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

День тому

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
In this video, I test and compare the very best bluetooth anc headphones you can buy today from brands like Sony, Bose, Apple, and more. This testing will help us determine which bluetooth headphones have the best active noise cancellation, the best microphones and call quality on headphones, the best sounding headphones of 2024, the most comfortable, and more. This testing is all based on my own personal experience and my priorities may be different from you. I hope this video is helpful in your decision regarding which blueooth headphones to buy.
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About me: mikeobrienmedia.com
Please comment below with any questions you might have. Thank you all for watching! I appreciate you!
Disclaimer: This video is purely based on my experiences, research, and opinions. You and only you are responsible for your actions. I made this channel to advise viewers and I truly hope to help you all out. I love making these videos and connecting with my viewers!
One or more of the products shown in this video may have been sent to me at no cost. This does not influence my opinions; I always cover both pros and cons.
This channel is monetized via UKposts ads as well as some affiliate links. If a purchase is made after clicking the link, I will receive a small commission at no extra charge to the buyer. Thank you all for watching!
ADDITIONAL REVIEW NOTES:
CONTESTANTS
Sony WH-1000XM5
Apple AirPods Max
Sennheiser Momentum 4
Bose Quietcomfort Ultra
B&W PX8 or PX7s?
The Very Best ANC Bluetooth Headphones Tested Head To Head And Compared.
PRODUCT LINKS ↘️
Sony WH-1000XM5
Sennheiser Momentum 4
Apple AirPods Max
Bose Quietcomfort Ultra
B&W PX8 or PX7s?
Physical
Comfort/durability
Water resistance
Hot and sweaty?
Weight?
Fit test - wear these working out?
Case
Controls
Features
NFC pairing
Can USB cable be used for audio?
Multi-pairing
Auto play/pause
App
Lag
Find my headphones
Microphone test
Sound quality
Quality:
ANC
Pressure/cleanliness/power
Transparency mode
Battery life
THE HEADPHONES:
Sony WH-1000XM5
LDAC
Auto transparency mode when you talk
Adaptive ANC
Sony 360 Reality
DSEE Extreme - audio upsampling low-quality audio files
Dropped NFC pairing (google FastPair is easier)
Apple AirPods Max
Sennheiser Momentum 4
May slip off my head when I bend over
Impressive color match between silicone and leather
Very nice case!
Headphones do not fold, so case is a bit larger
Accepts usb audio and 3.5mm
Incredible battery life! Rated for 60 hrs with BT & ANC (700mAh)
Subpar ANC
Fantastic sound quality
I like the swipe controls
Multipoint
Auto play/pause
They removed the Tile find feature, haptics, and NFC pairing
Weirdly only Bluetooth 5.2
CODECS: SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX adaptive
These seem to punch above their weight. For $350, these are a DEAL
Bose Quietcomfort Ultra
Does not accept USB audio
Auto on/off (not just play/pause, but actual sleep) - power off after 24h
Press BT button to switch BT connections (press once to hear, press again to switch)
Nice volume slider
Top tier transparency mode
B&W PX8 or PX7s?
TIMESTAMPS:
0:00 The headphone contestants
2:20 Active Noise Cancellation (Category 1)
3:57 Transparency (Category 2)
5:24 Design and Controls (Category 3)
9:25 Fit and Comfort(Category 4)
11:40 Microphone Test (Category 5)
13:40 Battery Life (Category 6)
16:09 Sound Quality (Category 7)
21:30 Features (Category 8)
25:15 Price (Category 9)
26:00 The Winners

КОМЕНТАРІ: 725

@MikeOBrienMedia 3 місяці тому

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 3 місяці тому

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

@wagiqwq 3 місяці тому

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

@rizzay1 Місяць тому

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

@jsfbay1 23 дні тому

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 День тому

Hey, the price part ends at 26:48 😃

@miggyyusay 3 місяці тому

I am one of those people that bought and returned/sold nearly each headphone on this list to see what was the best, and the Momentum 4 also came out as a clear winner for me. Very happy with this pair!

@59erUlli 3 місяці тому

Owner of the Momentum 4 (in jeansblue for 258€) since one week! Thank you for this Review. It's a great Headphone!

