Bowers & Wilkins PI7 vs. AirPods Pro: Which wireless earbuds should you buy?
Bowers & Wilkins PI7 vs. AirPods Pro: Which wireless earbuds should you buy?
This Bowers & Wilkins PI7 vs. AirPods Pro face-off compares two of the industry's all-time dissonance-cancelling earbuds, helping you decide which model is all-time 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 just come up with top-tier agile noise counterfoil, but also avowal Dual Hybrid Bulldoze units with private amplifiers and aptX Adaptive codec support to deliver course-leading sound. B&W also employed premium materials with sleek detailing to form an aesthetically pleasing design.
- The best wireless earbuds you tin purchase
- Make a saving with the all-time inexpensive wireless earbuds
- Nosotros've tested the best outdoor speakers
The AirPods Pro, likewise, is one of the best pairs of ANC earbuds y'all tin can buy, thank you to its customizable fit, impressive active noise cancellation, and a wide set of iOS-friendly features that continues to grow with every new software update. Most importantly, this third-gen version brings forth some vast audio upgrades, including adaptive audio and other personalized modes that enhance the listening experience.
After a week of testing, nosotros've compared both models in every major category to decide the better earbuds investment. Read on to see whether the PI7 can overtake the AirPods Pro, and check out our Bowers & Wilkins PI5 vs. AirPods Pro comparison to encounter how the PI7'southward trivial sibling stacks up as well.
Bowers & Wilkins PI7 vs. AirPods Pro: Specs compared
| Bowers & Wilkins PI7 | AirPods Pro | |
|---|---|---|
| Toll | $399 | $249 |
| Wireless Charging Case | Yes | Aye |
| Flake | Qualcomm QCC5126 | H1 |
| Battery Life (Rated) | iv hours (ANC on), twenty hours (with charging case) | iv.5 hours (ANC on), 5 hours (ANC off), 24 hours (with charging case) |
| Water Resistance | IP54 | IPX4 |
| Case Size | 2.three x 1.ane x 2.2 inches | 1.viii x 0.ix x 2.4 inches |
| Case Weight | 2.1 ounces | 1.6 ounces |
| Special features | Adaptive active noise cancellation, adaptable ambient listening style, aptX Adaptive support, Soundscapes, wireless adapter functionality | Active noise cancellation, transparency way, adaptive EQ, spatial sound, automatic switching, customizable fit, audio sharing, announced letters with Siri, "Hey Siri" vocalization-activated assistance, wireless charging case |
Bowers & Wilkins PI7 vs. AirPods Pro: Price
At $249, the AirPods Pro isn't cheap, but is reasonably attainable versus the even higher-priced PI7, which carries a $399 MSRP.
Fifty-fifty more enticing is that Apple's buds are often on sale; some retailers have dropped the price downwards to as low as $180. Don't expect the PI7 to receive a generous markdown any time shortly, since it just recently launched.
To stay up on the latest Apple and B&Due west deals, we recommend bookmarking our best cheap AirPods deals and best headphones deals pages.
Winner: AirPods Pro
Bowers & Wilkins PI7 vs. AirPods Pro: Design
The PI7 is a beauty that pulls off the luxe and durable look exceptionally well. Matte plastic and aluminum brand upwards its structure, and the touch panel takes on the form of a protruding cylinder, which kind of resembles a dial. The buds come up with an IP54 rating to protect the internals from dust and moisture impairment; they can sustain calorie-free splashes, rain, sweat, and even dirt.
Some people dearest the AirPods' long-stem silhouette and others aren't fond of it. We fall under the latter. That's non to say the AirPods Pro'south design isn't an upgrade from the standard Apple tree AirPods, because information technology certainly is. The stems accept been shortened, giving the buds a more detached advent. Niche details like the black vents and indentations that point the Force Sensors make this version distinguishable even among the best false AirPods. Apple earns recognition for implementing IPX4 water resistance too, though this doesn't signal the same level of protection that the PI7 has.
The PI7'south charging instance does lack in build quality compared to the buds. It's also long and might non tuck into most denim pockets, though yous can toss it into any commuter handbag and travel care-free. At least information technology is more attractive than the AirPods Pro's charging case, fifty-fifty if Apple's white block is sturdier and more pocket-friendly. We also like that B&W added an extra button to the front that the company says will serve a future function, which will probable be added via firmware update.
Comfort 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 improver, the longer sound port allows for simple insertion. But where Apple actually nailed it is the Ear Tip Fit Test, a special characteristic developed for the AirPods Pro that calibrates the buds to decide the best tips for the listener.
