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AKG K 272 HD Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price: ~£110
Form factor: over-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

AKG K 272 HD review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

5.1

Good

4.6

Poor

7.3

Very good

2.1
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
0.0
Audio latency
25.0%
0.0
Low-latency game mode
20.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
12.0%
1.0
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
2.7
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Noise-canceling microphone
24.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
18.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
14.0%
0.0
Companion app
3.5
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%
10
Can be used as a headset

Best prices in UK

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Best rankings

Verdict

The AKG K 272 HD is a lightweight, closed-back circumaural headphone designed for high-definition studio and home use, weighing 240g and featuring extra-large XXL-Varimotion drivers. It offers a wide frequency response of 16 Hz to 28,000 Hz, an impedance of 55 ohms, and a sensitivity of 91 dB, delivering uncolored, accurate audio performance with minimal sound leakage. Main pros include its self-adjusting headband, gimbal-suspended earcups with soft velvet pads for long-term comfort, and a 99.99% oxygen-free single-sided cable for clean signal transmission. However, notable cons include its non-detachable cable and a requirement for significant power (amplification) to achieve optimal volume levels when used with portable devices.

Technical Specifications of AKG K 272 HD

Overall score

5.1

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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

4.8

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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

2.8

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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

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

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

4.1

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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

5.9

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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

closed-back

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 272 HD vs the average headphone

Why is AKG K 272 HD better than the average headphone?

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Direct 3.5 mm plug
AKG K 272 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 272 HD includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
16 mm more spacious earcup height
AKG K 272 HD offers more spacious earcup height than the average headphone (76 mm vs 60 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup height of 60 mm.
What it is: Internal height of the earcup cavity
When it matters: When larger ears need enough space inside the earcups.
Importance: MEDIUM
AKG K 272 HD offers more spacious earcup height than the average headphone (76 mm vs 60 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup height of 60 mm.76 mm vs 60 mm
8,000 Hz higher treble extension
AKG K 272 HD has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (28,000 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 272 HD has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (28,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.28000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
1.8 m more useful cable length
AKG K 272 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 272 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
19.56 dB higher max SPL
AKG K 272 HD has a higher max SPL than the average headphone (129.6 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
What it is: Maximum safe sound pressure level
When it matters: When high-volume headroom is part of your use case.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=116 dB
AKG K 272 HD has a higher max SPL than the average headphone (129.6 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.129.56 dB vs 110 dB
16 mm more spacious earcup height
AKG K 272 HD offers more spacious earcup height than the average headphone (76 mm vs 60 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup height of 60 mm.
1.8 m more useful cable length
AKG K 272 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.
8,000 Hz higher treble extension
AKG K 272 HD has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (28,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
19.56 dB higher max SPL
AKG K 272 HD has a higher max SPL than the average headphone (129.6 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
AKG K 272 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 272 HD worse than the average headphone?

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Fixed cable
AKG K 272 HD has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
10.1% higher weight
AKG K 272 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 272 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 272 HD does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
11 dB/mW lower sensitivity
AKG K 272 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.
12 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
AKG K 272 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.
1 fewer microphones
AKG K 272 HD has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
9 years older release date
AKG K 272 HD was released earlier than the average headphone (2,008 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
October 2008
11 dB/mW lower sensitivity
AKG K 272 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 272 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 272 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 272 HD has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
1 fewer microphones
AKG K 272 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 272 HD has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.0 vs 1
Tangle-prone cable
AKG K 272 HD uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
What it is: Cable designed to resist tangling
When it matters: When you often carry wired headphones in a bag or pocket.
Importance: LOW
AKG K 272 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 272 HD does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
What it is: Comes with a protective carrying case or pouch
When it matters: When protection in transit matters right out of the box.
Importance: LOW
AKG K 272 HD does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
10.1% higher weight
AKG K 272 HD is heavier than the average headphone (240 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
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
AKG K 272 HD is heavier than the average headphone (240 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.240 g vs 218 g
9 years older release date
AKG K 272 HD was released earlier than the average headphone (2,008 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
October 2008
What it is: Official release or launch date of the model
When it matters: When you want a newer model for fresher features, longer support life, or simply to avoid buying into an older generation.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=2020
AKG K 272 HD was released earlier than the average headphone (2,008 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.2008 vs 2017
12 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
AKG K 272 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.
What it is: Output loudness level of the headphones, usually measured in dB. It helps compare how loud a model can play under similar conditions.
When it matters: When you need a rough idea of how loud the headphones can get before you pair them with a weaker source.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=108 dB SPL
AKG K 272 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.91 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL

Calls & Controls

Graphic comparison of AKG K 272 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 272 HD?

