Best Premium Headphones 2024 [Tested & Compared!] - AirPods Max vs Bose vs Sony vs Sennheiser..

[@MikeOBrienMedia]

DISCOUNT AFFILIATE LINKS ↘ SONY WH-1000XM5 👉 mikeobrienmedia.com/WH-1000XM5 SENNHEISER Momentum 4 👉 mikeobrienmedia.com/Momentum4 BOSE Quietcomfort Ultra 👉 mikeobrienmedia.com/BoseUltra Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e 👉 mikeobrienmedia.com/Px7S2e APPLE AIRPODS MAX 👉 mikeobrienmedia.com/AirPodsMax

[@jonathanbarnes7641]

How do these compare to these two: 1)Mark Levinson No. 5909 AND the 2)FOCAL - Bathy’s Headphones

[@wagiqwq]

Hi Mike... Where's Focal Bathys???

[@rizzay1]

So I guess beats studio pro aren't good enough to be up here?

[@jsfbay1]

Thanks for such a thorough review. Thank you very much. To others reading this, just substitute your own score for sound quality and design/controls if you are uncertain what to buy (cross off price if that's not a factor too.) In other words, pick the categories that are most important to you and ignore or rank other categories lower. Best of all, go try them for yourselves, because sound quality is very personal, as is comfort (another category you should rank for yourself.) Mike: I realize you have a bunch of categories already, but another to consider is maintainability (or pick a different word), meaning can I buy new ear cushions? New head band? For me, I've owned Sony and Sennheiser corded headphones, and I could buy spare parts for the Sennheiser for everything. I can buy replacement ear cushions for the Sony's. It's a fairly minor point, but it could mean the difference between $20-$30 vs a new pair of headphones. Also, are all these multipoint Bluetooth (I assume)? And if anyone reads this far, if sound quality is your #1 priority, and you don't need to make phone calls, you should be shopping for headphones with a cord. Just saying, no matter how good these wireless cans have become, dollar for dollar you'll probably pay less for better sound quality this way.

[@milanesatm]

Hey, the price part ends at 26:48 😃

[@vokso11]

I tried them all, and for me, the best value is the Sennheiser Momentum 4! I love them so much that I got two (one black and one blue). The sound quality is so good that it always makes me smile.

[@MikeOBrienMedia]

Yeah I always smile when I listen to high quality music through them too

[@Kiddingyoumust]

I love them as well, but I do found the app to be pretty weak.

[@vokso11]

@@Kiddingyoumust What I noticed in general is that we love to have a gazillion features but in reality, we use a few...

[@P0wer2R0ll]

Hello. Do you think the black model will have better durability than the blue model for long term use? I found a deal for both models around 270 in my country.

[@vokso11]

@@P0wer2R0ll Personally I have been using the Sennheiser Momentum 4 since it came out, no issue whatsoever: Choose whatever colour you like the quality is the same . Since I have both, my suggestion is to pick the blue one, it's less common than the black or white one.

[@sujithsatish000]

You need to add one more Category. :) Sound leak . Some headphones like WH100XM4, the person who is sitting next can easily hear or may be enjoy as same as the person wearing it. The sound is not enclosed in, its like playing on a Bluetooth speaker

[@cyanedavis]

Yeees nobody ever talks about sound leak

[@Buggy_The_Spy_69]

Good idea

[@nuggetfresh9641]

Yeah you right. Sony would lose and bose would win

[@realali93]

@@nuggetfresh9641sept their mic quality is shit and came in last Bose should be ashamed since their charging that much Sony wins again

[@TheMigoMan]

Very good hint! Didn’t thought about as an in ear user. How loud are guys hearing ur music? Because I wouldn’t turn them as loud, so I’m thinking about ignoring sound leak.

[@alejandroelcid]

I keep on hearing about how great the microphones on AirPods/Pro/Max are but I just don't hear it; the voice sounds too compressed and inconsistently sibilant, if that makes sense. I did expect Bose to perform better than it did, I do agree that based on this series of tests both Sennheiser and Sony were the best. Based on my own experience Sony's WH-1000XM series are easy to recommend, the times I have been on a plane all sounds (low rumbling to voices) were cut off. I will also agree that the AirPods Max are a strange set as they don't offer any real value unless you are deep in the Apple ecosystem; even then they are too overpriced.

[@AndrewUKLondon]

I've got the Apple airpods pro 2 (and several other earbuds). I find the microphone quality excellent, especially in outdoor conditions where my Sonys suffered badly, my earfuns aren't great in comparison, my Edifiers fail abysmally and others do so-so (though I like my Bose NC 700 for comfort and usability). With the apple airpods pro 2 transparency and noise cancellation is great. Audio for music is very good too (used the options under accessibility). And where the airpods leave all the other earbuds I've had behind is the usability and pocketability. Using them with android and iOS devices. My favourite for long battery audio quality are the Status Between ANC. But call quality, transparency and noise cancelling don't match the airpods pro 2 (nor usability and pocketability).

