Sennheiser launched a pair of TWS 5.0 Bluetooth earbuds in the autumn of 2018. Naturally, anything over $250 is expensive; however, Momentum True Wireless provides value in abundance for power users. When we speak of fully wireless headphones, it is challenging, in terms of sound quality, power, and ease of usage, to find products to outperform the famous Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless.
By contrast to over-the-neck headphones, necklace headphones, or wired bone conduction headphones – true wireless headphones have no wires.
Usually, because of the nature of these devices, the complete freedom and lightweight construction are appreciable. In the same note, due to their size, their autonomy is also lower, with an average duration of only 4 hours as opposed to Bluetooth earphones that can last up to 30+ hours.
For a pair of truly wireless earbuds, the sound is particularly detailed, with smooth, well-rounded basses that are in no way too invasive, or rude. Sennheiser doesn’t offer too much definition in the low-end of the spectrum with these earbuds, though they’re excitingly clear.
Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless Review
Sennheiser Momentum TWS Earbuds Specifications
Type: True Wireless In-ear Headphones | Bluetooth: 5.0 | Latency: 200 ms (average) | Battery: 4 Hours Single Charge (12 Hours Max) | Charging Time: 1.2 Hours | Quick-Charge: 1 Hours in 10 mins | Drivers: Dynamic | Weight: 14g | Microphones: Integrated | Resistance: IPX4
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality
- Long Bluetooth range (50m)
- High-quality craftsmanship
- Water droplets and sweat resistance
Cons
- Low autonomy
Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless Overview
True wireless headphones are increasingly more popular and prevalent. And all major players now have True Wireless headphones since the widely known arrival of AirPods. Nevertheless, we are profoundly inspired by the performance of Sennheiser’s first True Wireless release, Momentum TW.
For a pair of truly wireless earbuds, the sound is particularly detailed, with smooth, well-rounded basses that are in no way too invasive, or rude. Sennheiser doesn’t offer too much definition in the low-end of the spectrum with these earbuds, though they’re excitingly clear.
Ergonomy
The materials used for this model are excellent. Actually, Momentum doesn’t feature any sturdy material such as metal or any other luxurious material, but their build inspires a convincing standard of sturdiness.
The Sennheiser Momentum True wireless headphones are featherweight and firm. In daily use, be assured of Momentum’s power, reliability, and comfort.
The IPX4-certified protection from sweat and water droplets also contributes to the overall resistance of Momentum’s
Controls & Connectivity
With Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless, everything is high-quality in every regard, we came upon no major issues. In a triumphant note, it is one of the best high-end TWS earbuds. The recharging case is good and well-crafted. The charging is done efficiently through USB-C.
For pairing, you must press the touch panel of both earpieces and hold for 5 seconds. Tapping the right earpiece will activate the Virtual Assistant, or accept an incoming phone call.
Thanks to the built-in microphones, clear, ambient listening mode are made possible. On activation, your music blends with the surrounding sounds. Quite handy, for instance, when running or cycling on the road or commuting.
With this hearing mode, awareness increases. You’re less prone to be hit by a bike or even worse – a car. You can also have a small conversation with coworkers without removing the headphones.
It is worth noting that this unit does not support a multipoint connection; thus, only one device can connect at a time. If you want to connect to a smartphone but were previously using a computer, you will have to disconnect the pairing with the PC and manually connect it to the phone.
Regarding the wireless connectivity, Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless’s major benefit is the aptX Low Latency compatibility.
It provides low-latency wireless communication with an average delay of 60 ms that allows you to watch movies and play video games comfortably without experiencing unpleasant shifts in visual content and sound. Both components will be in synchronization.
Unfortunately, with devices that don’t support aptX Low-Latency, Sennheiser scores a rather high latency that tops at 200 ms.
Besides standard Qualcomm aptX audio technology, Sennheiser also includes SBC Bluetooth codec. Still, for video content and watching movies, you won’t get the best bang for your buck unless your device supports aptX LL.
The Bluetooth connection of most true wireless headphones occurs typically on the basis of the (master/slave). In our case, the right earbud is the master. It receives a wireless signal from the audio source, which is then transmitted to the left earbud. Although this relationship makes one earpiece lighter than the other, there are consequences.
Battery consumption is high, which is why Momentum True Wireless only lasts around 4-hours (12 hours in total if you count the charging case) mainly because two transmitting signals take place.
Considering the low battery life, we expected a low charging time. Our assumptions failed. The headphones require approximately 1h 30 mins until fully charged.
Sound Quality
The frequency response of Momentum True Wireless is generally balanced and contained, the lows are well-delivered, whereas the trebles are not appallingly heightened.
Playing a playlist with a large variety of songs and musical genres supports our claims. With extended, but somewhat tamed highs, Sennheiser does not fatigue your ears from either too much wearing or listening.
Unless you want a set of earphones with vibrating basses, you don’t need this one. It features a really good sound reproduction, instrumental positioning, and clear musical tones.
The sound, of course, being reproduced by a pair of dynamic drivers inside two shells that are already heavy-packed with technology, offers a compelling auditory scene that, however, wouldn’t impress an audiophile.
The Momentum True Wireless from Sennheiser is a fantastic option for those who seek excellence in sound, wireless connectivity, and comfort in the high-end sector of truly wireless in-ear headphones.
