Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 vs JBL Live 780NC: materials or longer listening?

Both are closed over-ear headphones for music, calls and noise control. Think about the longest stretch you spend away from a socket, then how often you pack the headphones. JBL weighs 50g less and folds into its pouch. Px8 S2 puts more emphasis on leather, aluminium and a carry case; those materials do not establish comfort for every head.

Bluetooth version alone does not describe the audio connection. Px8 S2 offers the aptX family, while JBL supports LDAC and advertises LE Audio and Auracast. Your phone, operating system and enabled settings must support the matching feature. Both offer multipoint for switching between two devices. Check your actual source before treating any high-resolution badge as a reason to choose.

The useful comparison is ANC-on listening: up to 30 hours for Px8 S2 and 50 for JBL. JBL’s larger 80-hour headline applies with ANC off. These are manufacturer claims under particular conditions, rather than our measured results. Volume, codec, calls and battery age alter runtime. Quick charging helps before leaving, but it does not replace planning for a long trip.

Px8 S2 accepts digital USB audio as well as its supplied analogue-source cable; it still needs power for wired listening. JBL includes a USB-C-to-3.5mm audio cable and pouch, with its Smart TX accessory separate. A cable ending in USB-C does not automatically carry digital USB audio. Keep the supplied audio lead distinct from the cable you use for charging.

JBL is the clearer starting point when lower weight and fewer charging stops dominate your shortlist. Px8 S2 deserves consideration when construction and USB listening matter more. Try the earcup opening, headband and controls if possible. Neither brand’s microphone count or noise-cancelling name settles call quality; JBL’s own documents disagree on microphone counting, so we do not use it to rank them.