The PI7 provides moderate comfort and fit, though its design is not as ergonomically benefitting as the AirPods Pro. You can wear the buds for about i to 2 hours before fatigue sets in, as the elongated audio port pinches the forepart function of the ear. B&W'southward silicone tips do keep 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'south vocalism activation feature alone gives the AirPods Pro this round. The only thing more amazing than the ability to speak the phrase and execute commands hands-gratuitous is the speed at which the AI bot responds to them. Sure, the characteristic is only exclusive to Apple devices like iPhone, iPad and MacBook Pro, though you can download third-party apps like Assistant Trigger on Google Play to employ the digital assistant part on Android devices.
It would be a crime to overlook the AirPods Pro's Force Sensor, which is hands down the best input system on whatever set of wireless earbuds. Every press produces satisfying tactility to ensure you that intended commands are being met. It'due south also cool that the controls are compatible with Apple TV, letting yous play/pause content direct from the buds. A motility sensor was added every bit well to auto-detect when the buds are removed and automatically pause music. If we have whatever complaint, it'due south the limited number of controls that can exist assigned to each bud; you tin't use the Forcefulness Sensors to accommodate volume, for instance.
The PI7 has its own responsive control scheme consisting of impact input, on-ear detection, and vox assistance, the latter being the almost practiced. B&W'due south robust six-mic array demonstrates excellent speech recognition to annals long-winded commands. You won't take any issues operating the PI7, but the Force Sensors are still enough to give Apple the advantage.
Winner: AirPods Pro
Bowers & Wilkins PI7 vs. AirPods Pro: Sound quality
There are a few splendid-sounding wireless earbuds out there like the Master & Dynamic MW08, but the PI7 arguably ranks at the top. B&W spared no expense giving these buds aristocracy sound representation, from the Dual Hybrid Drive units with private amplifiers for each driver to 24-bit sound and aptX Adaptive codec support for streaming how-do-you-do-fidelity tracks on services like Qobuz and Tidal.
Recordings still sound exceptional whether played from your personal library or on standard streaming platforms similar Spotify. Bass has an impactful presence that complements contemporary music genres, and mids and highs audio authentic, assuasive yous to hear subtle nuances in complex recordings.
Apple tree'due south adaptive EQ grants the AirPods Pro a meaning sonic heave that was defective on the standard AirPods. Bass remains emphasized, but Apple did a meliorate job of balancing it out to not compromise the midrange. Highs don't exactly shine, but the sound signature is satisfying enough to enjoy most music genres and other content.
Each model also has its own killer audio feature. While the AirPods Pro comes with spatial audio, which creates immersive 360-degree sound for compatible video content, the PI7's charging case tin can cleverly human activity as a wireless adapter to stream music in aptX when connected to an analog audio output. For example, you could plug the charging case into an on-flight entertainment system and get the sound wirelessly delivered to your earbuds.
Winner: Bowers & Wilkins PI7
Bowers & Wilkins PI7 vs. AirPods Pro: Active noise cancellation
The AirPods Pro stood strong equally the second-all-time noise-cancelling solution in the category. And then the PI7 came along, giving the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds the greatest run for its coin. Each bud uses three mics to cake out a vast number of ambient noises, while also doing an admirable job of minimizing high-frequency sounds that are unavoidable.
Most indoor fracas will go unnoticed, such as centralized AC units, door buzzers, and loud TVs. Being outside is just as rewarding with the PI7 exhibiting stiff wind resistance to diminish whooshing effects caused by gusty conditions and speeding cars. More perceptible sounds similar babe cries, sirens, and construction tools will exist audible, though none are distracting enough to pull y'all mode from what'south playing on your iPhone 12.
The AirPods Pro falls to third identify on the ANC true wireless rankings, but that doesn't diminish its dissonance-cancelling value. Apple's ii-mic racket-cancelling array can handle most external sounds in whatever surroundings. This includes communicative neighbors, loud TVs, and fifty-fifty the hum of a jet engine. We did detect the AirPods Pro struggles with loftier-frequency sounds; B&Westward'southward ANC technology is slightly more effective there.
Transparency modes are available on either set up of buds to eavesdrop on conversations and hear your surroundings more than clearly. Yet, the PI7 does something the AirPods Pro doesn't, which is blend both ANC and Transparency modes together to make ambient noises more distinguishable and less harsh on your ears. It'due south 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 past optimizing its hardware to make the about of new software. With the proprietary H1 fleck 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 feel.