[@alejandroelcid]

@@AndrewUKLondon That is part of what I mean. The few times I have tried the AirPods/Max I was never blown away. I just don't get the hype. To paint a picture, in terms of pocketability, the Linkbuds S are just as compact and even something like the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC has a slim enough profile for my pockets. Sound quality, the AirPods/Pro don't outdo the Moondrop Sparks; again, in my own opinion. If we are just talking about the headphones in this video I find the XM5 to be the most versatile. They are light, they sit better than the AirPods Max (the bottom pole of the ear cups pressed too hard on my head), I have access to all functions, the ANC blocks all sound, and I can use them passively. That is not to say that the AirPods Max are bad, or that any other headphone in this video are bad. If you enjoy them great, but again I just don't get (hear) the hype and there seem to be better options; for their price the APM should be punching way above the rest. Again, that is just my opinion, I have only seen this type of hype online. I see more people walking around, enjoying, SkullCandy or JBL headphones. On a final note, that is also the beauty of all of this. We hear different things, enjoy different headphones, and have different opinions. Thanks for sharing your opinion with me.

[@AndrewUKLondon]

@@alejandroelcid thanks for your reply, that's great. You're absolutely right, we hear things differently, have different preferences, priorities, head shapes, hearing...! It's great that we have a range of options and can say what we find works for each of us:). And just to add, I have the Sony wfxm3. They're going strong, and it's handy having NFC pairing on them!

[@drrider100]

Yea, the Max's lag in this section. But their air pods are on point.

[@IMHO88-dm1xf]

I disagree, I think the Bose Ultra is the most versatile, looks the best and premium build quality (white and sandstone colour) and - they fold up and the case is very portable. There's a connection reliability issue with the Sennie and the Sony doesn't have Aptx and is made of cheap plastic...

[@ScaldingCold]

Went with the Bose Ultra since ANC, comfort and transparency were the most important things for me. Also like that they fold up and fit into a small, hard case and they sound very good to my ear. The multi-point works well with my phone and any other device, however not quite so seamless when paired with my laptop and TV together. It typically wants to stay paired with the TV and oftentimes won't switch back to my laptop. One small thing is that you need to watch how you handle them or you might end up getting your fingers pinched in the moving parts. Overall happy with them, but nothing is perfect.

[@lemonking3644]

I went with the Bose Ultra as well. The spatial audio is so AUDIO CHANGING🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@harrywang6792]

How's the noise cancelling?

[@yirehyoon6316]

@@harrywang6792 anc is noice cancelling and its the best you can get

[@janaw469]

@@harrywang6792Very good!!

[@blitz14u]

I had issues with the quality of material used for the bose ultras. I ended up returning them.

[@mav1701]

I've got my Bose QC Ultra paired with my PC and my phone. It automatically switches to the phone if I get a phone call without me having to push a button, and then back to my PC if my phone isn't playing any sound. It definitely seems to prefer the phone, giving it priority if it's playing any sound, but I don't have to push any buttons.

[@GlassHouse80]

That wasn't the case on the Ultras that I had (before I sent them back). I had to press a button on the headphones to switch between the two devices, which took 2-3 seconds to do. I replaced them with the Sennheisers and that has true multipoint connectivity where as the Ultra's do not.

[@mav1701]

@@GlassHouse80 I totally believe you, as I've seen others say the same. I don't know why mine is working the way it does. Could have been a firmware update, I guess? I also have Bose Music installed on my phone, if that makes any difference. If I get a phone call while I'm listening to something on my computer, my computer goes mute for like half a second and then I hear the sound from the phone.

[@carlb9599]

@@GlassHouse80considering switching my QCU for the momentum 4. Are you happy with the change? What did the Bose have that you wish the sennheisers had too? Thanks

[@GlassHouse80]

@@carlb9599 There's only two things the Bose do better. ANC and comfort. Everything else the Sennheisers are better. In terms of sound there is no comparison between the two, the Senny's are in a different league. I was really disappointed with the Bose. I am really happy with the Senny's.

[@user_z01]

​@@GlassHouse80those are two very crucial characteristics if you're a heavy user though. Also, mine switch off whatever I'm listening to, to my phone for a call without any button press as well - so you must have been shafted with a lame early firmware that wasn't updated until you switched.

[@Thugpug-lp5qz]

You have to mention the cabin pressure from the anc, this is something thats sadly forgotten very much but is very important.

[@sharpsbattle]

Do you have any experience on which headphones in this list have the least cabin pressure?

[@mareksvrcina5279]

​@@sharpsbattle From my Reddit "research" it seems to me that it's those which are on the lower side when it comes to the strength of isolation caused by ANC. And that actually makes a lot of sense.

[@sharpsbattle]

@@mareksvrcina5279 Thanks. That makes sense to me as well.

