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Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Sennheiser announced the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless on August 9, 2022, four years after the preceding over-ear generation, and said it would go on sale globally on August 23. Its launch pitch centered on adaptive noise cancellation, comfort, Transparency Mode, EQ, and sound personalization. Those features explain what Sennheiser promised; they do not, by themselves, prove the headphones were worth waiting for. Today, the MOMENTUM 5 Wireless is the successor, so the 2022 question is best answered as a historical one—and buyers should compare both generations before choosing.
What did Sennheiser promise with the MOMENTUM 4?
The MOMENTUM 4 Wireless was positioned as a redesign of the over-ear line, with a focus on long listening sessions and customizable sound. Sennheiser’s launch announcement described adaptive noise cancellation and comfort alongside Transparency Mode and personalization features. Its product page lists the included features and accessories. These are manufacturer descriptions, not independent measurements of noise reduction, comfort, or sound quality.
The customization pitch included Transparency Mode, built-in EQ, and Sound Personalization. Sennheiser Principal Product Manager Consumer Headphones Christian Ern said: “Thanks to features including Transparency Mode, Built-in EQ and a new Sound Personalization feature, users can listen in their own customized way.” Sennheiser’s August 2022 launch announcement provides the launch context and quote; its MOMENTUM 4 product page lists product features.
Was the four-year wait worth it?
There is not enough evidence here to give a reliable performance verdict. Deciding whether the MOMENTUM 4 was worth the wait depends on how its sound, ANC, comfort, and controls performed in use compared with its predecessor and competing headphones. Manufacturer specifications and launch claims cannot settle those subjective comparisons, and no firsthand or attributed independent test is available for this assessment.
#1 Best Overall
- Seamless Firmware & App Updates: Enjoy a smoother, more reliable experience with the latest firmware and Smart Control Plus app features for your over the ear Bluetooth headphones, including ANC toggle and touchpad off switch for premium music quality
- Audiophile-Inspired Sound : Sennheiser wireless over-ear headphones over with signature sound, 42mm transducers and aptX Adaptive deliver crystal-clear audio and deep, immersive music. Ideal for music lovers and travelers
- Personalized Listening Experience: Tailor your sound on these wireless over ear headphones via the Smart Control Plus app with integrated equalizer, presets, and sound modes for a unique custom audio profile, whether used for music, podcasts, or gaming
- Adaptive Noise Cancellation & Transparency Mode: Block distractions or stay aware of your surroundings with these Bluetooth headphones for uninterrupted music enjoyment anywhere, ideal for commuters, students, and professionals
- Exceptional Comfort & Long Battery Life: These Sennheiser wireless noise cancelling headphones are lightweight, foldable and designed with a cushioned headband and ear pads; enjoy up to 60 hours of long-lasting comfort playback with fast charging capability
What can be established is the historical context: Sennheiser announced the headphones on August 9, 2022, and said global sales would begin August 23. The European launch MSRP was €349.90; that is the original launch price, not a current price or an indication of present-day value. The company’s launch announcement contains those dates and pricing.
How does the current MOMENTUM 5 Wireless compare on paper?
Sennheiser now lists the MOMENTUM 5 Wireless as the successor. Its official product page gives the following specifications and claims:
Rank #2
- Firmware and software updated: Enjoy a smoother, and more reliable user experience, incl. an ANC off switch in the Smart Control Plus app, and a persistent off-switch for the touchpad.
- Maximum audio resolution with Sennheiser Signature Sound: Enjoy premium music quality all-day long thanks to the headphone's audiophile-inspired 42mm transducer system and aptX Adaptive.
- Personalized sound via the Sennheiser Smart Control App: Adjust the sound to your individual listening preferences via the integrated equalizer, presets and sound modes - for a unique sound experience.
- Stay immersed in your music: Thanks to the headphone's Adaptive Noise Cancellation, you stay distraction-free - and with the Adjustable Transparency Mode you stay in touch with the world around you.
- Exceptional comfort and long battery life: Lightweight, foldable design with padded headband and deeply cushioned ear pads for long-lasting comfort - up to 60 hours of playback time with fast charging.
| Specification | MOMENTUM 5 Wireless |
|---|---|
| Driver | 42 mm dynamic driver |
| Noise control | Hybrid adaptive active noise cancellation; Transparency Mode |
| Wireless and audio features | Bluetooth 5.4; Dolby Atmos |
| Battery runtime | Up to 57 hours of Bluetooth music playback with ANC on; Sennheiser’s stated test condition is an iPhone at mid volume |
| Battery | 700 mAh lithium-ion battery, described by Sennheiser as exchangeable |
| Weight | Approximately 290 g, according to Sennheiser support documentation |
These are published manufacturer specifications, not independent test results. In particular, the 57-hour figure is an “up to” claim under the stated test condition, not a guaranteed runtime for every phone, volume level, codec, or listening pattern. See the official MOMENTUM 5 Wireless product page and Sennheiser support documentation.
Can you replace the MOMENTUM 5 battery?
Sennheiser describes the MOMENTUM 5’s battery as exchangeable. That establishes the manufacturer’s stated battery design, but it does not confirm that a compatible replacement part is currently available, what it costs, or whether replacement is a simple do-it-yourself job. Check Sennheiser support for instructions and parts applicable to your region before attempting a repair.
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- NOISE CANCELLING HEADPHONES: Effortlessly combines noise cancellation technology with passive features so you can shut off the outside world, quiet distractions, and take music beyond the beat
- COMFORTABLE HEADPHONES: Plush over-ear cushions softly hug your ears, while a secure and comfortable padded band gently keeps your studio headphones in place for those extra-long listening sessions
- 2 LISTENING MODES: These wireless Bluetooth headphones feature Quiet and Aware Modes that let you toggle between full noise cancelling or full awareness of your surroundings for seamless sound control
- HIGH-FIDELITY AUDIO/EQ CONTROL: Supercharge your favorite tracks with high-fidelity audio and Adjustable EQ that puts you in control of the bass, mid-range, and treble for unmatched bold sound
- ALL DAY BATTERY LIFE: Bose QuietComfort wireless headphones provide up to 24 hours of battery on a single charge, plus a 15-minute charge via USB-C gives you up to 2.5 hours of additional play time
What should buyers check before choosing either generation?
A current purchase decision needs more than the feature list. Compare the generations against the factors that matter to your use, and verify local terms and availability because pricing and stock can vary by market:
Quick Recap
- Sound and codec support: Check the exact supported formats and look for independent listening comparisons if sound character is decisive.
- ANC and transparency: Feature names do not show how effectively a headphone handles your commute, office, or calls; seek testing in relevant conditions.
- Battery and repair: Treat runtime claims as test-condition-specific. For the MOMENTUM 5, confirm replacement-part availability and repair guidance rather than assuming “exchangeable” means an easy DIY swap.
- Comfort, weight, and controls: Fit is personal. The MOMENTUM 5 is listed at approximately 290 g, but that figure alone cannot establish comfort over a long session.
- Price, warranty, and availability: Check current prices and seller terms in your country. The MOMENTUM 4’s €349.90 figure was its European launch MSRP in 2022, not a current price benchmark.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
