Bowers & Wilkins PI7 vs. AirPods Pro: Which wireless earbuds should you buy?
Bowers & Wilkins PI7 vs. AirPods Pro: Which wireless earbuds should you purchase?
This Bowers & Wilkins PI7 vs. AirPods Pro confront-off compares two of the industry's all-time noise-cancelling earbuds, helping yous make up one's mind which model is best for your needs and upkeep.
Recently launched, the Bowers & Wilkins PI7 acts as the true wireless variant of the popular Bowers & Wilkins PX7 noise-cancelling headphones. These buds not merely come up with top-tier active noise cancellation, only also avowal Dual Hybrid Drive units with private amplifiers and aptX Adaptive codec support to deliver class-leading sound. B&W also employed premium materials with sleek detailing to grade an aesthetically pleasing blueprint.
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The AirPods Pro, likewise, is ane of the best pairs of ANC earbuds y'all tin buy, thanks to its customizable fit, impressive agile noise cancellation, and a broad set of iOS-friendly features that continues to abound with every new software update. Most importantly, this 3rd-gen version brings forth some vast audio upgrades, including adaptive sound and other personalized modes that raise the listening experience.
After a week of testing, we've compared both models in every major category to determine the better earbuds investment. Read on to run into whether the PI7 can overtake the AirPods Pro, and cheque out our Bowers & Wilkins PI5 vs. AirPods Pro comparison to see how the PI7'due south little sibling stacks upwardly besides.
Bowers & Wilkins PI7 vs. AirPods Pro: Specs compared
| Bowers & Wilkins PI7 | AirPods Pro | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $399 | $249 |
| Wireless Charging Case | Yes | Yes |
| Chip | Qualcomm QCC5126 | H1 |
| Bombardment Life (Rated) | 4 hours (ANC on), xx hours (with charging case) | 4.5 hours (ANC on), 5 hours (ANC off), 24 hours (with charging case) |
| Water Resistance | IP54 | IPX4 |
| Case Size | 2.three x 1.1 10 2.2 inches | 1.eight ten 0.nine x 2.4 inches |
| Example Weight | 2.one ounces | 1.vi ounces |
| Special features | Adaptive active noise cancellation, adjustable ambient listening mode, aptX Adaptive support, Soundscapes, wireless adapter functionality | Active noise cancellation, transparency mode, adaptive EQ, spatial audio, automatic switching, customizable fit, sound sharing, appear messages with Siri, "Hey Siri" voice-activated assistance, wireless charging case |
Bowers & Wilkins PI7 vs. AirPods Pro: Cost
At $249, the AirPods Pro isn't cheap, but is reasonably accessible versus the even higher-priced PI7, which carries a $399 MSRP.
Even more than enticing is that Apple tree's buds are frequently on sale; some retailers have dropped the price downwards to as low every bit $180. Don't expect the PI7 to receive a generous markdown any time soon, since it just recently launched.
To stay upwardly on the latest Apple and B&W deals, we recommend bookmarking our best inexpensive AirPods deals and best headphones deals pages.
Winner: AirPods Pro
Bowers & Wilkins PI7 vs. AirPods Pro: Pattern
The PI7 is a dazzler that pulls off the luxe and durable look exceptionally well. Matte plastic and aluminum make up its construction, and the touch on console takes on the form of a protruding cylinder, which kind of resembles a dial. The buds come with an IP54 rating to protect the internals from grit and moisture damage; they can sustain low-cal splashes, rain, sweat, and fifty-fifty dirt.
Some people honey the AirPods' long-stem silhouette and others aren't fond of information technology. Nosotros fall nether the latter. That's not to say the AirPods Pro's design isn't an upgrade from the standard Apple AirPods, because it certainly is. The stems take been shortened, giving the buds a more detached appearance. Niche details like the blackness vents and indentations that indicate the Force Sensors brand this version distinguishable fifty-fifty amongst the best fake AirPods. Apple earns recognition for implementing IPX4 water resistance too, though this doesn't signal the aforementioned level of protection that the PI7 has.
The PI7's charging case does lack in build quality compared to the buds. Information technology'southward too long and might not tuck into most denim pockets, though y'all can toss it into any commuter bag and travel care-free. At least it is more attractive than the AirPods Pro's charging example, even if Apple'south white block is sturdier and more pocket-friendly. We as well like that B&Westward added an actress button to the front end that the company says will serve a future function, which will likely be added via firmware update.
Condolement and fit are awarded to the AirPods Pro, which Apple took serious liberties perfecting. The now-included ear tips are difference-makers that produce a tight seal around the ears for solid isolation and stability.
In addition, the longer sound port allows for unproblematic insertion. Merely where Apple tree really nailed information technology is the Ear Tip Fit Test, a special feature developed for the AirPods Pro that calibrates the buds to determine the best tips for the listener.
