Sony ZX Series Wired On-Ear Headphones Review: Worth The Investment?

The Sony ZX Series MDR-ZX110 headphones prove you don’t need to spend a fortune for decent sound quality. These budget-friendly on-ear headphones have captured attention from music lovers who want good audio without breaking the bank.

The lightweight construction keeps comfort high during extended listening sessions. Sony designed these headphones for people who value sound quality over fancy features.

The simple plug-and-play approach means no charging worries, no Bluetooth pairing hassles, and no battery anxiety. This review dives deep into what makes the Sony ZX110 headphones worth your attention.

Key Takeaways

• Sound Quality Exceeds Expectations: The Sony ZX110 delivers a balanced audio profile with warm bass, natural vocals, and extended treble that outperforms most competitors in this price range.
• Impressive Value for Money: At approximately $12.99, these headphones offer sound quality that rivals products costing three to four times more, making them an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers.
• Lightweight and Portable: The foldable design combined with a weight of just 4.2 ounces makes these headphones highly portable for commuters, travelers, and students.
• Comfortable Fit for Extended Use: Despite the on-ear design, cushioned earpads and modest clamping force allow for comfortable wearing sessions lasting one to two hours before needing a break.
• Simple Wired Reliability: The 3.5mm connection eliminates battery concerns and connectivity issues while delivering consistent audio quality with a durable, tangle-free flat cable.
• Limited Features and Build Quality: The all-plastic construction feels inexpensive, and the absence of inline controls, microphone options, or premium materials reflects the budget pricing.

Sony ZX Series Wired On-Ear Headphone

The Sony ZX Series MDR-ZX110 represents Sony’s entry into the ultra-budget headphone market. These on-ear headphones target students, commuters, and casual listeners who need decent audio quality without spending big money.

Sony equipped these headphones with 30mm neodymium dynamic drivers that deliver surprisingly full sound. The frequency response spans from 12Hz to 22kHz, covering the entire audible spectrum.

The closed-back design helps seal in sound while providing some passive noise isolation. The headphones fold inward at the earcups, making them more compact for storage in bags and backpacks.

The L-shaped 3.5mm jack connects to phones, tablets, laptops, and audio players. Sony built these headphones with simplicity in mind, removing features that would increase the price while keeping the core audio performance strong.

Design and Build Quality

The Sony ZX110 features an all-plastic construction that immediately reveals its budget origins. The thin plastic headband bends easily, and the earcups produce slight rattling when shaken. The glossy black finish picks up fingerprints and scratches easily.

However, Sony made smart choices in certain areas. The folding mechanism allows the earcups to swivel inward, reducing the footprint by approximately 40%. The hinges feel reasonably solid despite the plastic construction. The cable stands out as surprisingly durable.

Sony used a thick, flat Y-cable design that resists tangling better than standard round cables. The L-shaped 3.5mm plug features reinforced strain relief that prevents common failure points.

The earpads use thin foam covered with a paper-like synthetic leather that feels delicate but provides adequate cushioning. These headphones clearly prioritize affordability over premium materials, but they avoid feeling completely disposable.

Sound Performance That Surprises

The audio quality represents the biggest surprise with the Sony ZX110 headphones. Most budget headphones follow a heavily V-shaped sound signature with booming bass and harsh treble. Sony took a different approach.

The bass response features a modest boost that adds warmth without overwhelming the rest of the frequency range. Kick drums sound reasonably tight and controlled. Bass guitar notes come through with decent clarity.

The bass extends down to around 12Hz according to specifications, though sub-bass presence remains limited. The midrange frequencies receive slightly elevated attention, particularly in the upper mids. This emphasis helps vocals sound full and natural. Male and female voices come across clearly without sibilance or harshness.

The treble extends well with good air and sparkle. Cymbals have adequate texture and presence. The overall sound signature leans slightly warm and smooth. Details and micro-dynamics don’t match expensive headphones, but the general presentation remains pleasant for casual listening.

The soundstage feels relatively intimate due to the closed-back on-ear design, though not completely trapped inside your head.

Comfort and Fit Experience

On-ear headphones typically struggle with comfort because the earpads press directly against your ears rather than surrounding them. The Sony ZX110 manages this challenge better than expected. The lightweight construction keeps pressure minimal.

At just 4.2 ounces, these headphones feel barely there on your head. The clamping force strikes a good balance. The headband applies enough pressure to keep the headphones securely positioned without creating painful hotspots.

