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Sennheiser RS 120 II Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£130
Avg. price in US: ~$80
Form factor: on-ear
Connectivity: wireless
Battery life: 20 hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Sennheiser RS 120 II review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

4.2

Poor

3.0

Poor

8.8

Excellent

6.4
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
10
Audio latency
25.0%
10
Low-latency game mode
20.0%
1.0
Can be used as a headset
12.0%
0.0
Noise-canceling microphone
8.0%
3.1
Battery life
2.1
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
3.1
Battery life
18.0%
4.9
Weight
16.0%
1.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
0.0
Ambient sound mode
1.1
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
0.0
Noise-canceling microphone
24.0%
1.0
Can be used as a headset
18.0%
1.0
Multipoint support
16.0%
3.1
Battery life
14.0%
1.0
Companion app
3.0
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
4.9
Weight
24.0%
1.0
Water resistance
20.0%
4.0
IP rating
16.0%
3.1
Battery life
12.0%
1.0
Can be used as a headset

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

#110 in Best Sennheiser Headphones
#756 in Best Wireless Headphones

Verdict

The Sennheiser RS 120 II is an open-back, supra-aural wireless RF headphone system designed primarily for high-fidelity TV and music listening. It features a frequency response of 22 Hz to 19,500 Hz, an impedance of 24 Ohms, and a maximum sound pressure level of 106 dB. The system includes a multi-purpose transmitter that doubles as an easy-access charging cradle for the included NiMH AAA batteries, which provide up to 20 hours of operation per charge. Key advantages include its lightweight 230g build for long-term comfort, a broad wireless range of up to 100 metres that functions through walls, and intuitive on-ear controls for volume and tuning. However, notable drawbacks include a persistent low-level background hiss characteristic of analog RF transmission, the requirement of manual frequency tuning to avoid interference, and a loose fit that may cause the headset to slip if the user tilts their head.

Technical Specifications of Sennheiser RS 120 II

Overall score

4.2

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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

2.5

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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

3.4

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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

5.0

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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

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

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Features

1.9

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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

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

4.0

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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

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

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

?

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

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Design

5.7

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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

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

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

?

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Sennheiser RS 120 II vs the average headphone

Why is Sennheiser RS 120 II better than the average headphone?

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More flexible connectivity
Sennheiser RS 120 II offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired 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
Sennheiser RS 120 II offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.wireless vs wired
87.5 ms lower audio latency
Sennheiser RS 120 II has a lower audio latency than the average headphone (40 ms vs 127.5 ms). The average headphones have audio latency of 127.5 ms.
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
Sennheiser RS 120 II has a lower audio latency than the average headphone (40 ms vs 127.5 ms). The average headphones have audio latency of 127.5 ms.40 ms vs 127.5 ms
On-device controls
Sennheiser RS 120 II includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
What it is: Physical controls available directly on headphones
When it matters: When you need playback, volume, or call controls to be easy to reach without pulling out your phone.
Importance: MEDIUM
Sennheiser RS 120 II includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
2x higher battery capacity
Sennheiser RS 120 II has a higher battery capacity than the average headphone (1,200 mAh vs 600 mAh). The average headphones have a battery capacity of 600 mAh.
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
Sennheiser RS 120 II has a higher battery capacity than the average headphone (1,200 mAh vs 600 mAh). The average headphones have a battery capacity of 600 mAh.1200 mAh vs 600 mAh
4 dB/mW higher sensitivity
Sennheiser RS 120 II has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (106 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 RS 120 II has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (106 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.106 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
Open-back design
Sennheiser RS 120 II 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 RS 120 II uses an open-back design, while the average headphone does not. 9.3% of headphones have an open-back design.
Removable battery
Sennheiser RS 120 II has a removable battery, the average headphone does not. 7.6% of headphones have a removable battery.
What it is: Battery can be detached and replaced
When it matters: When long-term serviceability or battery replacement matters to you.
Importance: LOW
Sennheiser RS 120 II has a removable battery, the average headphone does not. 7.6% of headphones have a removable battery.
Rechargeable battery
Sennheiser RS 120 II has a rechargeable battery, the average headphone does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones rely on an internal rechargeable battery instead of replaceable disposable cells.
When it matters: When you expect regular wireless use and want charging convenience instead of buying and replacing disposable batteries.
Importance: MEDIUM
Sennheiser RS 120 II has a rechargeable battery, the average headphone does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
Open-back design
Sennheiser RS 120 II uses an open-back design, while the average headphone does not. 9.3% of headphones have an open-back design.
4 dB/mW higher sensitivity
Sennheiser RS 120 II has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (106 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
2x higher battery capacity
Sennheiser RS 120 II has a higher battery capacity than the average headphone (1,200 mAh vs 600 mAh). The average headphones have a battery capacity of 600 mAh.
Removable battery
Sennheiser RS 120 II has a removable battery, the average headphone does not. 7.6% of headphones have a removable battery.
Rechargeable battery
Sennheiser RS 120 II has a rechargeable battery, the average headphone does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
More flexible connectivity
Sennheiser RS 120 II offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
87.5 ms lower audio latency
Sennheiser RS 120 II has a lower audio latency than the average headphone (40 ms vs 127.5 ms). The average headphones have audio latency of 127.5 ms.
On-device controls
Sennheiser RS 120 II includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.

Calls & Controls

Why is Sennheiser RS 120 II worse than the average headphone?