@JaNNeX1234 3 місяці тому

You have no Problem with the unbalanced Sound of the Momentum 4??? If you Listen to Bass heavy music mine were defentliy louder on the right earcup. I could even flip the Headset around to see if my ears are not "broken" and you could clearly Tell that the sound and Bass Power is not the same on both earcups. So i returned them and went for Sony.

@miggyyusay 3 місяці тому

@@JaNNeX1234 i don’t notice an imbalance on my unit, and i do know the difference, as the bose QC45 I had before did have an imbalance. Maybe you should have asked for another unit?

@bfife22 3 місяці тому

I wanted to love the Momentum 4's but they hit a pressure point behind my ear and I couldn't avoid it. Loved the sound out of the box and they were built well. Just shows how much of these categories are subjective and it's best try all of them out like you did.

@Kakita23Kagadon 3 місяці тому

@@JaNNeX1234according to a lot of people there’s a 50/50 chance you get good balanced pairs or bad balanced pairs, it’s a quality control issue

@rendyjansen 3 місяці тому

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

@micaeglaleiva 2 місяці тому

Great video, I especially love the colour grading and filming. Would you be able to a video explaining how you film, edit and what equipment do you use. The colours are crisp, nice wide aperture and sound quality is also great.

@estrogenfest 3 місяці тому

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.

@menachem711 3 місяці тому

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 День тому

@MyBleedingInk 3 місяці тому

Just watched it all, thanks for doing this. So I love all the features on the Sony, but ultimately I think comfort, how long you can comfortably have them on, is most important. From what I watched here, Bose is the way to go for comfort?

@Thugpug-lp5qz 3 місяці тому

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

@josephgrimes8395 2 місяці тому

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.

@Forgotten-Myth 3 місяці тому

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😊

@jennifercastro8154 Місяць тому

8:20 did not know this! This is SUCH a cool feature to have ugh thank you for mentioning it! I didn’t see this in the instructions 🤩

@ScaldingCold 3 місяці тому

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 3 місяці тому

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

@harrywang6792 2 місяці тому

How's the noise cancelling?

@yirehyoon6316 2 місяці тому

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

@janaw469 Місяць тому

@@harrywang6792Very good!!

@blitz14u 4 дні тому

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

@general.malaise 3 місяці тому

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 3 місяці тому

they will break.

@ysryashraj 3 місяці тому

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 3 місяці тому

can you compare to me sennheiser vs BW?

@NoHiro-qc4dv 3 місяці тому

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 3 місяці тому

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

@alejandroelcid 3 місяці тому

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 3 місяці тому

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 3 місяці тому

@@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 3 місяці тому

@@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 3 місяці тому

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

@IMHO88-dm1xf 3 місяці тому

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...

@tristadela4376 2 місяці тому

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

@jpskillern 3 місяці тому

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

@Tyler_ThaTruth 3 місяці тому

wait what? man I wish I saw that deal

@nikitaramazanov7192 Місяць тому

What about comfort ? Do your ears get too hot and sweaty while wearing them ? Or all good

@sujithsatish000 3 місяці тому

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 2 місяці тому

Yeees nobody ever talks about sound leak

@Buggy_The_Spy_69 Місяць тому

Good idea

@nuggetfresh9641 Місяць тому

Yeah you right. Sony would lose and bose would win

@realali93 Місяць тому

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

@TheMigoMan 8 днів тому

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.

@Zandaarl 2 місяці тому

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.

@user-mr7zj6io6z 2 місяці тому

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

@fbhistoriador Місяць тому

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

@hermanowski6905 3 місяці тому

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 😎

@Phillid4e 3 місяці тому

Very happy with my B&W Px7 S2 (non "e"). Sound quality ist definitely above the M4 and XM5. M4 are a bit more comfortable but clamp force of the B&W should decrease by a certain amount and then they are perfect for me. Got the B&W for 199€ which was a no brainer.

