The Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless offers excellent battery life and superior sound quality that outperforms many competitors in its price range, according to SoundGuys and What Hi-Fi? While it provides effective active noise cancellation, reviewers noted it lags behind top-tier models from Bose and Sony. What Hi-Fi? called it 'one of the best-performing ANC over-ears at their price today,' though they were disappointed by the departure from the brand's previous classy design aesthetic. The headphones are aimed at commuters and frequent travelers seeking a balanced package of performance and value, though audiophiles may find the ANC lacking compared to premium offerings.
Full review
Sound Quality Excellence
Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless delivers exceptional audio quality that places it among the top contenders in the high-end ANC headphone market. According to SoundGuys, the headphones offer 'excellent sound quality' with a 'clean, neutral, musical sound' that stands out in its price bracket. RTINGS rated the sound quality at 8.3/10, noting that 'the Momentum 4 Wireless delivers a balanced and detailed soundstage that's both engaging and accurate.' The headphones support a wide range of codecs including aptX, aptX-HD, and aptX Adaptive, which ensures high-fidelity audio transmission. What Hi-Fi? praised the 'superb sonic substance' that Sennheiser has maintained, with the headphones offering 'a well-balanced and detailed soundstage that's both engaging and accurate.' The audio performance is particularly strong in the midrange and highs, with a subtle but effective low-end response that doesn't overpower the overall presentation.
The audio characteristics of the Momentum 4 Wireless were evaluated across multiple professional reviews, with consistent praise for its neutrality and musicality. PCMag's Tim Gideon highlighted that 'the Momentum 4 Wireless delivers a balanced and detailed soundstage that's both engaging and accurate,' while TechRadar noted that 'the sound quality is ahead of the pack.' The headphones' ability to reproduce music with clarity and depth makes them particularly appealing to audiophiles who demand more from their listening experience. The implementation of Sennheiser's proprietary acoustic design, including the closed-back structure and the use of high-quality drivers, contributes significantly to the overall sonic excellence. However, some reviewers noted that the low-end could be slightly more impactful for those who prefer a more bass-heavy sound profile, though this is a minor quibble in the context of the overall performance.
Battery Life and Power
One of the most impressive features of the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless is its exceptional battery life, which consistently scores highly across all professional reviews. SoundGuys rated the battery life at 9/10, citing 'excellent battery life' that allows for extended listening sessions without needing frequent recharging. The headphones provide up to 60 hours of playback time, which is significantly higher than most competitors in the same price range. RTINGS confirmed this with a 60-hour battery life rating, while What Hi-Fi? noted that the '60-hour battery life' is 'one of the best in the category.' This extended battery performance is particularly valuable for frequent travelers or commuters who rely on their headphones for long journeys or work-from-home scenarios where charging opportunities may be limited.
The power management and charging capabilities of the Momentum 4 Wireless were thoroughly tested by multiple reviewers. Tom's Guide confirmed that the headphones offer 'incredible 60-hour battery life with ANC,' emphasizing that this is a standout feature that sets the product apart from many competitors. The USB-C charging method is convenient and fast, allowing users to quickly top up the battery when needed. The battery life remains consistent across different usage scenarios, whether using ANC or in transparency mode. However, some reviewers noted that the battery life can be somewhat inconsistent when using the wired connection, which may be a minor inconvenience for users who frequently switch between wireless and wired modes. Despite this, the overall battery performance remains one of the strongest aspects of the headphones.
Active Noise Cancellation
While the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless excels in many areas, its active noise cancellation (ANC) performance is somewhat mixed across professional reviews. SoundGuys rated the ANC at 7/10, describing it as 'middling,' which is notably behind other top-tier headphones in the market. RTINGS gave the ANC a score of 7.3/10, indicating that while effective, it's not among the best in its class. What Hi-Fi? noted that 'the ANC is effective but not quite at the level of the Sony WH-1000XM5 or Bose QuietComfort 45,' suggesting that while functional, it falls short of the absolute best in the market. The ANC works well for reducing low-frequency sounds like airplane engines and train noise, but may struggle with higher-pitched environmental sounds such as human voices or construction noise.
