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We compare the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 McLaren Edition and the Nothing Headphone (a) 2026 in this bowers wilkins vs nothing noise cancelling headphone guide. Both are wireless over-ear models with active noise cancellation and Bluetooth connectivity. They share the same weight at 10.9 ounces. The main difference lies in their connection standards and battery life. The Nothing model offers significantly longer playtime and newer Bluetooth technology. The Bowers & Wilkins unit focuses on high-resolution audio precision and premium materials.
Bluetooth Version
Bluetooth 5.3
Bluetooth 5.4
Battery Life
not listed
Up to 135 hours (75 with ANC)
Audio Codec
aptX Lossless, True 24-bit
LDAC, Hi-Res Wireless
Weight
10.9 ounces
10.9 ounces
Color Options
McLaren Grey, Midnight Blue, Pearl Blue
Pink, Yellow
Choose the first if
- You prioritize lossless audio streaming with aptX Lossless support
- You prefer a design inspired by McLaren racing heritage
- You want multipoint connectivity for switching between devices
Choose the second if
- You need extreme battery life up to 135 hours
- You want the latest Bluetooth 5.4 standard
- You value spatial audio with Hi-Res Wireless certification
Verdict
Choose the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 if you want high-resolution audio fidelity and a premium aesthetic. Select the Nothing Headphone (a) if battery longevity and modern Bluetooth standards are your top priorities. Both models deliver comparable comfort and noise cancellation performance.
Bowers & Wilkins vs Nothing Headphone Specs
connection
Edge: Tie
The Nothing Headphone (a) 2026 uses Bluetooth 5.4, which is a newer standard than the Bluetooth 5.3 found in the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 McLaren Edition. Newer Bluetooth versions often offer better stability and lower power consumption. However, the Bowers & Wilkins model supports aptX Lossless and True 24-bit connections. This allows for high-resolution audio transmission that preserves more detail than standard Bluetooth. The Nothing model lists LDAC support, another high-resolution codec. Both products provide multipoint connectivity for switching between devices. The Bowers & Wilkins option prioritizes lossless audio fidelity, while the Nothing option prioritizes the latest wireless protocol version. This makes the connection aspect a tie for different user priorities.
battery
Edge: Nothing Headphone (a) 2026
Battery life is a major differentiator between these two headphones. The Nothing Headphone (a) 2026 offers up to 135 hours of playback. This is an exceptionally long duration for over-ear headphones. It also provides 75 hours of playback with active noise cancellation enabled. The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 McLaren Edition does not list specific battery hours in the provided data. The Nothing model also includes a rapid charge feature, providing 8 hours of playback from just a 5-minute charge. This is highly practical for users who forget to charge their devices. The Bowers & Wilkins product focuses on audio precision rather than listed runtime. For users who travel frequently or want to charge less often, the Nothing model has a clear advantage.
drivers
Edge: Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 McLaren Edition
The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 McLaren Edition features custom 40mm drive units. These drivers are paired with advanced DSP processing to deliver crisp highs and deep lows. The product emphasizes audio precision and dynamic range. The Nothing Headphone (a) 2026 does not specify its driver size in the provided data. It focuses on Spatial Audio and Hi-Res Wireless certification for an immersive experience. The Nothing model also includes Ultra Bass support via its app. While the Bowers & Wilkins model provides specific driver dimensions, the Nothing model highlights spatial audio capabilities. Both aim for high-quality sound, but they use different technical approaches. The Bowers & Wilkins option offers more specific hardware details regarding the drivers themselves.
features
Edge: Nothing Headphone (a) 2026
The Nothing Headphone (a) 2026 includes a unique remote camera shutter feature. You can control your camera with a simple press of the headphones. This is useful for vlogs or selfies. It also offers four customizable ANC levels, including High, Mid, Low, and Adaptive modes. The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 McLaren Edition focuses on audio customization. It includes a five-band EQ in its app for personalized sound. It also uses next-generation voice technology for clear calls. The Nothing model adds practical utility with camera control, while the Bowers & Wilkins model focuses on audio tuning. Both provide active noise cancellation. The Nothing model offers more varied functional features beyond just sound adjustment.
