Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e vs Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
When comparing the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e and the flagship Bowers & Wilkins Px8, sound quality takes center stage. The Px7 S2e offers reliable performance with custom bio-cellulose drivers, but the Px8's 40mm Carbon Cone drivers elevate clarity and detail to a whole new level. In real-world use, the Px8's exquisite build featuring Nappa leather and die-cast aluminum not only looks premium but also feels luxurious with its memory foam ear cushions. At 11.3 oz, the Px8 is slightly heavier than the 10.8 oz Px7 S2e, but the audio experience it delivers makes it a worthwhile upgrade for audiophiles and everyday listeners alike. Key specs: Sound Drivers: Custom bio-cellulose drivers vs 40mm Carbon Cone drivers and Weight: 10.8 oz vs 11.3 oz.
Why compare these? The Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e (high-end) and Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones (premium flagship) 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.
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Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Bowers & | Bowers & |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | 4.4★ (1,676 reviews) | ✓4.6★ (256 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Luxurious build quality with memory foam and fine fabric detailing | Exquisite build quality with die-cast aluminum and Nappa leather |
| Main Drawback | App EQ is restricted to simple Bass and Treble sliders (no multi-band equalization) | Microphone does not function in wired mode (audio only) |
| Market Position | Premium | ✓Flagship |
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
Over-ear (Closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.2; USB-C Audio (Hi-Res 24-bit); 3.5 mm Analog (via included USB-C cable)
5.2
aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, aptX, 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.
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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 Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e
Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
| Criterion | Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e | Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.4(1,676)Amazon | ★4.6(256)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 5.2; USB-C Audio (Hi-Res 24-bit); 3.5 mm Analog (via included USB-C cable) |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.2 | 5.2 |
Codecs | aptX™ Adaptive, aptX™ HD, aptX™, AAC, SBC | aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, SBC |
ANC | Yes (Hybrid Noise Cancellation with 4 sensing mics) | Yes (Hybrid Noise Cancellation with 4 mics) |
Transparency | Yes (Ambient Pass-Through) | Yes (Ambient Pass-Through) |
Drivers | 2 x 40mm Dynamic Full Range Bio-Cellulose Drivers | 2 × 40 mm Carbon Cone dynamic drivers |
Frequency Response | 10 Hz – 30,000 Hz | N/A (Manufacturer does not publish) |
Microphones | 6 Microphones total (4 for ANC + 2 for clear telephony) | 6 total (4 for ANC, 2 for telephony with CVC technology) |
Battery Life | Up to 30 hours | Up to 30 hours |
Battery Life | N/A (No charging case) | N/A (Headphones only) |
Charging | USB-C Fast Charge; 15 min charge = 7 hours playback; Full charge ~2 hours | USB-C (Fast Charge: 15 min = 7 hours playback) |
Multipoint | Yes (Simultaneous connection to 2 devices) | Yes (Connect two devices simultaneously) |
Low Latency Mode | No (Relies on aptX™ Adaptive dynamic latency) | Yes (via aptX Adaptive automatically) |
Wired Mode | Yes (Supports both USB-C digital audio and 3.5mm analog sources via included cables) | Yes (USB-C and 3.5 mm supported; Audio playback only – microphone does not work in wired mode) |
Water Resistance | No (No IP rating) | No (No IP rating) |
Weight | 10.8 oz (307 g) | 320 g (11.3 oz) |
Controls | Physical Buttons (Volume, Play/Pause, Power Slider, Quick Action Button) | Physical buttons (Play/Pause, Vol +/-, ANC toggle, Power/Slider) |
App Eq | Bowers & Wilkins Music App (Basic Bass/Treble tone controls only) | Bowers & Wilkins Music App (Bass/Treble tone controls only; no graphic EQ) |
Extras | Wear-Detection Sensor; 24-bit DSP Engine; Hard-shell carrying case included | Wear-Detection Sensor; Nappa Leather & Cast Aluminum arms; Included hard shell carrying case |
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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
Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
Over-ear (Closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.2; USB-C Audio (Hi-Res 24-bit); 3.5 mm Analog (via included USB-C cable)
5.2
aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, SBC
Yes (Hybrid Noise Cancellation with 4 mics)
Yes (Ambient Pass-Through)
Pros
- Exquisite build quality with die-cast aluminum and Nappa leather
- Class-leading sound clarity via Carbon Cone drivers and 24-bit DSP
Cons
- Microphone does not function in wired mode (audio only)
- Expensive compared to competitors with similar feature sets
Which one is better?
The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones is the better buy for most people - its 40mm Carbon Cone drivers crush the Px7 S2e's custom bio-cellulose drivers.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e if: you want a luxurious feel without breaking the bank, you enjoy listening for extended periods with a lightweight design, or you prefer a more affordable option. (10.83 oz weight)
Choose the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones if: you crave top-tier sound clarity for music enjoyment, you appreciate premium materials and craftsmanship, or you want the best overall performance for audiophile-level listening. (11.29 oz weight)
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.6★ vs 4.4★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Bowers &
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 1,676 reviews vs 256
→ Choose Bowers &
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 Bowers &
Conclusion
With the key differences outlined, the decision should be clearer. Both options deliver quality—choose the one that fits your priorities.
Bottom line: The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones leads with a 4.6★ rating versus 4.4★. That said, Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e could still be the right pick depending on your specific priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e or Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones?
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e is the better choice if you prioritize luxurious build quality with memory foam and fine fabric detailing. Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones wins if you value exquisite build quality with die-cast aluminum and nappa leather. Both are rated highly (4.4★ vs 4.6★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e and Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones?
Key differences: Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e offers luxurious build quality with memory foam and fine fabric detailing, while Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones stands out with exquisite build quality with die-cast aluminum and nappa leather. Consider that Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e app eq is restricted to simple bass and treble sliders (no multi-band equalization). Meanwhile, Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones microphone does not function in wired mode (audio only). 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: February 7, 2026. PageBen uses affiliate links for monetization, but our recommendations are research-driven and independent.
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