[@ladymonja]

Is it bad to have the pressure?

[@Thugpug-lp5qz]

@@ladymonja personally, it just makes you feel like theres something constantly pushing something against your ear which gets annoying with time

[@general.malaise]

I love the Momentum 4s and generally the Sennheiser sound signature. I was able to get them on sale for $199 around Black Friday, which is an actually deranged deal for what you get.

[@malthus101]

they will break.

[@ysryashraj]

Yeah agreed. Momentum 4's are really good sounding headsets. Was using Sony XM4's before and sound quality wise the Momentum 4's are one of the best, if not the best sounding headsets I've owned!

[@humoody]

can you compare to me sennheiser vs BW?

[@NoHiro-qc4dv]

I hate that it only uses one button for everything. Having to hold to turn off when it should just be a recessed switch is frustrating. The app is pretty bad, and the touch controls are too sensitive. Don't get me wrong, great sound profile, and love a lot of the features but some design choices are massively frustrating and it builds up. That's why I'm on this video looking for a better alternative.

[@KingKikikoi]

Returned mine I hate them. They steam up in the ears so bad even with gentle walking it’s unwearable

[@rendyjansen]

Thanks for the overview! I like how you included the scorecard at the end, allowing us to tally on the metrics we personally prioritize

[@tsunamipapi173]

Have the PX7 S2E and it's been spectacular. I tried all the others in store and none could match the sound quality, build quality and looks. It's just the total package. To each his own, but the S2E was just a tad bit underappreciated here.

[@nikhil9558]

Even i tried everything mentioned in the list, but when it comes to sound quality B&W S2e takes the win hands down!!

[@youssefsuhail3500]

Yep, I tested px7 vs AirPods and xm5 they wayyyy cleaner sounding but this guy needs to get his ears checked lol

[@alexander2576]

I've chosen B&W PX7 S2e over all of the others listed here. Clearest sound, next level 👍

[@_RJ_Z]

Sound quality depends on what you like… i have had B&W since the plugged ones, and those where the days! Had the PX when Apple decided to kill the jack. Then i went from B&W to B&O. And now i have the AirPods Max, and the only thing i can say that is i miss the USB C on the others! AirPods Max is great overall!

[@spread888gospel]

Hi, how do they pair with iPhone apple music ? Do I need to use them wired ans use some special streaming platforms to make them sound good ?

[@Rondoe21]

i got the sony xm5 with the amazon ear pad replacements and it was the best money i ever spent. i never take them off and i use them to study and game so they're on my head 10+ hours. i do eventually want the airpod max

[@kamranurrahman6434]

I heard if you switch out the ear pads the ANC quality reduces though

[@ladymonja]

​@kamranuimrrahman6434 im curious too. Because bose fit is just way better than sonys which makes me feel like nc would be better for Sony if they had different ear pads

[@Rondoe21]

@@ladymonja I’m just now seeing this but I’ve been using my xm5’s with these replacement earpads for over a year and I don’t see a difference in the nc. When I rewatched the ad for the earpads they said it’s the maximum distance it could be without affecting the devices functions. Everyone that ask me about these headphones almost immediately love it when they try it on. I still forget they’re on my head and I have a sweat cover that I use when I go running. I always recommend a refurbished version since they are pricey.

[@ladymonja]

@@Rondoe21 thank you very much for the information!

[@ak_hoops]

I must say. Just had a 7/8hr flight and I was genuinely amazed at the battery life and especially the comfort of the Bose QC Ultra. Even temperature wasn’t a problem for most that time. So glad I got them. So far at least.

[@maddisonsina]

They are freaking great. I love my Bose headphones.

[@josephgrimes8395]

I enjoyed this video. I was very impressed the way you broke down all the nuances of each set of headphones. It definitely helped me with my purchase decision. I always enjoy your videos and thank you for keeping me informed.

[@menachem711]

Great video as always. I think you missed the Commute feature which turns off the front mics and drastically reduces the wind noise on the Bose Ultras when outdoors. That was the big gripe people had with the QC 45s and they fixed it with the Ultras and the new QCs. Although I do wish it would activate it automatically without having to remember to change the mode when getting an outdoor phone call.

[@LEPNinja87]

+

[@abhinrsv]

I have the old QC35 II and there is a simple trick for the wind noise problem. Simply use the noise cancellation on "low" :)

[@mickeytollison]

I can’t imagine a person buying a noise cancelling headphone and accepting poor noise cancelling which makes it seem really odd that your number one pick has poor noise cancelling by your own admission.

[@HerculePoirot-q7f]

That's me. I'm kinda between anc and a closed back with good passive noise cancelling. I'd only use them at home for more immersive gaming to not hear the controler clicking so much or the odd motorcycle outside. Very niche and kinda unusual though, I agree.

