Bowers & Wilkins has long been synonymous with premium audio experiences, and their Pi8 true wireless earbuds continue this tradition with exceptional sound quality wrapped in elegant design. After spending considerable time with these earbuds, I’m ready to break down whether these premium earbuds are worth their substantial price tag.
Specs
- Driver Technology: 9.2mm dynamic drivers with balanced armature
- Battery Life: 7 hours (earbuds), 24 hours total (with case)
- Fast Charging: 15 minutes charge for 2 hours playback
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3, multipoint connection (two devices)
- Codec Support: aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, AAC, SBC
- Water Resistance: IP54 (splash and dust resistant)
- ANC: Adaptive noise cancellation with multiple modes
- Microphones: 6 mics (3 per earbud) with wind noise reduction
- Weight: 6.5g per earbud, 58g charging case
Key Features
Audiophile-Grade Sound: The Pi8 delivers Bowers & Wilkins’ signature sound profile with remarkable clarity and definition. The dual-driver setup provides deep, controlled bass without overwhelming the mids and highs.
Advanced ANC Technology: The adaptive noise cancellation intelligently adjusts to your environment, offering impressive isolation without the “pressure” feeling common in other ANC earbuds.
Wear Detection: Music automatically pauses when you remove an earbud and resumes when you put it back in.
Premium Materials: The combination of brushed aluminum, soft-touch plastics, and high-grade silicone tips exudes luxury and ensures comfort.
Intuitive App Control: The B&W Music app offers customizable EQ settings, ANC adjustments, and firmware updates in a clean, user-friendly interface.
Wireless Charging: Qi-compatible case supports wireless charging alongside USB-C.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality with impressive soundstage for earbuds
- Premium build quality and materials
- Effective and comfortable noise cancellation
- Reliable touch controls that rarely misinterpret commands
- Strong battery life even with ANC enabled
- High-resolution audio support with aptX Adaptive
Cons
- Premium pricing puts them among the most expensive TWS earbuds
- Slightly larger case compared to competitors
- Limited color options (only Anthracite Black and Silver White)
- No ear tip fit test in the app
- Touch controls cannot be fully customized
Who Should Buy?
The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 earbuds are ideal for discerning audio enthusiasts who prioritize sound quality and are willing to invest in a premium audio experience. They’re particularly well-suited for:
- Audiophiles seeking the best possible wireless sound
- Business professionals who need reliable call quality and effective noise cancellation
- Frequent travelers who appreciate long battery life and comfort
- Design-conscious users who value premium materials and craftsmanship
These aren’t the right choice for budget-conscious shoppers or those who prioritize compact size over sound quality.
Takeaway
The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 earbuds represent the pinnacle of true wireless audio technology. While they command a premium price, they deliver an audio experience that rivals wired headphones in clarity and dynamics. The combination of exceptional sound quality, effective noise cancellation, and premium build quality makes them a standout option in the crowded true wireless market.
These earbuds aren’t trying to be all things to all people—they’re unabashedly high-end, designed for those who consider audio quality a priority rather than an afterthought. If sound is paramount and you’re willing to invest accordingly, the Pi8 earbuds will reward you with an exceptional listening experience that few wireless options can match.
