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Sony ZX Series Wired On-Ear Headphones (MDR-ZX110) Review (2025): The Budget Classic That Still Delivers
Last Updated: August 2025 • By Majenas Team • Category: Tech
Looking for reliable, no-nonsense wired headphones that won’t drain your wallet? Sony’s MDR-ZX110 has been a go-to for students, commuters, and office warriors for years—thanks to its 30 mm drivers, fold-flat design, and rock-solid durability for the price. Check today’s price & availability or keep reading for our deep-dive on sound, comfort, real-life performance, and the best alternatives.
Product Overview
The Sony MDR-ZX110 is a wired, closed-back, on-ear (supra-aural) headphone that nails the basics: a compact fold-flat build, a Y-type 1.2 m cable with an L-shaped 3.5 mm plug, and 30 mm dynamic drivers tuned for balanced, easy-listening sound. With 24 Ω impedance and a 12–22,000 Hz rated frequency response, it’s made to pair cleanly with phones (via dongle), laptops, and handhelds without needing an amp. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
It’s also a favorite because it’s lightweight and durable. The earcups swivel flat to slide into a bag, and the no-mic version (ZX110) keeps things simple. If you want a mic/remote, look for the ZX110AP. Sony’s official pages list both families with the same core acoustic platform (30 mm driver, 24 Ω, 12–22 kHz). :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Key Features & Benefits
- 30 mm dynamic drivers: Balanced, easygoing sound with decent low-end for the price—good for pop, podcasts, and YouTube. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- Closed-back isolation: Reduces outside noise passively; great for libraries, offices, and commutes.
- 24 Ω impedance: Efficient from phones, laptops, and handheld game devices—no amp required. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- Lightweight, fold-flat design: Swiveling earcups + compact profile = toss-and-go portability. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
- Y-type 1.2 m cable + L-plug: Tangle-resistant enough for backpacks; angled connector resists strain. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
- AP variant available: Need calls? Choose MDR-ZX110AP with in-line mic/remote; this review focuses on the non-mic ZX110. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Watch the ZX110 in Action
See size, folding, and everyday use. Tap to open the Amazon video:
Specifications
| Model | Sony MDR-ZX110 (ZX110AP = version with mic) |
| Driver | 30 mm dynamic (dome type) — neodymium magnet |
| Frequency Response | 12 Hz – 22 kHz (manufacturer rated) |
| Impedance | 24 Ω @ 1 kHz |
| Sensitivity | Manufacturer varies by region; typical ZX110 ratings ~98 dB/mW |
| Cable | Y-type, 1.2 m (3.94 ft), L-shaped 3.5 mm plug |
| Design | Closed-back, on-ear; fold-flat swiveling earcups |
Official specifications referenced from Sony’s regional support pages. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
See Full Specs & Availability on Amazon
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Performance Tests & Real-Life Use
Daily Listening (Pop, Lo-fi, Spoken Word)
With 30 mm drivers and a closed-back shell, the ZX110 emphasizes clear mids for vocals and dialog, a gently lifted mid-bass for body, and a polite treble that avoids harshness on compressed YouTube or podcasts. It’s not a bass cannon or a clinical studio monitor—its goal is fatigue-free listening for hours.
Work & Study
Passive isolation from the closed cups and on-ear seal helps in libraries and open offices. If you take frequent calls, consider the ZX110AP or a USB headset; the non-AP ZX110 has no inline mic. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Commuting & Portability
The earcups swivel flat, so the headphones slip into thin laptop sleeves or small backpacks. The L-shaped plug places less stress on phone ports when you sit or move—handy on buses and trains. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Gaming & Voice Chat
As a simple listening headset, ZX110 is fine for Switch, Steam Deck, or controller jacks. For in-game voice chat (Discord/Party), you’ll want a mic—either ZX110AP or a clip-on (e.g., V-moda BoomPro-style mic won’t fit; ZX110 uses a simple TRS cable, not detachable).
Fit & Comfort
On-ear pads mean some pressure over 2–3-hour sessions, especially with glasses. A gentle bend of the headband (carefully!) can reduce clamp. If you need all-day plush, consider a budget over-ear like Panasonic RP-HT161 instead.
Why Impedance & Sensitivity Matter (in Plain English)
At 24 Ω, the ZX110 is easy for phones and laptops to power. As a rule of thumb, pairing low-impedance headphones with a source that has much lower output impedance prevents volume loss and tone changes—one reason consumer headphones in the 16–64 Ω range work well on mobile gear. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
Buyer Reviews (Summarized)
- Value: “Cheap, reliable, sounds better than it should” is the common theme.