[@omniphore4913]

Sometimes the sound quality and overal use comfort are more important than how well they block sound. It's always preferential. Use the video to see which you'd want to try in a store, and jusdge for yourself

[@maaax1173]

This is not a noise canceling test

[@twb0109]

They’re not “ANC headphones”, they’re headphones with ANC.

[@flim-flammington]

Noise Cancellation is a feature, Sound Quality should always be king. But it also just depends on your use case, i personally would use it very rarely.

[@marc-andrepaquin4409]

Nice review! I had the Momentum 4 but I had to return it twice because they had disconnection issue over bluetooth. They are instable. I went to the XM5 because they are software well designed.

[@pabiroansfamily796]

Finally...this is what I want comparisson for a few hadphones...thank you...

[@Ryantagcoffee]

Missing the focal bathys though, arguably the actual best one - but still great vid!

[@kylewatts9187]

I totally agree with you

[@glebcreativ1]

B&W at last place for sound quality behind Airpods is insane, and I have almost all Apple stuff

[@Zandaarl]

Thank you very much for the objective overview! ❤ I have been comparing reviews and specs for the past 2 months, trying to decide which headphones to get - but your comparison split into different (meaningful) categories, which many other reviews neglect, finally helped me decide. Hearing microphone examples was also very helpful. One thing I would wish was included though: how comfortable are they when wearing (sun)glasses. I haven't come across any reviewer talking/writing about it.

[@白泽-k2b]

I know！Sony xm5 and sennheiser 4is good. AirPods Max is pretty bad. I just have three headphones. I hope I can help you.😊

[@tristadela4376]

I tried a few of them and i fell in love with the Audeze. God the sounds so smooth and clear

[@AC-mr7is]

I was just about to buy the LCD-5s until i compared them to the Focal Utopias, the Focals are worth way more than the extra $500 imo

[@dcrteddy]

Great video but I'm still rocking my Sony WH-1000XM3 since it's still working perfectly fine.

[@Blakholet]

Brokie

[@ver.m1llion]

@@Blakholet u one helluva sad guy

[@Blakholet]

@@ver.m1llion brokie

[@ver.m1llion]

@@Blakholet corny ahh ngga

[@TheTae310]

I had 3 of these sony senn and the max i kept the Senn easily over the others the sound is next level

[@borgimplantdan]

Excellent review... I just got the Bose. It was smack dab in the middle. That balance is what I'm looking for. My big thing is sound cancelling, and Bose fits my ticket.

[@Forgotten-Myth]

That was great video thanks for all the efforts, I have one question, there some reports about connectivity on M4s, did they fix the problem on app update or not ? I would be happy if you inform me of this😊

[@lovelyhippo7826]

I have heard of those issues as well, and it happened to me once in the first month or so of wearing it. The fix was simply reinstalling the app, and I haven't seen the issue in the ~8 months since then.

[@hermanowski6905]

Then you for your review friend. I'm considering getting new headphones soon I've owned Sennheiser momentum 2 and 3 ear buds and i think I've decided to get the momentum 4 headphones. Love your content! You have a new subscriber 😎

[@fbhistoriador]

What a great review! Thank you very much. Liking and sharing!

[@demetrizuev258]

Great video, but if you "tried them all" then - Focal Bathys - T+A Solitaire T - Dali io-12 - Mark Levinson 5909 - Bang & Olufsen H95 are somehow missing 😊 You should give this bunch a look if you want to make a comparison of the real premium TWS ANC cans

[@magdad.72]

I would have to sell my car to buy all of these 😂

[@MrChurchie73]

Not a better headphone group review out there. I needed this to replace a set of headphones my son took over and I used your review to make a decision. Thank you for putting this out there!

[@JF-xq6fr]

Bought two pairs of QC Ultras made a month apart, and both have ridiculous quality control issues, esp for the cost. Both have / had clunks, squeaks, and creaking heard in both ear cups and headband. I dissembled one pair and applied silicone oil, silicone oil mixed with graphite and silicone spray at various points to get the mentioned issues fixed. Comfort is very good, ANC is exceptional and sound is very nice after proper EQ adjustments.

[@MNVikings_PS]

Bose Quiet Comfort, I enjoy mine I just got

[@Mark-eh3mv]

Would have liked to see the WH-1000XM4 in the comparison. Still trying to figure out whether to buy the 4's or 5's for my SO

[@optimusprime1598]

Go with xm5...

[@NewAb22]

@@optimusprime1598 The XM5 is the best but the XM4 is still an excellent option and real close in sound quality.

[@ladymonja]

​@optimusprime1598 why? They arent so differently

[@SushiPizza42]

Thanks for this video, great reviews, very objective. I owned the momentum 4s and really liked them, the sound quality and batter life was amazing. I think I'm going to try the Bose QCU next.

