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Finding the best bowers wilkins noise cancelling headphones under $500 requires looking at published specs. We compared 2 models to help you choose. The top pick is the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear. It leads because its 11.3-ounce weight and 2.48-inch length offer a premium build for audiophiles. Our picks rely only on the specifications listed on the product pages. This guide helps you decide which over-ear design fits your daily listening habits. You will see how size, weight, and connection type affect your experience. Focus on the data that matters for your needs.
Choose between weight and wireless features
The Px8 Over-Ear weighs 11.3 ounces and measures 2.48 inches long, prioritizing audio fidelity and premium materials. The Px7 S3 is lighter at 10.6 ounces and highlights Bluetooth and long playtime. Pick the heavier Px8 for audiophile detail. Choose the lighter Px7 S3 for portable wireless convenience and extended battery life.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Best overall | Audiophiles seeking premium sound and materials | |
| 2 | Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 Best bluetooth | high-resolution wireless listening |
The best fit for you
- You want the best overall sound quality – Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear – The Px8 offers premium materials and detailed audio for audiophiles.
- You prioritize high-resolution wireless music streaming – Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 – The Px7 S3 supports aptX Lossless for studio-quality Bluetooth audio.
- You need lightweight headphones for comfort – Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 – The Px7 S3 weighs 10.6 ounces, lighter than the Px8.
Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear
Best for: Audiophiles seeking premium sound and materials
- Noise Control
- Active Noise Cancellation
- Battery Life
- 30 hours
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Connection
- Wireless
- Dimensions
- 2.48 × 7.44 × 9.17 inches
The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 delivers high-resolution audio through an angled carbon drive unit and active noise cancellation. It features Nappa leather cushions and aluminum arms for a comfortable over-ear fit. You get 30 hours of battery life, with quick charging providing 7 hours from a 15-minute charge. The B&W Music app lets you adjust EQ and ANC modes. This model suits listeners who prioritize detailed sound and premium materials.
- Angled ultra-high-resolution carbon drive unit for clear imaging
- 30-hour battery life with 15-minute quick charge for 7 hours
- Soft Nappa leather and lightweight aluminum arms for comfort
- Active noise cancellation with two adjustable external mics
- Heavier build at 11.3 ounces compared to lighter competitors
- Shorter battery life than the Px7 S3 which offers longer playback
- Larger physical dimensions with a 9.17-inch height and 7.44-inch width
- You want high-resolution audio from a carbon drive unit
- You prefer premium materials like Nappa leather and aluminum
- You need active noise cancellation with external mics for calls
- You prioritize maximum battery life over all other factors
- You prefer lighter headphones under 10 ounces
- You want a more compact design for easy travel
Verdict: The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless is a premium choice for audiophiles who value detailed sound and luxurious materials. It fits listeners who want strong noise cancellation and are willing to carry a slightly heavier device for superior audio quality.
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3
Best for: high-resolution wireless listening
- Noise Control
- Adaptive Noise Cancelling, Transparency
- Battery Life
- Up to 30 hours
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth 5.3
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Connection
- Wireless
- Features
- Bluetooth, Active Noise Cancelling, Long Playtime
The Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 are over-ear wireless headphones featuring Bluetooth 5.3 with aptX Lossless support. They use custom-tuned 40mm bio-cellulose drivers and a 24-bit DSP with a 5-band EQ for sound control. The design includes aluminum accents and synthetic leather. You get up to 30 hours of playtime and adaptive noise cancellation via an 8-microphone array. They weigh 10.6 ounces.
- Bluetooth 5.3 with aptX Lossless and aptX Adaptive
- Custom-tuned 40mm bio-cellulose drivers
- Up to 30 hours of battery life
- 24-bit DSP with 5-band customizable EQ
- Heavier build at 10.6 ounces compared to the Px8
- Shorter battery life of 30 hours versus the Px8's 40 hours
- You want high-resolution audio over Bluetooth
- You prefer over-ear comfort for long sessions
- You need customizable sound profiles via EQ
- You prioritize the lightest possible weight
- You need the longest battery life available
- You prefer closed-back designs without over-ear cups
Verdict: Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 Wireless headphones deliver studio-quality audio over Bluetooth with aptX Lossless. They fit you if you value detailed sound and customizable EQ in a comfortable over-ear package.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear | Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 |
|---|---|---|
| Noise Control | Active Noise Cancellation | Adaptive Noise Cancelling, Transparency |
| Battery Life | 30 hours | Up to 30 hours |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Form Factor | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Connection | Wireless | Wireless |
| Fit | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Features | Active Noise Cancellation | Bluetooth, Active Noise Cancelling, Long Playtime |
| Dimensions | 2.48 × 7.44 × 9.17 inches | 1.89 × 6.16 × 8.12 inches |
| Weight | 11.3 ounces | 10.6 ounces |
| Size | Over Ear | Adjustable |
| Color | Dark Forest | Canvas White |
| Model | FP45748 | 301020-67-00-308 |
How to Choose the Right Pair
Check the weight for comfort
Weight affects how long you can wear the headphones. The Px8 Over-Ear weighs 11.3 ounces. This extra mass often supports heavier drivers and premium materials for audiophiles. The Px7 S3 weighs 10.6 ounces. It is lighter and may feel less intrusive during long sessions. Compare the ounce measurements. Choose the heavier model if you prioritize audio fidelity. Pick the lighter pair if you want reduced pressure on your head and neck over time.
