Koss KPH7 Lightweight Portable Headphone, Black
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AI Verdict
These 2.88-ounce wired on-ear headphones with an 80-18,000 Hz frequency response are for basic audio needs and portability on a tight budget.
These headphones are a situational fit, primarily due to their 2.88-ounce weight and adjustable headband, making them comfortable for short, casual listening sessions. However, the lack of noise control and mild sound profile limits their utility for immersive or critical listening. They excel as a disposable, highly portable option for basic audio tasks.
If you need better sound isolation or a more robust build, look for headphones with active noise cancellation or a metal-reinforced headband.
Regret Score™
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Critically weak dimension
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Pros
- Weighing 2.88 ounces, they are extremely lightweight for extended wear and portability.
- The adjustable headband accommodates various head sizes, including adults and kids.
- The 3.5mm plug and 4 ft. cord offer broad compatibility with most phones, laptops, and PCs.
- They provide clear and balanced sound for podcasts, online classes, and casual music listening.
- The 91dB SPL sensitivity ensures adequate volume for casual listening without an amplifier.
Cons
- There is no noise control, meaning background sounds are audible.
- The low-end bass response is mild, and highs can sound flat compared to premium headphones.
- The plastic build can feel basic, and the headband may break if bent too far.
- The thin, flimsy cord is prone to breaking easily, with some users reporting channel dropout within 6-9 months.
- Earcups do not swivel, which can lead to a poor fit and reduced bass for some users.
- There is no inline microphone or volume controls.
Dimension Scores
The 80-18,000 Hz frequency response provides clear and balanced sound for basic audio, but the bass is mild and highs can sound flat.
The headphones have no noise control, meaning they do not block out ambient sounds.
Weighing 2.88 ounces with an adjustable headband, they are comfortable for short periods, but non-swiveling earcups and hard pads can cause discomfort for some during extended use.
These are wired headphones and do not have a battery.
Best For
- Students for online classes or school use.
- Casual listening to audiobooks or YouTube videos.
- Backup wired headphones for travel or emergencies.
- Outfitting computer labs or classrooms.
Not Recommended For
- Users requiring active noise cancellation in noisy environments.
- Audiophiles seeking deep bass or sparkling highs.
- Individuals needing a microphone for calls or gaming.
- Anyone who needs a robust build for rough handling or daily stuffing into a backpack.
Watch Out For
- The plastic headband can break if bent too far, leading to durability issues after a few months.
- The thin cord is prone to breaking, with some users experiencing one channel dropping out within six to nine months of daily use.
- Earcups do not swivel, causing a 20-degree angle to the ear for some, resulting in an air gap and loss of bass.
- No water resistance means sweat or wet conditions can ruin the headphones.
- The ear pads can feel hard after a short while, leading to discomfort during extended use.
Full Specifications
| UPC | 031111558173 514472581672 012306026042 021299181003 080050308363 012301853261 |
| ASIN | B006T9ZKAQ |
| Brand | Koss |
| Color | Black |
| Style | Minimalist |
| Units | 1.0 Count |
| Language | English |
| Material | Plastic |
| Impedance | 32 Ohms |
| Department | Unisex-Adult |
| Generation | 1 |
| Model Name | KPH7 |
| Form Factor | On Ear |
| Item Weight | 2.88 ounces |
| Sensitivity | 91 dB |
| Manufacturer | Koss |
| Cable Feature | Retractable |
| Ear Placement | On Ear |
| Noise Control | None |
| Control Method | Remote |
| Earpiece Shape | on-ear cups |
| Headphones Jack | 3.5 mm Jack |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Special Feature | Lightweight |
| Audio Driver Type | Dynamic Driver |
| Bluetooth Version | 5 |
| Item model number | KPH7 |
| Compatible Devices | Cellphones |
| Frequency Response | 18000 Hz |
| Hardware Interface | 3.5mm Audio |
| Product Dimensions | 8.44 x 2.13 x 6.38 inches |
| Carrying Case Color | Black |
| Included Components | Headphone |
| Customer Package Type | Standard Packaging |
| Input Device Interface | 3.5mm audio jack |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
| Age Range (Description) | Adult,Kid |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired |
| Specific Uses For Product | personal |
| Supports Bluetooth Technology | No |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Wireless Communication Technology | Bluetooth |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00021299181003, 00080000286123 |
What Buyers Say
What surprised me most is how many users praise the sound clarity for speech and podcasts, especially considering the price. Many buyers report that for under $5, the audio is surprisingly clear and balanced, making them suitable for everyday listening tasks. However, this comes with significant trade-offs in build quality, as the thin plastic and cord are frequently cited as points of failure, with some users experiencing one channel failing within months. The lack of features like a microphone or volume control is expected at this price, but the non-swiveling earcups causing poor fit for some is a recurring complaint that impacts sound.
