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Bang & Olufsen Form 2 Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£110
Avg. price in US: ~$110
Form factor: on-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Bang & Olufsen Form 2 review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

4.3

Poor

3.6

Poor

7.1

Very good

0.2
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
0.0
Audio latency
25.0%
0.0
Low-latency game mode
20.0%
1.0
Can be used as a headset
12.0%
0.0
Noise-canceling microphone
8.0%
0.0
Battery life
3.3
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
0.0
Battery life
18.0%
8.8
Weight
16.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
10
Ambient sound mode
0.2
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
0.0
Noise-canceling microphone
24.0%
1.0
Can be used as a headset
18.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
14.0%
0.0
Companion app
4.6
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
8.8
Weight
24.0%
1.0
Water resistance
20.0%
9.0
IP rating
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
12.0%
1.0
Can be used as a headset

Best prices in UK

£?

Best rankings

#14 in Best Bang & Olufsen Headphones
#728 in Best Wired Headphones

Verdict

The Bang & Olufsen Form 2 (and updated Form 2i) is an iconic, ultra-lightweight on-ear headphone weighing between 86g and 90g, featuring a minimalist semi-open dynamic design that has earned a place in MoMA's permanent collection. Technically, it offers a frequency response range of 20 Hz to 21,000 Hz, an impedance of 30 Ohms, and 30mm drivers that deliver a transparent, neutral soundstage with a focus on clear mid-range and crisp highs. Main pros include its timeless aesthetic, extreme portability, and an 'honest' stereo performance that avoids over-emphasized bass, while the 2i version adds a modern 1.2m tangle-resistant cable with an inline microphone and remote. However, notable cons include a lack of deep sub-bass, a plastic headband that can feel fragile, and physical discomfort or 'clamping' fatigue during listening sessions exceeding two hours.

Technical Specifications of Bang & Olufsen Form 2

Overall score

4.3

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.

Sound

2.3

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Active noise cancellation (ANC)

What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology

When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

Importance: HIGH

Driver type

What it is: Type of speaker driver technology used

When it matters: When the underlying sound character and driver technology matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

dynamic

Driver size

What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit

When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of drivers

What it is: Total number of speaker drivers per earcup

When it matters: When multi-driver designs are part of your buying criteria.

Importance: LOW

Lowest frequency

What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce

When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=10 Hz

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Calls & Controls

2.9

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Noise-canceling microphone

What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls

When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Can be used as a headset

What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.

When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of microphones

What it is: Total number of built-in microphones

When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

Boom microphone

What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity

When it matters: When you need stronger voice clarity for gaming, streaming, or work calls.

Importance: LOW

N/A

Microphone SNR

What it is: Signal-to-noise ratio of the microphone

When it matters: When call clarity matters and you want your voice picked up more cleanly instead of buried in background hiss.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >80 dB

N/A

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Connectivity

6.2

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Connectivity

What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)

When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

Importance: HIGH

Bluetooth version

What it is: Version of Bluetooth technology supported

When it matters: When wireless stability, efficiency, and feature support matter more than treating Bluetooth as a box-check spec.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5.0

N/A

Maximum Bluetooth range

What it is: Maximum wireless operating distance from source device

When it matters: When you move around rooms and want fewer dropouts from your source device.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

N/A

Audio latency

What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode

When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <60 ms

N/A

Multipoint support

What it is: Supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices

When it matters: When you switch often between a phone and a laptop during the day.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

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Features

4.7

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Ambient sound mode

What it is: Allows external sounds to pass through for awareness

When it matters: When you need to stay aware of traffic, voices, or announcements.

Importance: MEDIUM

EQ support

What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer

When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

Importance: MEDIUM

Companion app

What it is: Dedicated mobile app for customization and updates

When it matters: When software customization, updates, and extra controls matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Adjustable ANC levels

What it is: Allows adjustment of noise cancellation intensity levels

When it matters: When you move between quiet rooms, offices, streets, and public transport and do not want one ANC setting for every situation.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=4

N/A

Voice assistant support

What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant

When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

Importance: LOW

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Battery

1.0

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Battery life

What it is: Playback time on a single charge

When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >45 hours

N/A

Battery life with ANC

What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled

When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >40 hours

N/A

Charging time

What it is: Time required for a full battery charge

When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=2 hours

N/A

Quick charge

What it is: Provides quick playback time with short charging period

When it matters: When a short top-up needs to deliver useful playback before you leave.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Battery capacity

What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery

When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=720 mAh

N/A

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Design

7.6

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Brand name

What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.

When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Bang & Olufsen

Form factor

What it is: Overall design type of the headphones (over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, etc.)

When it matters: When comfort, portability, and isolation depend on the overall headphone style.

