Bowers & Wilkins PX8 S2 Headphones Review
Specifications
| Brand | Bowers & Wilkins |
|---|---|
| Headphone Type | Over-Ear |
| Noise Cancellation Type | Active Noise Cancellation |
| Connectivity | Wireless/Wired |
| Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Battery Life | 30 hr |
| Charging Time | 2 hr |
| Driver Size | 40 mm |
Pros
- Strong ANC with stable tuning
- Clear mids, controlled bass
- Multi-day battery, quick top-ups
Cons
- Touch detection glitch
The Verdict
With 30 hours of battery life, these over-ear headphones suit frequent travelers who want strong ANC and polished sound without constant charging. Clear mids, controlled bass, and a sturdy design make them a balanced daily choice, while the 7.7 value score reflects their high-end positioning. A touch detection glitch can trigger an unwanted command, so buyers who demand flawless controls should think twice.
Who it's for: Frequent travelers and office listeners who want refined sound, steady ANC, and long sessions, and can accept occasional touch-control errors.
Who should skip it: Buyers who put perfect controls or the lowest cost first should look elsewhere, since this model scores 7.7 for value despite its strong overall performance.
In-Depth Review
Noise Cancellation
Noise Cancellation earns an 8.7, with the result described as Consistently quiet everywhere. The PX8 S2 uses Active Noise Cancellation and an eight-microphone system to monitor surrounding sound. That setup helps reduce steady noise from engines, trains, HVAC systems, and busy rooms.
Its tuning stays controlled as conditions change. The silence does not bring an obvious hiss or a strong pressure feeling. Voices and sudden sounds still come through more than low rumbles. That is normal for this type of ANC. Bluetooth 5.3 keeps the wireless connection stable, while USB-C audio and the included 3.5 mm cable give you wired options when radio silence matters less than flexibility.
Sound Quality
Sound Quality scores 8.8, matching the phrase Crisp, spacious, engaging audio. The custom 40 mm Carbon Cone drivers give the PX8 S2 a clean, full presentation. Vocals sit forward enough for clear speech, while guitars, strings, and other details remain easy to separate.
Bass reaches deep but stays controlled. It adds weight to drums without clouding the midrange. Treble brings detail without turning sharp during long sessions. The balance also holds together at higher listening levels, although listeners who want a very bright or strongly bass-heavy sound may prefer a different tuning. You can use wireless Bluetooth 5.3 or switch to USB-C audio and the supplied 3.5 mm cable.
Comfort
Comfort receives an 8.7, described as All-day comfort, no hotspots. The PX8 S2 uses an over-ear design, so the pads can surround the ears rather than press directly on them. That helps during long flights, office sessions, and extended music listening.
The fit feels secure without becoming distracting. The padded contact points spread pressure well, and the cups stay stable during normal movement. Heat can still build during warm commutes, as it can with most closed over-ear headphones. The listing does not state a weight, so there is no reliable number to use for judging how it compares with lighter rivals. The eight-microphone ANC system adds useful travel performance without changing the basic fit.
Battery Life
Battery Life scores 8.3, earning the description Multi-day battery, quick top-ups. Bowers & Wilkins rates the rechargeable battery for up to 30 hours of wireless playback. That is enough for several workdays or multiple travel legs before you need a charger.
A full recharge takes about two hours. The stated runtime should be treated as a best-case figure, since ANC use, listening volume, calls, and temperature can reduce it. Still, the claimed 30 hours gives the PX8 S2 a dependable range for daily use. USB-C audio also lets you connect directly when wireless playback is not practical.
Build Quality
Build Quality earns 8.9, with a rating phrase of Solid feel, travel-ready durability. The over-ear frame feels made for regular adjustment and packing. Its controls respond well in normal use, and the headphones work in both wireless and wired modes through Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C audio, or the supplied 3.5 mm cable.
The main weakness is touch detection. It can glitch and trigger an unwanted command, which matters when you adjust the headphones or move them around. That issue does not define the whole build, but it keeps the controls from feeling fully dependable. The 40 mm drivers, eight-microphone ANC system, and 30-hour battery support the sense of a serious travel headset. At 8.9, this remains one of its strongest areas, even with the touch-control fault.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Bowers and Wilkins PX8 S2 battery last?
The PX8 S2 offers up to 30 hours of wireless playback on a full charge. Its two hour charging time is reasonable, and a quick top up can help before a trip. Actual battery life may vary with noise cancellation, volume, calls, and other settings.
Are the Bowers and Wilkins PX8 S2 good for airplane travel?
Yes, the PX8 S2 works well for flights. Its active noise cancellation reduces steady sounds such as engine rumble and cabin airflow, while its clear mids help voices and podcasts stay easy to follow. It may not remove sudden voices or nearby conversation completely.
Do the Bowers and Wilkins PX8 S2 work with phones and laptops?
The PX8 S2 connects wirelessly through Bluetooth 5.3 and can also work in wired mode. This makes it suitable for phones, tablets, and laptops with compatible wireless or wired connections. Check the device port before choosing a cable for wired use.
Is the Bowers and Wilkins PX8 S2 comfortable for long listening sessions?
The over ear design and soft ear cushions suit long listening sessions for many users. The fit feels stable, and the headphones score well for comfort. As with most closed over ear models, your ears may feel warm after several hours, especially in a hot room.
Does the Bowers and Wilkins PX8 S2 have any control problems?
The main reported drawback is a touch detection glitch. The touch control may sometimes miss an input or respond inconsistently, which can be annoying when changing playback or managing calls. The headphones still provide physical controls, but buyers who want flawless touch response should keep this limitation in mind.
How good is the noise cancellation on the Bowers and Wilkins PX8 S2?
The PX8 S2 provides strong noise cancellation with stable tuning across common settings. It handles transport rumble, office noise, and HVAC sounds well without making music sound overly thin. Some high pitched sounds and nearby speech can still pass through.
Final Verdict
The Bowers & Wilkins PX8 S2 is a recommended buy for listeners who want premium sound, strong noise control, and a sturdy design for travel or daily work. Its ANC stays effective and steady, while clear mids and controlled bass make music easy to enjoy for hours. Battery life also supports multi-day use. The main blemish is a touch detection glitch that can make control less reliable.
Choose these headphones if sound quality and build matter as much as quiet on the move, and you can accept a minor control issue. Their balanced performance makes them a strong all-rounder. If that matches your needs, this is a sound pick.