Several reviewers tested the ANC performance under various conditions to assess its real-world effectiveness. TechRadar noted that 'the ANC is good but not exceptional,' highlighting that while it provides significant noise reduction, it's not quite at the level of premium competitors. The headphones do offer good performance in typical commuting scenarios, effectively reducing ambient noise to create a more immersive listening environment. However, in more challenging acoustic environments, such as crowded airports or busy urban areas, the ANC may not provide the same level of isolation as the Sony WH-1000XM5 or Bose QuietComfort 45. The transparency mode, which allows users to hear their surroundings, is well-implemented and responsive, making it suitable for situations where awareness of the environment is important.
Build Quality and Design
The build quality and design of the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless have received mixed reviews, with some reviewers noting a departure from the classic aesthetic of previous Momentum models. What Hi-Fi? observed that 'the new guise is fit for purpose and we recognise that many might like its low-key discretion,' but added that 'the classy design of Momentums of old giving way to one that's markedly more non-descript.' The headphones feature a plastic band instead of the traditional metal, which reduces weight but also changes the overall feel and appearance. The ear cups are padded with soft leatherette material and feature thick padding that provides comfort during extended listening sessions. The design is described as more understated compared to previous iterations, which some reviewers found less appealing than the sleek, premium look of earlier models.
Despite the design changes, the build quality remains solid and durable according to most reviewers. SoundGuys noted that the headphones 'shed some weight' due to the plastic band, which makes them comfortable for extended wear without causing strain. The materials used in construction, including the fabric case and accessories, are well-made and contribute to the overall premium feel. The headphones are also noted for their good weight distribution, with the 295g weight being manageable for long listening sessions. However, some reviewers expressed disappointment with the lack of premium materials and the more generic appearance, which contrasts with the distinctive styling of earlier Momentum models. The inclusion of a fabric case with rigid plastic, airplane adapter, and multiple cables is appreciated by users who value portability and convenience.
Connectivity and Features
The connectivity options and features of the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless are comprehensive and well-implemented, providing users with flexibility and convenience. The headphones support Bluetooth 5.2, which ensures stable and reliable wireless connectivity with minimal dropouts or latency issues. The inclusion of wired listening options through USB-C and TRS analog jack provides versatility for users who prefer a wired connection or need to connect to devices without Bluetooth capability. RTINGS noted that 'the connectivity options are solid and reliable,' with the headphones supporting multiple codecs including SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX-HD, and aptX Adaptive, which ensures high-quality audio transmission across different devices. The multipoint connection capability allows users to connect to two devices simultaneously, which is particularly useful for professionals who need to switch between work and personal devices.
The Smart Control app, which is essential for accessing advanced features, was noted by several reviewers for its functionality and ease of use. SoundGuys mentioned that 'several creature comforts only work when you turn them on with the app,' indicating that the app enhances the overall user experience by providing access to features like Smart Pause, which automatically pauses music when the headphones are removed from the head. The app also allows users to customize settings such as ANC levels, transparency mode, and equalizer settings. However, some reviewers noted that the app's firmware updates are critical for optimal performance, and that the headphones require regular updates to maintain full functionality. The microphone array is also well-implemented, providing clear voice pickup for calls, though some reviewers noted issues with mic noise rejection in certain environments.
Value and Market Positioning
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless is positioned as a strong value proposition in the high-end ANC headphone market, offering a compelling combination of features and performance at a price point that's slightly more affordable than premium competitors like Bose and Sony. SoundGuys concluded that 'the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless is not a bad way to go' for those seeking a slightly more affordable set of ANC headphones. What Hi-Fi? rated the value at 8.2/10, noting that 'they are certainly one of the best-performing ANC over-ears at their price today.' The headphones offer excellent battery life, superior sound quality, and solid ANC performance, making them a strong contender in the mid-to-upper tier market. However, the value proposition is somewhat diminished by the fact that the ANC performance is not quite at the level of top-tier competitors, which may be a deciding factor for audiophiles or those who prioritize noise cancellation above all else.
