s still something to keep in mind if you ever use an Android device with AirPods Max. Connection strength with Apple devices is solid, given the H1 chip in the AirPods Max. When you first take the headphones out of the case, your iPhone will immediately recognize the headset and ask to connect. Once you’re connected to your iOS device, the AirPods Max will automatically connect to all devices on your iCloud account. To listen with a wired connection, you’ll need a 3.5mm to Lightning cable, which doesn’t come with the AirPods Max.

Wired listening is a great perk for this headset.

The Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless supports the SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, and aptX Adaptive codecs, meaning Android users have plenty of high-quality Bluetooth codecs to choose from. The headset also comes with a 2.5mm to 3.5mm TRS cable and a USB-A to USB-C cable for wired listening over USB. With all of these connectivity options, the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless is a more versatile headset overall.

To connect the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless to your devices, make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your device, and hold down the Bluetooth pairing button for three seconds until it shows up as MOMENTUM 4 in your Bluetooth menu. You can even connect to two devices at once with multipoint.

Is battery life better on the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless or Apple AirPods Max?

The Apple AirPods Max charge via Lightning which is very annoying.

In our objective battery testing playing constant audio peaking at 75dB(SPL), we found that the Apple AirPods Max has a battery life of almost 21 hours with ANC on. The lack of power button isn’t great, but again, if you leave your AirPods Max on a desk for five minutes, it will enter low power mode. When you need to top the AirPods Max up, grab the provided Lightning cable.

The Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless has a long battery life of 56 hours, 21 minutes with ANC on. Not only is this fantastic battery life in the short term, but longer battery life means your battery’s life will be longer. Fewer charge and deplete cycles mean the batteries will degrade slower than something that needs to be charged daily. If you care about not creating battery e-waste, the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless is the better option.

Does the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless or Apple AirPods Max cancel noise better?

The AirPods Max vastly outperforms the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless in low-end noise cancellation.

This is where the Apple AirPods Max truly shines. The ANC performance on the Apple AirPods Max is fantastic, with especially impressive noise canceling at the low end. The Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless is still really good at canceling out noise, just not the best. Where Sennheiser rises above Apple is passive isolation (though Apple performs well here too). As you can see in the chart above, the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless blocks out more noise when it comes to frequencies above 1.6kHz. Ultimately, the AirPods Max is the better option if you want some of the best noise canceling money can buy—yes, even better than the Sony WH-1000XM5.

To get the best attenuation possible from your headphones, make sure the ear pads are fully sealing your ears, so no outside noise gets in. Otherwise, ANC and isolation won’t perform as well, and you may end up turning the volume up too high and risking hearing damage.

Does the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless sound better than the Apple AirPods Max?

The Apple AirPods Max and the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless sound great, and largely follow our consumer curve.

In our testing, the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless and Apple AirPods Max both have sound profiles that are quite close to our target curve overall. The main difference here is that the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless has a little bit more of a boost in the bass and high frequencies, while the AirPods Max under-emphasizes a section of the highs from 1-6kHz and slightly boosts the sub-bass.

If you don’t enjoy the bass boost that comes with the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless, you can always change your EQ in the Sennheiser Smart Control app.

Does the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless or Apple AirPods Max or have a better microphone?

The Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless microphone is good enough for phone calls.

Both headsets have good microphones that are perfectly adequate for video calls, phone calls, and voice memos. The Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless has a clear-sounding microphone with plenty of level, and if you need better quality for recording, you should probably use a dedicated mic for that. Noise suppression isn’t great in windy conditions, so take your calls inside if you can. The Apple AirPods Max sounds good in ideal conditions as well, but in situations with background noise like wind, the noise suppression also leaves something to be desired.

Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless microphone sample (Ideal conditions):

Apple AirPods Max microphone sample (Ideal conditions):

Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless microphone sample (Windy conditions):

Apple AirPods Max microphone sample (Windy conditions):

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Should you get the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless or Apple AirPods Max?

The most important factor in deciding between the two headsets is whether you have an iPhone or not. If you don’t have an iPhone, don’t get the Apple AirPods Max. It will not be worth the high price, and you will probably regret it. Call quality won’t be good, and you’ll miss out on customization, firmware updates, Spatial Audio, and more. If you do have an iPhone and don’t plan to switch to Android any time soon, the AirPods Max is easier to justify. That said, there are plenty of cheaper headsets that perform just as well and cost less than $549 USD. With amazing ANC, good sound quality, great connection strength, and a comfortable and unique design, the AirPods Max is a worthy choice as long as you have an iPhone.

If you want something that doesn’t entirely depend on what operating system you use, the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless is a great noise canceling headset. It’s significantly more affordable than the AirPods Max, though still expensive at $350 USD. The ANC isn’t the best-in-class, but with phenomenal battery life, great sound quality, and good software features, the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless checks a lot of important boxes for those looking for noise canceling headphones.

What should you get instead of the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless and Apple AirPods Max?

The WH-1000XM5 (left) is much friendlier to those who switch between operating systems than the AirPods Max (right).

One of the best noise canceling headphones you can get is the Sony WH-1000XM5, which falls between the price range of the AirPods Max and the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless at . It has amazing ANC, a truly outstanding array of microphones with some of the best noise suppression, Bluetooth multipoint, and it also supports the SBC, AAC, and LDAC codecs along with wired connectivity. For a bit less you can get its predecessor, the Sony WH-1000XM4, which supports the same connectivity options, has good sound quality, and standout ANC. At , it’s similar in price to the Sennheisers, making it a really good alternative.

The Bose QuietComfort 35 II is still one of the best noise canceling headsets around, years after its debut.

Another solid option is the Bose QuietComfort 35 II, which at is very comfortable, has good ANC, and it’s even IPX4-rated. You can take a little walk in the rain with it and it won’t suffer, unlike the headsets above, which all lack IP ratings.

If you really don’t want to break the bank, the Monoprice BT-600ANC offers great noise canceling and a phenomenal battery life, along with aptX HD support, all for . The sound profile isn’t the best and there’s no companion app, but that’s the price you pay. Those willing to splurge a bit more should check out the Anker Soundcore Space Q45, which has noise canceling similar to the Sony WH-1000XM3 and a good mic system for .

Frequently asked questions

Editor’s note: this post was updated on August 28, 2023, to add the Sony WF-1000XM5 as an alternative, to answer FAQ, and to update formatting.

What’s it like to use the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro compared to the Google Pixel Buds Pro?

These three sets of ear tips are easier than most earbuds to swap out and fit on the Pixel Buds Pro.

The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro does not look very different from the previous version, except it now comes in matte colorways. At 5.5g, each Galaxy Buds 2 Pro earbud weighs a little less than the also lightweight Pixel Buds Pro earbuds (6.2g each). Even without stabilizers or wings the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro stays put, which is important. The earbuds aren’t the most secure, but they sit in your ears a little better than the Pixel Buds Pro.