The cushioned earpads provide adequate padding despite their thin construction. The foam compresses enough to reduce pressure points on your earlobes. The on-ear design means your ears will warm up faster than with over-ear headphones.

The small earcups trap heat and prevent air circulation. During hot weather or intense activities, expect some sweat buildup. Most users can wear these headphones comfortably for one to two hours before needing a break.

The headband adjusts through a simple sliding mechanism that accommodates different head sizes. The stability surprises given the light weight and modest clamping force. The headphones stay put during walking, light jogging, and head movements.

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Cable Design and Durability

Sony made the cable one of the strongest features of the ZX110 headphones. The thick, flat Y-cable design prevents the tangling issues common with thin round cables. The cable splits into two sections that connect to each earcup separately.

This dual-entry design balances weight distribution and reduces cable noise. The flat profile makes the cable easier to manage and store. The cable length measures approximately 3.94 feet, providing enough reach for most situations without excessive slack.

The L-shaped 3.5mm plug reduces stress on the connection point when using phones or portable players. The reinforced strain relief at the plug prevents the most common failure point on budget headphones.

The cable feels substantially more durable than the plastic headphone body. Users report the cable typically outlasts the headphone frame. The fixed cable means you cannot replace it if damaged without opening the earcups. However, at this price point, most people simply replace the entire unit rather than attempting repairs.

Passive Noise Isolation

The Sony ZX110 provides adequate passive noise isolation for on-ear headphones. The closed-back design combined with the ear pads creates a basic seal around your ears. This seal blocks some external sounds, particularly higher-frequency noises like voices and keyboard typing.

The isolation works well enough for commuting on buses and trains. You can enjoy your music without cranking the volume to dangerous levels. However, the on-ear design inherently provides less isolation than over-ear headphones.

Low-frequency rumbles from engines and traffic still come through noticeably. The sound leakage goes both directions. People sitting next to you will hear some of your music at moderate to high volumes.

The leakage isn’t excessive, but these headphones don’t work well for completely private listening in quiet offices or libraries. The cable design minimizes microphonics, the annoying thumping sounds that occur when cables rub against clothing. The flat cable combined with the dual-entry design keeps cable noise very low even during active movement.

Frequency Response and Technical Specifications

Sony rates the frequency response at 12Hz to 22kHz, covering the full range of human hearing. The actual response shows relatively balanced output across most frequencies with some intentional tuning choices.

The bass region receives a gentle boost starting around 200Hz and peaking near 60Hz. This elevation adds warmth and body to music without creating muddy bass. The midrange stays relatively flat from 300Hz to about 1kHz.

The upper midrange between 1.2kHz and 5kHz receives noticeable emphasis. This boost helps vocals and lead instruments cut through the mix. The treble extends smoothly past 10kHz with decent air and sparkle.

The impedance measures 24 ohms, making these headphones easy to drive from smartphones, tablets, and laptops. The sensitivity reaches 98dB/mW, meaning modest power produces loud volumes.

You won’t need a dedicated headphone amplifier or high-power source. The 30mm dynamic drivers use neodymium magnets for strong magnetic fields and efficient sound production. The drivers feature dome-type diaphragms that help reduce distortion compared to flat diaphragms.

Best Use Cases and Applications

The Sony ZX110 headphones work best for casual music listening across various genres. The balanced sound signature handles pop, rock, jazz, and classical music reasonably well. Electronic music with heavy bass works acceptably, though bassheads might want more low-end impact.

The headphones excel as commuter companions. The foldable design fits easily into bags. The passive isolation blocks enough noise for subway and bus rides. The wired connection eliminates battery anxiety during long commutes.

Students find these headphones useful for studying, online classes, and casual media consumption. The lightweight comfort allows extended wearing during study sessions. The lack of a microphone limits use for virtual meetings and phone calls. These headphones don’t work well for critical listening or audio production.

The limited detail retrieval and absent center imaging make them unsuitable for mixing music or editing audio. Gaming performs adequately for casual play, but the poor imaging and soundstage limit competitive gaming performance. The headphones work fine for watching movies and streaming shows on laptops and tablets.

Comparison to Default Earbuds

Most phones and portable devices include basic earbuds with limited audio quality. The Sony ZX110 headphones provide significant upgrades in multiple areas. The larger 30mm drivers produce fuller bass response compared to tiny earbud drivers.