@michaelalmaraz3750 3 місяці тому

Agreed

@singlepanic 3 місяці тому

Can't love 'em more since april as well. The perfect pair. At least, for me. Absolutely no compromises to cope with. Except, maybe, the price: they were nearly twice as much as my bidget. But the moment I put them on...

@tsunamipapi173 3 місяці тому

B&W got shafted here.

@cliftoncrooks6389 3 місяці тому

Got my wife the B&W for Christmas. Paid $199. They're awesome. Love them!

@josephgittos3787 Місяць тому

@@tsunamipapi173 agree so many others say great things about these headphones , and yes they do have a usb c that as a headphones 3.5 on the other end

@GlassHouse80 3 місяці тому

I'm really happy to see some honesty amongst UKpostsrs. Over the Christmas period, I bought the Bose Quiet Comfort Ultra, sent them back, went into a local Sony shop to try the Sony XM5s, and nearly bought them but ended up buying the Sennheiser Momentum 4s and they are the best headphones out of the three. Sound wise they are so much better than the other two. The Ultra's sound is really, really disappointing. I will say the Bose are the comfiest, but they are not worth anywhere near the price. The apples are a waste of time, it amazes me people are buying them, they also went back when they first came out. Great review!

@zebobm 3 місяці тому

Regarding comfort, between the Momentum M4 and Bose Ultra, which one is the easiest to wear for several hours?

@Sayid.M Місяць тому

@@zebobmI own the M4 and XM5’s. They both are very comfortable and I use them both for hours without fatigue. The XM5 ear cups are shallow and the Momentum 4 has deeper ear cups so if you have bigger ears then this will be a better option. I think the Bose is similar but they have a looser clamping force than sennheiser so I assume they would be the best for comfort. Momentum 4 noise cancelling is not as good as the M4 but audio quality is a bit better.

@picanha694 12 днів тому

Sennheiser is more expensive than the sony in my country

@lucienseddon5452 3 місяці тому

I ve bought the Sony a month ago now and wow fr I m really impressed ! I listen a lot of techno/ house and rap music and it is just perfect for this style of music . The bass are just too good I can t live without it

@vokso11 3 місяці тому

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 3 місяці тому

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

@Kiddingyoumust 3 місяці тому

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

@vokso11 3 місяці тому

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

@P0wer2R0ll 3 місяці тому

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 3 місяці тому

@@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.

@Dr.HaroldShipman 2 місяці тому

B&O H95 for me... Im glad i did geth them, The sound quality is better than anything I've own and the build quality is on another level! Plus, I got them for a massive discount during black friday!

@bramschonewille482 3 місяці тому

I went with the Momentum 4’s, the sound quality is amazing. When you’re not listening to music/podcast the ANC is great, but not perfect. But with music/podcast on, it works perfect. The difference in sound quality between the Momentum 4’s en the Sony XM5’s was too big to oversee. I’m genuinely happy with my M4’s, they’re amazing. Thanks for the vid, really helped me make the decision. Note: Of course the ANC on the Sony’s are better, but unless you’re wearing your headphones all day without actually using it what it’s made for (playing music or podcasts and such), the Momentum 4’s are the better choice.

@hill1652 3 місяці тому

I have the M4 too. Listening to Sony and Bose, the Sennheiser was much more neutral and clean, not boomy nor bass heavy. To me they were truer to the music Agree on the ANC, certainly not the best but when you have music or other content on, the noise disappears.

@linksgarage1985 3 місяці тому

Just ordered the momentum 4. Great video dude.

@wonderofnature7510 14 днів тому

Bose are better, way better

@icentuche90 9 днів тому

Thats a big lie@wonderofnature7510

@mav1701 3 місяці тому

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 3 місяці тому

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 3 місяці тому

@@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 3 місяці тому

@@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 3 місяці тому

@@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.

@TheSpartan21029 3 місяці тому

I currently own a pair of the XM5s and think if they had a little more physical presence in its bass, they would be perfect headphones for me.

@AlexK-ov9ov 3 місяці тому

eq?

@TheSpartan21029 3 місяці тому

@@AlexK-ov9ovYeah i played with EQ and current have the clear bass set to 8. For me after 8 the bass loses some of its physical presence and can interfere with other areas of sound so 8 is good. I still think they are fantastic headphones and are the best pair of headphones of I’ve owned.