design
Edge: Tie
The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 McLaren Edition has a McLaren-inspired design with a Papaya finish and slim aluminium arms. It is available in McLaren Grey, Midnight Blue, and Pearl Blue. The Nothing Headphone (a) 2026 comes in Pink and Yellow. It features an ergonomic design with memory foam cushions. Both models weigh 10.9 ounces. The Bowers & Wilkins model has a refined silhouette with luxurious Nappa leather ear cushions. The Nothing model uses an intuitive roller and paddle interface for controls. The Bowers & Wilkins design emphasizes racing heritage and luxury materials. The Nothing design focuses on bold colors and intuitive physical controls. Both offer over-ear comfort. The choice depends on whether you prefer luxury aesthetics or bold colors.
Which Bowers & Wilkins or Nothing fits you
Audiophile seeking lossless audio precision
Our pick: Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 McLaren Edition
The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 McLaren Edition supports True 24-bit connections and aptX Lossless via Bluetooth 5.3. This ensures high-fidelity audio with crisp highs and deep lows. It features custom 40mm drive units and advanced DSP processing. If you prioritize audio precision and high-resolution performance for music or movies, this model delivers superior sound quality.
User wanting extended battery life
Our pick: Nothing Headphone (a) 2026
The Nothing Headphone (a) 2026 offers up to 135 hours of playback without ANC, or 75 hours with it on. It also provides a rapid 5-minute charge for 8 hours of use. This makes it ideal for long trips or daily commutes where frequent charging is inconvenient. The Bluetooth 5.4 connection adds modern stability to this long-lasting performance.
Content creator needing camera control
Our pick: Nothing Headphone (a) 2026
The Nothing Headphone (a) 2026 includes a remote camera shutter feature. You can control your camera with a simple press of the headphone interface. This allows for smooth content creation, vlogs, or selfies without running back to your device. It works with Nothing OS, iOS, and Android, making it a practical tool for creators.
Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 McLaren Edition
Best for: audiophiles seeking lossless audio and unique styling
- Noise Control
- Active Noise Cancelling
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth 5.3
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Connection
- Wireless
- Features
- Bluetooth, Active Noise Cancelling, Lossless DSD
- Dimensions
- 1.89 × 6.16 × 8.12 inches
The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 McLaren Edition is a wireless over-ear headphone with active noise cancellation. It features Bluetooth 5.3, aptX Lossless, and True 24-bit connectivity for high-resolution audio. The design includes McLaren-inspired styling with memory foam Nappa leather cushions. It weighs 10.9 ounces and measures 1.89 inches in depth. This model suits listeners who prioritize audio precision and specific aesthetic choices.
- Bluetooth 5.3 with aptX Lossless and True 24-bit connection
- Custom 40mm drive units with advanced DSP processing
- 8 precision microphones for active noise cancellation
- Multipoint connectivity for seamless device switching
- Memory foam Nappa leather ear cushions
- Heavier build at 10.9 ounces compared to lighter alternatives
- Fixed physical dimensions of 1.89 inches in depth
- Requires the Bowers & Wilkins Music app for full EQ control
- You want high-resolution audio via aptX Lossless
- You prefer a distinctive McLaren-inspired design
- You need multipoint connectivity for multiple devices
- You prioritize a lighter weight under 10 ounces
- You want a more compact form factor
- You prefer built-in controls over app-based adjustment
Verdict: The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 McLaren Edition fits audiophiles who value lossless audio and a unique design. It is ideal for those who do not mind a heavier build for superior sound precision.