The PI7 provides moderate comfort and fit, though its design is non equally ergonomically benefitting as the AirPods Pro. Yous tin habiliment the buds for almost 1 to 2 hours before fatigue sets in, as the elongated sound port pinches the front part of the ear. B&W'south silicone tips do continue the buds locked in, which is reassuring when on the go.
Winner: Bowers & Wilkins PI7
Bowers & Wilkins PI7 vs. AirPods Pro: Controls
Two words for you: "Hey Siri." Apple's vocalisation activation feature alone gives the AirPods Pro this round. The merely thing more amazing than the ability to speak the phrase and execute commands easily-gratis is the speed at which the AI bot responds to them. Certain, the characteristic is only exclusive to Apple tree devices like iPhone, iPad and MacBook Pro, though you can download third-political party apps like Assistant Trigger on Google Play to use the digital assistant role on Android devices.
It would be a crime to overlook the AirPods Pro'southward Force Sensor, which is easily down the best input system on whatsoever set of wireless earbuds. Every press produces satisfying tactility to ensure you that intended commands are being met. Information technology's also cool that the controls are uniform with Apple TV, letting y'all play/pause content directly from the buds. A move sensor was added as well to auto-notice when the buds are removed and automatically suspension music. If we have any complaint, it'due south the limited number of controls that tin can be assigned to each bud; you can't use the Strength Sensors to adjust volume, for example.
The PI7 has its own responsive control scheme consisting of touch input, on-ear detection, and voice assistance, the latter being the most proficient. B&W's robust six-mic array demonstrates first-class speech recognition to annals long-winded commands. You won't have any problems operating the PI7, but the Force Sensors are still plenty to give Apple tree the advantage.
Winner: AirPods Pro
Bowers & Wilkins PI7 vs. AirPods Pro: Sound quality
At that place are a few excellent-sounding wireless earbuds out there similar the Primary & Dynamic MW08, just the PI7 arguably ranks at the top. B&W spared no expense giving these buds elite sound representation, from the Dual Hybrid Drive units with individual amplifiers for each commuter to 24-chip sound and aptX Adaptive codec support for streaming hi-fidelity tracks on services like Qobuz and Tidal.
Recordings still audio exceptional whether played from your personal library or on standard streaming platforms like Spotify. Bass has an impactful presence that complements contemporary music genres, and mids and highs sound accurate, assuasive you to hear subtle nuances in complex recordings.
Apple'due south adaptive EQ grants the AirPods Pro a pregnant sonic boost that was defective on the standard AirPods. Bass remains emphasized, but Apple did a better job of balancing it out to not compromise the midrange. Highs don't exactly shine, only the sound signature is satisfying plenty to savor nearly music genres and other content.
Each model also has its own killer sound characteristic. While the AirPods Pro comes with spatial audio, which creates immersive 360-degree sound for uniform video content, the PI7's charging case can cleverly human activity equally a wireless adapter to stream music in aptX when continued to an analog audio output. For example, you could plug the charging case into an on-flight entertainment system and go the audio wirelessly delivered to your earbuds.
Winner: Bowers & Wilkins PI7
Bowers & Wilkins PI7 vs. AirPods Pro: Active noise counterfoil
The AirPods Pro stood strong as the second-all-time racket-cancelling solution in the category. And then the PI7 came along, giving the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds the greatest run for its money. Each bud uses three mics to block out a vast number of ambient noises, while also doing an admirable job of minimizing loftier-frequency sounds that are unavoidable.
About indoor fracas will go unnoticed, such as centralized AC units, door buzzers, and loud TVs. Beingness exterior is but every bit rewarding with the PI7 exhibiting strong current of air resistance to diminish whooshing furnishings caused by gusty weather and speeding cars. More perceptible sounds like baby cries, sirens, and construction tools will be aural, though none are distracting enough to pull you way from what's playing on your iPhone 12.
The AirPods Pro falls to 3rd place on the ANC true wireless rankings, but that doesn't diminish its noise-cancelling value. Apple'due south two-mic dissonance-cancelling array tin can handle virtually external sounds in whatever environment. This includes chatty neighbors, loud TVs, and fifty-fifty the hum of a jet engine. Nosotros did notice the AirPods Pro struggles with high-frequency sounds; B&W'due south ANC engineering science is slightly more effective there.
Transparency modes are available on either set up of buds to eavesdrop on conversations and hear your surroundings more conspicuously. Nonetheless, the PI7 does something the AirPods Pro doesn't, which is blend both ANC and Transparency modes together to make ambient noises more than distinguishable and less harsh on your ears. Information technology'southward well-engineered, and it works.
Winner: Bowers & Wilkins PI7
Bowers & Wilkins PI7 vs. AirPods Pro: Special features and apps
Apple played the long game with the AirPods ecosystem and won by optimizing its hardware to make the well-nigh of new software. With the proprietary H1 chip at the helm, the AirPods Pro takes advantage of seamless integration with all iOS and macOS devices, as well as exclusive features that enhance the user experience.
