Sony ZX Series Wired On-Ear Headphones, White MDR-ZX110
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AI Verdict
A 4.2-ounce wired on-ear headphone with 1.38-inch dynamic drivers, best for casual listening where portability and low cost are the main priorities.
These headphones are a situational fit because their 4.2-ounce weight and swiveling earcups make them highly portable and comfortable for light use, but the flimsy plastic build and ear pad degradation limit their longevity. The claimed Active Noise Cancellation is largely contradicted by user experience for this model, making them unsuitable for noisy environments.
If you need effective noise cancellation or a more robust build, look for headphones with higher weight specifications (indicating more durable materials) and explicitly well-reviewed noise-cancelling performance.
Regret Score™
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Issues discovered after purchase
Critically weak dimension
Amazon rating vs actual quality
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Pros
- Extremely lightweight at 4.2 ounces, making them easy to wear for extended periods.
- Swiveling earcups fold flat for compact storage and portability.
- Durable, thick, L-shaped 3.5mm stereo mini plug cable resists tangling.
- 12 Hz to 22 kHz frequency range delivers a wide audio spectrum for the price [Product Data, 10].
- Cushioned earpads contribute to comfort during use.
Cons
- Build quality is mostly thin plastic, leading to concerns about long-term durability.
- Earpad coating flakes off after several months of use, requiring replacement.
- Active Noise Cancellation, despite being listed in specs, is reported as ineffective or absent by many users for this model, with a separate "NC" version existing.
- Sound quality without equalization is described as flat, with cloudy midrange and muddy bass.
- Unstable fit for physical activity, easily falling off the head.
Dimension Scores
The 12 Hz to 22 kHz frequency range and 1.38-inch dynamic drivers provide acceptable sound for the price, but users report flat sound, cloudy midrange, and muddy bass without equalization.
Despite "Active Noise Cancellation" being listed in the product specifications, user reviews for the MDR-ZX110 consistently report this feature as ineffective or entirely absent, often confusing it with the separate MDR-ZX110NC model.
The 4.2-ounce weight and cushioned earpads make them comfortable for extended wear, and the swiveling earcups adapt well.
As wired headphones, they do not require a battery and therefore have unlimited 'battery life'.
Best For
- Casual listening at home or in quiet environments.
- Travel where losing or damaging headphones isn't a major concern.
- As a backup pair of wired headphones for devices without Bluetooth.
- Users on a strict budget needing basic audio output.
Not Recommended For
- Critical audio monitoring or professional music production.
- Sports or activities requiring a secure fit and sweat resistance.
- Environments requiring effective noise isolation or cancellation.
Watch Out For
- The thin plastic construction means they can crack or break easily if not handled carefully.
- Earpad material often starts flaking off within a year, leaving black specks on ears and hair.
- Despite the spec sheet claiming Active Noise Cancellation, many users report this feature is either non-existent or completely ineffective on the MDR-ZX110, with the MDR-ZX110NC being the model with actual (though often weak) ANC.
- The cable is hardwired and not replaceable, meaning a damaged cable renders the headphones unusable.
- No official replacement ear cushions are sold by Sony, requiring third-party solutions when they degrade.
Full Specifications
| UPC | 027242868823 |
| ASIN | B00NJ2M43M |
| Brand | Sony |
| Color | White |
| Style | No Mic |
| Units | 1.0 Count |
| Material | Neodymium |
| Impedance | 24 Ohms |
| Model Name | MDRZX110 ZX |
| Form Factor | On Ear |
| Item Weight | 4.2 ounces |
| Sensitivity | 100 dB |
| Manufacturer | Sony |
| Cable Feature | Tangle Free |
| Ear Placement | On Ear |
| Noise Control | Active Noise Cancellation |
| Series Number | 110 |
| Control Method | Push Button |
| Earpiece Shape | Curved |
| Headphones Jack | 3.5 mm Jack |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Special Feature | Lightweight, Noise Cancellation |
| Audio Driver Size | 34.93 Millimeters |
| Audio Driver Type | Dynamic Driver |
| Item model number | MDRZX110/WHI |
| Compatible Devices | Cellphones, Desktops, Laptops, Tablets |
| Frequency Response | 20000 Hz |
| Hardware Interface | 3.5mm Audio |
| Product Dimensions | 5.87 x 1.81 x 7.87 inches |
| Included Components | Headphones, User Manual |
| Customer Package Type | Standard Packaging |
| Input Device Interface | Audio jack |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
| Age Range (Description) | Adult |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired |
| Specific Uses For Product | Travel |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Travel |
| Supports Bluetooth Technology | No |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Wireless Communication Technology | 3.5 mm |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00027242868823 |
What Buyers Say
The biggest surprise is how often users praise the comfort and portability for such a low-cost item, despite the build quality being a consistent concern. Many buyers are drawn to the Sony brand and the low price, often overlooking the fact that the advertised Active Noise Cancellation is either non-existent or extremely poor on this specific model, leading to disappointment in noisy environments. The ear pads are a major point of failure, frequently flaking off after several months of use.
