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Sennheiser MX 685G Sports Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£35
Avg. price in US: ~$50
Form factor: in-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Sennheiser MX 685G Sports review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

5.2

Good

4.4

Poor

8.2

Excellent

3.2
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
0.0
Audio latency
25.0%
0.0
Low-latency game mode
20.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
12.0%
10
Noise-canceling microphone
8.0%
0.0
Battery life
3.5
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
0.0
Battery life
18.0%
10
Weight
16.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
10
Ambient sound mode
5.2
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
10
Noise-canceling microphone
24.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
18.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
14.0%
0.0
Companion app
7.4
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
10
Weight
24.0%
10
Water resistance
20.0%
5.0
IP rating
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
12.0%
10
Can be used as a headset

Best prices in UK

£?

Best rankings

Verdict

The Sennheiser MX 685G Sports is a rugged, wired in-ear headset specifically engineered for athletes, featuring a frequency response of 18Hz to 20,000Hz, a 30-ohm impedance, and a high sound pressure level of 118 dB/mW. Its primary characteristic is the adjustable 'Slide-to-Fit' EarFin system, which ensures a customized and secure fit during intense movement, complemented by a lightweight 22.1g design and sweat- and water-resistant materials. Main pros include a durable para-aramid reinforced tangle-free cable, integrated in-line controls with a microphone for Android devices, and a 'situational awareness' design that allows ambient noise for safety during outdoor runs. Notable cons include the lack of deep sub-bass typical of open-ear designs, the absence of active or passive noise cancellation, and a non-detachable cable.

Technical Specifications of Sennheiser MX 685G Sports

Overall score

5.2

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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

3.0

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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

7.7

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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

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

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

?

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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

5.7

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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

8.2

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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

Sennheiser

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

in-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

open-back

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

N/A

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Sennheiser MX 685G Sports vs the average headphone

Why is Sennheiser MX 685G Sports better than the average headphone?

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89.9% lower weight
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports is lighter than the average headphone (22.1 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
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports is lighter than the average headphone (22.1 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.22.1 g vs 218 g
16 dB/mW higher sensitivity
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (118 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
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (118 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.118 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
Clear call microphone
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
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
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports 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
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports 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
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports 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
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
Wind noise reduction
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
What it is: Reduces wind interference for clearer outdoor calls
When it matters: When you take calls outdoors while walking, cycling, or commuting.
Importance: LOW
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
Quick mic mute
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.
What it is: Ability to mute microphone during calls
When it matters: When you need to silence the mic quickly during meetings or multiplayer games.
Importance: LOW
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.
Open-back design
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports 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
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports uses an open-back design, while the average headphone does not. 9.3% of headphones have an open-back design.
89.9% lower weight
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports is lighter than the average headphone (22.1 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
Open-back design
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports uses an open-back design, while the average headphone does not. 9.3% of headphones have an open-back design.
Water resistance
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports is water resistant, the average headphone is not. 20.2% of headphones are water resistant.
16 dB/mW higher sensitivity
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (118 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
15 dB SPL higher sound pressure level
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports has a higher sound pressure level than the average headphone (118 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
Clear call microphone
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
In-line controls
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
Wind noise reduction
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
Quick mic mute
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.
Boom microphone included
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports includes a boom microphone, the average headphone does not. 15.6% of headphones have a boom microphone.

Calls & Controls

Why is Sennheiser MX 685G Sports worse than the average headphone?

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Fixed cable
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
No passive noise reduction
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
0.2 % higher distortion
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.5 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
4 years older release date
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports was released earlier than the average headphone (2,013 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
June 2013
No passive noise reduction
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports 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
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
Fixed cable
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports 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
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
0.2 % higher distortion
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.5 % 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%
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.5 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.0.5 % vs 0.3 %
4 years older release date
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports was released earlier than the average headphone (2,013 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
June 2013
What it is: Official release or launch date of the model
When it matters: When you want a newer model for fresher features, longer support life, or simply to avoid buying into an older generation.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=2020
Sennheiser MX 685G Sports was released earlier than the average headphone (2,013 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.2013 vs 2017

Graphic comparison of Sennheiser MX 685G Sports and

Attribute category

Attribute

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about Sennheiser MX 685G Sports?

Secure Slide-to-Fit mechanism ensures earbuds stay in place during intense activities like running
Sweat and water-resistant design allows for cleaning under a tap and high durability during workouts
Open acoustic design enables situational awareness by allowing surrounding traffic noise to be heard
Tangle-free, Para-aramid reinforced cable increases overall product longevity
Balanced sound profile with clear highs and decent bass for a sports-oriented earbud
Lightweight and generally comfortable for long exercise sessions

What customers dislike about Sennheiser MX 685G Sports?

Open design lacks passive noise isolation and deep, 'thumping' bass
Audio quality is slightly sacrificed in favor of sports-specific performance and safety features
In-line remote functions may have limited compatibility with certain older iOS versions compared to Android
Can cause ear fatigue or discomfort for users with smaller ear canals after prolonged use
Lacks advanced features like Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)

Expert reviews

bestearphonesguide.co.uk

05/02/2014

Sennheiser MX 685 Review - Best Earphones Guide

The Best Earphones Guide review rates the Sennheiser MX 685 sports earphones at 3.8 out of 5 stars, praising them as highly durable and functional running companions developed in partnership with Adidas. A major pro highlighted in the review is the customizable, secure fit provided by the adjustable "slide-to-fit" EarFin mechanism and multiple silicone adapters, ensuring they stay...Read more

flitz-piepen.de

06/11/2015

Sennheiser Sports Headphones – The Speedsters

The Die Flitzpiepen review of Sennheiser’s MX 686G and PMX 686G sports headphones highlights a secure fit for intense exercise, moisture resistance, and powerful, dynamic sound. Key advantages include reliable, washable construction and a functional in-line remote with a microphone. - Die...Read more

runlovers.it

31/03/2014

Sennheiser/Adidas: PMX685i and MX 685 SPORTS earphones

The Sennheiser/Adidas PMX 685i SPORTS is the premium neckband model in this collaborative lineup, priced at €69. Designed with a flexible arch that wraps behind the neck, it ensures a highly secure fit that stays locked in place even during intense, sweaty runs. Reviewers praise its exceptional, robust sound quality, highlighted by punchy, deep bass and accurate treble capable of...Read more

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