Importance: HIGH

on-ear

Weight

What it is: Total weight of the headphones

When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <150 g

Acoustic design

What it is: Type of acoustic design (open-back, closed-back, semi-open)

When it matters: When you need the right balance of isolation, leakage, and soundstage.

Importance: HIGH

semi-open

Clamp force

What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head

When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

?

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Bang & Olufsen Form 2 vs the average headphone

Why is Bang & Olufsen Form 2 better than the average headphone?

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68.8% lower weight
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 is lighter than the average headphone (68 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
What it is: Total weight of the headphones
When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <150 g
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 is lighter than the average headphone (68 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.68 g vs 218 g
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones end in a built-in 3.5 mm male plug instead of relying on a separate detachable cable.
When it matters: When direct wired compatibility with older devices or adapters matters.
Importance: MEDIUM
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
In-line controls
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
What it is: Controls available on in-line remote of wired cable
When it matters: When your wired setup depends on cable-mounted buttons or call controls.
Importance: LOW
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
Open-back design
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 uses an open-back design, while the average headphone does not. 9.3% of headphones have an open-back design.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones use an open-back housing that lets air and sound pass through more freely than a closed design.
When it matters: When you listen in quiet places and care more about spacious sound than blocking outside noise or preventing sound leakage.
Importance: MEDIUM
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 uses an open-back design, while the average headphone does not. 9.3% of headphones have an open-back design.
68.8% lower weight
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 is lighter than the average headphone (68 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
Open-back design
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 uses an open-back design, while the average headphone does not. 9.3% of headphones have an open-back design.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
In-line controls
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.

Calls & Controls

Why is Bang & Olufsen Form 2 worse than the average headphone?

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Fixed cable
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
No travel bag
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
No passive noise reduction
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
10 mm smaller driver size
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (30 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
0.7 % higher distortion
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
8 dB/mW lower sensitivity
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (94 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
22 Hz weaker bass extension
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (40 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
16 dB lower max SPL
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 has a lower max SPL than the average headphone (94 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
9 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (94 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
Not headset-ready
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 is not headset-ready, while the average headphone is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.
1 fewer microphones
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
No voice assistant support
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
32 older release date
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 was released earlier than the average headphone (1,985 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
No passive noise reduction
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones reduce outside noise through physical sealing, fit, and materials rather than active electronics.
When it matters: When you want better isolation from fit and seal alone, even with ANC turned off or not available.
Importance: MEDIUM
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
10 mm smaller driver size
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (30 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit
When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.
Importance: MEDIUM
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (30 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.30 mm vs 40 mm
No voice assistant support
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant
When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.
Importance: LOW
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
Fixed cable
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
What it is: Cable can be removed or replaced
When it matters: When you care about easier cable replacement, simpler storage, or the option to swap to shorter, longer, or upgraded leads.
Importance: MEDIUM
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
0.7 % higher distortion
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
What it is: Percentage of harmonic distortion in audio output
When it matters: When cleaner sound reproduction matters at louder volumes.
Importance: LOW
Good value: <=1%
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.1 % vs 0.3 %
8 dB/mW lower sensitivity
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (94 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
What it is: Sound pressure output level per unit of input power
When it matters: When you plan to use weaker sources like phones, handhelds, or entry-level dongles and still want enough volume.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=106 dB/mW
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (94 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.94 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
22 Hz weaker bass extension
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (40 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <=10 Hz
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (40 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.40 Hz vs 18 Hz
Not headset-ready
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 is not headset-ready, while the average headphone is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.
When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.
Importance: MEDIUM
Bang & Olufsen Form 2 is not headset-ready, while the average headphone is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.

Calls & Controls

Graphic comparison of Bang & Olufsen Form 2 and

Attribute category

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

What customers like about Bang & Olufsen Form 2?

Iconic, minimalist design that is featured in MoMA's permanent collection.
Extremely lightweight (approx. 68-90g), making them barely noticeable when worn.
Delivers clear and detailed midrange performance, particularly good for vocals and acoustic music.
Surprising bass reproduction and 'slam' for an old-school, semi-open design.
Good soundstage and stereo separation that provides an open, airy listening experience.
Reliable and long-lasting build; some users report using them daily for over 10 years.

What customers dislike about Bang & Olufsen Form 2?

Can become uncomfortable or 'clampy' during prolonged use, typically after 1-2 hours.
Lacks sub-bass and deep low-end power due to the early frequency roll-off.
Poor noise isolation and significant sound leakage because of the semi-open configuration.
The foam ear pads are fragile and prone to flattening or falling off, requiring frequent replacement.
Fragile plastic headband that lacks padding and does not fold for easier storage or travel.
Excessively long and thin cable (on original models) can be prone to tangling and twisting.

