Audio-Technica ANC300TW vs Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2 Review

Here are two fantastic active noise-cancelling true wireless earphone models, priced $70 apart. What are the differences in sound and design? And is it worth investing in the snazzy Momentum True Wireless 2 over the more reasonably priced ANC300TW? Let’s find out in this Audio-Technica ANC300TW vs Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless Review.

Audio-Technica ANC300TW vs Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2 Review

FIT

Both models perform equally well in this category. There’s little difference in shell size (though the Momentum TW2 appears slightly more compact) and the level of comfort and security was equally good on both models. So, I wouldn’t base my decision on the fit factor. (Note that Sennheiser has reduced the size of the earpieces since the first TW model).

DESIGN

Active Noise Cancellation Effectiveness

In terms of ANC effectiveness, the difference between the two models was hard for me to discern. I think if there is any difference at all, one is only marginally more effective than the other with respect to ANC effectiveness. So, I wouldn’t base your purchasing decision on this category either. But I should note that the ANC300TW offers different ANC modes via the accompanying app, depending on the environment you find yourself in (such as an airplane).

Functionality

Both models offer almost full functionality from the earpieces. The Momentum TW2 employs touch controls, while the ANC300TW uses buttons. Usually, I prefer button controls because they tend to be easier to use. But the touchpads on the Momentum TW2 avoid being overly sensitive, while at the same time, I found them responsive and easy to navigate.

Besides the usual controls, such as play/pause, call answering, volume control and voice assistant activation, both models also allow you to control the ANC functions from the earpieces. In addition to ANC, both earphone models provide “hear-through” modes which allow you to hear the sound of your outside environment.

Battery Life

Here’s a big reason why the Momentum True Wireless 2 is the pricier model of the two headphones. It offers an impressive 7 hours of usage at a time with an additional 21 hours of charge in the charging case. The ANC300TW, on the other hand, only provides 4.5 hours of playtime with another 13.5 hours of charge in the case. Needless two say, this is a huge difference. And some may argue that this factor alone is reason enough to spend the extra money on the Momentum True Wireless 2 over the ANC300TW.

Call Clarity

Again the difference in call clarity wasn’t significant. The caller in the other line could not hear any difference in clarity. That being said, the caller sounded clearer on my end when using the ANC300TW.

Accompanying Apps

The Momentum True Wireless 2 come with the Smart Control App. It offers an equalizer, as well as some added control over you headphone settings. In addition, it provides periodic firmware updates to keep your earbuds current. Audio-Technica’s ANC300TW also comes with an app that offers extra control, such as various noise-cancelling modes. However, it does not provide an equalizer. So, the equalizer is another major advantage that the Momentum True Wireless 2 has over the ANC3000TW.

Water Resistance

The Momentum TW2 offers an IPX4 rating, which means they can withstand a significant amount of sweat and rain. In contrast, the ANC300TW is less impressive in this department, as it only manages an IPX2 water resistance rating. Something you may want to keep in mind if you tend to sweat buckets.

Supported Codecs

Both models support aptX and AAC, in addition to SBC.

SOUND

As mentioned above, the Momentum True Wireless 2 comes with an equalizer, so the balance can be adjusted. But for the purposes of this review, I left the equalizer at its default (neutral) setting.

Low Frequencies

Both models deliver a satiating bass response. But the Momentum True Wireless 2 reveals a thicker, deeper and more present bass, while the bass on ANC300TW is tighter and lighter-bodied. So if you want the richest low end, you should opt for the Momentum True Wireless 2.

Middle Frequencies

A similar well-balanced midrange means that both models provide a full-bodied and expansive sound. That being said, the Momentum True Wireless 2 provides a richer, heavier and warmer feel, which the ANC300BT is lighter, crisper and more “playful”. In terms of clarity, both models reveal equally great separation, though because the ANC300BT is not as warm, it gives you the impression of a cleaner sound. Both are also equal with respect to level of detail. But again, listening to strings in this range, the Momentum True Wireless 2 presents a grander, more majestic instrument, while the ANC300TW is less colored.

High Frequencies

While detail remains fantastic on both models in this range, the ANC300TW once again reveals crisper and more sparkly highs, while Momentum TW2 is a little less shiny in its presentation. So, if you like a particularly snappy feel when listening to pop music, you’ll probably prefer the ANC300TW. That being said, if you are easily fatigued by high frequencies, the Momentum TW2 is probably a safer bet.

Soundstage

Perhaps in part to the bigger lower frequencies, the Momentum TW2 has a grander soundstage. It also displays more height and width, and to be honest, in this category, you’ll be hard pressed to find a true wireless earphone that’s ass impressive as the Momentum True Wireless 2.

PROS and CONS

Audio-Technica ANC300TW

Pros: Well-balanced, clean and crisp sound; easy to navigate controls; good fit.

Cons: Short battery life; no equalizer.

Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2

Pros: Rich and satiating sound signature; equalizer control; long battery life.

Cons: 70 bucks pricier than ANC300TW.

SUMMARY

With the release of the ANC300TW and Momentum TW2, both Audio-Technica and Sennheiser have achieved their best true wireless models to date. That being said, there are reasons invest an extra $70 in the Momentum True Wireless 2: longer battery life and equalizer control. Your preferences in sound signature should also dictate your decision. If you like it rich and warm, go for the Momentum True Wireless 2. But if you like it lighter and brighter, the ANC300TW should be your choice. If none of these factors are important to you, then obviously, I’d recommend the more reasonably priced ANC300TW, as in terms of quality and build, they are on par.

You can find both of these models for the best price here:

Audio-Technica ANC300TW at Audio 46

Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2 at Audio 46

Audio-Technica ANC300TW on Amazon

Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2 on Amazon

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SPECS

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