In a world obsessed with wireless charging, noise cancellation, and Bluetooth codecs, there is a quiet hero still standing on the shelves: the simple, wired headphone. The Panasonic RP-HT161M is a throwback to a simpler time—a lightweight, over-the-ear headset that promises nothing more than reliable audio and a comfortable fit for the price of a few coffees.

But does “budget” have to mean “bad”? We put the Panasonic RP-HT161M to the test in 2026 to see if its XBS (Extra Bass System) and integrated microphone still hold up for students, office workers, and casual listeners. If you are tired of charging batteries and dealing with pairing issues, this might be the most refreshing purchase you make all year.

Is this the ultimate backup headphone or just cheap plastic? Let’s dive deep into the review.

1. What is the Panasonic RP-HT161M?

The Panasonic RP-HT161M is a full-sized, over-ear headphone designed for versatility. It features large 30mm driver units equipped with Panasonic’s XBS (Extra Bass System) to deliver a fuller sound than typical budget headsets. Unlike the standard RP-HT161, the “M” designation means this model includes an integrated microphone on the cable, making it compatible with smartphones, laptops, and tablets for calls.

Its primary selling point is its “plug-and-play” simplicity. With a standard 3.5mm jack, it works instantly with any device that still has a headphone port (or via a dongle). There are no batteries to charge, no apps to download, and no firmware updates to install.

2. Design & Comfort: Can You Wear Them All Day?

Featherlight Build

When you first pick up the RP-HT161M, you will notice how incredibly light they are. Weighing roughly 6 ounces, they put almost zero pressure on the top of your head. This makes them excellent for long listening sessions where heavier headphones might cause neck fatigue.

Plush Ear Pads

The ear cups are padded with a soft, synthetic leather material. They are designed to fit over the ear rather than on it, which helps with passive noise isolation. While they aren’t memory foam, they are surprisingly comfortable for the price point. The headband is adjustable, sliding smoothly to fit different head sizes.

Cable Length

The cord is a generous 5 feet (1.5 meters) long. This is perfect for plugging into a computer tower under a desk or reclining in a chair while listening to a laptop. It gives you freedom of movement that shorter cables restrict.

3. Sound Performance: XBS Bass Test

The XBS Difference

Panasonic touts its XBS (Extra Bass System) as a key feature. In our testing, the bass presence is definitely noticeable. It adds a warm “thump” to pop and rock tracks that flat-sounding budget headphones often miss. While it won’t rattle your skull like a premium subwoofer, it provides a satisfying low-end for casual listening.

Mids and Highs

Vocals come through clearly, which is essential for podcasts and video calls. The high frequencies are decent but can roll off slightly at very high volumes. Overall, the sound signature is balanced enough for movies, YouTube, and general music enjoyment.

4. Microphone Quality for Calls

The integrated microphone is located on the cable, positioning it near your mouth. For Zoom calls, Teams meetings, or phone chats, it performs reliably. It captures voice clearly without the robotic compression often found in cheap Bluetooth headsets. Because it’s wired, there is zero latency—your voice syncs perfectly with the video.

However, note that it is an omnidirectional mic, meaning it might pick up some background noise if you are in a crowded coffee shop. For quiet home offices, it is excellent.

5. Technical Specifications

6. Pros & Cons

7. Who Should Buy These?

The Panasonic RP-HT161M is an ideal choice for:

• Students: A durable, low-cost option for remote learning and studying.
• Office Workers: Perfect for Zoom calls without worrying about Bluetooth pairing.
• Older Adults: Simple plug-and-play design with no confusing buttons.
• Backup Gear: Great to keep in a drawer for when your wireless headphones die.

If you need wireless freedom or active noise canceling, check out our guide on top wireless picks for 2026. But for pure simplicity, Panasonic wins.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Does this work with iPhone?

It works with any device that has a 3.5mm headphone jack. For newer iPhones (iPhone 7 and later) that lack the jack, you will need a Lightning-to-3.5mm adapter (dongle).

Are they noise cancelling?

No, they do not have Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). They rely on the physical ear cups to block out some sound (passive isolation), but you will still hear loud noises around you.

Is the headband adjustable?

Yes, the headband slides up and down on both sides to accommodate different head sizes. It fits most adults and teenagers comfortably.

Can I use them for gaming?

Yes, they work great for casual gaming on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox, or Switch (plugged into the controller). The mic allows you to chat with teammates, and the wired connection means zero audio lag.