@snotrod7 3 місяці тому

I stumbled on this video, this editing is absolutely insane. Great job

@vishakhasingh3517 2 місяці тому

Seriously

@ChangQueenie-hr8od Місяць тому

Great review! Love this video making a fair and clear analysis, I know which headphone I shall go for 😊

@SushiPizza42 3 місяці тому

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 3 місяці тому

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

@pabiroansfamily796 Місяць тому

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

@cryptosguns 2 місяці тому

I was looking to upgrade from my first pair of WH from the Sony XM3's.. had been putting it off for 5 years. Did some window shopping the other day and have play tested some XM5's a few times but was never really impressed enough with the audio quality as that was something I prioritized above all else. Then I listened to the M4's.. and by no exaggeration the sound quality difference between them and every other headphone (starkly the XM5's) was like night and day. I will say however that coming from the Xm3's with a little more haptic feedback on turning on/Off and bluetooth, the M4's were a little strange and finnicky to get use to but otherwise the minor issue is completely overshadowed by the superior audio quality. One of my favorite purchases for sure.

@bfife22 3 місяці тому

Just picked up the QC Ultras after having the XM5s for a couple years. The XM5s were never comfortable to me, the headband caused a sore spot and my right ear hated how the drivers press against you because of the shallow ear cups. But I loved the sound when EQ'd and the mic was great. But the QC Ultras are so much more comfortable that I can't go back. Personally I prefer that they look less bulky on your head (The XM5's look sleek in pictures but not on your head), and the controls aren't any worse. If they were equal on comfort I would prefer the Sonys.

@joshuagall7252 3 місяці тому

The XM5s were released like 6 months ago, you haven't had them for a couple years lol. I honestly don't get why so many people feel the need to justify their purchases by lying about having bought other headphones first and returning them because yours are so much better. Just be honest and say you're happy with your QC Ultras, that's fine

@BoyScoutr 3 місяці тому

“The XM5s were released like *19* months ago”. FTFY

@markdavidmagat9866 3 місяці тому

I daily drove the Sony WH1000M3s and never regreted it. Never went up to the 5s due to me using my headphones a lot and if they're not living on my head or at a charger, they're in my backpack and I liked the portability. But that isn't to say the 5s are bad just that I like the compactability better on the previous model. Now I use the Shure Aionic 40s and I'd give them a shot as well! Great headphones and go for like $250 but I got them during the holiday season for $100. And the sound is amazing, the features, not as in depth as Sony but all of the features are very useful and the noise canceling is actaully pretty good, great even. So yeah! Give the Shure Aionic series a try please!!!

@marc-andrepaquin4409 Місяць тому

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.

@ilyatelegin914 3 місяці тому

I rarely leave any comments, but that's a great video that just made my life easier - now I just gotta find the 'momentum.' Again, thanks: great video, great setting/recording, fine phone metrics, great vocal quality - I know I'm not immortal, and I've appreciated every minute of my time spent with this piece of content❤

@ak_hoops Місяць тому

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.

@brianawendt3564 2 місяці тому

Have any of you experience slight earaches from the vibration from the Momentum 4's? I try to get the vocals up a notch, but I struggle. The Bose QC Ultra vocals are amazing (since I needed that mid range vocals up there due to my hearing loss), but needs more bass. Comfort on both of those are amazing. I did own the xm4's for a week and music is amazing! but its band creates a bit sore spot on top of my head which sucks.

@cmykimberly 3 місяці тому

I got the momentum 4 and have used them for a month now... I will keep them but I'm not 100% satisfied. The ANC isn't as good as i would like, i bought it so i didn't have to hear my coworkers talking and unfortunately have to bump the volume up past what i would like to block them out. The cups having a full 180 free spin i actually find quite annoying when off the head as its easier to get the right and left cup mixed up, I've since started paying more attention to the 3 raised plastic bumps which indicate the left ear. The cups aren't super comfortable for me, my ears get hot and my head just feels heavy and uncomfortable after awhile but tbf since this is my first set of headphones i think I'm just sensitive to the feeling of headphones. I wish they had more tactile buttons with an actual purpose, the one button they have is for pairing when held down or asks for voice assistance when i tap which i have 0 interest in. The swipe controls are intuitive but i have tapped by accident a lot, it would be nice to turn it off and have the choice of more buttons. Battery life is an absolute winner and sound quality is brilliant so for those 2 reasons i am keeping the headset... Oh and the carry case and cables are great too.

