Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
The Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones is the flagship option here, boasting premium features like Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and aptX™ Lossless support. However, if you're looking to save money, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) offers an impressive battery life of up to 50 hours, making it a compelling mid-range contender. In real-world use, the Sonos Ace excels at TV Audio Swap, instantly transferring sound from Sonos soundbars, but it requires specific Sonos hardware. On the flip side, the Audio-Technica model sacrifices ANC for a remarkable battery life, allowing for extended listening sessions without frequent charging—ideal for long commutes or gaming marathons in 2026.
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Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones
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: Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
| Criterion | Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones | Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.5(339)Best Buy | ★4.4(3,219)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.4 + 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 5.4 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX™ Adaptive, aptX™ Lossless (Snapdragon Sound™) | LDAC, AAC, SBC |
ANC | Yes (World-class Active Noise Cancellation) | No (Passive noise isolation only) |
Transparency | Yes (Aware Mode) | No |
Drivers | Custom-designed 40mm Dynamic Drivers | 45mm large-aperture drivers with rare earth magnets |
Frequency Response | N/A (Not officially specified by manufacturer) | 15 Hz – 28,000 Hz |
Microphones | 8 Microphones total (Beamforming for ANC and clear calls) | Dual MEMS microphones (beamforming) |
Battery Life | Up to 30 hours (with ANC/Spatial Audio on) | Up to 50 hours (Continuous use) |
Battery Life | N/A (No charging case) | N/A (No charging case) |
Charging | USB-C Rapid Charge; 3 min = 3 hours playback; Full charge ~3 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 | Yes (via aptX™ Adaptive or TV Audio Swap Wi-Fi link) | Yes (via Audio-Technica CONNECT app) |
Wired Mode | Yes (USB-C to USB-C for lossless digital; USB-C to 3.5mm for analog sources) | Yes (1.2 m / 3.9' cable included; works with zero battery) |
Water Resistance | No (No IP rating) | None (No IP rating) |
Weight | 11 oz (312 g) | 10.8 oz (307 g) |
Controls | Content Key (Slide/Press for Volume & Playback), Noise Control Button, Power/Pairing | Physical buttons (Power/Pairing, Volume, Multifunction/Voice Assistant) |
App Eq | Sonos App (Bass, Treble, Loudness toggle) | Audio-Technica CONNECT app (5-band EQ, Codec switch, Low Latency, L/R Balance) |
Extras | TV Audio Swap (Wi-Fi connection to Sonos Soundbars); Dynamic Head Tracking; Magnetic Ear Cushions | Google Fast Pair; Amazon Alexa built-in; Sidetone circuitry; 1.2 m cable & carrying pouch included |
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Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones
✓ Pros:
- • TV Audio Swap instantly transfers immersive home theater audio from Sonos soundbars to headphones
- • Supports aptX™ Lossless for bit-perfect CD-quality audio on compatible Android devices
- • Tactile 'Content Key' slider offers superior control compared to touch gestures
- • Plush memory foam and hidden hinge design provide premium comfort
- • USB-C port supports wired lossless digital audio playback
✗ Cons:
- • High price point places it in direct competition with established luxury rivals
- • TV Audio Swap requires specific Sonos hardware (Arc, Beam, Ray)
- • EQ customization is limited to basic Bass and Treble sliders
- • Heavier than some direct competitors like the Sony WH-1000XM5
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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 Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones is the better buy for most people - its 8 microphones for clear calls crushes the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black).
Who should buy each?
Choose the Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones if: you want high-fidelity sound with aptX™ Lossless, need ANC for a quiet environment, or want to seamlessly swap audio from Sonos soundbars. (11.01 oz weight)
Choose the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) if: you prioritize long battery life for extended listening, need a lightweight option for travel, or want a more budget-friendly choice without sacrificing sound quality. (10.83 oz weight)
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?
Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones excels if you value tv audio swap instantly transfers immersive home theater audio from sonos soundbars to headphones. 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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