[@Mr.Sanch0]

can you just me know which ones are better? i'm thinking about which one to buy out of the two

[@sao1393]

Great reviews as usual! You should do a review of the top Hi-fi Bluetooth headphones +700USD. Focals Bathys, Solitaire T1, Dali io12. It’s a new niche… pretty impressive.

[@jasperallen8479]

I have the focals and absolutely love them

[@zehahaha603]

What about Bang & Olufsen’s H95 or Focal’s Bathys?

[@Want300]

I like the Sony’s, but the lack of a slope in the ear cup bothered me. The mesh inside the cup pressed against my ear, which gave me ear fatigue earlier

[@dgdg_13]

One important aspect you missed in the video is durability comparison. Of course it's hard to test that in a short period of time, but it could be a deal breaker for many people spending so much on a pair. For instance, I was recently considering Sony XM5 given they check all my boxes but then I came across durability complaints around hinge breaking for a bunch of people. I saw a poll on reddit and it showed somewhere around 36 / 130 people experienced a broken hinge on XM5s. The fact that this poll was made is a problem in itself. It's a deal breaker for me at least because if I'm spending over $300 on a pair, I'd want them to last well over 2-3 years at least.

[@AnimateTheWorld]

i got the Momentum 4 but after a month i returned them. Loved the sound and the ANC was good but the touch panel was so awful. it was so sensitive and annoying that i couldnt adjust them cause even my palm would trigger it. I did turn it off but even then it would still turn on if i closed the app or off/on headphones.

[@roymahendran8494]

This I very good and constructive review. Well done👏 I would like to have seen the technics A800 and the focal Bathys in this mix to compare higher premium headphones. What do you think of those compared to your list on this episode? Apart from that, great reviews

[@kmellnick]

Just got the M4s and really like them. This video reinforced my confidence in that purchase. Thank you!

[@RiyaDey-fr6wc]

Got the Momentum 4 before Christmas at Best Buy for $199. The blue ones were their deal of the day. Absolute steal.

[@England1984]

Microphone quality is what I came here for, but more so how well it cuts out outside noise and voices.

[@TerraDiASMR]

I like my AirPods Max, but they are indeed pretty heavy. I can’t wear them for more than 40-60 min. If I wear them any longer, I am guaranteed to get a headache 😣

[@jishnukanjilal8961]

I rock a pair of Sennheiser M4s. Given their price it’s arguably the best price to value product amongst the lot. Sure it doesn’t match up to the Sonys and Bose in ANC but is decent enough. The intuitive touch controls along with the amazing sound quality and recent improvements in its app through firmware updates makes it one of the best in the market in my opinion

[@jishnukanjilal8961]

But having said that I also agree they’re not the most comfortable pair of headphones especially with the heat build up around your ears as you wear them over long periods of time

[@Алексей-ц3о3ц]

buy white- black color? Who cool?

[@joshuvaantonio]

Wow ! This video never popped up even after I typed these models individually to research on them. Subscribed

[@lukecostello4490]

I've owned every version of the Momentum headphones, and this latest version is far & away the top of their game. Best battery life & best sound quality. I think they took a step back in features (move from physical buttons to capacitive touch controls is tough, doesn't work as well); otherwise they're amazing.

[@fxmouskev]

I hear about driver imbalance between left n right side?

[@juwanwan1]

​@@fxmouskevown them and they seem balanced to me.

[@tadc]

None of the reviewers look at the Yamaha YH-L700A. Yamaha doesn't bother bringing updates every year hence they miss out on the new hype but these headphones are 1st class. I nearly splashed for the B&O H95 when I discovered those. My priority has been sound quality and the Yamahas deliver it in spades. So, dear reviewers rank all best products available on the market not just the latest realises. The latest is not always the greatest.

[@JamesSmith-qs4hx]

I have the Sennheisers with the copper finish - They were selling them for £200 before Christmas. Very impressed!

[@applesauceJoe2332]

Dude I was doing my own research on all of these headphones trying to see which one I should invest in, then I find this video near the end of my research and u hit it on the nail. I couldn’t get a full grasp of the everyday life with each headphones so I was going off of stats and reviews on the pages so when I found this video you made it clear which one is the best choice. I appreciate you so much. I had to subscribe

[@fgesguerra]

Overall i love Sennheiser but i recommend buying the one without cover clothe on its headband as it peeled off eventually not even a year. If you love hiphop or base music then this is for you. As for Bose Ultra quiet it would be my 2nd bet as everything is balance. Not to bassy and truly it is quite light but i don't like its ear pad as its wear out so fast not even 6months if you are a hardcore user using headphone everyday then this is not for you. Luckily you could buy and replace its earpads. It's like their marketing strategy which i read and found out that it is recommended to replace the ear pads after 6months of used. I am planning to buy new premium wireless headphone, what would you suggest or you could recommend best for hip hop or bassy music? Thanks in advance..

