AirPods 3 vs. Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 2: Which should you buy?

Apple's AirPods 3 are an improvement over the AirPods 2 with better sound quality, battery life, water-resistance, and fit, plus the addition of Spatial Audio and Adaptive EQ. The Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 2 are top-of-the-line earbuds from high-end audio company Sennheiser, with many customization options, silicone ear tips, and Active Noise Cancellation. Both sets of earbuds will offer you an excellent user experience, great sound quality, long battery life, water-resistance, Siri access, and comfort in the ears. Their price points are similar, with the Sennheiser earbuds costing a bit more.

AirPods 3 vs. Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 2: How are they different?

There is plenty to love about both sets of earbuds. However, there are some essential differences, as you can see in the table below.

Both the AirPods 3 and Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 2 are some of the best true wireless earbuds on the market today, but it's tough to say which is "better" overall. Which ones you pick will depend on which features matter most to you.

AirPods 3 vs. Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 2: Your sound, your way

There's no denying that Apple convenience is a huge selling point for the AirPods 3. Set them up in a flash with your Apple device of choice. The AirPods 3 let you switch between Apple devices instantly. You can also access Siri hands-free simply by saying, "Hey Siri."

This process is less fluid with the MOMENTUM buds. You'll have to go into the settings and disconnect them from your current device before connecting them with a different one. It takes less than a minute, but it is a hassle if you switch between your Apple devices frequently. Still, you can access Siri with the Sennheiser earbuds by tapping.

As far as sound is concerned, the AirPods 3 have excellent audio, with great bass, highs, and mids. Adaptive EQ technology means that the sounds adjust to your ears automatically for the best experience. Spatial Audio is one of the star features of the AirPods 3. Spatial Audio is like surround sound for your ears. Particularly when watching movies with the AirPods 3, it's quite a dynamic experience.

The Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 2 can be customized in a couple of ways that Apple AirPods 3 cannot. Sennheiser has been well-known in the audio world for over 75 years, and it shows with the MOMENTUM True Wireless 2 Earbuds. Bespoke 7 mm dynamic drivers, deep bass, natural mids, and detailed treble enhance your listening experience. You can download the Sennheiser Smart Control on your iPhone and customize your listening experience via adjustable equalizers and the earbuds' control gestures.

Finally, Apple's AirPods 3 do not offer any kind of ANC (Active Noise Cancellation). Sennheiser's MOMENTUM True Wireless 2 offer passive noise cancellation (due to the silicone tips), ANC, and Transparent Hearing. While ANC lets you block much of the outside world, Transparent Hearing lets it in. Whether or not ANC matters depends on how your use your earbuds.

AirPods 3 vs. Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 2: Battery life, charging, and more

Battery life for both sets of earbuds is similar. AirPods 3 offer up to six hours of use with a total of 30 when you recharge in the case. Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 2 offer up to seven hours of use with a total of 28 using the case. However, the AirPods 3 have a fast-charge feature that gives you enough charge for an hour's worth of use in just five minutes.

The AirPods 3 can be charged three ways: wireless, MagSafe, and via the Lightning port. The Sennheiser earbuds can only be charged via USB-C.

The Sennheiser earbuds come with four different-sized silicone ear tips, so you're sure to find a set that fits your ears perfectly. The AirPods 3 don't have silicone ear tips at all, so they either fit you, or they don't. Silicone ear tips are a personal choice, not a "better or worse" situation. In addition to customized fit, they also offer some passive sound isolation, so they block out some unwanted sounds without even turning on ANC.

However, they also give you a sensation of fullness inside the ear, which some people may find uncomfortable. In that case, the solid feeling of the AirPods 3 would be preferable.

AirPods 3 vs. Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 2: Which should you buy?

You can't go wrong with either of these fine sets of earbuds; it comes down to what matters most to you. Both will give you an excellent listening experience. AirPods 3 offer Adaptive EQ and Spatial Audio, while the Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 2 offer adjustable equalizers for a more customized experience.

AirPods have the edge over MOMENTUM when it comes to that "Apple Magic," while the MOMENTUM earbuds have the advantage of Active Noise Cancelling, Transparency Mode, and four pairs of silicone ear tips for a snug fit and passive noise blocking. However, as of this writing, you can get the AirPods 3 for up to $25 less than the Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 2 earbuds. Truly, either is a great choice.