Disclosure: The Momentum 4 was provided by Sennheiser for the purpose of this review. Please read more about our product review disclosure here.

The world of premium Bluetooth headphones is fiercely competitive, with top contenders vying for the crown of best noise-canceling headphones. Can the Sennheiser Momentum 4 rise to the challenge and claim the throne? In this comprehensive review, I put these highly anticipated headphones to the test to find out if they deliver the exceptional sound quality, comfort, and features that Sennheiser is renowned for. By the end of this review, you’ll have a clear picture of whether the Momentum 4 is the right choice for your audio needs.

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Design and Build Quality

In the Box

Included in the box is:

• Momentum 4 wireless headphones
• Travel case
• USB-C to USB-A charging cable
• 2.5mm to 3.5mm cable, 1.2m long
• Airplane adapter
• Manual and quick start guide

The Sennheiser Momentum 4 wireless headphones have undergone a significant redesign compared to their predecessor, the Momentum 3. The iconic aviator-style look of the previous model has been replaced with a more streamlined and modern aesthetic that aligns with other popular noise-canceling headphones. While some may miss the unique charm of the Momentum 3’s design, the changes made in the Momentum 4 seem to prioritize practicality and comfort. The Momentum 4 is also more travel-friendly, with a smaller profile and earcups that can swing in either direction.

One notable change is the reduced use of metal components in the Momentum 4’s construction. Although this may slightly diminish the premium feel, it contributes to a lighter overall weight of approximately 295g, compared to the Momentum 3’s 320g.

Sennheiser has focused on improving comfort in the Momentum 4. The ear cups have been widened to accommodate larger ears, ensuring a better fit for a wider range of users. The memory foam padding in the ear cups and headband has been carefully selected to provide a gentle and even distribution of pressure, minimizing fatigue during extended listening sessions. The clamping force has been optimized to strike a balance between stability and comfort, preventing the headphones from feeling too tight or loose.

After wearing the Momentum 4 for several hours I felt no discomfort or heat build up. They stay firmly on my head when walking around, but do not clamp too hard to be uncomfortable. I wear glasses so this is an important aspect, and I’m glad Sennheiser has taken this balanced approach to their design.

The power button, charging connector, and earcup touch controls are all located on the right earcup and are all conveniently placed and easily accessible.

While the Momentum 4 may have lost some of the distinctive visual flair of its predecessor, the design changes ultimately serve to enhance the user experience. The improved comfort, lighter weight, and foldable design make these headphones a practical choice for audiophiles and casual listeners alike. Sennheiser has struck a commendable balance between aesthetics and functionality, delivering a product that prioritizes performance and ease of use.

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Features

The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless is packed with features that enhance the listening experience and provide seamless connectivity options. Let’s dive into the key features and connectivity options of these premium Bluetooth headphones.

Active Noise Cancellation

One of the standout features of the Momentum 4 Wireless is its Adaptive Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology. Sennheiser has implemented a hybrid ANC system that effectively reduces ambient noise, allowing you to immerse yourself in your music without distractions. The ANC performs very well in noisy spaces, ensuring a peaceful listening environment. From working at home to coffee shops, parks, and even my balcony in the middle of a busy city, I never felt that the ANC was lacking in any way.

In addition to the Adaptive Noise Cancellation, the Momentum 4 Wireless also offers a Transparency Mode. This mode allows you to blend outside sounds with your audio, enhancing your awareness of your surroundings when needed. With just a touch, you can switch between total immersion and situational awareness. It works well enough (not as good as the AirPods Max, but that’s a high bar) and is a welcome feature. I also appreciate the ability to fine-tune the transparency level within the app or by using the earcup controls.

Bluetooth and Wired Options

The Momentum 4 Wireless offers versatile connectivity options to cater to your preferences. With Bluetooth 5.2 support, you can enjoy stable and reliable wireless connections with your devices. The headphones are compatible with a range of Bluetooth codecs, including SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, and aptX Adaptive. This ensures high-quality audio streaming across various devices. aptX Adaptive should be supported on the majority of Android devices, but to get aptX HD you will need to verify that your device supports it.

For those who prefer a wired connection or need to use the headphones with sources that doesn’t have Bluetooth, Sennheiser has included a 2.5mm to 3.5mm audio cable. This allows you to enjoy your music without relying on battery power. Additionally, an airplane adapter is provided, making it convenient to use the headphones during flights.

Battery Life

One of the standout features of the Sennheiser Momentum 4 wireless headphones is their exceptional battery life. Sennheiser claims an impressive 60 hours of playback time on a single charge, even with active noise cancellation (ANC) enabled. This is a significant improvement over its predecessor, the Momentum 3 Wireless, which offered only 17 hours of battery life.