Both pairs of earbuds come with three sets of ear tips, which are easy to swap out. The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro feel extremely comfortable over long stretches of time, and so long as you don’t try to do jumping jacks they shouldn’t fall out. By contrast, the Pixel Buds Pro rates fine for comfort but the fit is looser. Annoyingly, the Google Fear tip fit test tends to say every ear tip is a “good fit” unless the bud is literally halfway out your ear.

Its case isn’t waterproof, but the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro is safe from spills and pool drops.

The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro comes with an excellent IPX7 rating against water, while the Google Pixel Buds Pro has a lesser IPX4 rating for sweat protection. Google also ensures the Pixel Buds Pro case has an IPX2 rating against splashes, which makes sense considering the odd raindrop that might land on it. Samsung hasn’t given the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro case any IP rating.

Both cases otherwise feel sturdy, although the Pixel Buds Pro case is more pocketable with its flattened egg shape. The squat case of the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro is by no means large, but its uniform thickness causes it to bulge in a pocket more easily.

How do you control the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro and Google Pixel Buds Pro?

You control the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro with a series of taps, presses, and holds.

Like the previous generation, the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro uses virtually the same tap controls across the rounded rubbery surface. Fortunately, the touch panel now has more appropriate sensitivity, so commands tend to register as intended. Whether the flat panel of the Pixel Buds Pro or the round panel of the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro is better really comes down to personal preference.

Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro controls:

You can’t customize a whole lot except for touch-and-hold gestures. Samsung limits you to allocating one “type” of command to this function for both ears. If you want the left for Spotify Tap and the right for volume increase, you’re out of luck.

Google debuts its swipe forward and backward volume gestures on the Pixel Buds Pro’s matte touch panels. While the matte texture feels premium, it provides some extra resistance. Combine that resistance with the already loose fit, and it can cause the buds to pull out when you swipe them. Swipe control is a neat feature, but it could benefit from a better fitting bud, or smoother textured touch panels for less resistance.

Google Pixel buds Pro controls:

Like the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, Google has a limited set of control reassignments available, but you still have more options with the Pixel Buds Pro. You can make an earbud to activate Google Assistant, determine what listening modes (of the three) to cycle through directly from the earbuds, and reassign some taps to other commands.

Should you use the apps of either Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro or Google Pixel Buds Pro?

If you’ve got a Pixel phone, the Pixel Buds Pro app is integrated into the Bluetooth settings. Otherwise, you need to install an app.

You might not have a choice whether you get the apps or not. If you have a Samsung device, it’ll automatically add the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro to the Galaxy Wearable app. You’ll then need to agree to a lot of data sharing. For updates alone, it’s worth having the app. You can choose different EQ presets, access Find My Earbuds, enable accessibility settings, alter ANC settings, do a fit test, and set up 360 Audio. It also has a hands-free voice assistant if you want that, defaulting to Bixby.

The app is exclusive to Android devices, with some features further exclusive to Samsung devices only, like 24-bit audio and device switching, which only works between Samsung Galaxy devices (One UI 4.0+) on the same Samsung account. You can even program the buds to read out notifications or have ambient mode on during a call to mimic a telephone’s sidetone.

The left shows the significant number of app permissions required to even use the Galaxy Wearable app. On the right is the main menu page, where most functions are under settings.

If you have a Google Pixel phone, you already have the app built in for the Google Pixel Buds Pro. The rest of us have to download the Pixel Buds app, which, like the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro and its companion app, only works on Android. It offers pretty similar functionality as the Galaxy Wearable app, like ANC adjustments, custom controls, hands-free voice assistant, Find my earbuds, an ear tip seal test, and EQ presets. In a recent update, Google added spatial audio with head tracking to the Pixel Buds Pro too.

Where the Pixel Buds Pro differs is including Volume EQ, which uses an algorithm to alter your EQ in response to the listening volume, and an integration of the Google Translate function on the fly.

How do the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro and Google Pixel Buds Pro connect?

Use the indicator light which blinks red, blue, and green when in pairing mode.

Both the Google Pixel Buds Pro and Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro use the industry standard wireless connections AAC and SBC Bluetooth codecs. In addition, if you pair the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro with a Samsung device you can access the Samsung Seamless Codec for better quality audio.

It is a little odd that two wireless earbuds aimed at Android users only use AAC and SBC, particularly in the case of Pixel Buds Pro, which does not have any exclusive high-quality codec. They’re both required for Bluetooth 5.0 and higher, but AAC has been shown to work best with Apple products, and indeed both sets of earbuds have low latency over AAC with an iPhone. We would’ve liked to see something more Android-friendly, like aptX.

Opening the case will automatically trigger the buds to try pairing (in most cases).

The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro uses the latest Bluetooth 5.3, meaning it will gain LE Audio compatibility. Although the Bluetooth 5.0 version on the Pixel Buds Pro is completely fine, it won’t support LE Audio when it rolls out. For these reasons and the added Samsung codec, the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro wins for connectivity.

Is battery life better on the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro or Google Pixel Buds Pro?

The case feels grippy for the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro.

Sporting a superior battery life, the Google Pixel Buds Pro lasts 7 hours and 6 minutes with ANC on. Using the same standardized testing method, consisting of constant music playback peaking at 75dB(SPL), the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro lasts 4 hours and 50 minutes. Requiring fewer charging cycles than the Samsung Buds to achieve the same playback time, the Pixel Buds Pro may last a little longer down the line.

Otherwise, both battery cases charge via USB-C or wirelessly with a Qi pad. Samsung includes the Wireless PowerShare function; this requires you to have a Qi-compatible phone to charge the buds.

Does the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro or Google Pixel Buds Pro block noise better?

The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro has better ANC than the Pixel Buds Pro.

One of the greatest strengths of the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro lies in its excellent active noise canceling performance. The Google Pixel Buds Pro has very respectable ANC tech, but particularly in the lowest frequency regions, it can’t keep pace with the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro. In addition, vents present on both sets of earbuds act to relieve in-ear pressure caused by noise canceling.

More comparable are the isolating qualities of each set of buds, however, even here Samsung mostly outdoes the Pixel Buds Pro as well. So while Samsung wins for better noise canceling, both wireless earbuds will help keep your volume at a safer level to prevent noise-induced hearing loss.

Does the Google Pixel Buds Pro sound better than the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro?

Most people will prefer how the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro sounds over the Pixel Buds Pro.

Our tests show both sets have nearly identical tuning below 1000Hz, exaggerating bass by around 5dB, with the Pixel Buds Pro bumping it up a couple decibels more around 40-60Hz. Also, compared to our headphone preference curve, both marginally under-emphasize the 500-1000Hz region. Still, Samsung and Google’s frequency responses roughly follow the gist of our target curve there, and it helps to know these differences and similarities when deciding on a purchase.

In the high end, except for the volume roll-off at 10kHz, the Google Pixel Buds Pro is louder than the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro. The Pixel Buds Pro could border on harsh for some listeners, depending on the content. In contrast, the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro delivers a saner amount of treble in its frequency response, and features a volume dip between 7-10kHz, and then a boost above 10kHz. Less happens above 10Khz in terms of content, so while it’ll affect your audio, it won’t be as obvious as the over-amplified treble frequencies on the Pixel Buds Pro.