[@AbdulRahman-ghj567]

3:31 I felt chilled when watching this shot. So cool 🙂

[@michaelsenkowsky4172]

Why is ANC almost always the first topic every reviewer jumps to and seem to put the most weight on during the review? I dont get it. I understand its a comparable talking point that can be more objective vs subjective, but i just do see why its been push as such an important feature. Headphones block out enough sound as is and having some ANC is nice but it shouldnt be more important tgat fit, comfort, and most importantly, sound quality IMO

[@natimber3040]

somebody has never tried studying in a dorm lol 😂

[@gaiusx287]

Probably cuz they want to save the good stuff for the end of the video lol

[@selma9800]

Hi! this video was very helpful. Next time maybe you could add a category with physical and system durability. Like how likely is it to break at the hinges etc.

[@georgeapolo5211]

What do you think about the B&O beoplay?

[@Schubus1608]

really solid review here, you seem to really know what you are talking about - chose to buy the Sennheisers now and am excited to see how much of an upgrade they will be to my current 40€ Soundcore headphones.

[@schizo0223]

I got the B&W PX8 (because it just looks better than the PX7) To my novice ear, I couldn't tell the difference betweem the two. So, I agree with your review of the PX7, including the battery life. I used it during a round trip flight to Incheon to LA and Incheon to Singapore without charging and it still has battery left. It's ANC is not as good as my son's Airpods Max, but it's good enough for me. Sound quality...anything sounds good to me. It just looks good, feels comfortable, and it has physical buttons, plus I can use it plugged in. I just hope the batttery doesn't need replacing the next three years.

[@magdad.72]

You can't use it plugged in if you're out of juice :/

[@vanderslagmulders]

Great comparison!! I already bought the Sony xm5 after a long comparison of my own. I was really torn between a couple of headphones including this one, the Bose ultra QC and the older xm4. I have to say the slimmer headband is pressing, almost a bit painful after a while, I never had this with other, much cheaper headphones. Also what I hate is the privacy policy when installing the app. You have to agree with a lot of conditions that are not in your favor, like your data being handed over to 3rd party companies outside EU territory. But, I got these on sale for 300 Euros. I don’t like too much bass, and for that, I find them perfect (I’m not really a nitpicky audiophile though). The Bose folds up smaller which is a huge plus for commuting. In retrospect though I might have still chosen the xm4, which is still cheaper, more foldable and probably more comfortable for the headband. That’s my 5 cents.

[@marcushelweg8929]

Where is the Focal Bathys?? :D great video :)

[@gwapster13]

That’s a totally different price class

[@marcushelweg8929]

​@@gwapster13 Well it is in the "Premium" category right? :D but yes, they are around the price of 2 Airpods Max :) at least they are here in Denmark where i live

[@yarasantos2346]

A voz do sony do lado de fora foi o melhor de longe!

[@thetroothhurtz]

ABSOLUTELY buy the Bose. They're the best by a long shot.

[@samuelyngback6744]

Just bought them and i like them a lot, however i experience a pretty significant white noise which is noticeable while the volume is low or nothing is playing. Is this something you too have noticed?

[@flx767]

@@samuelyngback6744 Have them too. Yes the white noise exists but i doesn't bother me cause i only use them with music.

[@JF-xq6fr]

@@samuelyngback6744 I bought two pairs of QC Ultras and one has a much louder white noise ambient sound. Both suffer many QC issues (creaks / clunks) heard in the ear cups, but I fixed one pair and now it's OK.

[@cryptosguns]

Inferior audio

[@TanmayeeRGupta]

Thanku very much for the review... I love those headphones... It's great to hear the sound

[@estrogenfest]

Thanks for this. I bought the BW PX8s a few months ago and was perfectly happy knowing I was sacrificing noise cancellation for the sound quality I liked. But now I have a dog who snores loudly while I study. I've been torn about buying the Bose QC Ultras but you're dB chart really helped me out. Thanks.

[@serrael-182]

The bose dont really sound that good. Tried them against all of them. Hope you found a solution and your dogs okay :)

[@KingTode]

Hopefully the AirPods Max 2 address some of the issues with the APM1. At the end of the day, no matter the sound quality, they're the best headphones for Apple users. Being able to switch between devices seamlessly especially to an AppleTV makes these headphones worth it. Connecting a TV with normal bluetooth headphones is always a pain.

[@GoldMineArcade]

I had the Momentum 3 and want to update. I wanted to get the Momentum 4 but I hate the downgraded cheap plastic and fake leather. Since the Bose have the best anc and come in 2nd in sound quality along with the best fit with a premium build that’s what I’m getting

[@geffcer7982]

Px7 S2e got bashed unfairly in my opinion, I don't see how anyone could put their sound quality to last place...

