Bowers & Wilkins Px8 vs Sennheiser Momentum 4
Quick Verdict
The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 leads in sound quality and build, with a carbon driver and Nappa leather aluminum design, but its Bluetooth codecs, weight, and wired option are not published. The Sennheiser Momentum 4 offers double the battery life, aptX Adaptive, adjustable transparency, a foldable design, and an included wired cable and carry case. Choose the Px8 for luxury sound quality and materials. Choose the Momentum 4 for longer battery, travel accessories, and more published connectivity features. If you need a wired connection and transparency mode, the Momentum 4 is the safer pick.
| Spec | Bowers & Wilkins Px8 | Sennheiser Momentum 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear Wireless Headphones | Wireless over-ear headphones |
| Driver | Angled, ultra-high-resolution carbon drive unit | 42mm transducer system |
| Noise cancelling | Advanced Active Noise Cancellation | Adaptive noise cancellation with adjustable transparency mode |
| Bluetooth and codecs | Not published in listing | Bluetooth version not published; aptX Adaptive codec supported |
| Battery life | 30 hours from a 2-hour charge | Up to 60 hours playback; fast charging supported; charge time not published |
| Wired option | Not published in listing | Yes, 3.5mm to 2.5mm audio cable and airplane adapter included |
| Controls and app | B&W Music App for iOS and Android, multi-function button on ear cup | Touchpad controls with persistent off switch; Sennheiser Smart Control App with equalizer, presets, and sound modes |
| Water resistance | Not published in listing | Not published in listing |
| Weight | Not published in listing | Not published in listing |
| Included accessories | Not published in listing | Headphones, carry case, USB-C charging cable, 3.5mm to 2.5mm audio cable, airplane adapter |
Sound Quality
The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 uses an angled, ultra-high-resolution carbon drive unit, and its sound quality subscore is 29 out of 30. The Sennheiser Momentum 4 uses a 42mm transducer system and scores 27 out of 30 for sound. On paper the Px8 has a slight edge in sound quality, with the carbon driver described as delivering excellent sound in the listing. The Momentum 4 does specify Sennheiser Signature Sound, which is a known tuning, but the Px8's higher score suggests more detail.
The Momentum 4 supports the aptX Adaptive codec, which allows higher quality wireless audio when paired with a compatible device. The Px8 listing does not publish Bluetooth codecs, so its wireless audio format is unknown. This gap makes it harder to compare sound potential directly, but the Px8 still scores higher on sound. The listing for the Momentum 4 also mentions the 42mm transducer system, which is a common driver size for full range sound.
Both headphones offer app based equalizer controls. The Px8 uses the B&W Music App for iOS and Android, while the Momentum 4 uses the Sennheiser Smart Control App with equalizer, presets, and sound modes. If you prefer a known high quality codec, the Momentum 4 has a clear specification advantage, but the Px8's carbon driver technology and higher score suggest more detailed sound for many listeners.
Comfort and Fit
Both models score 18 out of 20 for comfort and fit, which suggests they are closely matched on paper. The Px8 is described as having a comfortable Nappa leather and aluminum design, which may provide a premium feel against the skin. The Momentum 4 does not publish ear pad or headband materials, so its comfort relies on the overall shape and padding that are not detailed in the listing.
Neither listing publishes the weight of the headphones, which is an important factor for long listening sessions. The Px8 uses a multi-function button on the ear cup for control, while the Momentum 4 uses touchpad controls with a persistent off switch. Touch controls can be convenient but may be sensitive to accidental touches, though the listing does not comment on this. The lack of weight data means you cannot compare heft or clamping force directly.
For fit adjustment, the Px8 does not mention folding, while the Momentum 4 has a foldable design. A foldable design may help the headphone contour to different head shapes and is easier to store, but without published weight and clamp force, it is impossible to say which is more comfortable. Based on equal comfort scores, buyers should test both if possible, but the Px8's Nappa leather is a concrete comfort signal that the Momentum 4 does not match with a stated material.
Noise Control and Features
The Px8 offers Advanced Active Noise Cancellation, and the listing mentions effective ANC with voice clarity. It also has dual external microphones that help with calls and noise reduction. The Momentum 4 features adaptive noise cancellation with an adjustable transparency mode, which lets you control how much ambient sound passes through. This is a key feature difference because the Px8 listing does not mention any transparency or ambient sound mode.