The midrange sounds more natural and less tinny. The overall tonal balance feels more mature and less harsh. The comfort advantage depends on personal preference. Some people find earbuds more comfortable while others prefer on-ear headphones.

The ZX110 provides more secure fit during movement compared to standard earbuds. The passive isolation exceeds most basic earbuds but falls short of in-ear monitors with proper ear tips. The sound leakage stays lower with the closed-back on-ear design.

The durability typically favors the ZX110, as earbuds often suffer from cable failures near the small drivers. The foldable design makes the headphones more portable than their size suggests.

However, earbuds still pack smaller for pockets and tiny bags. The price point stays similar, with many basic earbuds costing between $10 and $20.

Limitations and Drawbacks

The Sony ZX110 headphones come with clear compromises that buyers should understand. The build quality feels cheap and fragile. The thin plastic construction won’t survive rough handling or being tossed carelessly into bags.

The earpads wear out quickly, with the thin synthetic leather cracking and peeling within a year of regular use. Replacement pads cost about $3 to $8, making replacement economical. The lack of any inline controls means you must pull out your phone to adjust volume, skip tracks, or pause playback. This omission proves annoying during workouts or commutes.

The absence of a microphone prevents using these headphones for phone calls or virtual meetings. Sony offers variants with microphones, but they cost a few dollars more. The imaging and soundstage limitations make these headphones poor choices for gaming or spatial audio applications.

The center image practically disappears, with sounds pulling hard left or right. The detail retrieval doesn’t match more expensive headphones, missing subtle textures in voices and instruments. The bass extension into sub-bass frequencies remains limited, disappointing bassheads and electronic music fans.

Value Proposition Analysis

The Sony ZX110 delivers exceptional value for the $12.99 asking price. Few headphones at this price point offer comparable sound quality. The balanced tuning avoids the harsh, fatiguing sound common in cheap headphones.

The build quality matches the price, neither exceeding nor falling below expectations for budget gear. The foldable design adds functionality rarely seen at this price. The durable cable outlasts cables on many more expensive headphones.

The comfort level exceeds expectations for on-ear headphones, allowing reasonable wearing times. The lack of features like microphones and controls keeps costs down while maintaining audio performance. Buyers who prioritize sound quality over features and build quality find excellent value.

The headphones compete favorably with options costing $30 to $40 when comparing pure audio performance. However, buyers who want premium materials, advanced features, or long-term durability should look at higher-priced options. The ZX110 works best as secondary headphones, travel companions, or first headphones for young users.

Maintenance and Longevity

The Sony ZX110 headphones require minimal maintenance but won’t last forever. The thin plastic construction will eventually crack, usually at stress points near the hinges or headband adjustments.

The earpads represent the most likely component to need attention. The synthetic leather covering peels and cracks within one to two years of regular use. Replacement pads are available on Amazon and AliExpress for $3 to $8.

The replacement process requires careful removal of old pads and snapping new ones into place. The cable durability exceeds the headphone frame in most cases. The thick, flat design with reinforced strain relief holds up well to daily use.

The fixed cable means damage requires opening the earcups for repair, a process most users skip at this price point. Keeping the headphones in a case when not in use extends their lifespan significantly.

The foldable design helps, but additional protection prevents accidental crushing in bags. Cleaning involves wiping down the plastic surfaces with a slightly damp cloth.

Avoid getting moisture in the drivers or cable connections. Store the headphones in dry, moderate temperature environments. Extreme heat can warp the thin plastic components.

Color Options and Availability

Sony offers the ZX110 headphones in several color options to match different preferences and styles. The black version (MDR-ZX110/BLK) represents the most common and widely available option.

The all-black design looks professional and hides dirt and scratches better than lighter colors. The white version (MDR-ZX110/WHT) provides a clean, modern aesthetic that stands out more. White headphones show dirt more easily but appeal to users who want a brighter look.

Some regional markets offer additional colors like blue, red, and pink, though availability varies by location and retailer. The color affects only the plastic parts, with the cable and padding remaining black across all versions.

All color variants share identical specifications and performance characteristics. The choice comes down to personal aesthetic preference. The black version typically shows the most consistent availability across retailers and regions.

Some colors face stock shortages or limited distribution. The price remains consistent across colors, with no premium for specific options. The color selection expands when considering related models like the ZX310, which offers more vivid color choices.

