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Sennheiser Pmx 685I Review | 93 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£45
  • Form factor: in-ear
  • Connectivity: wired
  • Battery life: N/A hours
  • Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

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

4.6

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the headphones' quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best headphones on the market.

Score components:

80.0%

3.7

Technical Score

20.0%

8.3

User score

Poor
3.7

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the headphones' technical performance, covering key areas such as sound quality, noise cancelling, microphone performance, battery life, comfort, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

52.0%

3.0

Sound

20.0%

2.7

Features

10.0%

8.2

Design

8.0%

6.2

Connectivity

6.0%

1.0

Battery

4.0%

4.9

Calls & Controls

Poor
8.3

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.

Score components:

70.0%

7.6

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
3.8
(718)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
3.8
(718)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

Excellent
  • 2.1
    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%

    1.0

    Noise-canceling microphone

    8.0%

    0.0

    Battery life

  • 2.1
    Travel

    Score components:

    28.0%

    1.0

    Active noise cancellation (ANC)

    24.0%

    0.0

    Battery life

    18.0%

    9.9

    Weight

    16.0%

    0.0

    Multipoint support

    14.0%

    0.0

    Ambient sound mode

  • 2.7
    Calls

    Score components:

    28.0%

    1.0

    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

  • 6.9
    Workout

    Score components:

    28.0%

    9.9

    Weight

    24.0%

    9.0

    Water resistance

    20.0%

    4.0

    IP rating

    16.0%

    0.0

    Battery life

    12.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

  • sennheiser-pmx-685i
sennheiser-pmx-685i

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Sennheiser PMX 685i is a sports-oriented neckband headphone featuring a frequency response of 18 Hz to 20,000 Hz, 16 Ohms impedance, and a high sound pressure level of 120 dB/mW. Designed in collaboration with Adidas, these wired headphones are sweat and water-resistant, utilizing a secure behind-the-neck design to ensure they stay in place during intense activity. Main pros include a rich, punchy sound with deep bass, a lightweight and flexible frame, and an integrated in-line remote and microphone optimized for iOS devices. However, common cons include potential discomfort during prolonged use due to the hard earbud coating and an illogical mic layout that can be awkward to reach.

Technical Specifications of Sennheiser Pmx 685I

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the headphones' technical performance, covering key areas such as sound quality, noise cancelling, microphone performance, battery life, comfort, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

52.0%

3.0

Sound

20.0%

2.7

Features

10.0%

8.2

Design

8.0%

6.2

Connectivity

6.0%

1.0

Battery

4.0%

4.9

Calls & Controls

3.7
Sennheiser Pmx 685I has a technical score of 3.66 points, which is lower than that of 91.4% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.

Score components:

70.0%

7.6

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
3.8
(718)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
3.8
(718)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

8.3
Sennheiser Pmx 685I has a user score of 8.32 points, which is higher than that of 68.9% of products in this category.
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.
10
Sennheiser Pmx 685I has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 71.9% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the headphones' overall rating with their cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for headphones that offer a strong balance of performance, features, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

4.6

Overall score

40.0%

10

Price

6.2
Sennheiser Pmx 685I has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.2 points, which is lower than 74.9% of products in this category.
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

no
Sennheiser Pmx 685I does not support active noise cancellation. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
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

1
Sennheiser Pmx 685I uses 1 drivers, equal to 96% of headphones.
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

18 Hz
Sennheiser Pmx 685I reaches a lowest frequency of 18 Hz, lower lowest frequency than 49.8% of headphones and equal to 3.5% of headphones.
Show more
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

no
Sennheiser Pmx 685I does not support a noise-canceling microphone. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
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

yes
Sennheiser Pmx 685I is headset-ready, 84.7% is not. 15.3% of headphones can be used as headsets.
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

1
Sennheiser Pmx 685I has 1 microphones, more microphones than 25.9% of headphones and equal to 52.2% of headphones.
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

no
Sennheiser Pmx 685I does not include a boom microphone. 15.6% of headphones have a boom microphone.
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

?
Show more
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

wired
Sennheiser Pmx 685I supports wired connectivity, equal to 52.6% of headphones.
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
Show more
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

N/A
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

no
Sennheiser Pmx 685I does not support EQ customization. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
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

no
Sennheiser Pmx 685I does not support voice assistants. 60.9% of headphones support voice assistants.
Show more
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
Show more
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

24 g
Sennheiser Pmx 685I weighs 24 g, lighter than 83.9% of headphones and equal to 0.1% of headphones.
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
Show more

Sennheiser Pmx 685I vs the average headphone

  • 89% lower weight
    Sennheiser Pmx 685I is lighter than the average headphone (24 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 Pmx 685I is lighter than the average headphone (24 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.24 g vs 218 g
  • 18 dB/mW higher sensitivity
    Sennheiser Pmx 685I has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (120 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 Pmx 685I has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (120 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.120 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
  • Direct 3.5 mm plug
    Sennheiser Pmx 685I 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 Pmx 685I 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 Pmx 685I 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 Pmx 685I includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
  • 17 dB SPL higher sound pressure level
    Sennheiser Pmx 685I has a higher sound pressure level than the average headphone (120 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
    What it is: Output loudness level of the headphones, usually measured in dB. It helps compare how loud a model can play under similar conditions.
    When it matters: When you need a rough idea of how loud the headphones can get before you pair them with a weaker source.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=108 dB SPL

    Sennheiser Pmx 685I has a higher sound pressure level than the average headphone (120 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.120 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL
  • 2.15x more popular
    Sennheiser Pmx 685I is more popular than the average headphone (10.00 vs 4.646).
    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.
    Sennheiser Pmx 685I is more popular than the average headphone (10.00 vs 4.646).10 vs 4.65
  • 89% lower weight
    Sennheiser Pmx 685I is lighter than the average headphone (24 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
  • 18 dB/mW higher sensitivity
    Sennheiser Pmx 685I has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (120 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
  • 17 dB SPL higher sound pressure level
    Sennheiser Pmx 685I has a higher sound pressure level than the average headphone (120 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
  • Direct 3.5 mm plug
    Sennheiser Pmx 685I 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 Pmx 685I includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.