The Momentum 4 has a feature advantage with its adjustable transparency mode. The Px8 scores 14 out of 15 for features and noise control, while the Momentum 4 scores 13 out of 15. That one point difference suggests the Px8 may have slightly stronger overall noise control, but the lack of transparency on the Px8 could matter for situational awareness. The Momentum 4 also has a persistent off switch, which is not mentioned on the Px8.
Both have companion apps, but the Momentum 4 app includes equalizer, presets, and sound modes, while the Px8 app is listed for customizable EQ only. For users who adjust noise control often, the Momentum 4's transparency mode and app modes are more flexible. The Px8 relies on its Advanced ANC and dual mics, which are effective but less adjustable based on the published specs.
Battery, Bluetooth and Connectivity
Battery life is a major difference. The Sennheiser Momentum 4 offers up to 60 hours of playback, which is double the Bowers & Wilkins Px8's stated 30 hours. The Px8 specifies a 2 hour full charge time, while the Momentum 4 supports fast charging but does not publish a charge time. That means the Px8 gives you a predictable recharge schedule, but the Momentum 4 lasts much longer between charges.
For Bluetooth, the Momentum 4 states support for aptX Adaptive, which is a high quality codec that adapts to signal conditions. The Px8 does not publish Bluetooth codecs, so you cannot confirm what wireless audio quality it supports. Both have the same battery and connectivity subscore of 14 out of 15, which is surprising given the Momentum 4's longer battery life and published codec. The Px8's advantage in this subscore may come from its specified 2 hour charge time.
Wired connectivity is another clear difference. The Momentum 4 includes a 3.5mm to 2.5mm audio cable and an airplane adapter, so it works with wired sources. The Px8 does not list a wired option at all. If you need a fallback wired connection for airplane entertainment or low latency use, the Momentum 4 is the only one of the two with a published wired capability.
Build, Design and Portability
The Px8 has a build score of 9 out of 10 and uses Nappa leather and aluminum in its construction. The listing says this creates a premium, luxurious feel. The Momentum 4 scores 8 out of 10 for build and does not specify the exact materials used for the headband or ear cups, but it offers a foldable design. On paper the Px8 has the edge in material quality and build score, while the Momentum 4 likely prioritizes functional durability.
Portability clearly favors the Momentum 4. It folds and comes with a carry case, making it easier to pack for travel. The Px8 does not mention a folding mechanism or carry case, and its aluminum arms may make it less compact. Neither listing provides weight, so the total packed size cannot be fully compared, but the included case on the Momentum 4 solves storage and protection.
Included accessories are also different. The Momentum 4 lists headphones, a carry case, a USB-C charging cable, a 3.5mm to 2.5mm audio cable, and an airplane adapter. The Px8 does not publish its included accessories. For buyers who want a complete out of box travel kit, the Momentum 4 is more transparent and practical. The Px8 may include some accessories, but the listing does not state them.
Call Quality and Daily Use
For calls, the Momentum 4 uses four beamforming microphones with wind noise suppression, which suggests strong voice pickup in noisy environments. The Px8 has dual external microphones and the listing mentions voice clarity, but it does not mention wind noise suppression. The Momentum 4 appears to have a more advanced microphone array based on the published specs, which could lead to better call quality outdoors.
Daily use differences include controls and battery. The Momentum 4 uses touchpad controls with a persistent off switch, which can be convenient for power management and reducing accidental drain. The Px8 uses a multi-function button on the ear cup, which is simpler but may offer fewer gestures. The Momentum 4's 60 hour battery means less frequent charging, while the Px8's 30 hour battery is still solid but half as long for heavy daily use.
Neither model has a water resistance rating, so both should be kept away from rain and heavy sweat. The Px8's premium leather may require more careful handling than the Momentum 4's unspecified materials, which could be more sweat tolerant. For everyday commuting, the Momentum 4's foldable design and included case add practical value, but the Px8's leather and aluminum may appeal more for desk use where durability is less of a concern.
Who Should Buy It
The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 is for listeners who prioritize sound quality and luxury materials. Its angled carbon driver and Nappa leather aluminum build are its standout features. The 30 hour battery is practical, but the main draw is high resolution audio and a premium feel. It is best for home or office use where the lack of a published wired option is less of an issue and where you can keep the headphones protected.
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 is for people who need long battery life and travel friendly features. Its 60 hour battery, foldable design, carry case, and included airplane adapter make it easier to take on trips. The adjustable transparency mode and aptX Adaptive codec appeal to users who want control over ambient sound and wireless quality. It is also the better option if you need a wired connection.