[@НитинРаимаджий]

Fix the timecode for winner secrion 26:49

[@Robloxgamer-x3p]

Hi great video and very good comparisons...actually almost 100% agree with you, but you sounds so biased when it comes to Sony's, so I ordered the M4 instead... incredibly happy and don't understand the hype with ANC... insane sound 👍 and again good video man 👍💯

[@mrmcwan4812]

Try KORG NC Q1. Awesome headphones, clear sound, sweet bass. Vocals on fleek. Noise cancellation works even in tooo loudy environments where most the headphones above screeches

[@factmeee]

buy headphones from a company who makes audio devices

[@YevErofeev]

Real

[@lf7398]

I have one comment about the B&W PX7S2e and the "missing" 3,5mm... Actually they do have - Not physically at the headphone, but there is included an adapter cable from USB-C to 3,5mm jack. And this has one big - for me dramatic - advantage over all the others: If you listen via 3,5mm jack audio plug, you can still use the Equalizer, and even the in the headphone stored EQ setting you have made is used in that case! The other brands can't do that, as soon as you listen via 3,5mm jack, the sound is default (flat) setting. In many headphones these days, the bass area is very overemphasized. Also in the PX7S2e, but in these I can compensate with EQ and I'm listen to this compensated headphone always, also via 3,5mm jack. This is very important if you are listening to the on-board entertainment on a long distance flight, which supports only 3,5mm jack connection... Point for the B&W... And with reduced bass and slightly reduced highs, this headphones get's very good indeed. Reduced, the bass is impressively precise, very very deep and precise, but if you reduced not too loud... Just to add...

[@vilimpluzaric4671]

Sound quality category here is not actually about sound quality but sound features. In terms of sound quality, the best are (probably and arguably) AirPods or PX7 S2e. I've been using Momentum 4s for a year now and I was never impressed with sound (they are good feature package though). I recently bought PX7 S2 (without "e") for my brother and was shocked how are they better than M4s in every sound aspect. They are just amazing, and "e" version should be even more impressive, not to mention Px8 that wasn't in this comparison while their price and intention is somewhat closer to AirPods Max. And that's confirmed by audio community all around the world. I just can't listen to muddy and flat sounding M4s anymore, I'm considering other, more expensive options right now. I've also auditioned Bose Ultras and while they have very exciting and immpresive sound features they lack the subtlety and musical excitement and quality. As for Sony's, I didn't hear them but I'm convinced they are the weakest here or better than Sennheiser at best, since they've never achieved spectacular sound despite most advanced tech. So, please don't believe the conclusions here about sound quality.

[@mikereisert2803]

I also have the m4's at the moment and I hate the sound for the same reasons you described. Have you gotten another pair/ do you have a recommendation coming from our standpoint?

[@josephgittos3787]

If you wait they might do a software update on the PX7 S2 as the S2E is a software upgrade that made them sound better , I agree with you on sound I always find B&W products are crystal clear sound that dont distort when you higher the volume, I hate muddy sounding headphones as you lose a lot of the instruments that are in the background

[@vilimpluzaric4671]

@@josephgittos3787 Tnx, but in the meantime I purchased PX8 and now I'm finally satisfied! I'm not sure S2e is only about software tuning/update on top of regular S2s, I think the difference is that it has 24-bit DSP, like PX8s have. But there is not enough official information on this.

[@vilimpluzaric4671]

@@mikereisert2803 In the meantima I purchased PX8 and that's the real deal, however I cannot say if price difference from PX7 S2e is worth it since I have 't listen to those. In any case I'm now sure that "standard best" ANC headphones are not up to task when it comes to sound quality - Momentums, Sony XMs, Bose - those are just too pricey for that sound and make sense only if ANC or comfort are main conditions. Good sound for ANC starts at B&W and up, and there's a premium over it. PX8s, Focals, Mark Levinsons or Dalis are very expensive and only match much cheaper but serious audiophile wired headphones.

[@mariasifuentes8816]

Thanks for the video. Which headphones are compatible with apple devices?

[@Flowerbranche]

You should really include a pair of Beoplay (Bang Olufsen) in the test. In terms of sound quality alone, by far the best ones I have tried! I just can't have any other brand since I got those.

[@2ndgigglygirl]

This was super helpful, thank you!! I am leaning towards the Bose d/t the comfort, that is my issue with in-the-ear headphones, and with over-the-ear, my piercings usually bother me after some time... I am hoping these provide relief to my head and ears!

[@rojasvco]

I'm looking forward to your review of the Sonos Ace, particularly how it stacks up against the competition.

[@joshuajones4689]

Probably a dumb question, but where do Beats Studio pros stack up compared to these? Looking for a headphone for travel, music quality and working out sometimes

[@chocolatewheelchair]

People seem to hate those headphones

[@turtlebot323]

@@chocolatewheelchairreally I’ve seen a bunch of positive things about them?

[@prs24328]

Thank you for a very thorough and helpful review.

[@StephanieLiban]

Thank you for such a thorough review. I really just need a reliable wireless headphones to use amidst noisy environments.

