Overview
The Bowers & Wilkins Pi5 S2 are true wireless earbuds with active noise cancellation, a sound-isolating in-ear fit, and a charging case that supports both USB-C and wireless charging. They sit below the Pi7 S2 in the company's lineup and launched in the US at $299. Their main attraction is an engaging, full-bodied sound rather than an unusually extensive feature list. Reviews commonly describe substantial bass, clear vocals, and a presentation that suits everyday music listening without sounding thin or overly clinical.
Each earbud uses a 9.2 mm dynamic driver, and Bluetooth codec support includes SBC, AAC, and aptX. The latter is useful with compatible Android devices, but iPhones use AAC instead. Bowers & Wilkins rates listening time at up to five hours per charge, with another 19 hours available from the case. Those are manufacturer figures rather than a guarantee with noise cancellation enabled. For a comparison shopper, the important distinction is between their original premium positioning and the lower prices that older stock may attract today.
Who it's for
These earbuds make most sense for listeners who prioritize sound character, appreciate the Bowers & Wilkins design, and find a substantial discount from launch pricing. Their bass weight can suit pop, electronic music, and rock, while the physical fit and ear-tip seal have a major effect on both sound and isolation. They can also work for commuting or office listening if you want noise reduction without expecting the strongest cancellation in the category.
They are less compelling for buyers who frequently switch between a laptop and phone, want extensive sound customization, or need earbuds to last through a long workday without a charging break. There is no Bluetooth multipoint, and the companion app does not offer a conventional adjustable EQ. People who are sensitive to larger earbud housings should favor a retailer with an easy return policy rather than assuming the shape will be comfortable.
Things to know before buying
Compare the exact model name carefully: the original Pi5, Pi5 S2, and Pi7 S2 are different products. The Pi5 S2 case does not include the Pi7 S2's audio retransmission feature, so it cannot serve as a wireless bridge for an airplane entertainment socket. IP54 protection covers the earbuds against dust and splashes; it does not make them suitable for swimming or establish equivalent protection for the case.
For US purchases, check whether a low-priced listing is genuinely new, who provides warranty coverage, and whether returns are allowed after opening. Older unopened stock can still have battery aging. Weigh the delivered price against current alternatives, especially if noise cancellation, call performance, or longer battery life matters more than the particular Bowers & Wilkins sound.