Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
When comparing the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e and Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black), the key differentiator is battery life: 50 hours vs 30 hours. If you're looking for a premium sound with luxury build, the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e is your go-to, delivering sophisticated 24-bit DSP tuning and a comfortable over-ear design. In real-world use, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) shines with exceptional battery longevity, making it ideal for long trips or extended listening sessions.
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Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
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.
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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 |
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Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e
✓ 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
- • Support for high-quality codecs (aptX™ Adaptive/HD) ensures fidelity on Android
- • USB-C port functions as a direct digital audio interface for computers
- • Physical buttons provide reliable control without accidental touches
✗ 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
- • No official water resistance rating (IP) warns against use in rain or heavy workouts
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Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
✓ Pros:
- • Exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency
- • High-resolution audio support via LDAC codec
- • Multipoint pairing allows seamless switching between two devices
- • Preserves the acclaimed sonic signature of the wired M50x studio monitors
- • Dedicated low-latency mode improves lip-sync for gaming and video
✗ Cons:
- • Lacks Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency modes found in competitors
- • No official IP water or dust resistance rating
- • Passive noise isolation is effective but not equal to active solutions
- • Clamp force may feel tight for some users during extended listening sessions
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Which one is better?
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) is the better buy for most people - its incredible 50-hour battery crushes the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e. That said, grab the Bowers & Wilkins if you need premium sound quality and ANC for your music experience.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e if: you want superior sound quality with 24-bit DSP, need Active Noise Cancelling for focus, or prefer a luxurious build with comfy materials.
Choose the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) if: you need astonishing 50 hours of battery life, want a wired option for studio use, or prefer a customizable EQ for tailored sound.
Conclusion
With the key differences outlined, the decision should be clearer. Both options deliver quality—choose the one that fits your priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e excels if you value luxurious build quality with memory foam and fine fabric detailing. Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) is better if you prioritize exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency. Pick based on your budget and daily use.
+Is this an independent review?
Yes. We use affiliate links for monetization, but recommendations are research-driven and unbiased.
+Do newer models exist?
Check release timelines from the manufacturers and compare pricing before you buy. We refresh this page when major updates land.
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