Does the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro or Google Pixel Buds Pro have a better microphone?

Neither microphone is the most accurate, but both work just fine for meetings. The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro in ideal conditions sounds more or less fine, but can cause some voices to sound as though they have a lisp, and exaggerates plosives (p sounds). It rejects wind noise fairly well.

The Pixel Buds Pro noise rejection works okay, but can sometimes cut your voice out completely with heavy wind, so maybe avoid mid-windstorm Zoom meetings. Higher voices tend to fare worse with some sibilant (s sounds) exaggerations, as well.

Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

Google Pixel Buds Pro microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro microphone demo (Windy conditions):

Google Pixel Buds Pro microphone demo (Windy conditions):

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Editor’s note: Our standardized test setup plays back pre-recorded phrases from a calibrated artificial mouth in our test chamber, either with or without simulated background noises, simulated reverberant spaces, or artificial wind. This means that samples from every product can be directly compared, which makes it far easier to make meaningful comparisons between products in terms of the raw speech quality or the product’s ability to reject noise. While this setup is consistent, it’s unable to allow the earbuds to detect speech as they would in the real world (using vibrations), so you’re likely to experience something different than our demos above.

Should you get the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro or Google Pixel Buds Pro?

The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro are better where it counts.

Unless you have a Google obsession or need earbuds for constant playback exceeding 5 hours, you ought to pick up the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro. This is especially true for Samsung phone owners who can access the Samsung Seamless Codec. The Samsung buds sound better and cancel more noise than the Google Pixel Buds Pro. It also happens to be on our best noise canceling wireless earphones list.

Both sets of earbuds are comfortable, but the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro earphones fit and feel better. Plus Samsung’s buds have a superior IPX7 rating compared to the IPX4 on the Google buds. Granted, the Pixel Buds Pro has a better charging case with IPX2 protection and a more pocketable shape. You also get a longer standalone battery life out of the Pixel buds Pro.

The case lid props up the buds for easy access.

Most of what you buy when you get either of these great wireless earbuds is the companion software. Both apps have similar functionality and limitations, even down to control remapping. Even considering prices jump around a lot for Samsung, and Google is pretty fixed, you might as well go for the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro for its better sound and ANC, unless you need a better battery life and Google Translate.

What should you get instead of the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro and Google Pixel Buds Pro?

The first and second-gen AirPods Pro look and operate similarly to one another.

First off, don’t buy either of these earbuds if you have an iPhone. You won’t have access to most of the Samsung and Google features because you miss out on the apps. Instead, iPhone owners, just jump right to the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) () for the smoothest experience on iOS. If you don’t mind missing a few features like a speaker built into the charging case, you can grab the Apple AirPods Pro (1st gen) instead (); it compares very well against the 2nd generation.

The WF-1000XM5 (left) and WF-1000XM4 (right) support similar feature sets that can suit folks looking to get great earbuds.

Those who switch between operating systems, go ahead and pick up the Sony WF-1000XM4. Sony’s buds have great ANC, 360 Reality Audio, and a more granular equalizer in the app. Android owners can use the LDAC codec and don’t need a special phone for the WF-1000XM4 either, hurray. Granted, it was more expensive when released, but has gone down a bit ().

The introduction of the even newer Sony WF-1000XM5, which updates the battery life, noise canceling, and slims down the previous iteration, is a solid alternative to the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro and Pixel Buds Pro. These are a bit costly (), but for the latest tech from Sony that might be worth the entry fee.

The Nothing X app works regardless of whether your phone uses Android or iOS.

If you want a solid connection, some ANC, and don’t care for spatial audio with head tracking, there’s the Nothing Ear (2). No need here to make sure you have the Nothing Phone 2 to get features, as needed for Google and Samsung earbuds. You get the LHDC 5.0 codec, provided you’ve got Android 10 or later to potentially get up to 24 bit/192kHz audio, similar to the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro’s Samsung Seamless Codec. iOS users still get the AAC codec too. While the noise canceling doesn’t outdo the Pixel Buds Pro or Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, it’s very consistent in its implementation. For it’s worth a look.

Frequently asked questions

Editor’s note: this article was published on August 16th, 2023, and is the first version of the article. Updates will follow as the market changes.

What’s it like to use the Beats Studio Pro compared to the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless?

Beats designed the Studio Pro to have a slimmer shape.

The Beats Studio Pro is a portable package with folding hinges and a zippered carry bag. While easy to stow and svelte looking when worn, the ear cups can prove too small even for average-sized ears. The clamping force is relatively high, which is expected for those familiar with the foibles of Beats headphones. You probably will want to avoid wearing these with glasses. The construction feels plasticky, and they’re lightweight at 270g. One gets the feeling Beats sacrificed some comfort to slim down the headphones.

With the Beats, you get a headphone jack cable and a USB-C cable. You can use that USB-C cable to listen to music using the headphone’s DAC, which is excellent for listening to your FLAC library with as little signal degradation as possible. You also get head tracking on the Beats Studio Pro when listening to spatial audio. A bugaboo for some folks is the input control buttons on the flat of the earcup housing, so you’ll hear each press loudly in your ear and feel the actuation.

These Sennheiser headphones aren’t the smallest but fit most people comfortably.

The MOMENTUM 4 Wireless don’t fold down like the Beats, although the ear cups articulate and rotate. They also provide more space for a greater variety of ear sizes than on the Studio Pro. Clamping force feels average to light, depending on your head size. Most people can easily don the 293g MOMENTUM 4 Wireless for hours comfortably, and they feel pretty solid from the cushioning to the choice of materials, even if they’re primarily plastic with tweed-inspired adornments and memory foam.

With the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless, you get a headphone jack cable, an airplane adapter, and a USB-C cable which (like the Beats) can be used for listening to music over a digital connection. The case is nicer overall than the one provided with the  Beats Studio Pro, but whether you want a flatter, taller case with the Sennheiser headphones or a shorter, thicker case with the Beats. In terms of the everyday experience, the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless can be a touch slower to connect wirelessly than the Beats, but they feel better to wear for long periods.

How do you control the Beats Studio Pro and Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless?

The touchpad commands on the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless don’t cause any audible disruption, but you’ll need to memorize the gestures.

Clicky push buttons are employed exclusively on the Beats Studio Pro for on-ear controls, so you’ll hear and feel them each time you press. Some folks prefer to use their phones for playback controls for that reason. When you listen via the USB-C connection, you’ll have access to 3 built-in EQ presets, indicated by lights on the ear cup.

The Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless controls mainly comprise touch gestures on the flat of the ear cup housing. A multi-function button resides on the side, so you won’t hear it click. Below are the audio playback controls.

Similarly, these are Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless call controls. The only downside of these controls is that you need to remember them.

Should you use Beats Studio Pro or Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless apps?

The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless has more Bluetooth codec options.

