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Grado GW100x vs Sennheiser HD 650: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Sennheiser HD 650 comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 85. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Sennheiser HD 650 - Outstanding overall at around $380.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

Grado GW100x
Sound8.5
Battery8.0
Calls6.0
Value7.5
Sennheiser HD 650
Sound9.0
Value7.5

Specifications

Specification comparison of Grado GW100x vs Sennheiser HD 650
SpecGrado GW100xSennheiser HD 650
TypeOver-EarOver-Ear
Price (USD)$275$380
HearWiki score78 / 100 · Great85 / 100 · Outstanding
Released2022-
Audio
DriverX Driversdynamic
Driver size44 mm42 mm
Drivers per side22
Frequency response20Hz-20kHz10Hz-41kHz
Impedance38 Ω300 Ω
Sensitivity99.8 dB/mW99.8 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)-103
Wireless
Bluetooth5.2-
Bluetooth version5.2-
CodecsSBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive-
Multipoint pairingYesNo
Battery
Battery life46 h-
Full charge time120 min-
Features
Active noise cancellingNoNo
ANC typenone-
Transparency modeNo-
Companion appNo-
Custom EQNo-
Wear detectionNo-
Controlstouchbuttons
Voice assistantmicrophone for voice calls-
Design
Weight188 g260 g
Water resistancenone-
Foldable-No
Detachable cable-Yes
USB-CYesNo
Balanced connection-Yes
Calls
Microphones1-

What reviewers said

Grado GW100x

The Grado GW100x are open-back wireless on-ear headphones that prioritize sound quality above all, delivering detailed audio through their large 44mm drivers. With an impressive 46-hour battery life and support for aptX Adaptive, they are a strong choice for audiophiles who value stamina and performance. However, they come with a bare-bones feature set, lacking ANC, app support, and any EQ customization, which may deter users seeking modern conveniences.

  • Pro:Excellent sound quality for wireless headphones
  • Pro:Long 46-hour battery life
  • Pro:Lightweight and comfortable design
  • Con:No active noise cancellation
  • Con:Minimal features with no app support or EQ
  • Con:Open-back design leaks sound and lets in ambient noise

Sennheiser HD 650

The Sennheiser HD 650 is a wired, open-back dynamic headphone built for serious home listening. It delivers a natural, detailed sound with a comfortable fit, though its sub-bass rolloff and bulky design limit it to stationary use rather than portable or active scenarios. Its replaceable cable and balanced connection option add to its appeal for audiophiles.

  • Pro:Excellent clarity and natural tonal balance
  • Pro:Very comfortable for long listening sessions
  • Pro:Detachable cable and balanced output support
  • Con:Noticeable sub-bass rolloff
  • Con:Not portable or suitable for active use
  • Con:High impedance requires a dedicated amplifier

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

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