AirPods Max & Sennheiser Momentum 4 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the AirPods Max rather than the Sennheiser Momentum 4

Why Do I Recommend The AirPods Max

  • The Apple AirPods Max features dynamic head-tracking Spatial Audio for an immersive surround-sound experience that adapts to head movement, enhancing movie and music playback compared to the Sennheiser Momentum 4.
  • Apple AirPods Max includes the H1 chip in each ear cup for ultra-fast wireless connectivity, seamless device switching, and low audio latency across Apple devices, compared to the Momentum 4’s standard Bluetooth implementation.
  • It supports Adaptive EQ to adjusts the audio based on ear fit and seal to deliver consistent, rich sound quality, compared to the Momentum 4’s manual EQ presets.
  • The Apple AirPods Max features seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem for auto-switching between iPhone, iPad, and Mac to allow smoother transitions during multitasking, compared to the Momentum 4’s traditional Bluetooth multipoint.
  • Apple AirPods Max supports Find My tracking functionality to locate misplaced headphones easily within the iCloud network, which is not available on the Momentum 4.
  • It includes a precision-machined aluminum ear cup design for a premium feel and enhanced durability, compared to the plastic housing of the Momentum 4.
  • The Apple AirPods Max comes with memory foam ear cushions for superior passive noise isolation and long-term wearing comfort, while the Momentum 4 has the softer leatherette pads.
  • Apple AirPods Max features intuitive Digital Crown controls for precise volume adjustment, playback control, and Siri activation without relying on touch gestures compared to the Momentum 4’s touch surface.

Maybe the Sennheiser Momentum 4 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the AirPods Max. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

Side By Side Comparison

FeatureAirPods MaxSennheiser Momentum 4
Audio Codecs SupportedAACSBC, AAC, aptX, aptX Adaptive
Driver Type40mm custom dynamic driver42mm transducer system
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)Adaptive ANC via H1 chipHybrid ANC with adjustable intensity
Spatial AudioYesNo
Voice Assistant IntegrationSiri onlySiri, Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa
Battery Life (ANC ON)Up to 20 hoursUp to 60 hours
Fast Charging5 min = 1.5 hrs5 min = 4 hrs
Charging PortLightningUSB-C
Wired Playback SupportVia Lightning to 3.5mmYes
Weight384.8 g293 g
Materials UsedAluminum, stainless steel, mesh headbandPlastic, fabric-padded headband
Ear Cup PaddingMemory foamLeatherette
Smart FeaturesHead detection, auto-switch, Find MyAuto-pause, Sound Zones, Sidetone
Device TrackingYesNo
Platform OptimizationApple ecosystemiOS and Android
Firmware UpdatesVia iOS device onlyVia app
Carrying CaseSoft Smart CaseHardshell protective travel case
Headband AdjustabilityTelescoping stainless steel armsStepless sliding mechanism
Color OptionsSpace Gray, Silver, Sky Blue, Pink, GreenBlack, White
PriceCheck AirPods Max PriceCheck Momentum 4 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Over-Ear Design: Both headphones use a full-size over-ear (circumaural) design that envelops the ears, contributing to better passive noise isolation and a more immersive audio experience ideal for long listening sessions.
  • Wireless Bluetooth Connectivity: Each model supports Bluetooth wireless streaming, eliminating the need for cables and ensuring compatibility with smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
  • Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Both the AirPods Max and Momentum 4 feature advanced ANC technology that intelligently reduces ambient noise, allowing for distraction-free listening in loud environments such as public transport or offices.
  • Transparency Mode: Each headphone includes a transparency or ambient mode, allowing users to let outside sounds in—ideal for hearing announcements, conversations, or traffic without removing the headset.
  • Custom Dynamic Drivers: Both use specially designed dynamic drivers that deliver high-fidelity sound, with deep bass, rich mids, and clear highs, ensuring premium audio quality regardless of genre.
  • Auto Play / Pause: The headphones feature automatic play/pause functions based on whether you are wearing them, using sensors to detect when they are on your head or taken off.
  • Head Detection Technology: On-head detection allows for seamless user experience—audio playback stops when the headphones are removed and resumes when worn again.
  • Built-in Microphones: Both models include beamforming microphones that enable clear voice calls and also contribute to effective ANC by filtering out environmental noise.
  • Multipoint or Seamless Device Switching: While AirPods Max enables fast switching between Apple devices using iCloud, the Momentum 4 supports traditional Bluetooth multipoint, allowing connection to two devices simultaneously (e.g., phone + laptop).
  • Voice Assistant Integration: Each supports voice control with digital assistants. AirPods Max works with Siri, and the Momentum 4 supports Siri, Google Assistant, and Alexa.
  • Fast Charging: Both headphones support fast charging technologies that allow several hours of playback with just a few minutes of charging—great for quick top-ups.
  • Wired Listening Option: While implemented differently, both headphones support wired audio—AirPods Max with a Lightning-to-3.5mm cable (sold separately) and Momentum 4 with a standard included 3.5mm cable.
  • Comfortable Padding: Each model prioritizes long-session comfort with plush ear cushions—memory foam in AirPods Max and soft leatherette in Momentum 4—minimizing fatigue.
  • Closed-Back, Noise-Isolating Design: The closed-back over-ear construction passively blocks external sounds and prevents sound leakage, enhancing immersion and privacy.
  • Firmware Update Support: Both devices can be updated with new features and bug fixes—AirPods Max via Apple devices and Momentum 4 via the Sennheiser Smart Control app.
  • Premium Build Quality Intent: Each model is built with a premium experience in mind, with sturdy materials and refined aesthetics that appeal to discerning users.
  • Travel Case Provided: Though the designs differ, both include a travel case for protection on the go, enhancing portability and safe storage.
  • Call Functionality: Both are equipped for high-quality audio calls, leveraging multiple microphones and intelligent processing to suppress background noise and focus on your voice.