Spatial audio takes top billing, though in that location are some other cool sound modes at your disposal. These include the power to personalize sound via EQs in the iPhone settings, audio sharing betwixt two pairs of Apple tree or Beats headphones, and a Headphone Accommodations setting that tailors sound to your hearing. Other notable features similar automatic switching and using your Apple Watch or MacBook Pro to control the buds are highly appreciated. There are many more hidden AirPods Pro tricks worth checking out too.
We already mentioned what the PI7's wireless charging case can exercise from an audio perspective. Bated from that, B&W's flagship buds are light on actress features. The companion app does take a Soundscapes way that masks the noise around yous with nature sounds, and it sounds bully, though it's something you tin can find on other competitors. Rounding out the app are toggle controls, battery level indicators for both earbuds and the charging instance and firmware updates. Furthermore, in that location are some features missing from the app that seems to be exclusive to the PX7, similar a voice prompt setting and Standby timer to identify the buds in sleep fashion when inactive.
Connectivity is fantastic on both devices, though the H1 bit makes pairing to iDevices instantaneous when opening up the AirPods Pro'due south charging case. The PI7 likewise has a range issue, and causes dropout when teetering effectually the 15-pes mark.
Multipoint technology, which allows you to connect a pair of wireless earbuds to two devices simultaneously, isn't available on either earbuds.
Winner: AirPods Pro
Bowers & Wilkins PI7 vs. AirPods Pro: Call quality
High phone call quality has been a staple of the AirPods series, and this has simply got better on the AirPods Pro. Apple'due south mic system is exceptional at picking up vocals and prevents a good number of environmental distractions from inbound conversations. Information technology also does a fantastic chore with minimizing current of air noises. High-frequency sounds do make their presence known, though you'll still exist able to make out what others are proverb. All in all, it'south i of the best headphones with a mic for voice and video calls.
The PI7 is a satisfactory calling headset, depending on where you make and take calls. Indoors is where calls audio all-time with conversations sounding fairly clear in tranquillity settings. There is some cutout and crackling that occurs, especially when outside due to poor wind resistance. Another issue is the depression book.
Winner: AirPods Pro
Bowers & Wilkins PI7 vs. AirPods Pro: Battery life
Sadly, both models exit much to be desired on bombardment life. Exist that equally it may, the AirPods Pro edges out the PI7 at 4.v hours with ANC on; its superior battery management can squeeze out every chip of juice for optimal employ. Apple also claims that disabling ANC will extend playtime to v hours.
The practiced news is that y'all won't see the battery levels drop drastically when running multiple features in the background. The H1 scrap gets yous 50% more talk time besides. Equally for the charging example, it holds upward to 24 hours, equating to about 5 additional charges.
The PI7 disappoints at 4 hours with ANC on. B&W has withal to disclose the playtime when turning off ANC, simply our testing saw the buds last 30 minutes longer. If y'all remember the big charging case will make upward for the buds' poor battery life, gauge once more because it maxes out at 20 hours, falling curt of the manufacture-average playtime set by Apple'southward case.
Wireless charging is bachelor for both models' cases, as is quick charging. The AirPods Pro generates one hr of apply on a 5-infinitesimal charge and the PI7 gets y'all 2 hours on a 15-minute charge.
Winner: AirPods Pro
Bowers & Wilkins PI7 vs. AirPods Pro: Overall winner
Nosotros're not going to prevarication – cost does factor heavily into the equation. That beingness said, even if the PI7 and AirPods Pro shared the aforementioned MSRP, Apple's pair of high-end buds would still have more going for it.
The adaptive EQ is a nice sonic improvement from the previous AirPods, and the inclusion of spatial audio is a game-changer for those who want 3D sound. Apple put endeavour into giving the AirPods Pro an ergonomic pattern that promises a secure fit, which tin be personalized via Ear Tip Fit Test. Racket counterfoil is as well surprisingly great. The brusque playtimes and dangling-stem silhouette aren't enticing, just with the knowledge that you lot're saving $150 compared to the PI7, these are compromises you tin can live with.
| Bowers & Wilkins PI7 | AirPods Pro | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost and value (v) | 3 | 4 |
| Design (15) | thirteen | 11 |
| Controls (10) | 7 | nine |
| Audio quality (xx) | 20 | 17 |
| Agile racket counterfoil(twenty) | 18 | 17 |
| Special features and apps (15) | 9 | xiii |
| Call quality (five) | 3 | 5 |
| Bombardment life (10) | six | 7 |
| Total score (100) | 79 | 83 |
Bowers & Wilkins stuck to its strengths with the PI7, offering superior sound and noise cancellation in a beautiful package. Audio functioning excels, and having the charging case retransmit sound to the buds when connected to a compatible output is quite ingenious. However, it's tough to look past the poor battery life and lack of common features for the price.
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Source: https://www.tomsguide.com/face-off/bowers-and-wilkins-pi7-vs-airpods-pro
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