If you have an Apple iPhone or iPad, you don’t need to download any app for the Studio Pro. The somewhat minimal control experience for the Beats Studio Pro resides in your Bluetooth Settings menu. There you’ll gain access to updates, noise cancelation, transparency, or standard listening mode, and you can rename the headphones if you like. Android users can also download the Beats app, which supplies the same capabilities as the integrated iOS version. For most, it’s a set-and-forget experience useful for when you need updates.

Sennheiser has the same app for iOS and Android called the Sennheiser Smart Control. This supplies updates, command remapping, noise canceling modes, Bluetooth codec selection, an equalizer, and Sound Zones. Like the Beats, you still need to give permission for your data, but you get more in exchange. The equalizer, for instance, lets you dial in your preferences, and if you don’t like the default gestures for commands, you can alter those.

How do the Beats Studio Pro and Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless connect?

The Beats Studio Pro gives you three ways to connect.

If you have an iPhone, the Beats Studio Pro and Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless use the same AAC codec. Interestingly, unlike other Apple-owned properties, like the Beats Fit Pro, the Studio Pro does not feature H1 chip integration. However, the headphones connect using Bluetooth 5.3 over SBC or AAC, with a headphone jack, or with a USB-C cable. A USB-C connection allows you to listen to all those devices (like your phone) without headphone jacks.

Sennheiser provides a better codec selection on the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless (over Bluetooth 5.2) with aptX, aptX Adaptive (both great for Android users), AAC, and SBC. In addition, you get the same headphone jack and USB-C listening connectivity as the Beats for all your headphone jack-free devices.

Is battery life better on the Beats Studio Pro or Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless?

Clicky buttons and a USB-C port for charging or listening.

While not a terrible result by any stretch, the Beats Studio Pro battery life lasts 31 hours and 25 minutes with ANC on, according to our standard test. On the other hand, the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless battery life is one of the best, reaching 56 hours and 21 minutes with ANC on.

Besides the convenience of not needing to juice up your battery as frequently, a longer-lasting battery can prolong the overall lifespan of your headphones, which is great from an environmental impact perspective. It’s also kinder to your wallet by reducing how frequently you need to get new headphones.

Do the Beats Studio Pro or Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless block noise better?

The active noise canceling is a bit better on the Beats.

Your experience with the Beats Studio Pro and Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless noise canceling will be comparable. To be clear, neither reach the ANC or isolation of Sony WH-1000XM5, for example. The Studio Pro reduce more noise between 100Hz and 900Hz than the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless; you’ll notice the ANC with traffic sounds and air conditioners, for instance. The Beats Studio Pro can block more higher-pitched noise (above 5kHz) than the Sennheiser headphones. Meanwhile, the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless isolate better between 1500Hz through 5000Hz, which tends to apply sounds like the clatter of dishes.

Remember that if the Beats Studio Pro fit are too small to seal around your ears properly, your isolation will be worse than our chart. Oddly you can’t use ANC or Transparency modes when the USB-C cable is plugged into the Beats Studio Pro.

Do the Beats Studio Pro sound better than the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless?

By default, the Beats have more treble, and the Sennheiser headphones have more low-end.

Both headphones have decent frequency responses. Compared to our headphone preference curve, the Beats Studio Pro give a small volume bump to the sub-bass, scoop the mids slightly, and exaggerate treble more than Sennheisers. In contrast, the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless boosts bass below 100Hz, follows our headphone preference curve through the mids well and is slightly less pronounced in the treble frequencies above 2kHz, closer to our preference.

We give the edge to Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless for sounding better and because you can adjust the EQ in the app. You can only change the EQ of the Studio Pro when listening using the USB-C cable. Your choices are limited to the sound profiles that Beats provides.

Do the Beats Studio Pro or Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless have a better microphone?

The most significant difference you’ll notice with the Beats Studio Pro is the relatively low volume output of the mic — the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless transmits your speech at a much higher volume. Both sound decent for headphones without a dedicated boom mic, and they tend to capture some of your environment, but your voice still comes through. Be warned if you listen to our samples below: the level difference here is pretty dramatic.

Beats Studio Pro microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

Beats Studio Pro microphone demo (Street conditions):

Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless microphone demo (Street conditions):

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Beats Studio Pro vs Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless: Price and availability

Beats Studio Pro has more color variants than the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless.

The Beats Studio Pro and Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless go for the same price of $349. Because the Sennheiser headphones came out first, you’ll find it easier to track down a discount.

Should you get the Beats Studio Pro or Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless?

Beats have come a long way since the comically exaggerated bass of the past.

The Beats Studio Pro are an upgrade over Beats of years of yore, but we can’t exactly say they entirely outdo the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless. The Sennheiser headphones have drastically better battery life and better comfort. Objectively, the main pro of the Studio Pro is that they reduce midrange and low-pitched noises by up to 10dB more than the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless at roughly 250Hz, for instance. Beats don’t win that out by a landslide because the Sennheisers have slightly better overall isolation performance, but it’s worth mentioning if ANC is your number one priority.

There’s a lot to like about both headphones because they share similar features. This includes USB-C listening, a headphone jack, decent noise canceling, and variations on a consumer-friendly audio tuning. The aptX and aptX Adaptive codecs offer better quality wireless audio on the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless for Android users. For Apple users, the Beats integration with iOS seems more convenient in daily life for automatic updates, even if the placement of buttons could be better.

Despite the lack of metal, these feel sturdy.

If you prioritize sound quality, then the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless have the better frequency response, slightly better connectivity, and come with a decent equalizer. Conversely, the Beats are slightly more portable with folding hinges and require (and offer) little customization. Despite the solid feature set on the Beats, most people want to feel comfortable. The cushioning, touchpad, and fit of the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless should be better for longer — and not just because the battery life is greater — on a greater variety of people.

Frequently asked questions

Editor’s note: this article was updated on August 10, 2023, to clarify a few points.

Do the AirPods Pro or Beats Powerbeats Pro have a better fit?

The AirPods Pro comes with three different sized ear tips, one of which comes pre-installed on the earbuds.

The answer to this question seems like a no-brainer at first glance, but it’s not so simple. The original AirPods is notorious for having a terrible fit, but that was fixed with the AirPods Pro which makes this a way cleaner fight. Now, these come with three pairs of ear tips that snap on easily to the end of the earbuds thanks to a proprietary system giving them a much more versatile fit in the ear that most people can make use of. So they no longer have the terrible fit and isolation problems that plagued the originals.

The Powerbeats Pro has the same over-ear hook design as the standard Powerbeats, but it ditches the wire connecting them.

The Powerbeats Pro on the other hand also comes with three different sized ear tips, but it has an ear hook design as well. This gives the buds a slight edge when it comes to how they fit. Even if the nozzle falls out of your ear, at least you know they’ll be held in place by the ear hook. Anyone who has ever dropped a single true wireless earbud on the street knows how helpful having an around-ear hook can be.

Is the Powerbeats Pro better for working out than the AirPods Pro?

If you’re headed to the gym then the large charging case of the Powerbeats Pro isn’t a problem.

