OVERALL
ALTERNATIVES
SPECS
VS AVERAGE
REVIEWS
Scored using Headphones Methodology v1.0
Headphones Methodology v1.0
Mathematical & Unbiased Scoring
Products in this category are scored under Frontum Headphones Methodology v1.0: technical specifications plus authentic consumer ratings, with 0% commercial bias.
Explore Headphones Methodology v1.0

Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price:~£80Form factor:in-earConnectivity:wiredBattery life:N/A hoursActive noise cancellation (ANC):no

Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports Review: Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how this product ranks in the Headphones category and whether it is worth buying.

Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports
5.5/10

Overall score

Score
5.5/ 10
✕
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 distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 88% of models
Score components

80%

5.1

Technical score

20%

7.1

User score

â–¼Worse than 88% of headphones
6.8

Value for money

Value for money
6.8/ 10
✕
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 distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 84% of models
Score components

70%

5.5

Overall score

30%

10

Price

â–¼Worse than 84%
5.1

Technical score

Technical score
5.1/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of technical performance for products in the Headphones category across these key areas: Sound, Calls & Controls, Connectivity, Features, Battery, Design.
When it matters
When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 91% of models
Score components

52%

4.9

Sound

20%

4.4

Features

10%

7.0

Design

8%

4.6

Connectivity

6%

4.9

Battery

4%

6.4

Calls & Controls

â–¼Worse than 91%
7.1

User score

User score
7.1/ 10
✕
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 distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 83% of models
Score components

70%

7.0

User ratings

30%

7.5

Number of reviews

â–¼Worse than 83%
  • sennheiser-pmx-686-sports
  • sennheiser-pmx-686-sports
  • sennheiser-pmx-686-sports
  • sennheiser-pmx-686-sports
  • sennheiser-pmx-686-sports
sennheiser-pmx-686-sports
sennheiser-pmx-686-sports
sennheiser-pmx-686-sports
sennheiser-pmx-686-sports
sennheiser-pmx-686-sports
Where to buy
*As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Best rankings
Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).All: ranking among all products in the database.
Loading category ranking...

Technical Specifications of pair of headphones Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports

Technical score
Technical score
5.1/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of technical performance for products in the Headphones category across these key areas: Sound, Calls & Controls, Connectivity, Features, Battery, Design.
When it matters
When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 91% of models
Score components:

52%

4.9

Sound

20%

4.4

Features

10%

7.0

Design

8%

4.6

Connectivity

6%

4.9

Battery

4%

6.4

Calls & Controls

5.1
User score
User score
7.1/ 10
✕
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 distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 83% of models
Score components

70%

7.0

User ratings

30%

7.5

Number of reviews

7.1
Popularity
Popularity
7.5/ 10
✕
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.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 70% of models
Popularity:
Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports has a popularity score of 7.5 points, which is higher than that of 70.1% of products in this category.
7.5
Value for money
Value for money
6.8/ 10
✕
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 distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 84% of models
Score components:

70%

5.5

Overall score

30%

10

Price

6.8
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
no
This pair of headphones does not support active noise cancellation. 27.5% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
Driver type
dynamic
Driver size
?
Number of drivers
1
Market range: <1 – >4
This pair of headphones uses 1 drivers, fewer drivers than 4% of headphones and equal to 96% of headphones.
Lowest frequency
18 Hz
Market range: <5 Hz – >20 Hz
This pair of headphones reaches a lowest frequency of 18 Hz, lower lowest frequency than 49.6% of headphones and equal to 3.6% of headphones.
Show more
Noise-canceling microphone
no
This pair of headphones does not support a noise-canceling microphone. 39% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
Can be used as a headset
yes
This pair of headphones is headset-ready, 84.8% is not. 15.2% of headphones can be used as headsets.
Number of microphones
1
Market range: <0 – >4
This pair of headphones has 1 microphones, more microphones than 26.9% of headphones and equal to 50.9% of headphones.
Boom microphone
no
This pair of headphones does not include a boom microphone. 13.5% of headphones have a boom microphone.
Microphone SNR
?
Show more
Connectivity
wired
This pair of headphones supports wired connectivity, less flexible connectivity than 49.2% of headphones and equal to 50.8% of headphones.
Bluetooth version
N/A
Maximum Bluetooth range
N/A
Audio latency
N/A
Multipoint support
no
This pair of headphones does not support multipoint. 30.6% of headphones support multipoint.
Show more
Ambient sound mode
no
This pair of headphones does not offer ambient sound mode. 24.9% of headphones support ambient sound mode.
EQ support
no
This pair of headphones does not support EQ customization. 23.2% of headphones support EQ.
Companion app
no
This pair of headphones does not work with a companion app. 21.6% of headphones support companion apps.
Adjustable ANC levels
N/A
Voice assistant support
yes
This pair of headphones supports voice assistants. 39.2% of headphones support voice assistants.
Show more
Battery life
N/A
Battery life with ANC
N/A
Charging time
N/A
Quick charge
no
This pair of headphones does not support quick charging. 33.1% of headphones support quick charge.
Battery capacity
N/A
Show more
Brand name
Sennheiser
Form factor
in-ear
Weight
36 g
Market range: <14 g – >340 g
This pair of headphones weighs 36 g, lighter than 81.9% of headphones and equal to 0.1% of headphones.
Acoustic design
open-back
Clamp force
N/A
Show more

Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports vs the average pair of headphones

