Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
The Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e is the premium option here, thanks to its luxurious build and advanced 24-bit DSP tuning. In real-world use, the Px7 S2e's frequency response range of 10 Hz – 30,000 Hz delivers a richer sound compared to the ATH-M50xBT2's 15 Hz – 28,000 Hz. However, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) offers an impressive battery life of up to 50 hours, making it a compelling choice if you prioritize longevity over sound fidelity. Key specs: Battery: 50h vs 30h and Weight: both 10.8oz.
Why compare these? The Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e (high-end) and Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) (mid-range) represent different approaches to headphones. While they may appeal to different budgets, many buyers consider both options. This 2026 comparison helps you decide if the differences justify the price gap.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Bowers & | Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | 4.4★ (1,676 reviews) | 4.4★ (3,219 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Luxurious build quality with memory foam and fine fabric detailing | Exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency |
| Main Drawback | App EQ is restricted to simple Bass and Treble sliders (no multi-band equalization) | Lacks Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency modes found in competitors |
| Market Position | ✓Premium | Mid-range |
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.2 + USB-C Digital Audio + 3.5mm Analog (via included USB-C cable)
Bluetooth 5.2
aptX™ Adaptive, aptX™ HD, aptX™, AAC, SBC
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.0 + USB-C (Charging) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog)
Bluetooth 5.0
LDAC, AAC, SBC
Only the specs that differ are shown here. Winners are highlighted when the data is clear.
+Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Expand
Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
| Criterion | Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e | Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.4(1,676)Amazon | ★4.4(3,219)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.2 + USB-C Digital Audio + 3.5mm Analog (via included USB-C cable) | Bluetooth 5.0 + USB-C (Charging) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog) |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
Codecs | aptX™ Adaptive, aptX™ HD, aptX™, AAC, SBC | LDAC, AAC, SBC |
ANC | Yes (Hybrid Noise Cancellation with 4 sensing mics) | No (Passive noise isolation only) |
Transparency | Yes (Ambient Pass-Through) | No |
Drivers | 2 x 40mm Dynamic Full Range Bio-Cellulose Drivers | 45mm large-aperture drivers with rare earth magnets |
Frequency Response | 10 Hz – 30,000 Hz | 15 Hz – 28,000 Hz |
Microphones | 6 Microphones total (4 for ANC + 2 for clear telephony) | Dual MEMS microphones (beamforming) |
Battery Life | Up to 30 hours | Up to 50 hours (Continuous use) |
Battery Life | N/A (No charging case) | N/A (No charging case) |
Charging | USB-C Fast Charge; 15 min charge = 7 hours playback; Full charge ~2 hours | USB-C; ~3.5 hours full charge; 10 min rapid charge = up to 3 hours playback |
Multipoint | Yes (Simultaneous connection to 2 devices) | Yes (2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | No (Relies on aptX™ Adaptive dynamic latency) | Yes (via Audio-Technica CONNECT app) |
Wired Mode | Yes (Supports both USB-C digital audio and 3.5mm analog sources via included cables) | Yes (1.2 m / 3.9' cable included; works with zero battery) |
Water Resistance | No (No IP rating) | None (No IP rating) |
Weight | 10.8 oz (307 g) | 10.8 oz (307 g) |
Controls | Physical Buttons (Volume, Play/Pause, Power Slider, Quick Action Button) | Physical buttons (Power/Pairing, Volume, Multifunction/Voice Assistant) |
App Eq | Bowers & Wilkins Music App (Basic Bass/Treble tone controls only) | Audio-Technica CONNECT app (5-band EQ, Codec switch, Low Latency, L/R Balance) |
Extras | Wear-Detection Sensor; 24-bit DSP Engine; Hard-shell carrying case included | Google Fast Pair; Amazon Alexa built-in; Sidetone circuitry; 1.2 m cable & carrying pouch included |
| Pros |
|
|
| Cons |
|
|
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. | Check Price on Amazon→ | Check Price on Amazon→ |
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.2 + USB-C Digital Audio + 3.5mm Analog (via included USB-C cable)
Bluetooth 5.2
aptX™ Adaptive, aptX™ HD, aptX™, AAC, SBC
Yes (Hybrid Noise Cancellation with 4 sensing mics)
Yes (Ambient Pass-Through)
Pros
- Luxurious build quality with memory foam and fine fabric detailing
- Sophisticated 24-bit DSP tuning offers a significant sonic upgrade over the standard S2
Cons
- App EQ is restricted to simple Bass and Treble sliders (no multi-band equalization)
- Active Noise Cancellation is effective but trails behind top-tier Sony and Bose models
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.0 + USB-C (Charging) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog)
Bluetooth 5.0
LDAC, AAC, SBC
No (Passive noise isolation only)
No
Pros
- Exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency
- High-resolution audio support via LDAC codec
Cons
- Lacks Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency modes found in competitors
- No official IP water or dust resistance rating
Which one is better?
The Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e is the better buy for most people - its superior sound range of 10 Hz – 30,000 Hz crushes the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)'s 15 Hz – 28,000 Hz. That said, grab the ATH-M50xBT2 if you need a longer battery life of 50 hours - it's a no-brainer for extended use.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e if: you want superior sound quality, appreciate luxurious materials, or need advanced audio features.
Choose the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) if: you want exceptional battery life, are looking for a budget-friendly option, or prioritize lightweight design.
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 3,219 reviews vs 1,676
→ Choose Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2
Premium Buyers
Higher-tier option with more premium features and build quality
→ Choose Bowers &
Value Seekers
Better value proposition for buyers who don't need top-tier features
→ Choose Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2
Luxurious build quality Priority
Luxurious build quality with memory foam and fine fabric detailing
→ Choose Bowers &
Conclusion
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e and Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) are both solid choices. Match the strengths above to your budget and workflow to make the best call.
Bottom line: Both products share a 4.4★ rating, making this comparison particularly close. Your decision should come down to which specific features matter most to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e or Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)?
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e is the better choice if you prioritize luxurious build quality with memory foam and fine fabric detailing. Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) wins if you value exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency. Both are rated highly (4.4★ vs 4.4★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e and Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)?
Key differences: Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e offers luxurious build quality with memory foam and fine fabric detailing, while Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) stands out with exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency. Consider that Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e app eq is restricted to simple bass and treble sliders (no multi-band equalization). Meanwhile, Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) lacks active noise cancelling (anc) and transparency modes found in competitors. Check the detailed specs table above for a complete comparison.
+Where can US buyers get the best price?
For US buyers, Amazon typically offers competitive pricing with Prime shipping, easy returns, and reliable warranty support. We recommend comparing prices on both products using our affiliate links above—prices fluctuate regularly, and you may find sales or deals.
+Is this comparison up to date?
Yes, this comparison is current for 2026. We regularly verify specs, ratings, and availability. Last verified: January 26, 2026. PageBen uses affiliate links for monetization, but our recommendations are research-driven and independent.
Affiliate disclosure
PageBen uses Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This supports independent content for US shoppers.