The Beats Powerbeats Pro is the more appropriate set of workout earbuds for vigorous exercise, but the AirPods Pro can hold its own too. The Powerbeats Pro has full playback controls including volume so you never have to reach for your phone while pumping out a set. It also has the aforementioned hook design that keeps them from flying out under even the most intense workouts.

That ear hook may not seem like a huge help when working out, but by increasing the overall size of each earbud, they distribute their weight more evenly over your entire ear. Additionally, it’s much easier to locate a bud in the far less likely event that it falls out.

Either earbud features a few buttons for playback control including volume adjustment and pausing/playing music.

Still, the AirPods Pro is no slouch here. The earbuds share the same IPX4 rating and do a decent job at staying put in your ears. This lack of volume control on the AirPods Pro (unless you use Siri) means you’ll have to reach for your phone every time you want to lower the volume unless you don’t mind being the weird person speaking to Siri in the gym. Both earphones support full mono playback if you want to exercise outside while keeping an ear on what’s going on around you.

Which has better features, the AirPods Pro or Powerbeats Pro?

If you’re not going to be lifting iron in the gym, then maybe you just care about which pair of earphones has the best and most convenient features. If that’s what you’re after then your path forward is clear, just get the AirPods Pro. Not only has the design of the AirPods been given a makeover between it and the original, but it also has some new and improved features as well that blow the Powerbeats Pro out of the water.

The redesigned AirPods Pro now has dedicated nozzles that insert into the ear, making for a more stable fit and improved audio quality.

For one, there’s the new active noise canceling (ANC) which performs respectably. Furthermore, the AirPods Pro has a transparency mode that lets you hear what’s going on around you. It’s great if you want to exercise in stereo mode, or just hear subway platform announcements on your way to work.

While active noise canceling is intended to help block out the world around you, Spatial Audio featured in the AirPods Pro aims to further immerse you in your content. The feature is compatible with content mixed in 5.1 and 7.1 surround sound, in addition to Dolby Atmos. Apple’s approach uses the gyroscope and accelerometers within the AirPods Pro, mapping out the earbud’s position relative to your iOS device; it even supports head tracking. As of now, Spatial Audio is only compatible with a handful of apps, including Apple Music, Apple TV, Disney+, Plex, and HBO Max.

Does the AirPods Pro have a better connection than the Beats Powerbeats Pro?

Just clicking “Connect” on the card that pops up automatically pairs the headphones to your devices.

One of the biggest concerns with true wireless earbuds is how well they stay connected to each other and to your source device. Constant skipping and stutters can just be super annoying, but thankfully both the Powerbeats Pro and the AirPods Pro have the Apple H1 chip which helps to make that a thing of the past. It’s a dedicated chip that works with Bluetooth 5.0 in order to provide a more stable, low lag connection for Apple devices, and it works pretty well.

In our testing, skips were minimal with both of these pairs of buds and because of the H1 chip, pairing is super simple as well. All you have to do is hit the “Connect” button that pops up on your iOS device in order to automatically pair them with all the devices on your iCloud. If you’re an Android user then you’ll still have to go through Bluetooth settings and you’ll likely experience a few more stutters than iOS users, but even then they’re few and far between.

Does the Powerbeats Pro have better battery life than the AirPods Pro?

The Powerbeats Pro charging case is large and bulky, dwarfing both the AirPods charging case.

The Beats Powerbeats Pro’s battery life laps the AirPods Pro’s battery life, which makes sense seeing how the former doesn’t use ANC (a power-hungry technology). The Powerbeats Pro lasts just over 10 hours on a single charge, while the AirPods Pro lasts just over 5 hours on a single charge. We reached these results after subjecting each headset to a constant music output peaking at 75dB(SPL) until the batteries fully depleted.

Both true wireless charging cases use the Lightning adapter and can quick charge the earbuds. With the AirPods Pro, five minutes in the case yields 60 minutes of playtime, slightly shorter than the Powerbeats Pro case’s ability to provide 90 minutes of playtime after five minutes of charging. Only the AirPods Pro case supports wireless charging and a MagSafe connection, though.

Does Apple AirPods Pro sound better than Beats Powerbeats Pro?

The Apple AirPods Pro addresses listeners’ complaints about a lack of seal from the previous generations.

If we’re being honest, you’re probably not picking either of these for studio-quality audio. While each headset is good enough for its respective use case, you’re not going to see any audio engineers using these to mix tracks.

As you’d expect of a Beats product, the Powerbeats Pro emphasizes low-end frequencies in order to provide a little more bass while exercising. The mids are slightly under-emphasized which makes it hard to hear vocals and other instruments during bass-heavy sections of your favorite tracks. While this isn’t ideal, generally, it may be exactly what you need to stay motivated during your workout. Upper-midrange frequencies are amplified while most treble notes are under-emphasized to prevent cymbals and synths from coming across too loud.

The Powerbeats Pro has a comparatively more hyped sound in the bass frequencies than the AirPods Pro.

The AirPods Pro has a much more consistent output across the frequency spectrum, making it a better option for varied music tastes. It more closely follows our house curve, though you can’t EQ it from the Apple Settings app. It’s worth noting that you’ll need a near-perfect fit to get the seal required to enjoy that, so make sure to give the Apple fit test a try, which lets you know which ear tips to use.

Need noise canceling? Get the AirPods Pro instead of the Powerbeats Pro

The Apple AirPods Pro has active noise canceling, which combats low and midrange frequency noises better than the Beats Powerbeats Pro. If you’re commuting, you’ll want to throw the AirPods Pro in your bag. That said, for a pair of non-ANC earbuds, the Powerbeats Pro does a fine job of blocking out high-frequency sounds like conversations and other incidental noises. Droning lows will be more audible on the Powerbeats Pro.

Which has better microphone quality, the AirPods Pro or the Powerbeats Pro?

Plenty of people use their headphones to take phone calls, and thankfully both the Powerbeats Pro and the AirPods Pro are fairly good in this respect. You won’t sound terrible on either, but the AirPods Pro has a slight advantage when it comes to the lower frequencies in your voice.

The AirPods Pro is hard to beat for iOS users.

On the whole, though, the Powerbeats Pro is better at noise rejection (but not as good against wind), and it also seems to be able to capture voices a bit more naturally than the AirPods Pro. While neither option is bad here, we recommend the Powerbeats Pro if you use a VoLTE chat service or need to record your voice.

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So should you buy the AirPods Pro or the Powerbeats Pro?

For those keeping score at home, this means that when you pin these two “pro” true wireless earbuds head-to-head, what’s “best” depends entirely upon what you value in a set of true wireless earphones. And that isn’t to say that the models discussed here aren’t great pairs of buds in their own right, especially if you’re the kind of person who is going to make use of taking them to the gym.

Most people, however, will get the most bang for their buck out of the AirPods Pro for its noise canceling and portability. Folks with Android devices might as well check out some AirPods Pro alternatives, so they don’t pay for more features their phones can’t use.

What are some alternatives?