Spatial audio takes summit billing, though in that location are another cool audio modes at your disposal. These include the ability to personalize audio via EQs in the iPhone settings, audio sharing between two pairs of Apple or Beats headphones, and a Headphone Accommodations setting that tailors sound to your hearing. Other notable features like automatic switching and using your Apple Watch or MacBook Pro to command the buds are highly appreciated. At that place are many more subconscious AirPods Pro tricks worth checking out as well.
We already mentioned what the PI7'southward wireless charging case can do from an audio perspective. Bated from that, B&W's flagship buds are light on extra features. The companion app does have a Soundscapes mode that masks the noise effectually you with nature sounds, and it sounds great, though information technology'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 case and firmware updates. Furthermore, in that location are some features missing from the app that seems to be exclusive to the PX7, like a vocalisation prompt setting and Standby timer to identify the buds in sleep way when inactive.
Connectivity is fantastic on both devices, though the H1 chip makes pairing to iDevices instantaneous when opening up the AirPods Pro'southward charging case. The PI7 also 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 ii devices simultaneously, isn't available on either earbuds.
Winner: AirPods Pro
Bowers & Wilkins PI7 vs. AirPods Pro: Phone call quality
High phone call quality has been a staple of the AirPods series, and this has only got better on the AirPods Pro. Apple'due south mic organisation is exceptional at picking upwards vocals and prevents a skilful number of environmental distractions from inbound conversations. It too does a fantastic chore with minimizing wind noises. High-frequency sounds practice make their presence known, though you'll still be able to make out what others are proverb. All in all, it'south one of the all-time 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 sound all-time with conversations sounding fairly articulate in repose settings. There is some cutout and crackling that occurs, peculiarly when outside due to poor wind resistance. Another issue is the low volume.
Winner: AirPods Pro
Bowers & Wilkins PI7 vs. AirPods Pro: Bombardment life
Sadly, both models leave much to be desired on battery life. Be that as it may, the AirPods Pro edges out the PI7 at 4.5 hours with ANC on; its superior battery management tin squeeze out every bit of juice for optimal use. Apple also claims that disabling ANC volition extend playtime to v hours.
The good news is that you won't meet the battery levels drib drastically when running multiple features in the background. The H1 fleck gets you 50% more than talk time as well. As for the charging case, it holds upwards to 24 hours, equating to about 5 additional charges.
The PI7 disappoints at 4 hours with ANC on. B&W has yet to disembalm the playtime when turning off ANC, but our testing saw the buds last 30 minutes longer. If you lot recollect the large charging case will make up for the buds' poor bombardment life, judge again considering information technology maxes out at xx hours, falling short of the industry-average playtime set by Apple tree's example.
Wireless charging is available for both models' cases, as is quick charging. The AirPods Pro generates 1 hr of employ on a 5-infinitesimal accuse and the PI7 gets you 2 hours on a xv-minute charge.
Winner: AirPods Pro
Bowers & Wilkins PI7 vs. AirPods Pro: Overall winner
We're not going to lie – price does factor heavily into the equation. That existence said, even if the PI7 and AirPods Pro shared the same MSRP, Apple's pair of high-cease buds would still take 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 attempt into giving the AirPods Pro an ergonomic design that promises a secure fit, which can exist personalized via Ear Tip Fit Test. Noise cancellation is likewise surprisingly great. The short playtimes and dangling-stem silhouette aren't enticing, merely with the knowledge that you're saving $150 compared to the PI7, these are compromises you can live with.
| Bowers & Wilkins PI7 | AirPods Pro | |
|---|---|---|
| Price and value (5) | 3 | 4 |
| Blueprint (15) | 13 | 11 |
| Controls (x) | 7 | 9 |
| Audio quality (20) | twenty | 17 |
| Agile noise cancellation(xx) | 18 | 17 |
| Special features and apps (15) | 9 | 13 |
| Call quality (5) | iii | 5 |
| Battery life (10) | 6 | vii |
| Total score (100) | 79 | 83 |
Bowers & Wilkins stuck to its strengths with the PI7, offering superior sound and dissonance cancellation in a beautiful bundle. Audio functioning excels, and having the charging instance retransmit audio to the buds when connected to a compatible output is quite ingenious. Nonetheless, it'south tough to look by the poor battery life and lack of common features for the cost.
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Source: https://www.tomsguide.com/face-off/bowers-and-wilkins-pi7-vs-airpods-pro
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