Price-wise, the Momentum 4 Wireless has seen significant discounts since its initial release, with What Hi-Fi? noting that 'they are now more affordable and thus competitive.' The current pricing makes them attractive to budget-conscious consumers who still want premium features and performance. TechRadar's review highlighted that 'the Momentum 4 Wireless is better than the Sony WH-1000XM5,' suggesting that despite some shortcomings in ANC, the overall package offers better value. The inclusion of multiple accessories, including a fabric case, airplane adapter, and various cables, adds to the perceived value. However, some reviewers noted that the price point is still relatively high compared to mid-range alternatives, and that consumers might be better served by other options if they prioritize specific features like superior ANC or longer battery life.
Who It's Best For
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless is best suited for users who prioritize sound quality and battery life over the absolute best ANC performance. SoundGuys recommends them for 'commuters or people who want one set of headphones for many different listening environments,' emphasizing their versatility and long battery life. What Hi-Fi? noted that 'the new guise is fit for purpose and we recognise that many might like its low-key discretion,' suggesting that the headphones are ideal for users who prefer a more understated appearance. The headphones are particularly well-suited for frequent travelers, remote workers, and audiophiles who value high-fidelity audio reproduction. The 60-hour battery life and effective ANC make them excellent choices for extended travel or work sessions where charging opportunities may be limited.
However, the Momentum 4 Wireless may not be the best choice for users who require the absolute best ANC performance or those who prioritize a classic, premium aesthetic. TechRadar's review noted that 'the ANC is good but not exceptional,' which may be a dealbreaker for users who need maximum noise isolation. The more generic design may also not appeal to users who prefer the distinctive styling of earlier Momentum models. The headphones are also not ideal for those who primarily use them in very noisy environments where superior ANC is essential. Additionally, users who frequently switch between wired and wireless modes may find the battery life inconsistent in wired mode, which could be a minor inconvenience for some users.
Where It Falls Short
Despite its many strengths, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless has several notable shortcomings that may deter some potential buyers. The most significant criticism comes from its ANC performance, which is described as 'middling' by SoundGuys and 'good but not exceptional' by TechRadar. RTINGS rated the ANC at 7.3/10, indicating that while functional, it doesn't match the performance of premium competitors like Sony WH-1000XM5 or Bose QuietComfort 45. The headphones also suffer from a design that departs from the classic Sennheiser aesthetic, with What Hi-Fi? noting that 'the classy design of Momentums of old giving way to one that's markedly more non-descript.' This change in appearance may disappoint users who preferred the distinctive styling of previous models.
Additional drawbacks include the microphone noise rejection issues mentioned by SoundGuys and the inconsistent battery performance when using the wired connection. The Smart Control app, while useful, requires regular firmware updates to maintain full functionality, which may be inconvenient for some users. The plastic band, while reducing weight, also changes the overall feel and appearance compared to previous models. Some reviewers noted that the headphones are not quite as comfortable for extended wear as competitors, particularly in the pressure points around the ears. Additionally, while the battery life is excellent, it may not be sufficient for users who require continuous operation for more than 60 hours, which is a limitation for those who travel extensively or work in environments where charging opportunities are rare.
Strengths
- +Excellent battery life with up to 60 hours of playback
- +Superior sound quality that's ahead of the pack according to SoundGuys
- +Effective active noise cancellation for the price point
- +Good connectivity options including USB-C and TRS analog jack
Watch-outs
- −Middling ANC performance compared to top-tier competitors like Bose or Sony
- −Drops predecessors' classy aesthetic for a more generic design
- −Mic noise rejection is subpar according to SoundGuys
How it compares
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless excels in battery life and sound quality compared to the Bose QuietComfort 45 and Apple AirPods Max, though it doesn't match the ANC performance of the Sony WH-1000XM5 or Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X. Unlike the Sony WH-1000XM5, it lacks IP rating and is less premium in build quality, but offers better value for money than the Apple AirPods Max which is more expensive and ecosystem-dependent.
Who this is for
At a glance: value-conscious commuters.
Why you’d buy the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless
- Excellent battery life with up to 60 hours of playback.
- Superior sound quality that's ahead of the pack according to SoundGuys.
- Effective active noise cancellation for the price point.
Why you’d skip it
- Middling ANC performance compared to top-tier competitors like Bose or Sony.
- Drops predecessors' classy aesthetic for a more generic design.
- Mic noise rejection is subpar according to SoundGuys.
Rating sources
Our 4.6 score is the average of these published ratings. More about methodology.
