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AKG K 242 HD Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price: ~£130
Form factor: over-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

AKG K 242 HD review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

3.8

Poor

3.0

Poor

6.8

Good

0.2
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
0.0
Audio latency
25.0%
0.0
Low-latency game mode
20.0%
1.0
Can be used as a headset
12.0%
0.0
Noise-canceling microphone
8.0%
0.0
Battery life
1.1
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
0.0
Battery life
18.0%
4.7
Weight
16.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
0.0
Ambient sound mode
0.2
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
0.0
Noise-canceling microphone
24.0%
1.0
Can be used as a headset
18.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
14.0%
0.0
Companion app
2.5
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
4.7
Weight
24.0%
1.0
Water resistance
20.0%
4.0
IP rating
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
12.0%
1.0
Can be used as a headset

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Verdict

The AKG K 242 HD is a pair of semi-professional, over-ear headphones featuring a semi-open design and a self-adjusting headband for long-term wearing comfort. Technically, it offers an audio bandwidth of 15 Hz to 25,000 Hz, a 55-ohm impedance, and a sensitivity of 91 dB/mW, powered by patented Varimotion transducers that use two-layer diaphragms to ensure high dynamic range and accurate sound reproduction. Its main characteristics include a lightweight 240g construction and plush velvet earpads that provide excellent breathability and a natural soundstage. Pros include a balanced, uncolored sound signature and an exceptionally comfortable fit suitable for extended studio sessions. However, cons include significant sound leakage and minimal isolation from external noise due to the semi-open build, along with a non-detachable 3-metre cable that may be inconvenient for portable use.

Technical Specifications of AKG K 242 HD

Overall score

3.8

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.

Sound

2.5

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Active noise cancellation (ANC)

What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology

When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

Importance: HIGH

Driver type

What it is: Type of speaker driver technology used

When it matters: When the underlying sound character and driver technology matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

dynamic

Driver size

What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit

When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of drivers

What it is: Total number of speaker drivers per earcup

When it matters: When multi-driver designs are part of your buying criteria.

Importance: LOW

Lowest frequency

What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce

When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=10 Hz

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Calls & Controls

1.1

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Noise-canceling microphone

What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls

When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Can be used as a headset

What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.

When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of microphones

What it is: Total number of built-in microphones

When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

Boom microphone

What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity

When it matters: When you need stronger voice clarity for gaming, streaming, or work calls.

Importance: LOW

N/A

Microphone SNR

What it is: Signal-to-noise ratio of the microphone

When it matters: When call clarity matters and you want your voice picked up more cleanly instead of buried in background hiss.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >80 dB

N/A

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Connectivity

6.2

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Connectivity

What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)

When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

Importance: HIGH

Bluetooth version

What it is: Version of Bluetooth technology supported

When it matters: When wireless stability, efficiency, and feature support matter more than treating Bluetooth as a box-check spec.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5.0

N/A

Maximum Bluetooth range

What it is: Maximum wireless operating distance from source device

When it matters: When you move around rooms and want fewer dropouts from your source device.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

N/A

Audio latency

What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode

When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <60 ms

N/A

Multipoint support

What it is: Supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices

When it matters: When you switch often between a phone and a laptop during the day.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

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Features

2.7

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Ambient sound mode

What it is: Allows external sounds to pass through for awareness

When it matters: When you need to stay aware of traffic, voices, or announcements.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

EQ support

What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer

When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

Importance: MEDIUM

Companion app

What it is: Dedicated mobile app for customization and updates

When it matters: When software customization, updates, and extra controls matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Adjustable ANC levels

What it is: Allows adjustment of noise cancellation intensity levels

When it matters: When you move between quiet rooms, offices, streets, and public transport and do not want one ANC setting for every situation.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=4

N/A

Voice assistant support

What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant

When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

Importance: LOW

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Battery

1.0

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Battery life

What it is: Playback time on a single charge

When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >45 hours

N/A

Battery life with ANC

What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled

When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >40 hours

N/A

Charging time

What it is: Time required for a full battery charge

When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=2 hours

N/A

Quick charge

What it is: Provides quick playback time with short charging period

When it matters: When a short top-up needs to deliver useful playback before you leave.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Battery capacity

What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery

When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=720 mAh

N/A

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Design

6.1

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Brand name

What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.

