Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 vs Sony WH-1000XM3
The Verdict
These headphones serve different needs despite both excelling at noise cancellation. Sennheiser's Momentum True Wireless 3 are portable in-ears weighing 5.8g each with 7 hours of ANC playback (28 hours total with case) and support aptX Adaptive for gaming or video. Sony's WH-1000XM3 are over-ear units delivering 30 hours of battery life with industry-leading ANC powered by the QN1 processor, plus superior codec support including LDAC for higher-quality wireless audio. Sound quality favors Sony's larger 40mm drivers for richness and soundstage, while Sennheiser offers better portability and convenience with IPX4 water resistance and wireless charging. Sony's quick attention mode and speak-to-chat are useful for calls, but the headphones lack water resistance and weigh 255g. At $249, the Momentum 3 deliver excellent value for commuters and travelers. Sony's $349 price reflects premium ANC technology and extended battery life ideal for frequent travelers or office workers. Choose Sennheiser if portability and practicality matter most; pick Sony if you prioritize best-in-class ANC performance and all-day listening without recharging.
Who Should Buy
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
Buy the Sony WH-1000XM3 if…
- →Outstanding ANC performance that still competes with newer models
- →Incredibly comfortable and lightweight at 255 g
- →30-hour battery with quick charge is excellent
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
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
Sony WH-1000XM3
Pros
- Outstanding ANC performance that still competes with newer models
- Incredibly comfortable and lightweight at 255 g
- 30-hour battery with quick charge is excellent
- Wide codec support including LDAC and aptX HD
- 10-minute quick charge gives 5 hours — great for travel
Cons
- Bluetooth 4.2 lacks the stability and range of newer versions
- No water resistance — not suitable for workouts
- Touch controls can be accidentally triggered
- Creaks and pressure can build on larger heads over time
Full Specifications
| Spec | Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 | Sony WH-1000XM3 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 5.8 g (each) | 255 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 7 hrs ANC on (28 hrs total with case) | 30 hrs with ANC |
| Charging | USB-C or Qi wireless | USB-C, 10 min = 5 hrs playback |
| Drivers | 7mm TrueResponse transducer | 40mm Liquid Crystal Polymer dome |
| Features | Adaptive Noise Cancellation, Transparency mode, Customizable touch controls, Sennheiser Smart Control app with EQ, Sound personalization, aptX Adaptive for low-latency audio | HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1, Adaptive Sound Control, Touch controls on ear cup, Quick Attention mode, Speak-to-Chat (via update), DSEE HX upscaling |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX Adaptive | SBC, AAC, LDAC, aptX, aptX HD |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 4.2 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | None |
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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.
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