Sony ZX Series Model Variations

Sony produces several variations of the ZX Series headphones with different features and price points. The basic MDR-ZX110 reviewed here represents the entry-level model without microphone or controls.

The MDR-ZX110AP adds an inline microphone and single-button remote for answering calls and basic playback control. This version costs about $19.99, representing a reasonable upgrade for smartphone users.

The MDR-ZX310AP features larger 30mm drivers with enhanced bass response and includes inline controls. This model targets users who want more powerful low-end performance. The MDR-ZX110NC adds active noise cancellation, though reviews indicate the noise cancellation performs modestly.

This version costs significantly more at around $58. The ZX Series also includes over-ear variants like the MDR-ZX310 and MDR-ZX770BN for users who prefer circumaural designs. All models share similar design language and build quality while targeting different use cases and budgets. The basic ZX110 remains the best pure value proposition for buyers who don’t need microphones or advanced features.

Compatibility Across Devices

The Sony ZX110 works with any device featuring a standard 3.5mm headphone jack. This universal compatibility covers older smartphones, tablets, laptops, desktop computers, and portable audio players.

The 24-ohm impedance and 98dB/mW sensitivity ensure the headphones play loudly enough from virtually any source. Low-power devices like smartphones drive these headphones easily without external amplification.

The 3.5mm jack connects to gaming controllers including PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch controllers. The headphones work with mixing boards, audio interfaces, and professional equipment that includes 3.5mm outputs.

Newer smartphones from Apple and some Android manufacturers eliminate the headphone jack, requiring dongles or adapters. Apple users need Lightning to 3.5mm adapters, while USB-C phone users need USB-C to 3.5mm adapters.

These adapters typically cost $9 to $15 and maintain audio quality. The wired connection provides zero latency, making these headphones suitable for rhythm games and video watching without audio sync issues. The lack of inline controls means remote functionality depends entirely on the source device.

Who Should Buy These Headphones

The Sony ZX110 headphones serve specific user groups particularly well. Budget-conscious buyers who need basic headphones for casual listening get excellent value. Students looking for affordable headphones for classes, studying, and entertainment find these suitable.

Commuters who want simple, reliable audio for buses, trains, and planes appreciate the foldable design and wired reliability. Parents buying first headphones for children benefit from the low replacement cost when inevitable accidents occur.

People who keep backup headphones at work, in cars, or in travel bags find the price point acceptable for secondary units. The headphones work well for users who prefer wired connections and want to avoid charging batteries. Music listeners who appreciate balanced sound signatures over heavy bass find the tuning pleasant.

These headphones don’t suit audiophiles seeking high-end sound quality and premium materials. Gamers needing good imaging and soundstage should look elsewhere. Users who require inline controls and microphones should consider the ZX110AP variant instead. People wanting long-term durability should invest in better-built options.

Environmental Considerations

The Sony ZX110 headphones raise some environmental concerns common to budget electronics. The plastic construction uses petroleum-based materials that create environmental impacts during production and disposal.

The thin, cheap plastic makes these headphones likely candidates for landfills when they fail. The fixed cable means the entire unit becomes waste when the cable fails, even if the drivers still work. However, some aspects favor environmental responsibility.

The low power requirements mean less energy consumption compared to wireless headphones requiring charging. The absence of batteries eliminates concerns about battery disposal and replacement. The lightweight design reduces shipping emissions compared to heavier headphones.

The affordable price encourages repairs like earpad replacement instead of full replacement. The longevity typically spans two to four years with careful use, reasonable for the price point. Users can extend usable life by treating the headphones gently and storing them properly.

When disposal becomes necessary, recycling programs at electronics retailers can process the plastic and metal components. The packaging uses minimal materials compared to premium headphones with elaborate boxes and accessories.

Price Trends and Shopping Tips

The Sony ZX110 typically sells for $12.99 to $14.99 at most retailers. Prices occasionally drop to $9.99 during sales events like Black Friday, Prime Day, and back-to-school promotions. The price has remained remarkably stable over several years, with inflation having minimal impact.

The white version sometimes costs slightly more than the black version, though the difference rarely exceeds a dollar. Shopping at different retailers can yield minor savings, with Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and Target all carrying these headphones.

Generic online marketplaces sometimes offer slightly lower prices but carry risks of counterfeit products. Sony’s official website lists these headphones but rarely offers the best pricing. Bundle deals occasionally appear, pairing these headphones with other Sony products for modest savings.