“Dude, for like five bucks, these are actually kinda clear for my Zoom calls, but don't even think about bass or if you're gonna throw 'em in a bag, that cord is gonna snap, I swear.”
Common Praise
- Extremely lightweight at 2.88 ounces, making them easy to wear and carry.
- Clear and balanced audio, particularly for spoken content like podcasts and audiobooks.
- The adjustable headband fits various head sizes securely.
- Surprisingly decent sound quality for the ultra-low price point.
- The 4 ft. cord offers enough length for casual use.
Common Complaints
- The plastic headband can break easily if mishandled.
- The thin, flimsy cord is prone to breaking, often leading to one channel failing.
- Lack of deep bass response and flat-sounding highs.
- No noise cancellation, allowing background noise to be heard.
- Earcups do not swivel, which can create an air gap and poor fit for some ears.
- No inline microphone or volume controls.
Ownership Tips
- The thin cable is a major point of failure, often leading to one side cutting out after a few months of daily use.
- The non-swiveling earcups mean the fit isn't universal, and some users struggle to get a proper seal, impacting sound.
- Comfort is fine for short bursts, but the ear pads can become uncomfortable after an hour or two.
- They are not designed for any kind of rough handling; the plastic is brittle.
- The lack of a microphone is a consistent annoyance for those using them for calls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do these headphones have a microphone?
No, the Koss KPH7 headphones do not include an onboard microphone.
Is there volume control on the cord?
No, these headphones do not have inline volume controls.
Are these headphones comfortable for long listening sessions?
While lightweight at 2.88 ounces, some users report the ear pads can feel hard and the headband may pinch after extended wear.
Do these headphones have good bass?
The bass response is present but mild, described as a supportive background layer rather than a deep, thumping experience.
Are these headphones durable?
The plastic build and thin cord are prone to breaking, with some users reporting durability issues and channel dropout within months of daily use.
Buying Guide
When you're looking at headphones in this price range, you're really prioritizing basic function and portability over anything else. You're not getting advanced features or robust durability; instead, you're getting a simple audio output device that's easy to carry and won't break the bank if it gets lost or damaged. Think of them as a disposable utility item rather than a long-term audio investment.
type: On Ear
On-ear headphones sit directly on your ears, rather than covering them completely or going inside. This usually means they're lighter and more portable, but they don't block out as much outside noise and can sometimes cause pressure on your ears over time.
weight: 2.88 ounces
This is incredibly light, like a few slices of bread. It means you'll barely feel them on your head, which is great for long periods of wear or if you're moving around a lot, but it also hints at a very minimal, likely plastic, construction.
connectivity: Wired
Wired headphones connect directly to your device with a cable. This means no batteries to charge and no Bluetooth pairing issues, but you're tethered to your device and the cable can get tangled or snagged.
frequency response 80-18,000 hz
This range tells you the lowest and highest sounds the headphones can reproduce. Human hearing typically goes from 20-20,000 Hz. An 80 Hz low end means you'll hear some bass, but it won't be very deep or impactful, and 18,000 Hz on the high end means the very highest, sparkling sounds might be slightly rolled off.
Alternatives
If you need better sound isolation, look for headphones with active noise cancellation. For richer bass and more detailed highs, search for models with a wider frequency response range, especially extending below 80 Hz and above 18,000 Hz.
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