The Digital Crown on the AirPods Max is smooth and feels great for adjusting volume.

Apple recently released the AirPods Pro (2nd generation), which improves on the 1st generation in a few notable ways. It has better noise canceling, a new H2 chip in the earbuds, spatial audio, and a U1 chip in the case for better location tracking. It’s available for .

The Beats Fit Pro is another good option for iOS or Android. It has an H1 chip, so you get some features like Spatial Audio and Find My only with iOS devices, but it works great with Android devices too using the Beats app. It also has active noise canceling, and a pleasant frequency response. It’s available for .

For those who want a pair of over-ear headphones, and don’t want to step outside the Apple ecosystem, you may want to get the Apple AirPods Max, available for . The AirPods Max inherits a lot of features from the AirPods Pro, including the use of hybrid noise canceling technology, Transparency Mode, Apple H1 chip, Adaptive EQ, and Spatial Audio. It also boasts a 20-hour battery life with fast charging, giving you 90 minutes of playtime after just five minutes of charging. If you have enough cash to cover the Apple tax, the AirPods Max could be your next—and probably only—pair of headphones. This pair of premium noise canceling headphones keeps up with premium headsets like the Sony WH-1000XM5 () and Bose QuietComfort 45 ().

Frequently asked questions about the Apple AirPods Pro and Beats Powerbeats Pro

Editor’s note: this article was updated on August 8, 2023 to note the updated Sennheiser software.

What’s it like to use the Bose QuietComfort 45 compared to the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless?

USB-C charging is a big reason to get the Bose QuietComfort 45 over its predecessor.

Both headphones have plastic builds with leatherette ear pads and comfortable padding on the headbands. The QuietComfort 45 comes in a bit lighter at 240g (8.5oz), while the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless is 293g (10.3oz). Both headsets charge using USB-C and support fast charging. Neither headset is water resistant, so taking either of them out in the rain is a bad idea.

The Bose QuietComfort 45 is, as the name states, comfortable. You should be able to wear the QC 45 for hours on end, making it a great headset for intercontinental flights. Each ear cup rotates flat, and you can compact the headset further by pushing the ear cups toward the headband. Notably, the QC 45 has physical buttons on the ear cups, and lacks a touch panel like its sleeker sibling the Noise Canceling Headphones 700 (more on the controls later). The design is largely based on its predecessor, the Bose QuietComfort 35 II.

The ear cups are angled in such a way that makes this a uniquely comfortable headset.

The Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless has touch gesture controls, bringing more of a modern touch to its design. The ear cups don’t fold, but they still swivel enough to fit your head. The headband of the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless has a more stylish design than the QuietComfort 45, and it has a fabric coating across the top of the headband. The look differs quite a bit from its predecessor, the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 3 Wireless, which has a foldable, metal construction with hinges, making the third-generation headset heavier than the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless.

How do you control the Bose QuietComfort 45 and the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless?

Playback controls can be found on the back of the headphones.

The Bose QuietComfort 45 uses physical buttons on the ear cups for controls. While the tactile technology seems dated, some people prefer buttons because touch controls can easily misfire, get oily, or simply not work in colder conditions. The back of the right ear cup features playback buttons, and there’s a power/Bluetooth switch on the face of the right ear cup. The left ear cup has an Action button that toggles listening modes, activates voice assistant, and mutes calls.

Bose QuietComfort 45 controls

In contrast to the QuietComfort 45, the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless supports touch controls. The gestures are easy to figure out and remember. The headset does have a button on the right side for power on/off, but it has some other functions too, like holding it down to enter pairing mode, or tapping it once in a call to mute your microphone.

Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless audio controls

Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless call controls

Should you use the apps of either Bose QuietComfort 45 or Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless?

The app doesn’t offer much in the way of features, so those looking to EQ their headphones will be disappointed.

The Bose Music app (iOS/Android) helps you get the most out of the Bose QuietComfort 45, but it’s still fairly barebones relative to competitors’ apps. In the Bose Music app, you can access firmware updates, voice assistant settings, and an equalizer. While you can alternate between ANC and Aware mode, you can’t make granular adjustments to the ANC intensity. Another quirk: turning off ANC automatically enables Aware mode. There’s no “off” option. You’ll also be asked to share a lot of personal information such as location, call and message history, which is quite common with headphone apps.

The Sennheiser Smart Control app (iOS/Android) for the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless is also a helpful app to have and offers a bit more control over noise canceling. You can adjust the ANC intensity, toggle adaptive ANC on/off, install firmware updates, and access a fairly expansive equalizer. Adaptive ANC is a cool feature that allows you to set ANC levels for different locations, though this does require location permissions to work. The Smart Control app generally asks for a ton of data, making both apps pretty similar on the data privacy front.

Installing firmware updates may not seem like a big deal for headphones, but recent models like the ones discussed here have significant potential for improvement over this function. For example, in May, Sennheiser improved the firmware of the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless to enable aptX Adaptive and its best data transfer rate for compatible source devices.

How do the Bose QuietComfort 45 and Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless connect?

If you prefer wired listening, make use of the included cable.

Both the Bose QuietComfort 45 and Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless support Bluetooth and wired connectivity.

The Bose QuietComfort 45 uses Bluetooth 5.1, and includes the SBC and AAC Bluetooth codecs. It doesn’t support aptX or any other high-bitrate codecs. The headset comes with a 2.5mm to 3.5mm TRS cable for wired listening if you prefer that.

The Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless supports the SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, and aptX Adaptive codecs, giving Android users more high-quality Bluetooth codecs to choose from. The headset also comes with both a 2.5mm to 3.5mm TRS cable and a USB-A to USB-C cable for wired listening. The audio over USB option is great for people with phones lacking headphone jacks that want to listen using a wired connection. Overall, the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless has more versatile options for connectivity and competes more closely with the Shure AONIC 50 in this department.

Is battery life better on the Bose QuietComfort 45 or Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless?

If you’re on a full charge, don’t expect to need a top-off anytime soon.

We subjected both headsets to our standard battery test, with continuous music playback peaking at 75dB(SPL). The Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless is by far the better performer, coming in at 56 hours, 21 minutes with ANC on. This is better than all the closest ANC headset competitors, not just the QuietComfort 45. In comparison, the Bose QuietComfort 45 has a battery life of 24 hours, 49 minutes with ANC on.

An important factor here apart from the short-term battery life consideration is the actual life of the battery. Longer battery life means fewer charging cycles, which means your battery can hold its charge for longer overall. With battery e-waste being a major issue, you’re generally better off going for more eco-friendly options that have longer battery life.

Does the Bose QuietComfort 45 or Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless cancel noise better?

The Bose QuietComfort 45 (cyan) outperforms the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless (pink) in ANC.

While both headphones cancel noise really well, the Bose QuietComfort 45 does a better job of canceling out noise in pretty much every range, particularly low and midrange frequencies. Both headsets effectively block out high-pitched noises, with the QuietComfort 45 winning out. It’s no surprise that Bose makes its way onto our best noise canceling headphones list.

