Review: Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear headphones for Android

By Gadjo Cardenas Sevilla

Theres' a level of design and detail on the Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear headphones that is sorely missing in a lot of competing generic looking earbud-type models. It is easy to miss out on the details, but the lightweight steel construction and impressive design do make these in-ear headphones more durable.

iOS devices have had their pick of top-notch headphones which incorporate microphones, music controls as well as provide an experience tuned to the iPhone's sound. Android devices, not so much. The Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear headphones level the playing field by offering control, quality and comfort for compatible Android devices.

It's strange that while Android is the leading mobile platform, it is still struggling in the realm of accessories such as headphones. The reason may be that while various OEM's share the same basic OS, the hardware specifications may be too nebulous for third party headphone makers to tackle universally.

Sennheiser brings its prodigious Momentum brand, long associated with high-grade quality, sound and materials for over-the ear headphones, to the In-Ear segment for both iOS and Android. As with the larger Momentum headphones, the in-ear model offers a delicate balance of quality materials, fit and finish. This extends to the range of earbuds which are designed to fit a multitude of users and ear types for prolonged periods of time.

I favour the LG G4 and the Samsung Galaxy Note 4 as my preferred Android devices and while these aren't cutting edge new in terms of features and specs, they're more than enough for my needs. The Note 4, in particular, is an ideal device for me to use while travelling since its quick-charge feature, above average camera and bright AMOLED display make it a great all in one device. I also carry a lot of music on my microSD card for playback which isn't tied to any music streaming service that I can listen to in-flight. Since some airlines only allow the use of in-ear headphones, these are also various levels above the dinky airline headsets in terms of comfort and quality.

I've used the Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear headphones for both these smartphones and was impressed at how well it fit in with these devices. The ability to take calls via the included microphone was an added bonus but having volume control at the ready also made them a valuable commuting accessory.

Theres' a level of design and detail on the Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear headphones that is sorely missing in a lot of competing generic looking earbud-type models. It is easy to miss out on the details, but the lightweight steel construction and impressive design do make these in-ear headphones more durable.

In terms of sound quality, its great to see that the Momentum's trademark balanced sound distribution carries over to the smaller in-ear headphone form factor. While I did find that volume was generally softer by default, but the sound was crisp, well-defined and consistently clean. 

I've been partial to classical music of late (blame it on Mozart in the Jungle) and In-Ear headphones are historically band at reproducing the large yet nuanced soundscape of Classical and Jazz music but these are Sennheisers after all and they manage to deliver clarity and punchiness in equal doses. That these in-ear headphones feel comfortable even through long periods of time, makes them ideal for immersing oneself in long concertos or through multiple movements of classical masterworks.

The ergonomic, adjustable angle of 15° make the buds adapt so well to your ears and the silicone earplugs are hard to pull off so they aren't as easy to lose. Sennheiser also includes a neat zippered carry case which keeps the headphones safe and snug between uses.

I like the general tangle-free construction and material of the Momentum's cord as well as the reliability and amazing range and sound quality these headphones deliver on a consistent basis. Anyone who loves music, has an Android smartphone or tablet should really consider giving the Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear headphones a try, they can really change the way you enjoy audio from your device.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5