- Comfort: Light and portable; clamp fatigue can appear after long sessions (typical of on-ear designs).
- Durability: Survives backpacks and daily commutes; the non-detachable cable is the usual failure point after years of use.
- Use cases: Podcasts, audiobooks, YouTube, classroom labs, computer labs; less ideal for bass-heavy EDM fanatics.
We aggregated common buyer sentiments from retailer listings and forums to provide the summary above (no single review quoted verbatim).
Competitor Comparison
Not sure if ZX110 is “the one”? Here’s how it stacks up against two affordable wired classics.
| Model | Type | Drivers | Impedance | Freq. Response | Cable | Stand-out | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sony MDR-ZX110 | On-ear, closed-back | 30 mm dynamic | 24 Ω | 12 Hz–22 kHz | 1.2 m Y-cable, L-plug | Ultra-portable, super-affordable | Students, commuters, backup pair |
| JBL Tune 500 | On-ear, closed-back | 32 mm dynamic | 32 Ω (varies by source) | ~20 Hz–20 kHz (typical listing) | Flat tangle-free cable, 1-button remote/mic | Punchier “Pure Bass” tuning, built-in mic | Bass-leaning listeners who need a mic |
| Panasonic RP-HT161 | Over-ear, closed-back | 30 mm dynamic | 32 Ω | 10 Hz–27 kHz | Long 2 m cable (6.6 ft) | Bigger cushions, more relaxed fit | Home listening, call-free desk work |
Specs referenced from official brand pages and product listings: Sony ZX110, JBL Tune 500, Panasonic RP-HT161. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Sony MDR-ZX110 have a microphone?
The ZX110 (this model) has no mic. If you need calls or remote controls, pick the ZX110AP variant. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
Are the ZX110 good for gaming?
For listening—yes. For chat, add a clip-on mic or choose ZX110AP; the ZX110 cable is non-detachable.
Do these need a headphone amplifier?
No. At 24 Ω, they’re easy to drive from phones/laptops. Proper source/headphone impedance matching helps maintain volume and tone. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
Can I replace the ear pads?
Yes, third-party pads exist, but fit and sound can change. Choose pads designed for on-ear ZX series for best results.
What’s the difference between on-ear and over-ear?
On-ear rests on the ear (more compact, less isolation comfort for long sessions); over-ear surrounds the ear (bulkier, often more comfortable). See Panasonic RP-HT161 for a budget over-ear option. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
Buying Guide: How to Choose Budget Wired Headphones (2025)
1) Fit & Comfort: On-Ear vs Over-Ear
On-ear (ZX110, JBL Tune 500): compact and portable, but clamp pressure can build on long sessions—especially with glasses. Over-ear (Panasonic RP-HT161): bigger cushions and roomier sound, but less compact for travel.
2) Cable & Plug
Look for L-shaped plugs if you pocket your phone to reduce strain on the jack. Flat/tangle-free cables with inline remotes are useful if you take calls. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
3) Impedance & Sensitivity
For laptops and phones, 16–64 Ω headphones are typically the sweet spot. Higher impedance models may play quieter unless amplified. Shure’s guide is a solid primer if you want to go deeper into the numbers. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
4) Sound Tuning
Budget headphones come in three common flavors: balanced (ZX110), bass-forward (JBL “Pure Bass”), and warm & relaxed (some over-ears). Pick the profile that fits your playlist.
5) Durability & Parts
At this price, cables are rarely detachable; treat the plug gently. If you’re rough on gear, consider models with thicker flat cables or keep a spare pair.
Further reading: Sony official ZX110 specs • Shure: Headphone specs explained. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Sony MDR-ZX110?
Yes—if you want a simple, durable, ultra-affordable wired headphone that just works. The Sony ZX110 remains a budget classic: balanced sound for music and voice, lightweight portability, and a fold-flat build you won’t baby. If you need a mic, grab the ZX110AP; if you want plush comfort for long sessions, consider an over-ear like Panasonic RP-HT161; if you prefer extra bass and a mic, the JBL Tune 500 is a strong rival. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
Get the Sony MDR-ZX110 on Amazon
Read Also
💬 Your turn: Comment below — which feature matters most to you: portability, mic for calls, or comfort?