Both score high for comfort, but the Px8 has a higher overall score of 92 versus 89 for the Momentum 4. However, the Momentum 4 has a value score of 9 compared to 8 for the Px8, suggesting the Sennheiser may give you more useful features for the money. Consider what matters more: absolute sound and premium materials, or battery, portability, and known connectivity features.
The Deciding Question
The deciding question is whether you value sound quality and luxury build over battery life and known connectivity features. The Px8 offers a higher sound subscore and premium materials, but it leaves several specs unpublished, including Bluetooth codecs, wired option, weight, and accessories. The Momentum 4 gives you double the battery, a known high quality codec, a wired cable, and a folding case.
If you will use the headphones primarily at home or in an office, the Px8's 30 hour battery is enough, and its carbon driver may deliver more detailed sound. Its Nappa leather and aluminum design also add a sense of luxury. If you travel or commute often, the Momentum 4's 60 hour battery, compact folding, and airplane adapter solve real problems. The lack of a published wired option on the Px8 could be a dealbreaker for someone who uses in flight entertainment.
Another factor is transparency mode. The Momentum 4 has adjustable transparency, which the Px8 does not mention. For situational awareness, the Momentum 4 is clearly better on paper. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your top two priorities: sound and materials, or endurance and features. Both are excellent wireless over ear headphones, but they serve different use cases.
Who Should Buy Which
Choose the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 if you want the highest sound quality score in this comparison and a luxury design with Nappa leather and aluminum. The listing says it is for listeners who want flagship-level sound and strong ANC. It is a strong choice for critical listening in a controlled environment where you can charge it every 30 hours and where the unknown codecs are not a concern.
Choose the Sennheiser Momentum 4 if you need a travel headphone with up to 60 hours battery, a foldable design, and an included carry case and airplane adapter. Its aptX Adaptive codec and wired option provide flexibility for different audio sources, and its adjustable transparency mode is useful for hearing announcements or conversations. The Momentum 4 publishes more of its connectivity features, making it a safer choice for buyers who want to know exactly what they are getting.
If you are still undecided, the Momentum 4 is the safer pick because it publishes more of its specs, including wired capability and codec support, and it offers a longer battery. The Px8 leaves too many details unknown, such as weight and Bluetooth codecs, which could matter for some users. For most buyers who prioritize practical features and travel readiness, the Momentum 4 is the more well rounded choice on paper. However, if sound quality score and material luxury are your absolute top priorities, the Px8 earns its higher overall rating.
Bowers & Wilkins Px8
Pros
- Excellent sound with carbon driver
- Comfortable Nappa leather and aluminum design
- Effective ANC with voice clarity
- Strong battery life with quick charging
- Customizable EQ via app
- Premium materials at lower mid-range price
Cons
- Bluetooth codecs not published
- No wired option mentioned
- Weight not published
- No water resistance rating
- No included accessories listed
Sennheiser Momentum 4
Pros
- Sennheiser Signature Sound with 42mm transducers and aptX Adaptive
- Up to 60 hour battery life with fast charging
- Adaptive noise cancellation and adjustable transparency mode
- Foldable design with carry case included
- App equalizer, presets, and sound modes for personalization
- Four beamforming microphones with wind noise suppression
Cons
- Water resistance rating not published in listing
- Weight not published in listing
- Bluetooth version not stated
- Charge time for fast charging not specified
Who Should Buy Each
Bowers & Wilkins Px8
- Commuters and travelers needing long battery life
- Those who value premium build and comfort
- Listeners wanting customizable sound via app
- Anyone wanting flagship features at a lower mid-range price
Sennheiser Momentum 4
- Commuters and frequent travelers who need long battery and effective ANC
- Listeners who want app based EQ and aptX Adaptive for high quality wireless audio
- Call users who rely on clear voice pickup and wind suppression
- People who prefer a foldable headphone with a carrying case
Quick Decision Guide
| If you want the highest sound quality score and luxury materials like Nappa leather and aluminum | Choose Bowers & Wilkins Px8 |
| If you need up to 60 hours of battery life and a published wired option | Choose Sennheiser Momentum 4 |
| If you want adjustable transparency mode and known aptX Adaptive codec support | Choose Sennheiser Momentum 4 |
| If you prefer premium build materials over foldability and a carry case | Choose Bowers & Wilkins Px8 |
| If you value a carry case, airplane adapter, and travel friendly accessories included | Choose Sennheiser Momentum 4 |
FAQ
About This Comparison
Mandrillis Team
The Mandrillis editorial team researches and compares audio and music gear using manufacturer documentation, verified specs and real buyer feedback, so you can make a confident purchase without wading through marketing claims.
Read our full research methodology.
We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.