When it comes to high-end wireless earbuds, two notable contenders stand out in 2024: the $249 AirPods Pro 2 and the $399 Bowers & Wilkins Pi8. Let's dive into what makes each special and who they're best for.
The wireless earbud market has evolved dramatically since Apple first introduced AirPods in 2016. Today's premium earbuds aren't just about cutting the cord - they're sophisticated audio devices packed with features like active noise cancellation (which uses microphones to detect and cancel out background noise) and spatial audio (creating a 3D-like sound experience).
What's fascinating is how different manufacturers approach these features. Some focus on pure audio quality, while others emphasize convenience and ecosystem integration. This creates interesting choices for consumers, especially as prices range from $200 to $400 in the premium segment.
The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8, released in early 2024, brings audiophile-grade sound to the wireless world. Its 12mm carbon drivers (the speakers inside the earbuds) are actually derived from B&W's high-end over-ear headphones. These drivers use carbon fiber, which is lighter and stiffer than traditional materials, resulting in more precise sound reproduction.
In contrast, the AirPods Pro 2, released in late 2022, uses Apple's custom-designed drivers. While they don't have the same audiophile pedigree, they're tuned specifically for broad appeal and work remarkably well across different music genres.
The biggest technical difference lies in their audio codecs (the software that compresses and transmits digital audio):
For home theater use, the Pi8's audio retransmission case is a game-changer. You can plug it directly into your TV or receiver, and it will wirelessly transmit high-quality audio to the earbuds - perfect for late-night movie watching without disturbing others.
Apple's approach with the AirPods Pro 2 focuses on seamless integration. If you're using an iPhone, the experience is magical:
The Pi8 takes a more platform-agnostic approach. Its multipoint connectivity lets you connect to multiple devices simultaneously, regardless of brand. The companion app offers deeper customization, including a 5-band equalizer for fine-tuning sound.
Both products offer similar earbud battery life:
Quick charging is available on both, providing about an hour of playback from a 5-minute charge.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology has improved significantly in recent years. Both earbuds offer excellent noise cancellation, but they approach it differently:
The AirPods Pro 2 uses adaptive noise cancellation that automatically adjusts to your environment. It's particularly effective at blocking consistent low-frequency sounds like airplane engines or air conditioners.
The Pi8's noise cancellation offers more manual control through its app. Many users, myself included, appreciate the ability to fine-tune the level of noise cancellation for different situations.
Both earbuds feature premium build quality with IPX4 water resistance (protection against splashes and sweat). The AirPods Pro 2 uses a stem design that some find helpful for insertion and removal, while the Pi8 has a more compact, traditional earbud shape.
In my experience testing both:
The price difference ($150) between these earbuds is significant, so let's break down the value proposition:
AirPods Pro 2 at $249 offers:
Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 at $399 delivers:
Your choice should primarily depend on:
In my experience, both are excellent products that serve different users. The AirPods Pro 2 remains my recommendation for most Apple users, while the Pi8 is ideal for audio enthusiasts who want the best possible sound quality in a wireless format.
Technology in this category continues to evolve rapidly, but both these products represent the current state of the art in their respective approaches to wireless audio. Whether you prioritize ecosystem integration or pure audio quality, you can't go wrong with either choice - it's just a matter of matching the product to your specific needs and preferences.
| $249 Apple AirPods Pro 2 | $399 Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 |
|---|---|
| Driver Size & Type - Determines sound quality and bass response | |
| Custom Apple driver | 12mm Carbon Cone drivers (superior detail) |
| Active Noise Cancellation - Critical for commuting and office use | |
| Adaptive ANC with automatic adjustment | Manual control ANC with customizable settings |
| Battery Life - Important for daily convenience | |
| 6 hours buds, 24 hours with case | 6.5 hours buds, 20 hours with case |
| Audio Codec Support - Affects maximum sound quality possible | |
| AAC (good for Apple devices) | aptX Lossless (CD quality, better for Android) |
| Special Features - Can make daily use much better | |
| Spatial Audio, Find My, automatic device switching | Audio retransmission case, 5-band EQ, multipoint connection |
| Water Resistance - Important for exercise and durability | |
| IP54 (dust and splash resistant) | IP54 (dust and splash resistant) |
| Device Ecosystem - Critical factor in usability | |
| Optimized for Apple devices | Works equally well with all devices |
| Price-Performance Value - Consider your primary use case | |
| Better value for Apple users | Premium price justified for audiophiles |
The $399 Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 offers superior sound quality with its 12mm Carbon Cone drivers and aptX Lossless support. While the $249 AirPods Pro 2 sounds great, the Pi8 delivers more detail and better audio fidelity.
The Pi8 has a clear advantage for home theater use thanks to its audio retransmission case, which can connect directly to your TV or receiver for lag-free wireless audio. The AirPods Pro 2 works well with Apple TV but may have sync issues with other devices.
Both offer excellent noise cancellation, but they approach it differently. The AirPods Pro 2 uses adaptive adjustment that works automatically, while the Pi8 offers more manual control through its app.
The AirPods Pro 2 offers 6 hours per charge with 24 total hours using the case. The Pi8 provides 6.5 hours per charge with 20 total hours with the case.
The Pi8 works better with Android devices due to its aptX Lossless support and platform-agnostic design. AirPods Pro 2 loses some features when not used with Apple devices.
The Pi8 offers true multipoint connectivity for any device. The AirPods Pro 2 can automatically switch between Apple devices but doesn't support general multipoint connection.
Both have IP54 water resistance and are suitable for exercise, but the AirPods Pro 2's lighter weight might be more comfortable for workouts.
The AirPods Pro 2 generally performs better for calls, especially with Apple devices, thanks to its advanced beam-forming microphones and voice isolation.
Yes, both the AirPods Pro 2 and Pi8 support wireless charging through their cases.
The AirPods Pro 2 is slightly lighter and might be more comfortable for extended wear, though both offer multiple ear tip sizes for customized fit.
The AirPods Pro 2 works well with Apple devices for gaming, while the Pi8's aptX support provides low latency on compatible Android devices. Neither is ideal for competitive gaming where minimal lag is crucial.
The AirPods Pro 2 offers better value at $249, especially for Apple users. The Pi8 at $399 is worth it for audiophiles and those who need its advanced features like the audio retransmission case for home theater use.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: recordingnow.com - apple.com - apple.com - cnet.com - hearingreview.com - target.com - support.apple.com - costco.com - cnet.com - quill.com - techradar.com - thetechnovore.com - youtube.com - youtube.com - audioadvice.com - audioholics.com - avnirvana.com - bowerswilkins.com - audioholics.com - digitaltrends.com