When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

AKG

Form factor

What it is: Overall design type of the headphones (over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, etc.)

When it matters: When comfort, portability, and isolation depend on the overall headphone style.

Importance: HIGH

over-ear

Weight

What it is: Total weight of the headphones

When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <150 g

Acoustic design

What it is: Type of acoustic design (open-back, closed-back, semi-open)

When it matters: When you need the right balance of isolation, leakage, and soundstage.

Importance: HIGH

semi-open

Clamp force

What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head

When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

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AKG K 242 HD vs the average headphone

Why is AKG K 242 HD better than the average headphone?

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Direct 3.5 mm plug
AKG K 242 HD includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones end in a built-in 3.5 mm male plug instead of relying on a separate detachable cable.
When it matters: When direct wired compatibility with older devices or adapters matters.
Importance: MEDIUM
AKG K 242 HD includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
Foldable design
AKG K 242 HD has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
What it is: Earcups or headband can fold for compact storage
When it matters: When you travel often and want easier storage in a bag.
Importance: LOW
AKG K 242 HD has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
5,000 Hz higher treble extension
AKG K 242 HD has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (25,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
What it is: Highest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When treble extension and overall frequency reach matter to you.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=24000 Hz
AKG K 242 HD has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (25,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.25000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
1.8 m more useful cable length
AKG K 242 HD offers a more useful cable length than the average headphone (3 m vs 1.2 m). The average headphones have a cable length of 1.2 m.
What it is: Length of the supplied audio cable
When it matters: When your desk, TV, or audio setup needs more or less movement range.
Importance: LOW
AKG K 242 HD offers a more useful cable length than the average headphone (3 m vs 1.2 m). The average headphones have a cable length of 1.2 m.3 m vs 1.2 m
3 Hz lower bass extension
AKG K 242 HD has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (15 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <=10 Hz
AKG K 242 HD has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (15 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.15 Hz vs 18 Hz
Foldable design
AKG K 242 HD has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
1.8 m more useful cable length
AKG K 242 HD offers a more useful cable length than the average headphone (3 m vs 1.2 m). The average headphones have a cable length of 1.2 m.
5,000 Hz higher treble extension
AKG K 242 HD has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (25,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
3 Hz lower bass extension
AKG K 242 HD has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (15 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
AKG K 242 HD includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.

Why is AKG K 242 HD worse than the average headphone?