Common Features

FeatureAirPods MaxSennheiser Momentum 4
Over-Ear DesignYesYes
Wireless ConnectivityBluetoothBluetooth
Active Noise CancellationYesYes
Transparency ModeYesYes
High-Fidelity Audio DriversCustom dynamic driversCustom dynamic drivers
Auto Pause / PlayYesYes
On-Head DetectionYesYes
Built-in MicrophonesYesYes
Multipoint ConnectionYesYes
Voice Assistant SupportYesYes
Fast Charging SupportYesYes
Wired Playback OptionYesYes
Comfort-Focused PaddingYesYes
Noise-Isolating DesignYesYes
Firmware UpdatesYesYes
Premium Build IntentYesYes
Travel-Friendly CaseYesYes
Audio Call FunctionalityYesYes
Price Check AirPods Max Price Check Momentum 4 Price

FAQ

Which headphone has better noise cancellation, the AirPods Max or the Sennheiser Momentum 4?
Both headphones offer excellent active noise cancellation, but the AirPods Max generally provide slightly stronger and more adaptive ANC performance, particularly in the Apple ecosystem, while the Momentum 4 allows user-adjustable ANC levels.

Do both headphones support transparency mode?
Yes, both the AirPods Max and Sennheiser Momentum 4 have transparency modes that let in ambient sounds, though Apple’s implementation is more seamless within the iOS environment.

Which one has better battery life?
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 has a significantly longer battery life of up to 60 hours with ANC on, compared to the AirPods Max which lasts up to 20 hours with ANC.

Can I use either headphone with a wire for audio?
Yes, the AirPods Max can be used wired via a Lightning-to-3.5mm cable (sold separately), while the Momentum 4 includes a 3.5mm audio cable for wired playback out of the box.

Which headphone is more comfortable for extended use?
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 is lighter at 293g and has soft ear pads, making it more comfortable over long sessions, whereas the AirPods Max is heavier at 384.8g and may cause fatigue during extended wear.

Which headphone is better for Android users?
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 is better suited for Android users due to its support for aptX and aptX Adaptive codecs, Bluetooth multipoint, and a companion app with customization features.

Is Spatial Audio available on both headphones?
No, Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking is exclusive to the AirPods Max and works primarily with Apple devices and compatible content.

Do both support voice assistants?
Yes, but with limitations. AirPods Max only supports Siri, while Momentum 4 supports Siri, Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa.

Which model supports multipoint Bluetooth connection?
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 supports true Bluetooth multipoint connection to two devices at once. The AirPods Max offers seamless switching between Apple devices but not standard multipoint.

Do both headphones come with a carrying case?
Yes, but the Momentum 4 includes a hard protective travel case, while the AirPods Max comes with a controversial soft Smart Case that provides minimal protection.

Can you customize EQ on both models?
EQ customization is only available on the Sennheiser Momentum 4 via the Smart Control app. The AirPods Max does not support manual EQ adjustment.

Which one has better call quality?
Both perform well on calls using beamforming microphones, though the Momentum 4 allows fine-tuning features like sidetone and voice clarity via the app, giving it more flexibility.

Do both support fast charging?
Yes, both headphones support fast charging. The AirPods Max provides 1.5 hours of playback from 5 minutes of charge, while the Momentum 4 gives up to 4 hours from the same charging time.

Which one is better overall for Apple users?
The AirPods Max is better integrated with the Apple ecosystem, featuring instant pairing, iCloud syncing, Spatial Audio, and Find My support, making it the ideal choice for iPhone, iPad, and Mac users.

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