Sennheiser ACCENTUM Open TWS Review: The New Apple AirPods?

Sennheiser has long been recognized for producing premium audio gear across the spectrum—from studio headphones to audiophile earbuds. While their MOMENTUM True Wireless 4 offers top-tier features for discerning listeners, the Sennheiser ACCENTUM Open TWS steps in as a more affordable, lightweight option for casual and on-the-go listening. With a unique open-ear design, the ACCENTUM Open caters to users who prioritize spatial awareness and a more breathable listening experience. Let’s take a closer look at how these earbuds stack up in real-world use.

What Comes in the Box

• Sennheiser ACCENTUM Open Earbuds
• Magnetic Charging Case
• USB-C Charging Cable
• Quick Start Guide & Safety Manual

Sennheiser keeps things minimal in the box, which fits the streamlined, commuter-friendly design philosophy behind the ACCENTUM Open TWS. The included USB-C cable ensures modern, fast charging, and the case itself feels durable enough for daily carry.

Aesthetics and Functionality

At first glance, the ACCENTUM Open earbuds resemble the familiar AirPods silhouette, featuring a stemmed, open-fit design without silicone eartips. However, the similarities end there. These earbuds are significantly more lightweight, offering an ultra-breathable fit that rests gently at the base of your ear canal rather than forming a seal.

This open-air fit promotes comfort for longer sessions and allows users to stay aware of their surroundings—perfect for commuters, office environments, or casual outdoor use. However, the lack of a secure seal might not appeal to everyone. Personally, I found the fit slightly precarious, as if the earbuds might fall out during brisk movement. That said, they never actually slipped out, which speaks to Sennheiser’s ergonomic design.

Touch controls are responsive and intuitive, and Bluetooth 5.3 with multipoint connectivity makes switching between devices a breeze. If you're juggling a laptop and phone throughout the day, this feature alone makes the ACCENTUM Open incredibly versatile.

Tech Specs

While Sennheiser doesn't publish a full spec sheet for the ACCENTUM Open, they highlight several standout features: 

• 11mm dynamic drivers for natural sound reproduction
• Up to 28 hours battery life (with charging case)
• Open-ear acoustic design for spatial awareness
• Bluetooth 5.3 with multipoint support
• IPX4 water resistance for sweat and splash protection

These specs make the ACCENTUM Open a solid option for active listeners who want a breathable, lightweight alternative to traditional in-ears.

Listening Review

Soundstage

The soundstage is the biggest asset of the ACCENTUM Open. Thanks to its open-ear design, the presentation feels spacious and natural, with sound bleeding slightly into the environment in a way that mimics real-life listening. While you don’t get the pinpoint separation you'd find in high-end IEMs, the overall imaging is cohesive and immersive, offering an ambient listening experience that doesn’t feel boxed-in.

Low Frequencies

Bass response is where these earbuds fall a bit short. The low-end is lean and somewhat transparent, which may disappoint listeners who crave punchy, booming sub-bass. That said, there is still enough low-frequency presence to give balance to kick drums and basslines. Genres like EDM, hip-hop, and pop may sound underwhelming compared to bass-forward earbuds, but the lighter bass signature contributes to an airier, less fatiguing sound overall.

Midrange Frequencies

This is where the ACCENTUM Open shines. The midrange is forward and detailed, bringing vocals to the forefront with clarity and warmth. Acoustic instruments, strings, and vocals are rendered with a natural, expressive tone, which is a hallmark of Sennheiser’s tuning. There's a smooth blend between instruments, without any noticeable muddiness or congestion—even at higher volumes.

High Frequencies

Treble response is airy, smooth, and surprisingly refined. The highs are crisp without ever becoming harsh or piercing, offering enough shimmer to bring life to cymbals, string overtones, and harmonics. There's a gentle roll-off at the very top that keeps the sound relaxing, which suits the casual nature of the earbuds. The balance of the treble enhances detail without overstepping into shrillness, rounding out a very approachable sound signature.

Summary

The Sennheiser ACCENTUM Open TWS offers a fresh take on wireless earbuds, favoring comfort, breathability, and open sound over isolation and intense bass. While the fit may not be for everyone—especially those who need a more secure in-ear seal—these earbuds excel in offering clear mids, a wide soundstage, and detailed highs. For casual listening, multitasking, and outdoor use, they present a viable alternative to AirPods, with the added bonus of Sennheiser’s tuning pedigree. If you value ambient awareness and easy portability over hard-hitting lows, the ACCENTUM Open is a smart, modern pick.

The Sennheiser ACCENTUM Open TWS is available in black and cream at Audio46.