Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones vs Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
When weighing the Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones against the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi, the clear winner is the Sonos Ace. It offers aptX™ Lossless for pristine audio quality, which is a game changer for audiophiles. However, the Focal Bathys shines with its impressive 42-hour battery life, making it a solid option for extended listening sessions. In real-world use, the Sonos Ace's TV Audio Swap feature allows for seamless audio transition from your Sonos soundbar, elevating your home theater experience. That's worth considering, especially if you're already in the Sonos ecosystem. On the flip side, while the Focal Bathys is bulkier at 12.3 oz, its aluminum and magnesium drivers deliver audiophile-level sound quality. This comparison really comes down to your priorities: luxury audio or extended usage.
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Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
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 Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
| Criterion | Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones | Focal Bathys Hi-Fi |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.5(339)Best Buy | ★4.2(465)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 5.1 + USB-C DAC (Digital) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog) |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.4 | Bluetooth 5.1 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX™ Adaptive, aptX™ Lossless (Snapdragon Sound™) | SBC, AAC, aptX™, aptX™ Adaptive |
ANC | Yes (World-class Active Noise Cancellation) | Yes (2 modes: 'Silent' for high noise, 'Soft' for focus) |
Transparency | Yes (Aware Mode) | Yes (Transparency Mode) |
Drivers | Custom-designed 40mm Dynamic Drivers | 40mm Aluminum-Magnesium 'M'-shaped Dome Drivers (Made in France) |
Frequency Response | N/A (Not officially specified by manufacturer) | 15 Hz – 22,000 Hz |
Microphones | 8 Microphones total (Beamforming for ANC and clear calls) | 8 Microphones total (Clear Voice Capture technology) |
Battery Life | Up to 30 hours (with ANC/Spatial Audio on) | 30 hours (Bluetooth + ANC) / 35 hours (3.5mm Jack) / 42 hours (USB-DAC) |
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 Fast Charge; 15 min charge = 5 hours playback |
Multipoint | Yes (Simultaneous connection to 2 devices) | Yes (Simultaneous connection to 2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | Yes (via aptX™ Adaptive or TV Audio Swap Wi-Fi link) | Yes (via aptX™ Adaptive) |
Wired Mode | Yes (USB-C to USB-C for lossless digital; USB-C to 3.5mm for analog sources) | Yes (USB-DAC mode supports 24-bit/192kHz; 3.5mm analog cable included) |
Water Resistance | No (No IP rating) | No (No IP rating) |
Weight | 11 oz (312 g) | 12.3 oz (350 g) |
Controls | Content Key (Slide/Press for Volume & Playback), Noise Control Button, Power/Pairing | Physical Buttons (Volume, Pairing, ANC mode, Voice Assistant) |
App Eq | Sonos App (Bass, Treble, Loudness toggle) | Focal & Naim App (5-band EQ + Mimi Sound Personalization) |
Extras | TV Audio Swap (Wi-Fi connection to Sonos Soundbars); Dynamic Head Tracking; Magnetic Ear Cushions | Illuminated Focal flame logo (dimmable); Rigid carrying case; Mimi Hearing Test support |
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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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Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
✓ 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
- • Mimi Sound Personalization adapts the audio profile to your specific hearing health
- • Premium construction with real leather, aluminum, and magnesium materials
- • Solid battery life across all modes, especially when using the internal DAC (42 hours)
✗ Cons:
- • Heavier (12.3 oz) and bulkier than mainstream competitors like Bose or Sony
- • No official water resistance rating (IP) requires care during use
- • High price point targets a niche audiophile audience rather than general consumers
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Which one is better?
The Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones is the better buy for most people - its aptX™ Lossless support crushes the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi in audio quality. That said, grab the Focal Bathys if you need longer battery life - it lasts 42 hours compared to 30 hours with the Sonos.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones if: you want top-tier audio quality, you use Sonos soundbars, or you value seamless device integration. (11.01 oz weight)
Choose the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi if: you need extended battery life, you appreciate customized sound profiles, or you prioritize high-fidelity audio from a computer. (12.35 oz weight)
Conclusion
There is no wrong answer here. Focus on the features you will use daily and pick the model that aligns with them.
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. Focal Bathys Hi-Fi is better if you prioritize usb-dac mode delivers uncompressed 24-bit/192khz audio directly from a computer or phone. 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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