@cmykimberly Місяць тому

OK so I'm 3 months in now, i have gotten more used to them. Wearing them because i want to is a much better experience than work of wearing them because i feel like i have to. The right ear being touch controlled is still annoying by false touches but I'd rather have it than not. You also need to turn the headset completely off to use the jack... Which is weird so when your gaming wired you can't use the mic. Battery life still excellent tho and ANC honestly works well in most situations, just that darn office when i notice it 😂

@sao1393 3 місяці тому

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 2 місяці тому

I have the focals and absolutely love them

@Schubus1608 2 місяці тому

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.

@davidhughes4489 3 місяці тому

I already had the AirPods Max and their great but I find the clamp to tight for comfort after an hour or so, so I bought the Bose ultra as a substitute mainly due to ANC and comfort and their excellent,, I feel both have a place at my desk and I find I use both.

@LPboy77 3 місяці тому

I’m actually considering between two. Which one would you suggest? I use Apple products, but I have Bose qc earbuds and I love them

@KirillKY 3 місяці тому

@@LPboy77 Same thing. Love my CQ35II, but battery not so great now and I need to upgrade. So many people love their CQ Ultra but I see many reviews with bad quality control, problem with BT connecting, head sensor and etc. So, today ordered APM, worried about fit and comfort after my super cozy QC35, lets see.

@KayleeAlbeno-sf1pw 22 дні тому

Im looking for workout headphones.. which one will you recommend? Running,jumping etc

@jilvermazariegos 3 місяці тому

Finally xm4s getting the respect they deserve, actually amazing headphones even if the anc isnt the strongest.

@2ndgigglygirl Місяць тому

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!

@TheTae310 3 місяці тому

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

@AnimateTheWorld 3 місяці тому

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.

@FoxBrawl 3 місяці тому

Clear & honest review 🎉 thanks

@tsunamipapi173 3 місяці тому

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 3 місяці тому

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

@youssefsuhail3500 3 місяці тому

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

@alexander2576 3 місяці тому

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

@_RJ_Z 2 місяці тому

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!

@humanbeing5597 2 місяці тому

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 ?

@camacarzie12 3 місяці тому

Ive got both the sennheiser m4 and the B&W px7 s2 and i rarely use the B&W. The sennheisers sound way too good!

@Wreck-Gar 2 місяці тому

Hi everyone, total newbie here when it comes to headphones. I currently have on the ear JBL 500BT wireless headphones. I would like over the ear headphones, mainly for the comfort. I've been looking at the Sennheiser Momentum 4 but I mainly use headphones for UKposts and internet radio stations. Would these headphones be overkill for that or worth every penny? If they are overkill, what headphones should I be looking at? Thanks!

@wah7788 3 місяці тому

If you're using BT hp in a quiet/low noise office or room, SM4 is the best bang for the buck for ya. Still giving the best in-flight experience for me since I'm not all out for ANC

@michaelklein23 3 місяці тому

I feel like bowers and wilkins px8, focal bathys, mark levinsons and b&o h95 should’ve been included in the best premium category. That being said knowing that battery replacement will be either really difficult or impossible even it’s tough justifying their prices. If batteries were easily replaceable for all of them the px8 would’ve been an easy pick for me simply because of how sleek they are and how beautifully crafted they are all around

@davidjenkins20 4 дні тому

Great comparison video one of the best I’ve ever watched. You crushed it.