Used and refurbished units sell for $6 to $8, though the savings hardly justify buying used given the low new price. The variant with microphone (ZX110AP) costs about $19.99, representing a reasonable upgrade for users who need phone call capability. Watch for lightning deals and daily deals that can drop prices by 20% to 30% for limited times.

Final Verdict and Recommendations

The Sony ZX Series MDR-ZX110 headphones deliver impressive audio quality that far exceeds their budget price point. The balanced sound signature, comfortable fit, and practical foldable design make these headphones excellent value for casual listeners.

The major strengths include surprisingly good sound quality with warm bass and natural vocals, lightweight comfort that allows extended wearing, durable cable construction with tangle-resistant flat design, and foldable earcups for improved portability.

The weaknesses center on cheap plastic construction that feels fragile, thin earpads that wear out relatively quickly, absence of inline controls or microphone options, and limited sound isolation from external noise. These headphones work best for students, commuters, and budget-conscious buyers who prioritize sound quality over features and build quality.

Skip these if you need microphones, want premium materials, or require exceptional durability. The ZX110 serves well as secondary headphones, travel companions, or first headphones for younger users. For the price, few competitors match the audio performance and overall package Sony delivers with these budget headphones.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Sony ZX110 have a microphone for phone calls?

No, the standard Sony MDR-ZX110 model does not include a microphone or inline controls. Sony offers the MDR-ZX110AP variant that adds an inline microphone and single-button remote for approximately $19.99. The microphone allows you to answer calls and use voice assistants on smartphones.

Can these headphones work with iPhones that don’t have headphone jacks?

Yes, but you need an adapter. The Sony ZX110 uses a standard 3.5mm plug that requires a Lightning to 3.5mm adapter for newer iPhones without headphone jacks. Apple sells official adapters for about $9, and third-party options cost $5 to $15. The adapter maintains good audio quality.

How long do Sony ZX110 headphones typically last?

With careful use, these headphones typically last two to four years. The most common failure points include the thin earpads deteriorating, plastic hinges cracking, or the headband breaking. The cable usually outlasts the frame. Replacement earpads cost $3 to $8 and can extend the usable life significantly.

Are Sony ZX110 headphones good for gaming?

The Sony ZX110 works adequately for casual gaming but has limitations for competitive gaming. The imaging is poor, with sounds pulling hard left or right without a solid center image. The soundstage feels small and closed-in. They work fine for single-player games but don’t provide positional audio advantages for multiplayer shooters.

Can I use these headphones for working out and running?

The Sony ZX110 stays secure during light exercise and walking thanks to good stability despite light weight. However, the on-ear design causes ears to heat up quickly during intense workouts. The lack of water resistance means sweat can damage the drivers. The cable can get in the way during certain exercises.

What is the warranty coverage for Sony ZX110 headphones?

Sony typically provides a one-year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects and workmanship issues. The warranty does not cover normal wear and tear, accidental damage, or modifications. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims. Given the low price, many users simply replace broken units rather than pursuing warranty service.

Do these headphones require a headphone amplifier?

No, the Sony ZX110 headphones do not require an external amplifier. The 24-ohm impedance and 98dB/mW sensitivity make them very easy to drive. Smartphones, tablets, laptops, and portable players provide plenty of power for loud listening volumes. Adding an amplifier provides no meaningful benefit.

Can I replace the cable if it breaks?

The cable is permanently attached to the headphones. Replacing it requires opening the earcups and soldering a new cable, a process most users avoid given the low cost of new headphones. However, the thick, flat cable design makes it more durable than cables on many more expensive headphones.

Are replacement earpads available for Sony ZX110?

Yes, replacement earpads are readily available on Amazon and AliExpress for $3 to $8. The pads snap onto the earcups relatively easily. Replacing worn earpads can restore comfort and extend the life of the headphones significantly. Generic replacement pads work fine and cost less than Sony official parts.

How do Sony ZX110 compare to wireless Bluetooth headphones in the same price range?

The Sony ZX110 typically offers better sound quality than similarly-priced Bluetooth headphones. Budget wireless headphones sacrifice audio quality for wireless convenience, battery life, and Bluetooth technology costs. The ZX110 avoids battery anxiety and connection issues. Choose wireless if convenience matters more than pure audio quality.