I have been using the Momentum 4 for a few hours each day since receiving them for review. After several days of use, the battery indicator still shows an impressive 70% capacity remaining. With my proper testing suite, I was able to get 56 hours of music playback, so my testing suggests that Sennheiser’s claims of 60 hours are accurate. I will continue to monitor the battery performance over the coming weeks and update this review with any new findings.

In addition to the impressive battery life, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 also boasts fast charging capabilities. When you do need to recharge, it takes just 2 hours to go from empty to fully charged. If you’re in a hurry, a quick 5-minute charge can provide up to 4 hours of playback time, ensuring that you’ll never be without your music for long.

App Support and Controls

Sennheiser has developed the Smart Control app to enhance your experience with the Momentum 4 Wireless. The app, available for iOS and Android devices, offers a range of customization options and features. You can easily customize the sound using the built-in EQ, access preset sound modes, and even personalize the sound to your taste using the Sound Personalization feature.

The Smart Control app also provides intuitive controls for playback, ANC, and phone calls. You can effortlessly manage your music, adjust the level of noise cancellation, and handle calls directly from the app. The app also ensures that your Momentum 4 Wireless headphones are always up to date with the latest firmware updates.

In terms of on-board controls, the Momentum 4 Wireless features touch gestures on the ear cups. You can control playback, volume, track navigation, and ANC modes with simple swipes and taps. The touch controls are responsive and intuitive, allowing you to manage your audio experience without reaching for your device.

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Sound Quality

The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless delivers an impressive audio experience that sets it apart from its competitors in the premium Bluetooth headphones market. With a well-balanced sound signature and advanced codec support like aptX Adaptive, these headphones provide a listening experience that even audiophiles will appreciate.

Bass Performance

The bass response on the Momentum 4 is powerful and well-defined. The sub-bass extends deep, providing a satisfying rumble without overwhelming the overall sound. The mid-bass is punchy and tight, adding warmth and body to the music without bleeding into the midrange. Whether you’re listening to electronic dance music or hip-hop, the bass performance is sure to impress.

Midrange and Highs

The midrange on the Momentum 4 is slightly recessed compared to the bass and treble, but it remains clear and detailed. Vocals and instruments are well-represented, with a natural tonality that doesn’t sound artificially boosted or harsh. The highs are crisp and extended, providing excellent clarity and air to the sound. Cymbals and high-hats have a nice sparkle without sounding sibilant or fatiguing.

One area where the Momentum 4 excels is in its soundstage and imaging. The headphones create a wide and spacious soundstage for a closed-back headphone, with instruments and vocals placed accurately within the stereo field. This makes for an immersive listening experience that draws you into the music.

The sound profile of the Sennheiser Momentum 4 is overall very pleasing. Music is lively but not too energetic. When you put the headphones on and enable ANC the whole sound profile gives you a relaxed feeling due to how well the bass, mids, and highs mesh together.

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Comparison with Competitors

Compared to its main competitor, the Sony WH-1000XM5, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 holds its own in terms of sound quality. While the Sony headphones have a slightly warmer and more bass-heavy sound, the Momentum 4 offers a more balanced and neutral presentation, leading to them sounding more enjoyable and accessible. The Momentum 4 also has broader codec support, with the additions of aptX Adaptive and HD vs Sony’s LDAC codec. The WH-1000XM5 does have better ANC performance, but the headphones themselves are not as comfortable as the Momentum 4.

Against the Apple AirPods Max, the Momentum 4 delivers a more engaging and dynamic sound. The AirPods Max have a more laid-back and relaxed presentation, while the Momentum 4 offers a more energetic and lively sound that works well with a wide range of genres. Both headphones are very comfortable, but the AirPods Max edge out the Momentum 4 in ANC performance.

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Conclusion

The Sennheiser Momentum 4 wireless headphones deliver exceptional sound quality, comfort, and features that make them a strong contender in the premium Bluetooth headphones market. With their impressive battery life, advanced noise cancellation, and support for high-quality audio codecs like aptX Adaptive and HD, these headphones cater to the needs of audiophiles and casual listeners alike. While they may have lost some of the distinctive visual flair of their predecessor, the design changes ultimately serve to enhance the user experience, prioritizing practicality and ease of use.

In conclusion, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a premium wireless audio experience. Whether you prioritize sound quality, comfort, or battery life, these headphones deliver on all fronts, making them a worthwhile investment for music enthusiasts.

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We are not always able to cover all the details of a product, both hardware and software, in our reviews. If you have any specific questions you’d like answered about this product please feel free to leave a comment or contact us directly.