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Fixed cable
Sennheiser RS 120 II has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
Tangle-prone cable
Sennheiser RS 120 II uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
no tangle-free listening cable is present or specified.
No travel bag
Sennheiser RS 120 II does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
5.5% higher weight
Sennheiser RS 120 II is heavier than the average headphone (230 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
No passive noise reduction
Sennheiser RS 120 II does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
10 mm smaller driver size
Sennheiser RS 120 II has smaller driver size than the average headphone (30 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
4 Hz weaker bass extension
Sennheiser RS 120 II has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (22 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
0.4 % higher distortion
Sennheiser RS 120 II has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.7 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
22 hours longer charging time
Sennheiser RS 120 II has a higher charging time than the average headphone (24 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.
10 hours shorter battery life
Sennheiser RS 120 II has a lower battery life than the average headphone (20 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.
Not headset-ready
Sennheiser RS 120 II is not headset-ready, while the average headphone is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.
1 fewer microphones
Sennheiser RS 120 II has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
No voice assistant support
Sennheiser RS 120 II does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
5 years older release date
Sennheiser RS 120 II was released earlier than the average headphone (2,012 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
No passive noise reduction
Sennheiser RS 120 II 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 RS 120 II does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
22 hours longer charging time
Sennheiser RS 120 II has a higher charging time than the average headphone (24 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.
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
Sennheiser RS 120 II has a higher charging time than the average headphone (24 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.24 hours vs 2 hours
10 mm smaller driver size
Sennheiser RS 120 II 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
Sennheiser RS 120 II 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
Sennheiser RS 120 II 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 RS 120 II does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
Fixed cable
Sennheiser RS 120 II 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 RS 120 II has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
Not headset-ready
Sennheiser RS 120 II 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
Sennheiser RS 120 II is not headset-ready, while the average headphone is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.
4 Hz weaker bass extension
Sennheiser RS 120 II has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (22 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
Sennheiser RS 120 II has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (22 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.22 Hz vs 18 Hz
0.4 % higher distortion
Sennheiser RS 120 II has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.7 % 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 RS 120 II has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.7 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.0.7 % vs 0.3 %

Calls & Controls

Graphic comparison of Sennheiser RS 120 II and

Attribute category

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about Sennheiser RS 120 II?

Lightweight and comfortable for long-duration TV watching
Excellent wireless range that works through walls and across multiple floors
Detailed and clear sound reproduction, particularly well-suited for dialogue
Simple setup and intuitive volume/tuning controls on the earcup
Convenient charging cradle that doubles as a storage stand
User-replaceable standard AAA rechargeable batteries extend product lifespan

What customers dislike about Sennheiser RS 120 II?

Susceptible to RF interference and background static hiss
Manual tuning wheel can be finicky to find the clearest signal
Blasts loud static if the transmitter auto-shuts off due to low audio signal
Lacks deep bass response compared to higher-end or wired models
Loose fit can cause them to slide off if the user bends down
Build quality feels somewhat plasticky or flimsy to some users

Expert reviews

kenrockwell.com

01/09/2014

Sennheiser RS 120 wireless headphone review

Ken Rockwell praises the Sennheiser RS 120 wireless headphones as an affordable, complete system offering excellent, warm audio quality with an impressive 100-foot range, thanks to its 900 MHz analog FM modulation. Key advantages include an internal amplifier, comfortable open-air design, and a convenient charging stand that keeps the AAA batteries ready, making them ideal for...Read more

sonntagmorgen.com

01/07/2026

Sennheiser RS 120-II Review 2026 - Sunday Morning

The Sennheiser RS 120-II is an on-ear analog wireless headphone system priced at €99.00, designed specifically for listening to TV, Hi-Fi, or radio devices without disturbing others. It stands out for its exceptionally lightweight design (200 grams) and outstanding long-term wearing comfort, featuring a large padded headband and soft ear cushions. The included transmitter serves as...Read more

mein-test.org

24/05/2022

Sennheiser RS 120 II Review - Wireless Headphones - MEIN-TEST.org

The Sennheiser RS 120-II is a lightweight, on-ear wireless headphone set that offers unique advantages alongside notable technical drawbacks due to its reliance on older technology. On the positive side, it stands out for its exceptional battery life, delivering up to 22 hours of continuous playtime, and an intuitive charging dock design where the headphones sit comfortably on metal...Read more

quechoisir.org

23/11/2023

Sennheiser RS 120-W Review - Wireless TV Headphones

The Que Choisir review highlights the Sennheiser RS 120-W as a lightweight, 213-gram open-back supra-aural wireless TV headphone system using 2.4 GHz radiofrequency and analog connections. It offers 20 hours of battery life and is lauded for a comfortable fit and simple analog setup. Pros include high maximum acoustic pressure over 94 dB for sound amplification, while key cons...Read more

lesnumeriques.com

22/01/2007

Sennheiser RS 120 Review - Slightly Less Feature-Rich Than the RS 130

The Sennheiser RS 120 is a lightweight, wireless radio-frequency headphone system built on the same core architecture as the RS 130, offering a highly comfortable fit for prolonged usage without causing fatigue. Its design features an elegant charging base with a metal cradle that automatically recharges the 230g headset via its central headband. The audio performance is...Read more

robadainformatici.it

28/03/2026

Sennheiser RS 120 II - Full review

The Sennheiser RS120 II is a pair of lightweight, open-back supra-aural wireless headphones designed primarily for watching television, viewing movies, and listening to music at home. Weighing approximately 230 grams, they feature a comfortable design with a soft-touch plastic build and replaceable fabric ear cushions suited for long listening sessions. The package includes a...Read more

cuffiewireless.it

21/02/2018

Sennheiser RS 120 II | Reviews, prices and photos

The Sennheiser RS 120 II is a mid-range pair of wireless on-ear headphones designed primarily for TV listening. The package includes a TR 120 transmitter that doubles as a charging dock, two rechargeable AAA NiMH batteries, and a 3.5 mm to 6.3 mm audio adapter. Structurally, the headphones feature a compact, durable, and lightweight design (weighing 230 grams including batteries)...Read more

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