Nothing Headphone (a) 2026
Best for: Extended battery life and adaptive noise control
- Noise Control
- Hybrid ANC, Adaptive, Transparency
- Battery Life
- Up to 135 hours
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth 5.4
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Spatial Audio
- Spatial Audio
- Connection
- Wireless
The Nothing Headphone (a) 2026 is a wireless over-ear model featuring Bluetooth 5.4 and hybrid active noise cancellation. It offers up to 135 hours of battery life, or 75 hours with ANC enabled. The device includes spatial audio with Hi-Res Wireless certification and five HD microphones. Its ergonomic design uses memory foam cushions for comfort. This headphone suits users seeking long playtime and adaptive sound control.
- Up to 135 hours of battery life
- Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity
- Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation with four levels
- Spatial Audio with Hi-Res Wireless certification
- 5-minute charge provides 8 hours of playback
- Heavier at 10.9 ounces compared to lighter competitors
- Larger dimensions at 7.48 inches wide
- Over-Ear fit may not suit smaller head sizes
- You need extended battery life for long trips
- You want adaptive noise cancellation with customizable levels
- You prefer spatial audio for immersive listening
- You prioritize lightweight comfort for all-day wear
- You need a compact fit for smaller heads
- You require wired connection options
Verdict: Nothing Headphone (a) 2026 fits users who prioritize battery endurance and adaptive noise control. Its substantial build and over-ear design suit those who value long playtime and immersive spatial audio.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 McLaren Edition | Nothing Headphone (a) 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Noise Control | Active Noise Cancelling | Hybrid ANC, Adaptive, Transparency |
| Battery Life | – | Up to 135 hours |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3 | Bluetooth 5.4 |
| Form Factor | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Spatial Audio | – | Spatial Audio |
| Connection | Wireless | Wireless |
| Fit | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Features | Bluetooth, Active Noise Cancelling, Lossless DSD | Bluetooth, Active Noise Cancelling, Active Noise Cancellation, Long Playtime, LDAC |
| Use | – | Work Calls |
| Bluetooth | – | Bluetooth 5.4 |
| Dimensions | 1.89 × 6.16 × 8.12 inches | 6.97 × 7.48 × 3.07 inches |
| Weight | 10.9 ounces | 10.9 ounces |
| Size | One Size | Large |
| Color | McLaren Grey | Pink |
| Model | 301165-06-00-308 | B186 |
Frequently asked questions
Do Bowers & Wilkins and Nothing offer over-ear designs?
Yes, both brands provide over-ear headphones. The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 McLaren Edition uses an over-ear fit. The Nothing Headphone (a) 2026 also features an over-ear design. This style typically offers better noise isolation and comfort for long listening sessions.
Are these headphones wireless?
Both models are wireless. You can connect them via Bluetooth without cables. The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 McLaren Edition supports wireless connectivity. The Nothing Headphone (a) 2026 also connects wirelessly. This allows for flexible movement while listening to music or taking calls.
Which brand has a lighter headphone?
Neither brand has a lighter option; they weigh the same. Both the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 McLaren Edition and the Nothing Headphone (a) 2026 weigh 10.9 ounces. This identical weight means neither model will feel significantly heavier on your head during extended use.
Does Nothing support lossless audio?
Yes, the Nothing Headphone (a) 2026 supports LDAC. LDAC allows for high-resolution wireless audio transmission. This feature helps maintain audio quality when streaming from compatible devices. It is a key specification for users who prioritize sound fidelity in their wireless headphones.
Which model is larger in size?
The Nothing Headphone (a) 2026 is listed as Large. The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 McLaren Edition does not have a generic size label but has specific dimensions. The Nothing model measures 7.48 inches in width and 6.97 inches in length. This suggests a substantial build for immersive audio.
Can I use these for work calls?
The Nothing Headphone (a) 2026 is explicitly marked for work calls. It includes features suitable for professional communication. The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 McLaren Edition focuses on audiophile needs. While both are wireless, the Nothing model highlights its utility for calling and work environments.