Verify the connection type
Ensure the headphones support your devices. Both models listed use wireless connections. This allows you to move freely without cables. The Px7 S3 explicitly lists Bluetooth as a feature. This confirms standard wireless compatibility with phones and laptops. The Px8 also uses a wireless connection. Verify the specific Bluetooth version in the full specs if you need the latest codec support. Wireless convenience is standard here, so focus on the specific audio quality each connection delivers.
Look for active noise cancellation
Active Noise Cancellation blocks outside sounds. Both the Px8 and Px7 S3 include this feature. It helps you focus on music in noisy places. The Px8 is best for audiophiles who want premium sound in quiet environments. The Px7 S3 also offers active noise cancelling. Check if the mode is adjustable. This feature is essential for travel or office use. It reduces the need to increase volume to dangerous levels.
Consider the fit style
The fit determines how the headphones sit on your head. Both models are Over-Ear style. This design covers the entire ear for better isolation. The Px8 has a fixed size. The Px7 S3 has an adjustable size. Adjustable headbands can accommodate different head shapes more easily. Check the width and height dimensions. The Px8 is 7.44 inches wide. The Px7 S3 is 6.16 inches wide. A wider frame may feel more spacious for larger heads.
Check for long playtime
Battery life determines how often you charge. The Px7 S3 lists long playtime as a key feature. This is crucial for travel or all-day use. The Px8 does not explicitly list playtime in the summary. You should check the full specifications for its battery duration. Longer playtime means fewer interruptions. If you travel frequently, prioritize the model with verified long battery life. Ensure the charging method is convenient for your routine.
Frequently asked questions
Which Bowers & Wilkins headphones are best for audiophiles?
The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear is the top choice for audiophiles. It is designed for listeners who value detailed sound and luxurious materials. This model prioritizes audio fidelity, making it ideal for those seeking a premium listening experience. It fits users who want strong noise cancellation and are willing to carry a slightly heavier device for superior audio quality.
Do Bowers & Wilkins headphones support high-resolution wireless audio?
Yes, the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 supports high-resolution wireless listening. It delivers studio-quality audio over Bluetooth using aptX Lossless technology. This feature allows you to enjoy detailed sound without the need for wired connections. The headphones are designed for users who value customizable EQ and high-fidelity music streaming on the go.
Are Bowers & Wilkins headphones comfortable for long wear?
Comfort depends on the model you choose. The Px7 S3 weighs 10.6 ounces, making it a lighter option for extended sessions. The Px8 Over-Ear weighs 11.3 ounces, which may feel heavier but supports premium materials and drivers. Both models feature an over-ear fit. You should consider the weight difference when deciding which pair offers the best comfort for your specific needs.
What is the difference between the Px8 and Px7 S3?
The Px8 Over-Ear focuses on premium sound and materials, weighing 11.3 ounces. It is best for audiophiles seeking detailed audio. The Px7 S3 is lighter at 10.6 ounces and highlights Bluetooth features and long playtime. It supports aptX Lossless for high-resolution wireless listening. Choose the Px8 for fidelity and the Px7 S3 for wireless convenience.
Do these headphones have active noise cancellation?
Yes, both the Px8 Over-Ear and the Px7 S3 include active noise cancellation. This feature helps block out external sounds for a clearer listening experience. The Px8 is noted for strong noise cancellation capabilities. The Px7 S3 also includes this feature alongside Bluetooth connectivity. Both models ensure you can enjoy your music without distraction.
What colors are available for Bowers & Wilkins headphones?
The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear is available in Dark Forest. The Px7 S3 comes in Canvas White. These color options allow you to choose a style that matches your personal preference. Both models maintain a sleek design. You can select the color that best suits your aesthetic while enjoying high-quality audio performance.