Apple AirPods 3rd Gen vs Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3
The Verdict
AirPods 3rd Gen excel in ecosystem integration and spatial audio implementation, leveraging Apple's proprietary technology for seamless device switching and immersive listening within the Apple ecosystem. Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 counters with superior active noise cancellation, multipoint connectivity, aptX Adaptive codec support, and a 7mm driver delivering richer bass response. Battery life slightly favors Sennheiser (7 hours ANC vs 6 hours), while both offer solid 30-hour total capacity. At $169, AirPods 3 provide exceptional value for Apple users prioritizing convenience and spatial audio. However, Sennheiser's $249 investment justifies itself through tangible ANC performance, superior codec flexibility, and cross-platform reliability. Choose AirPods 3 for Apple-centric users seeking premium integration; select Momentum 3 for Android compatibility, better isolation, and audiophile-leaning sound tuning.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple AirPods 3rd Gen if…
- →Spatial Audio with head tracking creates an immersive listening experience
- →MagSafe charging case is convenient for iPhone and Apple Watch charger users
- →IPX4 sweat and water resistance for workouts
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 3rd Gen
Pros
- Spatial Audio with head tracking creates an immersive listening experience
- MagSafe charging case is convenient for iPhone and Apple Watch charger users
- IPX4 sweat and water resistance for workouts
- Comfortable open-ear design with shorter stems than AirPods 2
- Excellent microphone quality for calls
Cons
- No active noise cancellation at $169 price point
- Open design leaks sound and doesn't isolate ambient noise
- No ear tips — may not fit all ear shapes securely
- AAC-only codec limits audio quality on Android devices
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 3rd Gen | Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 4.28 g (each) | 5.8 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 6 hrs (earbuds), 30 hrs total with case | 7 hrs ANC on (28 hrs total with case) |
| Charging | Lightning or MagSafe wireless, 5 min = 1 hr playback | USB-C or Qi wireless |
| Drivers | Apple-designed driver with custom amplifier | 7mm TrueResponse transducer |
| Features | Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, Adaptive EQ, MagSafe and wireless charging case, Force sensor controls, Automatic device switching | 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 | IPX4 | IPX4 |
Related Comparisons
- Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 vs Sony WH-CH720N
- Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 vs Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro
- Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 vs Jabra Elite 75t
- Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 vs Google Pixel Buds Pro
- Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 vs Bose QuietComfort Headphones
- Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 vs Bose QuietComfort 35 II
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 3rd Gen or the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3.