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Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£80
Avg. price in US: ~$110
Form factor: in-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

4.9

Poor

4.1

Poor

7.7

Very good

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
2.0
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
0.0
Battery life
18.0%
9.6
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
7.3
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
9.6
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 PMX 686 Sports is a wired, neckband-style headphone designed for high-intensity workouts, featuring a lightweight 27g build and a sweat-resistant IPX4 rating. It utilizes an open-back acoustic design for situational awareness and delivers a frequency response of 18Hz to 20kHz with a 30-ohm impedance and 120dB sound pressure level (SPL). Its primary advantages include a highly secure, non-slip fit, a durable para-aramid reinforced tangle-free cable, and antimicrobial ear adapters. However, notable drawbacks include limited inline remote compatibility for iOS users (optimized for Android), a sound signature that can lack treble crispness, and a neckband design that some users find uncomfortable for extended wear.

Technical Specifications of Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports

Overall score

4.9

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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

4.9

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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

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

4.1

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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

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

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

4.9

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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

8.0

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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 Pmx 686 Sports vs the average headphone

Why is Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports better than the average headphone?

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83.5% lower weight
Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports is lighter than the average headphone (36 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 686 Sports is lighter than the average headphone (36 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.36 g vs 218 g
18 dB/mW higher sensitivity
Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports 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 686 Sports 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 686 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 Pmx 686 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 Pmx 686 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 Pmx 686 Sports includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
Water resistance
Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports is water resistant, the average headphone is not. 20.2% of headphones are water resistant.
IPX4
What it is: Protection level against water exposure
When it matters: When workouts, commuting, or outdoor use expose the headphones to moisture.
Importance: MEDIUM
Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports is water resistant, the average headphone is not. 20.2% of headphones are water resistant.
17 dB SPL higher sound pressure level
Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports 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 686 Sports 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
83.5% lower weight
Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports is lighter than the average headphone (36 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
Water resistance
Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports is water resistant, the average headphone is not. 20.2% of headphones are water resistant.
18 dB/mW higher sensitivity
Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports 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 686 Sports 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 686 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 Pmx 686 Sports includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.

Calls & Controls

Why is Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports worse than the average headphone?

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Fixed cable
Sennheiser Pmx 686 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 Pmx 686 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 Pmx 686 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 %.
No passive noise reduction
Sennheiser Pmx 686 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 Pmx 686 Sports does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
Fixed cable
Sennheiser Pmx 686 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 Pmx 686 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 Pmx 686 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 Pmx 686 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 %
5.2% worse value for money
Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports has worse value for money than the average headphone (6.40 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 686 Sports has worse value for money than the average headphone (6.40 vs 6.736).6.4 vs 6.74

Graphic comparison of Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports and

Attribute category

Attribute

No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports?

Secure fit: The neckband design and headband ensure the earbuds stay in place during high-intensity activities like running or jogging.
Awareness of surroundings: The open-back design allows ambient noise to pass through, which is a key safety feature for outdoor athletes.
Balanced audio quality: Reviews highlight a spacious sound with surprising bass response for this form factor.
Durability: Features moisture-resistant materials (anti-bacterial ear adapters) and a reinforced, tangle-free cable.
Lightweight: The neckband construction is exceptionally light, making it less intrusive during workouts.
Integrated controls: Includes a built-in microphone and remote for calls and music management.

What customers dislike about Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports?

Significant discomfort: Many users and reviewers report that the rigid design and fit can cause physical pain in the ears after short periods.
Device compatibility issues: The full functionality of the inline remote (volume/skip) often only works with specific operating systems (Android for 'G', iOS for 'i').
Fragile plastic: Some users noted that the plastic near the earpiece is delicate and prone to breaking.
Limited noise isolation: While good for safety, the lack of a seal means it is not ideal for blocking out noise in loud environments like a gym.
Ergonomics: The neckband can interfere with certain exercises, such as those involving lying on a bench or floor work.

Expert reviews

firstpost.com

28/03/2016

Firstpost - Sennheiser PMX 686G Review: A good earphone package for sports activities

The Sennheiser PMX 686G is a specialized sports earphone that targets active users who need a secure fit during intense workouts. Built with a stretchable plastic neckband and a single-sided, tangle-free cable, it includes clever design choices like a rear reflector for night running and water and sweat resistance. Sennheiser even claims you can safely wash the earbuds under tap...Read more

indianexpress.com

25/07/2015

Indian Express - Sennheiser PMX 686G Sports: Active sound, but could have been more comfy