@user-ds6ez3kq8j 2 місяці тому

Hi, great video. Could you please give me some advice? My ears are sensitive to the cabin pressure sensation which the Sony WM5 headphones give me. Can you give me a few examples of other headphones that have less ANC which won't have the same cabin feel issue? I'm more bothered about sound quality than ANC. Thanks

@wootuka 3 місяці тому

Excellent review. I got both the QC Ultra and I just picked up the M4s. The sound quality is something else. An issue I have is that the QC dont fit well on my head and I find myself adjusting them constantly. The ANC being very powerful, gives me disconfort. The M4s are confy so far and if you get them on sale (lowest I've seen is $200) they are the best (Compared to Sony and B&W too). I appreciate Bose coming up with new codecs, but few phones can take advantage of this. The immersive audio in the QC is a novelty that I don't really use and the battery life is not that great. Sadly, I will return the QCU.

@Blake00001 День тому

Glad to see I am not the only one that could not stand the QC ultra cabin pressure sensation. Had to return them for that reason and because the headband was creaking when walking. Very annoying.

@dharmspeakz 3 місяці тому

I absolutely loved the Momentum 4s but unfortunately they have bluetooth pairing issues

@sincitysinnermike Місяць тому

I went with the QC Ultra since I use my headphones primarily on airplanes and ANC was the highest priority.

@akhilneerugatti2717 Місяць тому

Hi Ershaad, my priority is sound quality and zoom calls, i have XM4 in the option but many said the mic quality is not that great, XM5 is big size, how about the mic quality of Accentum 5 in comparison to XM4, kindly address this

@davidmmuench 2 місяці тому

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

@DBaviation 24 дні тому

Yes

@jsfbay1 23 дні тому

@@DBaviation Yes for both?

@karma.420 3 місяці тому

If you want headphones for both music AND making phone calls, which ones would be recommended to try? Every pair I’ve purchased is either good for phone calls but terrible for music or great for music but terrible phone calls. Which pair would be best for BOTH?

@Mark-eh3mv 2 місяці тому

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 8 днів тому

Go with xm5...

@cyzam 3 місяці тому

Can i ask which one is slimmest by profile? I like to listen to music while walking and sometimes it rains and you have to use a hood. Sony xm5 seems a bit bulky. What's your opinion? Awesome review by the way!

@roymahendran8494 Місяць тому

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 3 місяці тому

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

@XVa-uj8m 3 місяці тому

Which, aside from the Sennheiser, has the best audio for speech? I'm looking to use one of these for language learning. The Sennheiser I am not interested as I would only want to buy the ones made in Germany and Sennheiser sold out there on their more affordable end. I wish I would have bought Sennheisers 10 years ago.

@Ryantagcoffee 3 місяці тому

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

@kylewatts9187 2 місяці тому

I totally agree with you

@schizo0223 2 місяці тому

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.

@ulisesgil4209 Місяць тому

Really good comparison, thanks!

@stemill1569 2 місяці тому

thanks for testing transparency.

@abrahamroberts2040 3 місяці тому

I landed on the Bose QC ultra and Apple Airpods Max. I couldn't decide between the two so I kept both. I took the Sonys back because they just felt cheap to me and I didn't like my ears pressing against the mesh in the cups. however, the Sony xm5 earbuds are my favorites for noise cancellation!

@dcrteddy 3 місяці тому

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

@Blakholet Місяць тому

Brokie

@ver.m1llion Місяць тому

@@Blakholet u one helluva sad guy

@Blakholet Місяць тому

@@ver.m1llion brokie

@ver.m1llion Місяць тому

@@Blakholet corny ahh ngga

@georgeapolo5211 3 місяці тому

What do you think about the B&O beoplay?

@mohamedahmed1023 3 місяці тому

ATM, my main set of cans are the B&O H95. Besides build quality, I think they're a marginal improvement over all of these in sound quality. And are worse in noise cancelling and transparency, for the most part. tried most of these cans. For most people, I recommend the Sony WH-1000XM4 still. Until we take a really big step up in drivers, we're at the stage where we're making very small incremental improvements in these cans. I'm looking forward to AptX Lossless codecs but I'm expecting that to have a rather minimal benefit.