To ensure the best ANC performance possible, make sure you have a good seal around your ear, by adjusting the headband and moving the ear cups to get a secure fit. If you have gaps around the ear cups, outside noise will leak in, rendering the ANC and isolation much less effective. Sound leaking in can also lead you to turn up the volume to potentially dangerous levels, which can cause hearing loss.

Does the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless sound better than the Bose QuietComfort 45?

While both the Bose QuietComfort 45 and Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless have pretty similar sound profiles in our testing, the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless measures a bit closer to our consumer target curve, especially in the highs, when compared to the QuietComfort 45. The Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless does have a bit of an extra boost in the bass range compared to our consumer curve, but it’s nothing too wild. Most people will enjoy the sound of the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless, and both headsets’ sound profiles can be modified in the respective app.

The Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless (yellow) frequency response is much closer to our consumer curve (pink) than the Bose QuietComfort 45 (cyan).

Some music will not sound great through the Bose QuietComfort 45 with that boost in the highs, especially busy tracks with lots of high-pitched sounds. Music filled with incidental high sounds like strumming or breathing, punk music, and some pop will fare worse due to this frequency response. The Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless’s most noticeable deviation is in the lows, where that bass boost may not be desirable, depending on your own personal preferences. Both headsets have high speech intelligibility, making spoken word content like podcasts great to listen to.

Does the Bose QuietComfort 45 or Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless have a better microphone?

The microphones are totally fine for phone calls.

The Bose QuietComfort 45 and Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless both have mics embedded in the headsets. While convenient and unobtrusive, this design doesn’t always yield the best sound, but will be good for phone calls. The Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless does come across better than the Bose QuietComfort 45, sounding louder generally, and less muffled in ideal conditions. With street noise, neither one exhibits the best noise suppression, but voices are audible for the most part. If you need high-quality microphone audio (for recording or podcasting), you’ll need to look for a dedicated microphone. Regardless, both of these are totally fine for phone and video calls. Take a listen:

Bose QuietComfort 45 Mic sample (Ideal conditions):

Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless Mic sample (Ideal conditions):

Bose QuietComfort 45 Mic sample (Street conditions):

Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless Mic sample (Street conditions):

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Should you get the Bose QuietComfort 45 or Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless?

For $350 USD, the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless is a very good headset but it doesn’t have the best ANC performance.

Even though the Bose QuietComfort 45 and Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless are similar in many ways, the ideal headphones for you will depend on your needs and preferences.

If you want the better-performing ANC, your best bet is Bose. The QC 45 is better at canceling out noise, especially in the low and mid ranges compared to the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless. The sound profile issues can be fixed with the in-app equalizer, and the battery life is still great, even if it’s not as long as the MOMENTUM 4. It’s also extremely comfortable, and the physical buttons are a good feature for people who want to avoid misfires or cold weather issues.

On the other hand, if you want aptX support, a better default frequency response, and superior battery life, the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless has you covered. The ANC is still good even if it isn’t as good as the QuietComfort 45. Though it’s $30 USD more expensive than the QC 45, many people will be drawn to Sennheiser’s headphones.

What should you get instead of the Bose QuietComfort 45 and Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless?

The Bose QuietComfort 35 II remains competitive, thanks to software updates through the proprietary app.

If the Bose QuietComfort 45 sounds nice to you overall, consider its predecessor, the Bose QuietComfort 35 II. It’s very similar to the QuietComfort 45 in many ways, including how comfortable it is, and it costs . Bose also makes the Noise Canceling Headphones 700, which has a more minimalist design, a slightly better sound profile than the QuietComfort 45, and you can find it for .

The Sony WH-1000XM5 (left) diverges from the WH-1000XM4 (right) with its new headband adjustment system and cleaner design.

When you want to spend a bit more for the very best, the Sony WH-1000XM5 is the best choice. It has top-of-the-line noise canceling, a great sound profile and app where you can adjust your EQ, and Bluetooth multipoint. It’s much more expensive at , but it’s worth it. For a bit less, you can get its predecessor, the Sony WH-1000XM4, which is still a fantastic noise canceling headset with lots of the same features. It goes for nowadays, but it can be found on sale for much cheaper from time to time. We recommend comparing the WH-1000XM4 to the XM5 headset before you spend though.

For more affordable noise canceling, the Monoprice BT-600ANC is an incredible option at . It somehow has excellent noise canceling, aptX HD support, and a long 36-hour battery life, all for under $100 USD.

Frequently asked questions

Editor’s note: this article was updated on August 5, 2023, to update FAQ answers and formatting.

Bose QuietComfort 35 II vs Sony WH-1000XM4: How are the headphones built?

The WH-1000XM4 has a ton of Bluetooth codec options but thankfully still has a place for a standard 3.5mm audio cable as well.

While the Bose QuietComfort 35 II is named for its comfortable build, the Sony WH-1000XM4 feels great as well. Both sets of headphones have plush ear cups, though the thin padding on the WH-1000XM4 headband makes it slightly less comfortable.

As for onboard controls, the Bose QC 35 II has physical buttons whereas the WH-1000XM4 is controlled through a series of taps and swipes. Through the Sony Headphones Connect app, you can program the Custom button on the Sony WH-1000XM4 to access its integrated voice assistant or to toggle noise cancelation, but you cannot have both at the same time. However, you can access your smartphone’s native assistant with a press-and-hold of the touchpad.

Similarly, the Bose QuietComfort 35 II has an Action button that can be programmed in the Bose Connect app to access your smart assistant or toggle your active noise cancelation settings. Its multifunction button can be used to access your smartphone’s native voice assistant.

The headsets are both of a similar size and weight, but the Sony WH-1000XM4 has a USB-C connection whereas the Bose QC 35 II has an outdated microUSB charging port.

Does Sony or Bose have the better mobile app?

While the Sony Headphones Connect app isn’t the prettiest it does give you access to all the customization options you need and even some special features.

When you cup your hand over the left ear cup of the Sony WH-1000XM4, ambient sound mode is activated so you can listen to surrounding noise. The Bose QuietComfort 35 II doesn’t have an ambient sound mode. Additionally, the Sony WH-1000XM4 features auto-pause/resume functionality, and the Bose QC 35 II has neither.

The Sony WH-1000XM4 has a few software features that only become available if you download the Sony Headphones Connect app. The speak-to-chat function will pause your music when it detects you speaking. However, its detection is very sensitive. The feature can be disabled through the app though.

Additional app functions include noise canceling optimization, mixing the amount of ambient noise to pass through, and customizing the equalizer. You also need the app to use Sony’s 360 Reality Audio with high-quality music streaming services.

Bose uses tactile controls for playback, volume, and ANC adjustments.

The Bose QC 35 II is compatible with the Bose Connect app, but doesn’t offer nearly as many features as the Sony WH-1000XM4. Within the app, you can program the Action button to an assistant or an ANC toggle, but it starts out being programmed to Google Assistant. The ANC is enabled automatically without using the app, but you can’t disable it unless you have the app.

Of course, some people find that headphone apps collect too much personal data, in which case you can still access the primary functions—listening to music, canceling noise, and taking calls—of either set of headphones without using an app.