After reviewing the earbuds, we have been shown the true level of competence and expertise of the audio leader, Sennheiser.
A great pair of mindfully crafted TWS earbuds instilled with excellent audio, an admirable feeling of comfort, and a broad extension of Bluetooth codecs compatibility.
For a pair of truly wireless earbuds, the sound is particularly detailed, with smooth, well-rounded basses that are in no way too invasive, or rude. Sennheiser doesn’t offer too much definition in the low-end of the spectrum with these earbuds, though they’re excitingly clear.
Conclusion
Despite the master/slave connection between earbuds, the German company motivates with a long Bluetooth range of up to 50 m. Listening to music remains effortless, though the quality of experience drops if watching movies over such long-range.
Anecdotally, Momentum’s design isn’t the most impressive we’ve seen. The materials, however, are top-quality and give a feeling of extravagance. Ergonomic-wise, the size is correct and provides a comfortable wearing and a secure hold in the ear, whereas the sound quality is the most pleasing aspect of Sennheisers Momentum True Wireless.
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality
- Long Bluetooth range (50m)
- High-quality craftsmanship
- Water droplets and sweat resistance
Cons
- Low autonomy
Hi, I understood that with latency higher than 40 ms a lack of synchronisation would become noticeable. Your stated ( average ) latency of 200 ms seems to contradict your assertion in section 4 . Could you please explain. Thanks Mike.
Hello Mike, nothing about what you stated is wrong. The assertion that audio and video content is visibly out of sync with Bluetooth headphones with a higher latency than 40 m is true.
Thanks for pointing that mistake out! I’ve omitted to mention that Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless worked flawlessly with devices that support aptX Low Latency scoring a low latency of 50-70 ms. With aptX or SBC, you’ll likely get at most 200 ms. The headphones also work more favorably with Android smartphones that are aptX LL compatible than Apple smartphones. In any case, check if your device supports aptX LL.
I’ve fixed the explanation of that part. Now it is more adequate with the context and performance of Sennheiser TW, and better expressed, too.
Here is a video that simulates audio delay in ms: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3zZRy-UArXM At each mark, there will be two sounds, the first one will signalize the graphic change while the second sound will simulate the audio delay. For example: for 1 ms, you’ll hear both beats simultaneously, whereas, for 200 ms, the second beat will be heard only after 0.2 s.
Hi, thanks very much for your prompt reply. It is my hope to connect my TV to a 5.0 Bluetooth transmitter that supports aptX LL. Do you think that this arrangement with the Sennheisers will be sufficient to achieve “acceptable ” synchronisation ?
Thanks Mike.
The sound quality is good. But build quality….its the worst… I owned 1 for a year, already returned 3 times because it always broke, 1st time left earbud, 2nd time right earbud, then the 3rd time left earbud again. Yes, they give new earbud replacement, but every time the return took 3 weeks. I’m frustrated already. They should make a good product, not like this. Suppose Sennheiser change with new one TWS2, since I think this pair of TWS headphones is clearly a failed product.
Hi again, as an adjunct to my reply, are you aware of any other tws earbuds that support aptX LL. Whilst the Sennheisers appear to fit the bill it would be good to have a choice, further a request for information from Sennheiser has thus far been ignored. Thanks again Mike.
The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless headphones are indeed somewhat expensive, but well worth it. From the high-end range of true wireless headphones, these TWS are, as far as I can tell, the only headphones that provide aptX Low Latency support.
If you don’t bother compromising on sound quality, you can get any of these true wireless headphones (they all support aptX LL):
NuForce BeFree8 (around $65)
Sennheiser CX 350BT In-ears ($100 – not truly wireless)
MEE Audio M6 PRO Wired + Wireless Combo Pack (~$90) – I am fairly convinced by the packaging and autonomy of this one. Furthermore, you get two cables for wired use and wireless. I haven’t tested them myself, but people on Amazon seem to love it, earning 4.2 stars out of 5 from 1350 Reviews.
In case you want to check which device is aptX compatible, you can check this page anytime: https://www.aptx.com/product-listing?product_category=7&aptx_type=3 and play with the filters.
Hi, thanks very much for your information, most helpful. I was aware of the Nuforce and until I came across the Seinheisers thought that they might be my only option. Reviewer reports were mostly positive 4* on average with a couple of caveats; a breakdown in connectivity and noticeable hissing when no music is playing. The latter would be an annoyance when watching films since there are often breaks in the dialogue. In addition buyer reviews were less than kind.
The wired Seinheisers are a very attractive proposition especially their autonomy. That is the only drawback ofthe Momentums ( and the fact that they’re 100+ dollars more expensive ). However the Momentums seem to offer a greater degree of freedom. The ball is very much in my court.
Perhaps the addendum to my question confused the issue so may I ask again? I intend to connect to the TV via a Bluetooth 5.0 transceiver which amongst others supports aptx LL. The blurb on this device and indeed on the Seinheisers suggest that this should obviate a latency problem. I don’t want to put you on the spot but, in your opinion /experience, do you think that will be the case. I already have wired, wireless and tws buds for music so don’t relish the idea of spending 200 dollars for little purpose.
Once again thanks for your forbearance and help, Regards Mike.