246810TotalDesignSoundBatteryConnectivityCalls & ControlsFeatures
  • 83.5% lower weight
    This pair of headphones is lighter than the average pair of headphones (36 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
    36 g vs 218 g
  • 18 dB/mW higher sensitivity
    This pair of headphones has a higher sensitivity than the average pair of headphones (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
    This pair of headphones includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average pair of headphones does not. 39.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
  • In-line controls
    This pair of headphones includes in-line controls, the average pair of headphones does not. 36.6% of headphones support in-line controls.
  • Water resistance
    This pair of headphones is water resistant, the average pair of headphones is not. 20.2% of headphones are water resistant.
  • 17 dB SPL higher sound pressure level
    This pair of headphones has a higher sound pressure level than the average pair of headphones (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
    This pair of headphones is lighter than the average pair of headphones (36 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
    36 g vs 218 g
  • Water resistance
    This pair of headphones is water resistant, the average pair of headphones is not. 20.2% of headphones are water resistant.
  • 18 dB/mW higher sensitivity
    This pair of headphones has a higher sensitivity than the average pair of headphones (120 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
    120 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
  • 17 dB SPL higher sound pressure level
    This pair of headphones has a higher sound pressure level than the average pair of headphones (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
  • Direct 3.5 mm plug
    This pair of headphones includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average pair of headphones does not. 39.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
  • In-line controls
    This pair of headphones includes in-line controls, the average pair of headphones does not. 36.6% of headphones support in-line controls.
  • No passive noise reduction
    This pair of headphones does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average pair of headphones does. 82.6% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
  • Non-replaceable earpads
    This pair of headphones has non-replaceable earpads, while the average pair of headphones has replaceable ones. 75.6% of headphones have replaceable earpads.
  • Fixed cable
    This pair of headphones has a fixed cable, while the average pair of headphones has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
  • 0.2 % higher distortion
    This pair of headphones has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average pair of headphones (0.5 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
    0.5 % vs 0.3 %
  • 12.4% lower user score
    User score
    7.1/ 10
    ✕
    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 distribution
    ▼▼
    <55-66-77-88-99-10
    Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports
    the average pair of headphones
    Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports has a lower user score than the average pair of headphones (7.11 vs 8).
    7.11 vs 8
  • 6.3% worse value for money
    Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports has worse value for money than the average pair of headphones (6.84 vs 7.3).
    6.84 vs 7.27
  • 12.4% lower user score
    User score
    7.1/ 10
    ✕
    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 distribution
    ▼▼
    <55-66-77-88-99-10
    Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports
    the average pair of headphones
    Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports has a lower user score than the average pair of headphones (7.11 vs 8).
    7.11 vs 8
  • 6.3% worse value for money
    Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports has worse value for money than the average pair of headphones (6.84 vs 7.3).
    6.84 vs 7.27
  • Non-replaceable earpads
    This pair of headphones has non-replaceable earpads, while the average pair of headphones has replaceable ones. 75.6% of headphones have replaceable earpads.
  • Fixed cable
    This pair of headphones has a fixed cable, while the average pair of headphones has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
  • No passive noise reduction
    This pair of headphones does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average pair of headphones does. 82.6% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
  • 0.2 % higher distortion
    This pair of headphones has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average pair of headphones (0.5 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
    0.5 % vs 0.3 %

Video reviews

Hands-on testing, unboxing, and real-world video evaluations

8.0
Tech-Reviewer
≈ estimated
18/04/2016
Hands-on review · treadmill use, sound and fit
Verdict
Sennheiser PMX 686 Sports pleases on sound overall, but the fit and iPhone compatibility may not suit everyone.
Overview video
Overview video
Not graded

Expert reviews

In-depth analysis and verdict from leading tech publications

soundguys.com
18/04/2015
Hands-on test · Wired sports headphones
Verdict
The Sennheiser PMX 686G sounds good and stays put during exercise, but it's painful to wear, so try it on before buying.
indianexpress.com
25/07/2015
Hands-on review · Neckband sports headset
Verdict
The Sennheiser PMX 686G Sports has good, bass-leaning sound and a sturdy build for jogging, but it isn't comfortable for long hours and seems overpriced.
firstpost.com
28/03/2016
Hands-on review · Wired sports earphones
Verdict
The Sennheiser PMX 686G suits runners who need sturdy earphones, but sound doesn't stand out and it gets uncomfortable after more than ten minutes.
xc-run.de
14/02/2018
Trail test · Running headphones
Verdict
The Sennheiser PMX 686 Sports stays put on trails with a rigid band, but its sound lags behind rivals and doesn't suit every head shape.
dirtmountainbike.de
07/03/2016
Hands-on test · Sports neckband earphones
Verdict
The Sennheiser PMX 686G is a sturdy, tight-fitting sports earphone with deep bass and clear calls, but it doesn't fit under dirt-bike or full-face helmets.
xc-ski.de
15/01/2016
Hands-on test · Wired sports earphones
Verdict
The Sennheiser PMX 686G Sports is uncomfortable to wear, won't fit under a hat and sounds thin, so it's not a first choice at its price.
L
leclaireur.fnac.com
16/11/2016
Summary of the review
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
(Translated)Show original

Third-party reviews

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 don't like 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.

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.

Compare Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports with other products in the Headphones category

1Product to compare no. 1
VS
2Product to compare no. 2
VS
3Product to compare no. 3 (optional)

Graphic comparison of Sennheiser Pmx 686 Sports and other products in the Headphones category

No results found