Expert reviews

letstalk-tech.com

18/06/2014

B&O Form 2i Review: The Iconic Headphone, Modernised

The B&O Form 2i headphones are a modern refresh of Bang & Olufsen's classic 1992 design, which resides in the permanent collection at the Museum of Modern Art. Priced at £109, this ultra-lightweight, 90-gram model features an updated audio cable with an inline microphone and iOS-compatible volume controls positioned conveniently near the jawline for clear phone calls. Its key pros...Read more

trustedreviews.com

02/08/2014

B&O Form 2i review", "Go to the product page for this item

The Bang & Olufsen Form 2i on-ear headphones are described as an affordable, retro-chic option featuring an extremely lightweight design for comfort. They are noted for delivering clear, highly detailed audio with a decent soundstage in a stylish, minimalist package. Trusted ReviewsHowever, the review highlights that the plastic headband lacks stability and can slip easily....Read more

soundandvision.com

04/10/2016

Bang & Olufsen Form 2i Headphones Product Viewer

The Bang & Olufsen Form 2i headphones are praised for their iconic, 3-ounce lightweight design and an open, spacious soundstage that delivers punchy bass and engaging vocals. Despite the vintage aesthetic, the $129 on-ear headphones provide a lively, energetic listening experience that outclasses many competitors in terms of spatial performance. However, the review notes the sound...Read more

head-fi.org

23/01/2006

B&O Form 2 | Headphone Reviews and Discussion

The Head-Fi thread review delivers a highly critical assessment of the Bang & Olufsen Form 2 headphonesGo, highlighting significant deficiencies in both sound and comfort. The reviewer describes the audio as a "muddy mess" characterized by a congested, one-note bass, poor instrument separation, and lacking vocal clarity, although the highs were noted to be not unpleasant....Read more

hometheaterreview.com

09/05/2009

Review of the Bang & Olufsen Form 2 Headphones

The Bang & Olufsen Form 2 Headphones are a lightweight, over-the-skull audio option retailing for $100 that offer an attractive, slightly '80s-inspired matte black and chrome aesthetic. Weighing a mere 2.4 ounces, these headphones deliver an incredibly dynamic performance with a frequency range of 40–20,000Hz and a 30-ohm impedance. Major pros highlighted in the review include their...Read more

audiophilestyle.com

17/08/2013

Bang & Olufsen (B&O) Form 2 Stereo Headphones Review

The Bang & Olufsen Form 2Go, recognized for its minimalist, lightweight design and place in the MoMA, offers exceptional clarity in the midrange and high frequencies, making it ideal for vocal-heavy audio. Its semi-open structure provides a natural soundstage, while the 68-90 gram weight ensures comfort for on-the-go use. Conversely, the headphones lack significant low-end bass...Read more

computerbild.de

19/10/2014

Bang & Olufsen Form 2i Review: The Feather-Light Headphones Put to the Test

The Bang & Olufsen Form 2i is an exceptionally lightweight on-ear headphone option, weighing a mere 89 grams, which utilizes a minimalist design that is virtually unnoticeable on the head during extended listening sessions. The audio performance is highly impressive for such tiny ear cups, offering an incredibly clean, warm, and highly detailed sound reproduction. Practical daily...Read more

lesnumeriques.com

27/03/2014

Bang & Olufsen Form 2i Review: Back to the 80s

The Bang & Olufsen Form 2i is a minimalist, lightweight (under 100g) supra-aural headphone based on a historic 1983 design that famously resides in the permanent collection of the MoMA. This updated version introduces vibrant color choices and a smartphone-compatible microphone with remote controls. On the positive side, the headphone offers a very clean, original scandinavinan...Read more

on-mag.fr

10/04/2015

Bang & Olufsen BeoPlay Form 2i review: an affordable and sonically compelling design icon

The ON-mag review highlights the Bang & Olufsen BeoPlay Form 2iGo as an affordable update to a classic 1980s Danish design icon. Retailing at €130, this ultra-lightweight, 90-gram supra-aural headphone maintains its original timeless aesthetic while introducing a wider selection of colors and a smartphone-compatible cable with a microphone and remote controls. The reviewer notes...Read more

visualescrita.wordpress.com

11/04/2014

Bang & Olufsen Form 2i Review

The Bang & Olufsen Form 2i headphones are highly praised in this review for balancing sophisticated aesthetics with advanced technology. Priced at €129, these lightweight, on-ear headphones feature a sleek headband made of flexible, matte ABS plastic and a smooth sliding extension mechanism made of stainless steel. Prominent pros include an incredibly comfortable fit that avoids...Read more

fwdmagazine.be

18/04/2012

Bang & Olufsen Form 2 Review

The Bang & Olufsen Form 2 is an ultra-lightweight (68 grams) on-ear headphone that relies heavily on its iconic, 25-year-old minimalist design featuring a continuous plastic headband available in five colours. A notable design advantage is its very slim, 3.5mm plug, which easily fits into deep or hard-to-reach audio ports. It provides a convenient, easy-going audio experience with...Read more

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