Which headset has more Bluetooth codec options?

iPhone users will experience better, more consistent high-quality audio via Bose’s headset than Android users.

The Bose QuietComfort 35 II supports just two Bluetooth codecs: SBC and AAC, whereas the Sony WH-1000XM4 supports SBC, AAC, and Sony’s LDAC for the highest quality streaming. The Sony WH-1000XM4 and Bose QC 35 II both have Bluetooth multipoint, so you can easily switch between two devices. However, the Sony WH-1000XM4 forces AAC streaming in order to use Bluetooth multipoint.

Connecting your smartphone to your headphones is simple with either pair, especially if you use the headphones apps, and both headsets have stellar connection quality. Both headphones use Bluetooth 5.0, and if you want, you can connect either with a 3.5mm cable for wired listening. If you’re using an iPhone you’ll need a dongle for wired playback, otherwise, you’re left with SBC or AAC. For Android devices, the LDAC codec is a big plus when it comes to high-quality wireless playback.

The battery life is better with the Sony WH-1000XM4

The Bose QuiteComfort 35 II lasts 21 hours, 12 minutes, which is a bit longer than the Sony WH-1000XM4’s battery life of 19 hours, 59 minutes. The Bose QuietComfort 35 II charges via microUSB and can play 150 minutes after being charged for 15 minutes. The Sony WH-1000XM4, however, charges via USB-C and can play 300 minutes after being charged for only 10 minutes.

Does the Bose QuietComfort 35 II or Sony WH-1000XM4 have better noise canceling?

The winner for best noise canceling is the Sony WH-1000XM4, though the race is quite close. These headphones are excellent at canceling low and midrange-frequency noise. In addition, the thick ear cups result in great passive isolation even when the ANC is disabled; this improves high-frequency noise cancellation.

The Bose QuietComfort 35 II has excellent noise canceling especially in the low end, and remains one of the best noise canceling headphones even a few years after its initial release. Some people have reported the Bose QuietComfort 35 II ANC quality decreased after installing a firmware update, if that’s you there are solutions.

The Sony WH-1000XM4 doesn’t look too different from the original except for a few slight tweaks.

No matter which headset you choose, you’ll be very pleased with the noise canceling performance. Still, the Sony WH-1000XM4 edges out the Bose QC 35 II when it comes to gross attenuation, meriting an ANC score of 7.7 compared to Bose’s score of 7.3.

Bose QuietComfort 35 II vs Sony WH-1000XM4: Sound quality

Both the Bose QC 35 II and the Sony WH-1000XM4 offer a somewhat neutral-leaning frequency response. All genres of music will sound great through either headset. Listeners who don’t want to fiddle with equalizing should go with the Bose QC 35 II, though.

In cyan is the WH-1000XM4, yellow the QC 35 II, and pink the house curve. The QC 35 II is closer to our ideal, but the WH-1000XM4 can be adjusted in the app.

The Sony WH-1000XM4 emphasizes bass notes a bit more than our headphone preference curve (pink), which might lead to a noticeable degree of auditory masking during particularly bass-heavy segments of a song. emphasize bass notes in the way a lot of consumer headphones do. The upper notes are also more amplified than our house curve, and you may perceive it as detailed. If you’re listening to classical music, you might find the treble response a bit too loud and want to EQ is down in the mobile app.

The Bose QC 35 II also has a slightly pronounced sub-bass response, which gives your music that extra oomph right out of the box — however, that’s pretty much limited to very low-frequency sounds. Bose’s headphones reproduce audio with greater accuracy across the frequency spectrum compared to Sony’s headphones, which is good since you can’t adjust the sound in Bose’s app.

Low mids and bass follow our house curve posits. The treble is a bit under-emphasized except for a slight bump between 2-5kHz.

Does the Bose QC 35 II have a better microphone than the Sony WH-1000XM4?

The oval ear cups and padding fit nicely around most ear sizes.

Both headsets’ microphones are pretty decent, and both cut off low frequencies to combat the proximity effect. This shouldn’t be a problem unless you have a particularly deep voice. The Sony WH-1000XM4 microphone array does a good job of blocking out background noise and focusing on the speaker’s voice. The newer technology gives the edge to Sony for anyone who takes calls outdoors.

Bose QuietComfort 35 II mic sample (Ideal):

Sony WH-1000XM4 mic demo (ideal):

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Bose QuietComfort 35 II vs Sony WH-1000XM4: Which headset should you buy?

These days the WH-1000XM4 are still produced whereas the QuietComfort 35 II are discontinued.

The Bose QuietComfort 35 II holds up today but its ANC can’t compete with the shiny and new Sony WH-1000XM4. Listeners who want to save a buck will be happy with the comfortable build, excellent sound quality, and great noise canceling that Bose’s former flagship has to offer. For most listeners, though, we recommend saving up a bit more for the Sony WH-1000XM4. You get more software features, better sound and microphone quality, and more advanced noise canceling.

Alternative noise canceling headphones to consider

Is the Bose QuietComfort 45 better than the Bose QuietComfort 35 II and Sony WH-1000XM4?

The QuietComfort 45 looks nearly indistinguishable from the QC 35 II.

Trying not to mess with a good recipe too much, the newer QuietComfort 45 looks and feels familiar for . With updated USB-C charging and improved ANC, it’s a tempting proposition. The treble-heavy frequency response unfortunately sounds slightly worse than the QC 35 II. Hopefully, Bose considers implementing EQ in its companion app soon. Worth keeping in mind is that the newer, Bose QuietComfort 45 will likely result in the QC 35 II coming down in price, so folks looking to nab a deal should look out. To see how they are comparable to Sony WH-1000XM4 and compared to Bose QuietComfort 35 II.

How good is the Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700?

If you want a sleeker design than the Bose QC 35 II, go with the Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700. The Noise Canceling Headphones 700 features touch controls rather than buttons, USB-C charging, and still has smart assistant integration. Quick charging is very good; though we should note: the Sony WH-1000XM4 edges out the Bose Headphones 700.

Should iPhone owners just get the AirPods Max?

This is an especially good choice for iPhone users, the Airpods Max has some of the very best ANC available. With seamless connection, there’s not much to miss, except the high price will give many of us reason to pause. Android users may want to keep looking, because the AAC and SBC codecs won’t best serve the device.

The Sony WH-1000MX5 improves on the greatness of the WH-1000XM4

The Sony WH-1000XM5 (left) looks a bit cleaner than the WH-1000XM4 (right).

The Sony WH-1000XM5 is very similar to the WH-1000XM4, with the same software features and same controls. However, the battery life is much better at just under 32 hours, and the noise canceling is even better. The sound profile is also improved by lowering the highs a bit compared to the XM4. The microphone quality is also incredible, since the noise suppression makes wind noise practically inaudible. The Sony WH-1000XM5 sells for , so it is pricier, but it’s worth it if you want some of the best performance from noise canceling headphones.

Frequently asked questions about the Bose QC 35 II and Sony WH-1000XM4