Total
Overall
Design
Sound
Connectivity
Calls & Controls
  • Fixed cable
    Sennheiser Pmx 685I has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
  • No passive noise reduction
    Sennheiser Pmx 685I does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
  • 0.2 % higher distortion
    Sennheiser Pmx 685I 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 %.
  • No voice assistant support
    Sennheiser Pmx 685I does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
  • 4 years older release date
    Sennheiser Pmx 685I was released earlier than the average headphone (2,013 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
    September 2013
  • No passive noise reduction
    Sennheiser Pmx 685I 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 Pmx 685I does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
  • No voice assistant support
    Sennheiser Pmx 685I 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

    Sennheiser Pmx 685I does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
  • Fixed cable
    Sennheiser Pmx 685I 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 Pmx 685I has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
  • 0.2 % higher distortion
    Sennheiser Pmx 685I 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 Pmx 685I 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 %
  • 8.4% worse value for money
    Sennheiser Pmx 685I has worse value for money than the average headphone (6.21 vs 6.736).
    What it is: An indicator that combines the headphones' overall rating with their cost.
    When it matters: When you are looking for headphones that offer a strong balance of performance, features, and price.
    Sennheiser Pmx 685I has worse value for money than the average headphone (6.21 vs 6.736).6.21 vs 6.74
  • 4 years older release date
    Sennheiser Pmx 685I was released earlier than the average headphone (2,013 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
    September 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 Pmx 685I was released earlier than the average headphone (2,013 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.2013 vs 2017
Total
Overall
Design
Sound
Features

Graphic comparison of Sennheiser Pmx 685I and

Attribute category
Attribute
No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
3.8
718 Reviews
United States
Amazon_logo.png
3.8
718 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about Sennheiser Pmx 685I?

  • Excellent, high-quality audio with balanced highs, mids, and a rich, weighty bass profile for its category
  • Secure neckband design that stays firmly in place during high-impact activities like running or cycling
  • Sweat-proof and water-resistant materials allow for rinsing under running water to clean after workouts
  • Extremely lightweight and flexible frame provides a comfortable fit for most users and works well with glasses or helmets
  • Situational awareness is maintained as the earbuds do not fully seal the ear canal, letting in necessary ambient traffic noise

What customers dislike about Sennheiser Pmx 685I?

  • Prolonged use (over 30-60 minutes) can lead to ear soreness or discomfort due to the lack of adjustable rotating buds
  • Illogical layout of the 3-button in-line remote makes buttons difficult to differentiate by touch alone while moving
  • The behind-the-neck band design is not suitable for floor exercises or lying down, as it can push the buds out of the ears
  • Full volume and playback controls are often only compatible with iOS devices, with limited functionality on Android
  • Some users find the minimal rubber coating and plastic frame feel plain or less premium than the original price suggest

Expert reviews

W
whathifi.com
24/02/2015
Sennheiser PMX 685i Sports review - What Hi-Fi?

The Sennheiser PMX 685i Sports is a neckband-style in-ear sports headphone created in collaboration with Adidas, originally tested at £45. A major strength of these headphones is their high-quality performance, delivering a rich, weighty sound with deep, punchy, and rhythmic bass that provides excellent energy for intense workouts. The build features a highly flexible and...Read more

G
gizmodo.com
17/10/2012
Gizmodo Sennheiser PMX 685i Review: The Best Running Headphones Just Got Even Better

The Sennheiser PMX 685i is a behind-the-neck style running headphone co-designed with Adidas that offers substantial performance upgrades over its predecessor, the 680i. Weighing just 0.67 ounces, this model features a thinner band, a right-angled 3.5mm jack, smaller earbuds for a better fit, and a dark blue color scheme. The primary pros of these headphones include an exceptional,...Read more

H
high-tech-out.net
06/03/2014
Sennheiser Adidas PX 685i Review: A slim and lightweight sports headset

The Sennheiser Adidas PX 685i is a fine and ultra-lightweight sports headband camera/headset hybrid tailored specifically for runners, priced at €50. The reviewer, Moctar Kane, highlights the overall design as exceptionally sleek and functional, weighing a mere 23 grams which allows it to be easily forgotten during intense running sessions. In terms of functionality, it delivers...Read more

(Translated)Show original
R
runlovers.it
31/03/2014
Sennheiser/Adidas: PMX685i and MX 685 SPORTS earphones

This article from Runlovers reviews a collaborative sports earphone lineup from Adidas and Sennheiser, focusing on addressing the common runner problem of earbuds slipping out due to sweat. The premium model, the Sennheiser/Adidas PMX 685i SPORTS, retails for €69 and features a neckband design that stays firmly in place. Its primary pros include exceptional audio accuracy across...Read more

(Translated)Show original

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