[@davidmmuench]

Awesome comparisons! Gotta question. Are you able to disable touch controls on either the Sony XM5s or the Bose QC Ultras?

[@DBaviation]

Yes

[@jsfbay1]

@@DBaviation Yes for both?

[@symmetricalastic]

I couldn’t even keep my Air Pods Max because they would not hook up to my iPhone, my iPad or my computer. They were also uncomfortable while wearing gasses. I love Sony headphones

[@sodem2810]

I’m surprised at your description of the PX7 2Se’s as being too bassy with a lacking mid range. I’ve found them to be dynamic, spacious but with a neutral sound with a punchy (not over blown) compared to the Sonys and Apple!

[@delatierranicolas]

So helpful thank you for all this work

[@MN-Unicorn]

Small tip for you: instead of taking the average low score, weight the scores to give a more accurate rating system. As is, the scores are weighted equally across the board when for most folks, certain categories are way more important. How to weight them? Well... good luck on that one. :D

[@markb1911]

I’ve tried/owned a moderate number of headphones over the years, and something that’s significant to me is how good the technology has gotten across the board with name-brand offerings. With transparency on, the APM are the only over-ear headphones that I’ve completely forgotten I was wearing several times, despite being a heavier pair of headphones. Strangely they don’t feel heavy when they’re on the head. But that transparency is just so organic it really does sound exactly as if you weren’t wearing any headphones at all. The special perception is what blows me away. Once again, like not wearing any headphones. Sounds from in front, behind, above, and on each side retain their 3D special placement perfectly. Apple must have spent a considerable fortune developing the hardware/software integration. This is all with not the slightest perception of latency whatsoever. I can play guitar listening through the headphone’s in transparency mode, and there is absolutely zero noticeable latency that I can distinguish.

[@cozysouth]

I bought the Sennheiser Momentum 4s after watching your reviews and love them. I’d planned on getting the Bose or Sony but tried the Momentum 4s and found them to be more comfortable and fit my head better with the extremely soft ear pads. The sound quality is fabulous and they are all day constable. No one can tell I’m using them when talking in my phone and the noise canceling has been working well in my home environment sitting outside in the breeze. Thanks for the great review!

[@milpatel83]

I think you read the sheet for sound quality upside down!

[@thetruth5672]

Thanks for the awesome video. I a momentum 4 guy. I love the momentum

[@turnbasedtoddy7664]

The boss where robbed in the design category. Yes they are plain but they look the best while wearing them simply for not looking thick a goofy on peoples head IMO. The other headphones look way too big.

[@DonLemke]

I'm definitely in the market for a new set of headsets. Love the review and I like the microphone audio on the sennheiser.

[@dustingorman643]

My main question that isn’t covered is which one had the loudest sound? All headphones I buy don’t go loud enough. I want a pair that I can’t go full volume on. I usually watch movies on a plane ride.

[@Robloxgamer-x3p]

Now Sony Ult is out 👍 heavy bass 💪

[@Gwinter452]

Sound quality should be category #1, lol. I agree, the M4's sound amazing! Though, I prefer the 3.5mm input, as the USB-C doesn't seem to sound as good.

[@CEOLISSS]

Do Apple headphones demo better? I had a chance to demo the Sony, Bose, and Apple at Best Buy and the Apple headphones blew away EVERYTHING. I want to try Sennheiser's next but the cheap price worries me. ...... Might do a blind buy with the PX8's but others said they compare to the Apples headphones in terms of sound quality.

[@_HMCB_]

Very impressed with your review. First time watcher, too.

[@xdarshan]

Incomplete list without Focal Bathys, B&W PX8, ML 5909, among others. You can’t call it a premium wireless ANC list just because APMs are in it lol

[@gralek2319]

Great test! just missing B&O in the competition. Would love to see them especially against Bose

[@dwaynedonegan]

Try bowers and Wilkins. you won't feel like using any of these brands after that

[@BadBeardDude]

My Bose QC Ultras arrived 4 days ago and were sent back yesterday. Something never mentioned for that headset in reviews is the annoying popping noise in the right earcup when on public transport. I'd also argue that the ANC on the Ultras was worse than on my old Bose QC35IIs. I was very disappointed with the Ultras. I bought the Sennheiser M4s to replace them and they should arrive tomorrow. I would find it very hard to recommend the Ultras as at least the pair I ended up with (and there's many others with similar issue on Reddit) are bugged.

[@sanchomill]

I've tested 4 of these. Excuse me but placing the px7s2e last in sound quality is just nonsense. Total nonsense.

[@MajesticTrails]

I have Bose QC45 it's so comfortable to wear and never had headache. I'm planning to buy Bowers and Wilkins not sure if that would suits my small head 😂 or maybe I'm upgrading to Bose QC Ultra.

[@SpiraResident72017]

I love the sound of the Bowers and Wilkins. Especially compared to the Sony XM4.