Bowers & Wilkins PI5 Wireless In-Ear Headphones White

The Bowers & Wilkins PI5 are the company's first true wireless in-ear headphones, sitting alongside the higher-specification PI7 in the range. Where the PI7 uses a dual hybrid driver arrangement and aptX Adaptive codec, the PI5 takes a more streamlined approach with a single 9.2mm dynamic driver per earbud and standard aptX over Bluetooth 5.0 — a configuration that delivers a natural, balanced sound signature without the complexity or cost of the flagship model.

Driver and Sound Quality

Each earbud houses a custom-designed 9.2mm dynamic driver that handles the full frequency range. Bowers & Wilkins has drawn on its extensive loudspeaker heritage to voice these drivers, aiming for accuracy and musicality rather than exaggerated bass or treble emphasis. The aptX codec ensures CD-quality wireless transmission from compatible source devices.

Active Noise Cancellation

The PI5 features adaptive Active Noise Cancellation driven by two microphones per earbud — four in total. These monitor ambient sound and apply real-time cancellation to reduce external distractions. An Ambient Pass-Through mode is also available, feeding external sound through the drivers for situational awareness without removing the earbuds.

Call Quality

The same four-microphone array used for noise cancellation also handles voice pickup during calls. Dual microphones per earbud allow the PI5 to isolate the wearer's voice from background noise, providing clear call quality in a range of environments.

Battery and Charging

Battery life is approximately 4.5 hours per charge from the earbuds themselves. The included charging case provides an additional 19.5 hours of charge, bringing the total to approximately 24 hours before the case itself needs recharging. The case supports both USB-C wired charging and Qi wireless charging, with fast charging capability for a quick top-up when time is limited.

Comfort and Durability

An integrated wear sensor detects when the earbuds are placed in or removed from the ear, automatically pausing and resuming playback. The PI5 carries an IP54 rating for dust and splash resistance, making them suitable for use during exercise or in light rain. Voice assistant support provides hands-free access to Siri or Google Assistant.