Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 5 earbuds to feature user-replaceable batteries
The new flagship model offers 12 hours of playback per charge and a slimmer design, marking a shift towards repairability in the premium audio sector.
Sennheiser has announced the Momentum True Wireless 5, a refresh of its flagship wireless earbuds that introduces a notable departure from industry standards: user-replaceable batteries. The feature applies to both the earbuds and the charging case, with the manufacturer claiming the replacement process requires only a compact screwdriver and takes "mere minutes". This design choice aligns with a broader trend in consumer electronics towards sustainability and repairability, similar to devices such as the Fairphone 6 Plus.
The new model also delivers a significant improvement in battery performance compared to its predecessor. The Momentum True Wireless 5 offers 12 hours of playback per charge, extending to 40 hours total when used with the Qi-compatible charging case. This is a substantial increase from the Momentum True Wireless 4, which launched in early 2024 with a maximum of 7.5 hours per charge and 30 hours total battery life. Additionally, the earbuds support quick charging, providing one hour of listening time from an eight-minute charge.
In terms of design, Sennheiser has refined the form factor to be slimmer than the previous generation. The company states that the new "barely there" fit was preferred by testers over the older model by 73 per cent. The charging case has also been redesigned to be narrower and more pocket-friendly, enhancing portability for daily use.
Audio capabilities have been upgraded with the inclusion of a 7mm TrueResponse transducer and Bluetooth 6.0 connectivity. The earbuds support high-resolution audio up to 24-bit and 96kHz. Active noise cancellation has been refreshed with a new ear tip and a four-microphone array, which Sennheiser says maximises noise-cancelling performance while delivering a more natural-sounding transparency mode.
Voice call quality is enhanced through an AI speech enhancement algorithm, while spatial audio is supported via head-tracking accelerometers. A free companion app is included, featuring an 8-band EQ for user adjustments. The Momentum True Wireless 5 will be available in five colourways, all priced at $300.
The earbuds are scheduled to go on sale from 3 September 2026. The announcement highlights Sennheiser’s effort to address the common issue of battery degradation in premium audio devices, offering consumers a longer-term solution without the need for professional repair services.
