Bottom Line
Choose ACCENTUM if you want huge battery life and punchy sound for the money; Skip if you need top-tier noise cancelling or a premium build with a case.
Best for
Listeners who want near-flagship battery life and a lively, bass-friendly sound that can be dialed in with a simple EQ, especially for commuting and long work sessions.
Not for
Frequent flyers or subway commuters who need top-tier low-rumble ANC, and anyone who wants a travel case, a compact folding design, or stronger call clarity in wind and street noise.
Verdict
Sennheiser ACCENTUM targets the sweet spot: a lightweight, comfortable over-ear with marathon endurance and a sound signature that many reviewers found enjoyable, especially after a bit of EQ. Across sources, the bass-forward tuning can be tightened, mids brought forward, and the result lands close to pricier models for casual listening. Battery life repeatedly stands out, and features like multipoint, aptX or aptX HD, and USB-C audio add day-to-day convenience. The tradeoff is clear: noise cancelling performance varies and generally trails class leaders, microphones struggle in wind or loud streets, and the mostly-plastic build ships with minimal accessories and no case.
Pros
-
One reviewer specifically calls out very low perceived latency for video, suggesting good audio-video sync for everyday streaming.
-
USB-C is the standard for charging here and is broadly appreciated; multiple reviews also emphasize its ability to carry audio on compatible devices.
-
Battery life is a standout theme, commonly cited around the advertised 50 hours, with some reports pushing beyond that depending on usage and codecs.
-
Weight is a clear advantage across reviews, frequently cited as making long sessions easier than heavier competitors.
-
Several reviews report clean playback without obvious distortion at high levels, with DSP seemingly keeping drivers in check; one reviewer still calls the volume sweet spot finicky.
-
aptX or aptX HD support is repeatedly mentioned as a value add, particularly for Android users looking for higher quality wireless playback.
-
Codec support is solid for the price, commonly cited as including AAC and aptX-family options, but some note missing newer standards like LE Audio.
-
Fast charging is consistently mentioned, with roughly 10 minutes delivering multiple hours of playback and full charges landing around a few hours.
-
Sidetone is called a genuinely useful feature for calls, letting you hear your own voice more naturally, with adjustable levels in the app.
-
Multipoint pairing is a frequent highlight, with multiple reviewers reporting smooth switching between two devices once set up.
-
The cups rotate enough to sit flat and rest comfortably around the neck, but the overall chassis still does not collapse into a compact travel shape.
-
USB-C audio is a differentiator versus some competitors, offering a wired listening option even without a 3.5mm jack.
-
Bluetooth performance is mostly described as quick and reliable, though one reviewer reports brief stutter right after starting playback and another notes seal shifts when pressing buttons.
-
Design is described as clean, understated, and Momentum-like. Several reviewers like the minimal branding, even if materials feel budget in hand.
-
Voice assistant access via a dedicated button is present and works as expected in at least one detailed review.
-
Physical buttons are generally considered reliable and easy once learned, though a few reviewers find them small, plasticky, or confusing compared with touch controls.
-
Most reviewers describe a fun, consumer-friendly tuning that can sound excellent for the price, especially after EQ. A few found the stock presentation a bit veiled or dynamically bland versus pricier rivals.
-
Comfort is widely rated as good thanks to low weight and padding, but clamp strength, ear-warming, and smaller inner cup space are common caveats.
-
Bass is a defining trait: several reviews note strong sub-bass punch (sometimes overly boosted) that can be tightened with EQ. A minority felt it lacks physical slam compared with higher-end models.
-
Instrument separation and organization are often praised as strong for a sub-200 model, though the most critical takes still find it less resolving than premium competitors.
-
The 5-band EQ is frequently credited with improving the sound, especially by taming bass and lifting vocals. A couple of reviewers dislike how EQ changes can alter overall level or tone.
-
Passive isolation is helped by the firm fit and cup design, with lab-style commentary noting strong attenuation at higher frequencies even before ANC.
-
The Smart Control app is feature-rich (EQ, connection management, modes), but critiques include clutter, occasional usability quirks, and optional account-based features.
-
Earpads are often described as soft and plush, though several reviews still call them less premium than higher-end models and less forgiving for glasses wearers.
-
Treble detail is usually described as crisp and non-harsh, though some reviewers note a slight roll-off or dulled cymbal detail compared with premium headphones.
-
Transparency mode is useful and often praised for conversation, but opinions vary: some find it natural, others describe it as bright, artificial, or slightly hissy depending on the environment.
-
Midrange is generally clear enough for casual listening, but multiple sources mention vocals can sit slightly behind the bass until EQ is applied; some also call it a touch hollow on certain tracks.