The Indian Express review of the Sennheiser PMX 686G Sports headset highlights its durable, sweat-resistant design and punchy, bass-forward sound quality, making it suitable for high-energy workouts. Positive aspects include a secure fit for active use, a tangle-free cable, and a clear, well-placed microphone for calls. However, the headset falls short due to a rigid neckband design...Read more

soundguys.com

18/04/2015

SoundGuys - Sennheiser PMX 686G Review

The SoundGuys review of the Sennheiser PMX 686G highlights a sports-oriented, wired neckband headset that delivers surprisingly robust audio performance, including powerful bass and a spacious soundstage. The design features a durable, flat cable with a reliable inline remote/microphone, offering decent passive noise isolation for outdoor awareness. However, the review concludes...Read more

connect-living.de

26/05/2015

Sports Headphones Comparison Review - Sennheiser PMX 686

This review evaluates nine sports headphones, assessing their audio performance, design, and physical comfort during workouts. The wired Audio Technica ATH-Sport 3 achieved the highest sound rating due to its balanced profile and solid bass foundation, although it lacks wireless features and its treble can sound aggressive. The iTeufel Move followed in second place with transparent...Read more

flitz-piepen.de

06/11/2015

Sennheiser Sports Headphones - The Speed Demons

The review on Die Flitzpiepen highlights that Sennheiser’s sports headphones, developed with athletes, feature moisture-resistant designs and secure-fit mechanisms like neckbands and a slide-to-fit system for intensive movement. The, inclusion of an in-line remote with a microphone and an open acoustic design for environmental awareness are listed as key advantages. Die...Read more

xc-ski.de

15/01/2016

Sennheiser PMX 686G Sports - xc-ski.de Cross-Country Skiing

The Sennheiser PMX 686G Sports headphones offer a stable, movement-resistant fit designed for high-intensity activities like cross-country running and jogging. The manufacturer highlights its innovative open ear-canal design, which allows athletes to remain aware of their surroundings for safety. On the positive side, the headphones feature an inline remote control that allows for...Read more

dirtmountainbike.de

07/03/2016

Review: Sennheiser PMX 686G Sports Headphones

The Dirt Magazine DE review evaluates the Sennheiser PMX 686G, a specialized sports headset priced at 99.00 EUR featuring a unique neckband design. The reviewer praises its high-quality, robust construction, water and sweat resistance, and ultralight 27-gram build. Performance-wise, it delivers brilliant sound with deep, clean bass well-suited for electronic music, alongside an...Read more

xc-run.de

14/02/2018

Sennheiser Sport PMX 686

The xc-run.de review of the Sennheiser Sport PMX 686 highlights a sports-focused, wired headphone model equipped with a 3.5 mm jack and a rigid neckband connecting the earbuds. On the positive side, the headphones deliver decent sound quality and effectively block out ambient noise because the rigid band firmly presses the earbuds into the ear canal. They also scored well for...Read more

elektro.at

31/07/2015

Electrical Economy: And Where Is the Performance? (Sennheiser Sports Range)", "Electro Industry: But Where Is the Power? (Sennheiser Sports Range)

This document outlines a major legislative shift in Austria with the implementation of a copyright levy on storage media (Festplattenabgabe) starting October 1, 2015, which directly impacts consumer electronics, retailers, and mobile network providers. Prominent industry figures, including the CEOs of A1, 3, and T-Mobile, strongly critique the levy as an outdated "smartphone tax"...Read more

vbg.arbeiterkammer.at

02/11/2016

November 2016 Campaign: Sports Headphones Review

This magazine review highlights the extensive public service, legal guidance, and community engagement provided by the Chamber of Labour (AK Vorarlberg) in November 2016. A major positive focus is their firm advocacy for employee rights, showcasing a collective push alongside the ÖGB union to abolish "cold progression" tax burdens and opposing stressful 12-hour workdays to safeguard...Read more

audiocasque.fr

08/06/2015

Sennheiser MX 686G | REVIEW | The jogger's best friend

The Sennheiser MX 686G is a wired sports earbud designed for outdoor exercise like city jogging and cycling, retailing at an affordable price of €60. The pros highlighted in the review focus on its outdoor safety design, which features a flat earbud shape that allows ambient traffic noise to filter through while maintaining surprisingly powerful bass response and a balanced sound...Read more

leclaireur.fnac.com

16/11/2016

Test Labo du Sennheiser PMX 686 Sports(lesnumeriques.com) | 07/04/2015 | Test Sennheiser PMX 686G Sports : un tour de cou robuste pour les sportifs

The Sennheiser PMX 686 Sports headphones received a poor technical rating of 1 out of 5 stars from the Labo Fnac evaluation. On the positive side, the headphones scored reasonably well in frequency response accuracy with a score of 6.5 out of 5. Users highlighted their high practicality for sports activities like running, noting that the included clothing clip and integrated...Read more

leclaireur.fnac.com

16/11/2016

Fnac Scout: Sennheiser PMX 686 Sports Lab Test

The Sennheiser PMX 686 Sports neckband headphones received a critical 1 out of 5 stars technical rating from Labo Fnac due to significant compromises in acoustic performance and comfort. While the earphones offer a lightweight design weighing only 27.1 grams and feature an integrated microphone, their sub-par execution dragged down the score. Labo Fnac's specific metrics highlight a...Read more

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