@Kipcammy 3 місяці тому

ahh man i love my h95's they are a hugse leap over any of these. Sound better than the bw px8 too. And the controls are really amazingly intuitive. Noise canceling is okay, transparency is almost non existent. But man when you put on the music the tears start coming. Also would recommend the momentum 4's for most people. But if anyone who reads this wants to spend a bit more ( a lot more...) the b&o h95 are worth it :)

@_HMCB_ 2 місяці тому

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

@MEGY08 Місяць тому

SIr, what camera did you use in this video?

@lukecostello4490 3 місяці тому

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 Місяць тому

I hear about driver imbalance between left n right side?

@JamesSmith-qs4hx 3 місяці тому

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

@dustingorman643 21 день тому

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.

@guyanisimov1562 Місяць тому

I was between the Bose Ultra and the Apple's, not knowing about what else is out there. Decided to go for the Sennheiser after watching this great review of all that is best out there. Thank you Mike O'Brien!

@darylfortney8081 2 місяці тому

Would be curious rank on blocking noise when anc is disabled ie. Physical earcup sealing

@marcushelweg8929 Місяць тому

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

@JustLearning 3 місяці тому

I love my Focal Bathys. They are comfortable and sound GREAT! They can be used wired or wireless.

@jishnukanjilal8961 3 місяці тому

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 3 місяці тому

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

@user-gp3iw6ss1r 3 місяці тому

buy white- black color? Who cool?

@Rondoe21 4 дні тому

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

@straighouttaarnsberg8472 3 місяці тому

does anyone have knowledge about which headphones have the least/most sound leakage out of these 5?

@allyjhughes 3 місяці тому

Putting B&W last for sound quality is absolutely wild...

@venny4905 3 місяці тому

This man doesn't know anything about audio, why put them last when of all those they are the ones with the best audio

@youssefsuhail3500 3 місяці тому

Lmao this dude put the best sound quality in last insane probably cause it has the flattest eq

@sathira_anuk5179 Місяць тому

@@venny4905 nah , M4 sounds better

@josephgittos3787 Місяць тому

yep agree some people dont understand what a good sounding headphones should be, he probably thinks beats are good too 😂

@josephgittos3787 Місяць тому

just another thing to say B&W headphones sound even better once you break them in

@hosseinghadjari1496 2 місяці тому

can you compare the ANC feature of momentum 4 and XM5 on the road and bus?

@strider2175 3 місяці тому

I'm not surprised Sennheiser won. I've been using their products as work headphones in a somewhat loud factory for almost a decade now (currently using a pair of Momentum 3s that I purchased 3 years ago or so), and I've always been very happy with them. And their quality is top-notch; the only reason I got the 3s is because I'd had a couple of accidents where my previous headphones got knocked off my head, and no headphones are going to survive 6 foot drops onto concrete floors too often without breaking. I figure by the time I need to replace theses, either the 4s will be quite cheap, or the next iteration will be out.

@zehahaha603 3 місяці тому

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

@HockeyMC5989 2 місяці тому

Love my M4’s, very comfortable and sound great. When your listening to music/podcasts the faults in their ANC is very hard to hear. These were a no brainer for me

@joshuajones4689 Місяць тому

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 Місяць тому

People seem to hate those headphones

@Mr3121996 3 місяці тому

Finally! Someone who recognizes how good the momentum 4's are!! I've tried the Bose, apple, Sony, focal, and beats, the Sennheisers are hands down the best sound quality👌. Apods max SUCK at sub bass😅just had to add that in there

@alpha5124 3 місяці тому

If build quality was enough, the airpod max would have been really good. I really tried to like the airpod max, but I couldn't I just couldn't get used to the clamping force at the top section of the ear cups. Hope they fix this design flaw with the next take.

@regezas 2 місяці тому

Great review! I have been rocking Momentum 4s since day one. I love deep rich bass performance, especially when watching movies. Before the Momentum 4 release I tried Sony M4 and M5 which exhibited lower bass the louder I went past 60% of the volume. And I find Momentum 4 more comfy on my bald head than a Sony headset.

@DaemonViews Місяць тому

If you plug in the B&W into a dac they jump up in audio quality a lot. I got a number of headphones and these can match my cabled ones I have for my LPs. But dont understand how you feel them being bassy. I have the Bose and Sony as well and this one is cleaner.