Apple AirPods 2nd Gen vs Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3
The Verdict
Apple AirPods 2nd Gen deliver excellent value for iPhone users with seamless ecosystem integration and reliable wireless connectivity at $129. Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 ($249) offer superior audio quality with 7mm drivers, active noise cancellation, aptX Adaptive codec support, and multipoint Bluetooth connectivity. Battery life favors Sennheiser at 7 hours with ANC versus AirPods' 5 hours, plus IPX4 water resistance for durability. Sound personalization through the Smart Control app and customizable EQ provide professional-grade tuning. However, AirPods excel in ecosystem convenience with automatic device switching and H1 chip performance for Apple users. Choose Momentum if you prioritize sound quality, ANC capability, and Android compatibility; select AirPods 2nd Gen if ecosystem simplicity and budget constraints matter most.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple AirPods 2nd Gen if…
- →Iconic design and effortless Apple ecosystem integration
- →H1 chip enables hands-free Hey Siri voice commands
- →Lightweight and comfortable for extended wear
Buy the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 if…
- →Audiophile-grade sound quality — best-in-class for true wireless
- →aptX Adaptive provides high-quality, low-latency audio on Android
- →Effective ANC that adapts to your environment
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple AirPods 2nd Gen
Pros
- Iconic design and effortless Apple ecosystem integration
- H1 chip enables hands-free Hey Siri voice commands
- Lightweight and comfortable for extended wear
- Quick and reliable pairing with all Apple devices
- Affordable entry point into the AirPods lineup
Cons
- No water or sweat resistance rating — risky for workouts
- 5-hour battery life is below average by modern standards
- No noise cancellation or transparency mode
- One-size-fits-all design doesn't suit every ear shape
- Lightning charging only — no USB-C
Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3
Pros
- Audiophile-grade sound quality — best-in-class for true wireless
- aptX Adaptive provides high-quality, low-latency audio on Android
- Effective ANC that adapts to your environment
- 28 hours total battery with wireless charging case
- Premium fabric-wrapped case and refined design
Cons
- Touch controls are fiddly and can misfire
- IPX4 is adequate but not rugged for intense workouts
- Ear tips may need upgrading for the best seal
- Multipoint can be slow to switch between devices
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple AirPods 2nd Gen | Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 4 g (each) | 5.8 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 5 hrs (earbuds), 24 hrs total with case | 7 hrs ANC on (28 hrs total with case) |
| Charging | Lightning (wireless charging case optional) | USB-C or Qi wireless |
| Drivers | Apple-designed driver | 7mm TrueResponse transducer |
| Features | H1 chip with Hey Siri support, Automatic ear detection, Seamless Apple device switching, Quick pairing via proximity | Adaptive Noise Cancellation, Transparency mode, Customizable touch controls, Sennheiser Smart Control app with EQ, Sound personalization, aptX Adaptive for low-latency audio |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX Adaptive |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.2 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | IPX4 |
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This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in headphones, see all Apple products or all Sennheiser products. View full details for the Apple AirPods 2nd Gen or the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3.