“Dude, these are like ten bucks, what do you expect? They sound fine for my podcasts, but the ear pads are already shedding after six months, and forget about blocking out my roommate's gaming.”
Common Praise
- Extremely lightweight and easy to forget you're wearing them.
- Swiveling earcups make them compact and easy to toss into a bag.
- The wired cable is surprisingly durable and resists tangling.
- Sound quality is considered acceptable or even impressive *for the price point*.
- Comfortable for long periods due to soft ear pads and low weight.
Common Complaints
- Earpad material degrades and flakes off within a year of regular use.
- Flimsy plastic construction feels cheap and prone to breaking.
- Active Noise Cancellation is ineffective or absent, contrary to product specs, with users often needing the "NC" version for any noise reduction.
- Sound can be flat or muddy without custom equalization.
- Not stable enough to stay on during physical activity like jogging.
Ownership Tips
- The ear pad material will almost certainly start flaking off within 6-12 months, requiring third-party replacements or living with the mess.
- The thin plastic headband and earcups are susceptible to cracking if stored carelessly in a bag without protection.
- The wired connection means no charging, which is a relief for grab-and-go use.
- Sound leakage is minimal, so you won't annoy people nearby too much, even at higher volumes.
- The L-shaped plug is convenient for preventing accidental disconnections and reducing strain on the cable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do these headphones have a microphone for calls?
The base MDR-ZX110 model does not include a microphone. There is a separate version, the MDR-ZX110AP, which features an inline mic/remote.
Can I replace the ear pads when they wear out?
Sony does not sell official replacement ear cushions for this model, but third-party replacements are available.
Are these headphones suitable for gaming?
While they can be used for gaming, the imaging is reported as terrible with a completely absent center image, which is not ideal for competitive gaming.
How long is the cable?
The wired cable is approximately 47 inches (1.2 meters) long and features an L-shaped 3.5mm stereo mini plug [11, Product Data].
Do these headphones actually have noise cancellation?
The product specifications list Active Noise Cancellation, but user feedback for the MDR-ZX110 indicates this feature is either absent or ineffective, with the MDR-ZX110NC being the model known for having ANC.
Are these headphones comfortable for long listening sessions?
Many users find the 4.2-ounce weight and cushioned ear pads contribute to comfort, allowing for extended wear.
Buying Guide
When you're looking at budget wired on-ear headphones, you're trading features and premium build for a low price. Focus on comfort for your ear shape, the durability of the cable (it's the only connection), and whether the sound profile suits your primary use, as advanced features like effective noise cancellation are rare at this price.
Driver Size (1.38 inches)
This is the speaker inside the headphone. A larger driver can sometimes move more air, potentially delivering deeper bass, but it's not the only factor in sound quality. For on-ear headphones, 1.38 inches is a common size.
Frequency Range (12 Hz to 22 kHz)
This tells you the lowest and highest sounds the headphones can theoretically reproduce. Humans typically hear from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, so this range covers everything audible, promising both deep bass (12 Hz is very low) and clear highs (22 kHz is very high).
Wired Connectivity (3.5mm L-shaped stereo mini plug)
This means you plug them directly into your device. No batteries to charge, no Bluetooth pairing issues, and no audio lag. The L-shape helps prevent the plug from bending or breaking if it gets snagged.
Alternatives
If these don't cut it, look for headphones with a more robust build material (e.g., metal headband components), a detachable cable for easier replacement, or explicitly reviewed, effective active noise cancellation if you need quiet.
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