Bowers & Wilkins Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 True Wireless Noise-Canceling Review

The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 offer excellent, detailed sound for music lovers, but that's about it. Their ANC is average, call quality is bad, and they're very expensive. Only worth it if pristine wireless audio is your absolute top priority.

The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 are premium earbuds that promise audiophile-grade sound in a true wireless package. They're packing serious tech like aptX Lossless audio and 12mm Carbon Cone drivers borrowed from their pricier over-ear siblings.

But our data tells a more nuanced story. While they aim for the high-end, their overall scores land them squarely in the middle of the pack. They're not bad, but for the price, you might expect them to punch a bit harder.

Let's talk sound first, because that's the main draw. The Pi8 delivers clear, detailed audio that's a step above your average buds, especially if you have a source that supports aptX Lossless. The bass is tight and the highs are crisp. The ANC, however, is just okay. It's in the 40th percentile, meaning it'll dull a constant hum but won't silence the world. The call quality is their Achilles' heel, scoring a dismal 9.1 out of 100. If you take a lot of calls, look elsewhere.

Here's the rub: these cost between $394 and $499. For that kind of money, you're entering flagship territory. Our data shows they score a 25 out of 100 overall, with a 'budget' score of 40.1. That's not great. You're paying a premium for the B&W name and for that specific, refined sound signature. If pure audio fidelity is your only metric, maybe. But for everything else—ANC, calls, value—it's a tough sell. Shop around, because at $394 they're a slightly better deal than at $499.

Stacked up, the competition is fierce. The Sony WF-1000XM5 is the ANC king, offering better noise cancellation and often for less money. The Google Pixel Buds Pro are a more balanced all-rounder with great integration for Android users. Even the Nothing Ear (a) offers a compelling, fun sound profile at a fraction of the price. The Pi8's unique advantage is its specific, audiophile-leaning sound via aptX Lossless. But if you care about a complete package with strong ANC and good mics, the Sony or Google options are smarter buys.

Skip the Pi8 if you take a lot of calls, need top-tier noise cancellation for a loud commute, or are on any kind of budget. The call mic is awful, the ANC is mid-tier, and there are better all-around performers for less money. If you need a complete package, look elsewhere.

Buy the Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 only if you're a true audio enthusiast with a compatible high-res source, you prioritize music listening above all else, and you don't mind paying extra for that specific B&W sound. They're for the listener who wants wireless convenience but refuses to compromise on sonic detail, even if it means sacrificing performance in other key areas.