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Fixed cable
AKG K 242 HD has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
5 mm tighter earcup height
AKG K 242 HD has tighter earcup height than the average headphone (55 mm vs 60 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup height of 60 mm.
10.1% higher weight
AKG K 242 HD is heavier than the average headphone (240 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
Tangle-prone cable
AKG K 242 HD uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
No travel bag
AKG K 242 HD does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
No passive noise reduction
AKG K 242 HD does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
10 mm smaller driver size
AKG K 242 HD has smaller driver size than the average headphone (30 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
11 dB/mW lower sensitivity
AKG K 242 HD has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (91 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
0.2 % higher distortion
AKG K 242 HD has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.5 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
12 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
AKG K 242 HD has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (91 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
Not headset-ready
AKG K 242 HD is not headset-ready, while the average headphone is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.
1 fewer microphones
AKG K 242 HD has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
No voice assistant support
AKG K 242 HD does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
9 years older release date
AKG K 242 HD was released earlier than the average headphone (2,008 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
September 2008
No passive noise reduction
AKG K 242 HD does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones reduce outside noise through physical sealing, fit, and materials rather than active electronics.
When it matters: When you want better isolation from fit and seal alone, even with ANC turned off or not available.
Importance: MEDIUM
AKG K 242 HD does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
10 mm smaller driver size
AKG K 242 HD has smaller driver size than the average headphone (30 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit
When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.
Importance: MEDIUM
AKG K 242 HD has smaller driver size than the average headphone (30 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.30 mm vs 40 mm
No voice assistant support
AKG K 242 HD does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant
When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.
Importance: LOW
AKG K 242 HD does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
11 dB/mW lower sensitivity
AKG K 242 HD has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (91 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
What it is: Sound pressure output level per unit of input power
When it matters: When you plan to use weaker sources like phones, handhelds, or entry-level dongles and still want enough volume.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=106 dB/mW
AKG K 242 HD has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (91 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.91 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
Fixed cable
AKG K 242 HD has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
What it is: Cable can be removed or replaced
When it matters: When you care about easier cable replacement, simpler storage, or the option to swap to shorter, longer, or upgraded leads.
Importance: MEDIUM
AKG K 242 HD has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
Not headset-ready
AKG K 242 HD is not headset-ready, while the average headphone is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.
When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.
Importance: MEDIUM
AKG K 242 HD is not headset-ready, while the average headphone is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.
1 fewer microphones
AKG K 242 HD has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
What it is: Total number of built-in microphones
When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=2
AKG K 242 HD has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.0 vs 1
20% worse value for money
AKG K 242 HD has worse value for money than the average headphone (5.62 vs 6.736).
What it is: An indicator that combines the headphones' overall rating with their cost.
When it matters: When you are looking for headphones that offer a strong balance of performance, features, and price.
AKG K 242 HD has worse value for money than the average headphone (5.62 vs 6.736).5.62 vs 6.74

Calls & Controls

Graphic comparison of AKG K 242 HD and

Attribute category

Attribute

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about AKG K 242 HD?

Extremely comfortable for long listening sessions due to a self-adjusting headband and soft velour ear pads
Balanced, neutral sound signature that provides high clarity and accurate detail for studio monitoring
Wide soundstage and natural instrument separation thanks to the semi-open acoustic design
Breathable ear cups that prevent overheating during extended use
Durable build quality with a weight that feels light on the head

What customers dislike about AKG K 242 HD?

Bass response is accurate but may feel lacking or 'thin' for those who prefer heavy bass
Semi-open design results in significant sound leakage and poor noise isolation in loud environments
Difficult to drive properly with standard mobile devices (e.g., iPhones/iPods) and often requires a dedicated headphone amp
The 10-foot (3-meter) cable is non-detachable and can be cumbersome for portable or home use
Minimalist aesthetic may feel somewhat outdated or plain compared to modern consumer headphones

Expert reviews

head-fi.org

05/05/2010

AKG K 242 Headphones - Head-Fi

The AKG K 242 headphones are described as a durable, comfortable choice for long listening sessions, offering a neutral sound profile with a wide soundstage thanks to their semi-open design. Key pros include exceptional comfort and a resilient build that withstands heavy daily use. Cons include a non-detachable cable prone to tangling and a lack of low-end bass impact, making them...Read more

head-fi.org

07/03/2012

AKG K242 HD: From A Layman's Perspective - Head-Fi

The AKG K242 HD headphones are characterized as a warm, mid-centric, and non-fatiguing option with a noticeable mid-bass bump, ideal for vocal-heavy tracks, rock, pop, and hip-hop. While offering a smooth midrange, the headphones suffer from weak treble response and lack high-end extension, making them unsuitable for classical and jazz music. Regarding physical design, the...Read more

