Focal Bathys Hi-Fi vs Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
The Focal Bathys Hi-Fi takes the crown for sound quality, boasting uncompressed 24-bit/192kHz audio and a stunning frequency response of 15Hz-22kHz. In real-world use, this means you'll hear every detail in your favorite tracks, making it a no-brainer for audiophiles. However, if you're looking for a lightweight, premium experience, the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX offers 35 hours of battery life and a luxurious build that's hard to resist. Key specs: Weight: 12.35 oz vs 10.05 oz and Battery Life: 42h vs 35h (with ANC).
Why compare these? The Focal Bathys Hi-Fi (premium flagship) and Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones (high-end) 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 | Focal Bathys | Bang & |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | 4.1★ (663 reviews) | ✓4.2★ (1,325 reviews) |
| Top Strength | USB-DAC mode delivers uncompressed 24-bit/192kHz audio directly from a computer or phone | Luxurious build quality with aluminum, polymer, and lambskin leather |
| Main Drawback | Heavier (12.3 oz) and bulkier than mainstream competitors like Bose or Sony | No digital audio support via USB-C (charging only) |
| Market Position | ✓Flagship | Premium |
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.1 + USB-C DAC (Digital) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog)
Bluetooth 5.1
SBC, AAC, aptX™, aptX™ Adaptive
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
Over-ear (Circumaural)
Bluetooth 5.1 (Multipoint); 3.5 mm Analog Input
5.1
aptX Adaptive, 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: Focal Bathys Hi-Fi vs Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
| Criterion | Focal Bathys Hi-Fi | Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.1(663)Amazon | ★4.2(1,325)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (Circumaural) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.1 + USB-C DAC (Digital) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog) | Bluetooth 5.1 (Multipoint); 3.5 mm Analog Input |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.1 | 5.1 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX™, aptX™ Adaptive | aptX Adaptive, AAC, SBC |
ANC | Yes (2 modes: 'Silent' for high noise, 'Soft' for focus) | Yes (Digital Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation) |
Transparency | Yes (Transparency Mode) | Yes (Transparency Mode) |
Drivers | 40mm Aluminum-Magnesium 'M'-shaped Dome Drivers (Made in France) | 40 mm Electro-dynamic drivers with Neodymium magnets |
Frequency Response | 15 Hz – 22,000 Hz | 20 Hz – 22,000 Hz |
Microphones | 8 Microphones total (Clear Voice Capture technology) | 4 x Digital MEMS voice mics (2 shared with ANC) + 4 x Dedicated MEMS ANC mics |
Battery Life | 30 hours (Bluetooth + ANC) / 35 hours (3.5mm Jack) / 42 hours (USB-DAC) | Up to 35 hours (Bluetooth + ANC) / Up to 40 hours (Bluetooth only) |
Battery Life | N/A (No charging case) | N/A (Headphones only) |
Charging | USB-C Fast Charge; 15 min charge = 5 hours playback | USB-C (Approx. 3 hours for full charge) |
Multipoint | Yes (Simultaneous connection to 2 devices) | Yes (Connect two devices simultaneously) |
Low Latency Mode | Yes (via aptX™ Adaptive) | Yes (via aptX Adaptive automatically) |
Wired Mode | Yes (USB-DAC mode supports 24-bit/192kHz; 3.5mm analog cable included) | Yes (3.5 mm mini-jack; Passive playback supported; Mic does not work in wired mode; USB-C is charging only) |
Water Resistance | No (No IP rating) | No (No official IP rating) |
Weight | 12.3 oz (350 g) | 285 g (10.1 oz) |
Controls | Physical Buttons (Volume, Pairing, ANC mode, Voice Assistant) | Touch interface (Right earcup: Play/Pause, Volume, Skip) + Physical buttons (Power/Pairing, ANC toggle, Voice Assistant) |
App Eq | Focal & Naim App (5-band EQ + Mimi Sound Personalization) | Bang & Olufsen App (Beosonic™ intuitive tone-touch EQ; not a standard band EQ) |
Extras | Illuminated Focal flame logo (dimmable); Rigid carrying case; Mimi Hearing Test support | Google Fast Pair; Microsoft Swift Pair; Made for iPhone (MFi); Replaceable battery (serviceable); Lambskin leather ear cushions; Fabric carrying case included |
| Pros |
|
|
| Cons |
|
|
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. | Check Price on Amazon→ | Check Price on Amazon→ |
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.1 + USB-C DAC (Digital) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog)
Bluetooth 5.1
SBC, AAC, aptX™, aptX™ Adaptive
Yes (2 modes: 'Silent' for high noise, 'Soft' for focus)
Yes (Transparency Mode)
Pros
- USB-DAC mode delivers uncompressed 24-bit/192kHz audio directly from a computer or phone
- Aluminum/Magnesium drivers provide audiophile-level detail and dynamic range
Cons
- Heavier (12.3 oz) and bulkier than mainstream competitors like Bose or Sony
- No official water resistance rating (IP) requires care during use
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
Over-ear (Circumaural)
Bluetooth 5.1 (Multipoint); 3.5 mm Analog Input
5.1
aptX Adaptive, AAC, SBC
Yes (Digital Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation)
Yes (Transparency Mode)
Pros
- Luxurious build quality with aluminum, polymer, and lambskin leather
- Excellent battery life (35 hours with ANC) for a lightweight headset
Cons
- No digital audio support via USB-C (charging only)
- Charging is slow (approx. 3 hours) compared to competitors
Which one is better?
The Focal Bathys Hi-Fi is the better buy for most people - its 42-hour battery life crushes the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX's 35 hours. That said, grab the Beoplay HX if you prioritize a lighter design and sleek materials - it's lighter, making it more comfortable for long listening sessions.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi if: you want the best audio quality for music, need long battery life for extended use, or prefer a customizable sound profile. (12.35 oz weight)
Choose the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones if: you value luxurious materials, want a lightweight feel for daily wear, or need a stylish option for casual listening. (10.05 oz weight)
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.2★ vs 4.1★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Bang &
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 1,325 reviews vs 663
→ Choose Bang &
Premium Buyers
Higher-tier option with more premium features and build quality
→ Choose Focal Bathys
Value Seekers
Better value proposition for buyers who don't need top-tier features
→ Choose Bang &
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 Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones leads with a 4.2★ rating versus 4.1★. That said, Focal Bathys Hi-Fi could still be the right pick depending on your specific priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Focal Bathys Hi-Fi or Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones?
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi is the better choice if you prioritize usb-dac mode delivers uncompressed 24-bit/192khz audio directly from a computer or phone. Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones wins if you value luxurious build quality with aluminum, polymer, and lambskin leather. Both are rated highly (4.1★ vs 4.2★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Focal Bathys Hi-Fi and Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones?
Key differences: Focal Bathys Hi-Fi offers usb-dac mode delivers uncompressed 24-bit/192khz audio directly from a computer or phone, while Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones stands out with luxurious build quality with aluminum, polymer, and lambskin leather. Consider that Focal Bathys Hi-Fi heavier (12.3 oz) and bulkier than mainstream competitors like bose or sony. Meanwhile, Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones no digital audio support via usb-c (charging 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.
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.