Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones vs Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e
The Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones is the flagship option here, offering unmatched active noise cancellation (ANC) with a frequency response of 20 Hz–40,000 Hz. You'd expect Sony to dominate, but the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e shines with its luxurious build and sophisticated 24-bit DSP tuning that elevates sound quality. In real-world use, the Sony WH-1000XM5 delivers up to 30 hours of battery life, ensuring you can power through long flights or commutes. On the flip side, while the Px7 S2e also boasts 30 hours of playback, its sound quality is enhanced by high-quality codecs like aptX™ Adaptive, making it a compelling choice for audiophiles who appreciate detail in their music.
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Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e
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: Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones vs Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e
| Criterion | Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones | Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.2(18,670)Amazon | ★4.4(1,676)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed, dynamic) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.2 + 3.5mm (stereo mini jack) | Bluetooth 5.2 + USB-C Digital Audio + 3.5mm Analog (via included USB-C cable) |
Bluetooth Version | 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.2 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC | aptX™ Adaptive, aptX™ HD, aptX™, AAC, SBC |
ANC | Yes (Industry-leading Active Noise Cancellation) | Yes (Hybrid Noise Cancellation with 4 sensing mics) |
Transparency | Yes (Ambient Sound Mode) | Yes (Ambient Pass-Through) |
Drivers | 30 mm (1.18") precision-engineered driver unit | 2 x 40mm Dynamic Full Range Bio-Cellulose Drivers |
Frequency Response | 4 Hz–40,000 Hz (Wired) / 20 Hz–40,000 Hz (LDAC) | 10 Hz – 30,000 Hz |
Microphones | 8 total (4 per earcup for NC and calls) | 6 Microphones total (4 for ANC + 2 for clear telephony) |
Battery Life | Up to 30 hrs (NC on) / Up to 40 hrs (NC off) | Up to 30 hours |
Battery Life | N/A (Headphones only) | N/A (No charging case) |
Charging | USB-C; ~3.5 hrs full charge; 3 min = 3 hrs playback (PD) | USB-C Fast Charge; 15 min charge = 7 hours playback; Full charge ~2 hours |
Multipoint | Yes (Connect 2 devices simultaneously) | Yes (Simultaneous connection to 2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | No dedicated mode (Connection priority via app) | No (Relies on aptX™ Adaptive dynamic latency) |
Wired Mode | Yes (3.5mm cable included) | Yes (Supports both USB-C digital audio and 3.5mm analog sources via included cables) |
Water Resistance | None (No IP rating) | No (No IP rating) |
Weight | 250 g (approx.) | 10.8 oz (307 g) |
Controls | Touch sensor (right cup) + Physical buttons (power/NC) | Physical Buttons (Volume, Play/Pause, Power Slider, Quick Action Button) |
App Eq | Sony Headphones Connect (5-band EQ + Clear Bass) | Bowers & Wilkins Music App (Basic Bass/Treble tone controls only) |
Extras | Speak-to-Chat, DSEE Extreme, 360 Reality Audio, Auto NC Optimizer | Wear-Detection Sensor; 24-bit DSP Engine; Hard-shell carrying case included |
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Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones
✓ Pros:
- • Market-leading active noise cancellation (ANC)
- • Excellent call quality with 8-microphone system
- • Lightweight and comfortable for long sessions
- • Fast charging (3 min for 3 hours playback)
- • Multipoint connection works seamlessly
✗ Cons:
- • Non-foldable design reduces portability
- • Price increase compared to previous generation
- • No IP water resistance rating
- • Auto NC Optimizer cannot be manually forced to max
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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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Which one is better?
The Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones is the better buy for most people - its superior 8-microphone system crushes the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e's 6 microphones. That said, grab the Px7 S2e if you prioritize luxury build quality and sophisticated sound - it's a bit heavier at 10.8 oz but offers a unique listening experience.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones if: you need top-notch noise cancellation for travel, crave crystal-clear call quality, or want a lightweight design for long listening sessions. (8.82 oz weight)
Choose the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e if: you value luxurious materials, enjoy high-quality audio codecs for music, or prefer physical buttons for reliable control. (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?
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones excels if you value market-leading active noise cancellation (anc). Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e is better if you prioritize luxurious build quality with memory foam and fine fabric detailing. 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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