-
Overall balance is commonly described as cohesive, with a bass-forward tilt; the most critical voices cite some veil or mild imbalance on dense mixes.
-
Hinges feel functional and tend to rotate smoothly; long-term durability impressions are mixed due to the all-plastic construction in this price tier.
-
Maximum loudness is generally sufficient, but one review notes the headphones can feel quiet until you push volume higher than expected.
-
Build impressions vary: some call it solid for the price, while others describe the plastic as cheap or less refined than premium competitors.
Cons
-
Preset-style toggles like Bass Boost and Podcast mode are handy, but the quality and usability of presets and automated tuning tools gets mixed feedback.
-
Call quality is usually intelligible in quiet spaces, but multiple reviewers describe the voice as thin, metallic, or robotic versus better rivals.
-
Soundstage is typically characterized as moderate and sometimes narrower than the Momentum line; a few reviewers still found it pleasantly spacious for the class.
-
ANC is consistently framed as good for the price but not class-leading. It tends to reduce low-frequency rumble less effectively than Bose or Sony flagships, while still providing meaningful relief for commuting.
-
Clamp force is the biggest comfort divider: some find it secure, while multiple reviewers describe it as noticeably tight, especially at first or for larger heads and glasses.
-
One reviewer reports the earcups can shift slightly with head movement, making the fit feel less stable than tighter-clamping rivals.
-
Noise and wind rejection on calls is a recurring weakness. Several sources mention wind and busy-street noise leaking through, even with wind-reduction features enabled.
-
The lack of a 3.5mm input is commonly noted. Some reviewers are fine using USB-C audio, but it still reduces compatibility with airplane adapters and analog sources.
-
Portability is limited by the non-folding design. The cups can swivel flat, but the headphones still take up space in a bag.
-
Adjustability is limited in many reports: several reviewers note you cannot fine-tune ANC intensity and some say you cannot fully disable ANC, only switch to transparency.
-
In-box extras are minimal (typically a charging cable and documentation), with the missing case being the main complaint.
-
Nearly every source notes the lack of an included case or pouch, which hurts travel friendliness and perceived completeness.
-
Multiple reviewers highlight the absence of an IP rating, making these a poor pick for workouts or wet-weather use.
-
Some reviews explicitly note the absence of spatial audio or Dolby Atmos features, positioning ACCENTUM as a simpler, value-focused model.
FAQ
Is the noise cancelling good enough for planes?
It helps with general cabin and commute noise, but multiple reviews say low-frequency engine rumble gets through more than Bose or Sony flagships. If flying is your main use, expect mid-tier ANC rather than best-in-class isolation.
Do they support wired listening?
There is no 3.5mm jack, but several reviews highlight USB-C audio support, so you can listen wired if your source supports USB-C audio output.
Can they connect to two devices at once?
Yes. Multipoint pairing is commonly reported to work reliably, letting you stay connected to two devices and switch as needed.
Do you need the app?
You can use core playback and modes without it, but the app is where you manage multipoint, EQ, sidetone, and certain convenience features. Some app features may prompt you to create an account.
Are they comfortable with glasses?
Comfort is generally strong thanks to low weight, but several reviewers note the clamp and leatherette pads can press glasses arms and affect seal. If you wear glasses all day, comfort can be hit-or-miss depending on fit.
Reviews we analyzed
Video Reviews
Article Reviews
Best Over-Ear Headphones
#1
4.2
Choose the PX7 S3 for class-leading sound and premium comfort with strong-enough ANC; Skip if you want Sony/Bose-level noise canceling or a lighter,...
#2
4.1
Choose the Melomania P100 SE if you want audiophile-leaning sound and truly huge battery life for under $300. Skip if you need class-leading...
#3
4.1
Choose Melomania P100 for big, detailed sound and class-leading battery life under $300; Skip if you need Bose or Sony level noise canceling...
#4
4.1
Choose WH-1000XM5 for class-leading noise canceling, excellent call pickup, and featherweight comfort; Skip if you need a folding travel design, sweat-proof durability, or...
#5
4.1
Choose the WH-1000XM6 if you want top-tier noise canceling with rich, tunable sound in a travel-friendly foldable case. Skip if you need wired...
#6
4.1
Choose Aventho 300 for premium build, marathon battery, and modern codecs. Skip if you need class-leading noise canceling or a relaxed fit; the...
#7
4.0
Choose the DALI IO-12 if you want near-audiophile wireless sound and plush long-session comfort. Skip if you need class-leading ANC, app-based tuning, or...
#8
4.0
Choose the HDB 630 if you want reference-leaning wireless sound with a powerful EQ/app and huge battery life; Skip if you need class-leading...