letemsvetemapplem.eu

20/11/2013

AKG K242 review: a combination of comfort and clear sound for home listening

The AKG K242 HD headphones are reviewed as an exceptionally comfortable, lightweight (240-gram) option for home and studio listening. Priced at under CZK 3,500, they feature a semi-open construction with a self-adjusting leatherette headband strap and soft textile ear cushions that fully encompass the ears. Sound-wise, they utilize patented Varimotion membranes to deliver a highly...Read more

head-fi.org

05/05/2010

AKG K 242 HD High-Definition Headphones - Head-Fi

The AKG K 242 HD headphones are praised for comfort, attractive design, and a high-value, detailed, and warm sound signature featuring an impressive soundstage. Ideal for rock, jazz, and classical music, the semi-open, 55-ohm cans provide a smooth, clear, and upfront performance. However, the 91 dB sensitivity makes them difficult to drive with portable devices, and they require...Read more

hifitest.de

01/07/2026

Test - Technical Specifications Hi-Fi Headphones - AKG K 242 HD

The AKG K 242 HD is a semi-open, over-ear hi-fi headphone designed for home audio and project studios. On the positive side, it features an exceptionally comfortable design, utilizing replaceable ultra-soft velvet earpads and a self-adjusting headband that automatically scales to the user's head for long, fatigue-free listening sessions. It provides high-definition audio across a...Read more

kopfhoerer.net

01/07/2026

AKG K 242 HD Home Studio Headphones Review

The AKG K 242 HD home studio headphones are highly praised for their exceptional sound reproduction and premium build design. A major pro highlighted in the review is the outstanding sound quality, which delivers clear, distortion-free bass and high notes across a broad frequency spectrum that closely mirrors human hearing. Additionally, they provide excellent wearing comfort due to...Read more

letemsvetemapplem.eu

19/11/2013

AKG K242 Review: Comfort and Pure Sound for Your Listening Pleasure

The AKG K242 HD headphones offer an exceptionally lightweight (240 grams) and comfortable design ideal for long, multi-hour home listening sessions, featuring soft textile ear cushions and a self-adjusting faux leather headband that evenly distributes pressure. Performance-wise, they utilize patented Varimotion membranes to deliver a highly balanced, unadulterated, and crystal-clear...Read more

kopfhoerer.de

01/07/2026

AKG K 242 HD review on kopfhoerer.de

The AKG K 242 HD is a semi-open, over-ear studio headphone designed for mid-range home and project studios. Visually, it features a functional "milk" gray design with double metal bands and a self-adjusting synthetic leather headband. Structurally, it relies on gimbal-suspended earcups and replaceable soft velour pads to provide a solid fit. Weighing 239 grams, it is equipped with a...Read more

lesnumeriques.com

28/05/2013

AKG K242 HD Review - Les Numériques

of the AKG K242 HD headphones: The AKG K242 HD is a consumer-focused, semi-open, over-ear hi-fi headphone adapted from the brand’s highly regarded K240 studio monitoring lineage. Visually, it transitions away from standard, sterile studio black to a warm beige finish that adds visual appeal without being overly flashy. In terms of performance, the reviewer highlights several...Read more

letemsvetemapplem.eu

20/11/2013

AKG K242 Review: Combining comfort and pure sound for home listening - LSA

The AKG K242 HD headphones offer an excellent balance of comfort, sound quality, and value for home listeners looking for a pure, undistorted audio presentation. Weighing just 240 grams, they feature a lightweight, circumaural design with a soft leatherette headband that evenly distributes pressure, making them remarkably comfortable for extended use. The audio profile is highly...Read more

letemsvetemapplem.eu

19/11/2013

AKG K242Go to product viewer dialog for this item. review: comfort en puur geluid combineren voor thuisgebruik

The Letem svetem Applem Review describes the AKG K242 HD as an exceptionally lightweight (240g) and comfortable home headphone that offers a highly balanced, uncolored sound presentation. Key pros highlighted in the article include its supreme comfort, utilizing a soft leather headband that evenly distributes weight and flexible ear cups with soft textiel/velvet cushioning that...Read more

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