Extremely lightweight and comfortable for long sessions
Self-adjusting headband provides a natural fit for most head sizes
Soft velvet ear pads reduce heat and sweating
Good passive noise isolation despite the breathable ear pads
Natural and airy sound signature with clear treble and high-frequency detail
Wide, open-sounding soundstage for a closed-back design

What customers dislike about AKG K 272 HD?

Non-removable 3-meter cable can be inconvenient and difficult to replace
Bass response is often described as thin or lacking 'punch' for modern genres
Requires a decent amp or 'juice' to reach full potential due to low sensitivity
Mids can sound slightly strange or dry without EQ adjustments
Bulky design makes them less suitable for portable or outdoor use
High initial launch price compared to similar studio alternatives

Expert reviews

head-fi.org

21/09/2012

Sennheiser HD 598Go to product viewer dialogue for this item. vs AKG K 272 vs AKG 240MKII [review]

The Head-Fi thread 628477 compares the Sennheiser HD 598, AKG K240 MKII, and AKG K272, with the HD 598 chosen for its expansive soundstage and detailed, relaxing sound, though it lacks deep sub-bass. The AKG models offer a clinical, reference-oriented sound, with the K240 MKII providing precise, lifelike string reproduction but requiring heavy amplification to avoid a muffled sound....Read more

stereophile.com

12/02/2013

AKG K272 HD - Stereophile.com (Technical Measurements)

The InnerFidelity measurement sheet for the AKG K272 HD reveals a headphone that is highly efficient and electrically stable, making it easy to drive. It requires only 0.145 Vrms (or 0.35 mW) to reach a loud 90dB SPL, operating with a nominal impedance of 60 Ohms at 1kHz. The electrical impedance and phase graphs show a relatively flat impedance curve from 200Hz upwards, though a...Read more

head-fi.org

05/05/2010

AKG K 272 HD High-Definition Headphones - Head-Fi

The AKG K 272 HD closed-back headphones are characterized by exceptional clarity, detailed, sparkly highs, and a comfortable, lightweight design suitable for extended listening sessions, particularly with rock and techno. While the low-end is considered well-balanced, the headset boasts an airy sound for a closed-back design, providing good, non-aggressive mid-tones. Head-Fi.org...Read more

connect.de

25/02/2010

AKG K 272 HD Headphones - Connect

The AKG K 272 HD Review on connect.de highlights that the model costs €180 and scores 42.0 points out of 100 under their evaluation system. The publication notes that despite what the "HD" designation implies, the changes compared to the preceding K 271 Studio model are primarily cosmetic and structural rather than a massive sonic re-engineering. On the positive side, reviewers...Read more

kopfhoerer.de

21/05/2012

AKG K 272 HD im Test bei kopfhoerer.de

The kopfhoerer.de review highlights the AKG K 272 HD as a well-crafted, over-ear studio classic reissue tailored for recording environments and acoustic music enthusiasts. It is praised for its warm, rich sound profile, showcasing a wide stereo image, present mid-frequencies (300 to 1,500 Hz), and a full bass response that works exceptionally well with jazz, orchestral pieces, and...Read more

connect.de

08/12/2008

AKG K 272HD - Connection", "AKG K 272HD - Connecting", "How to connect the AKG K 272HD

The connect review highlights the AKG K 272HD as an over-ear, closed-back headphone born out of the brand's 60-year tradition of supplying broadcasting stations. Priced at €180.00, it achieved an overall test rating of 75.0 points. The reviewer praises its studio-worthy sound quality, describing the acoustic signature as pleasantly balanced, highly dynamic, and capable of...Read more

connect.de

01/02/2010

Data sheet: AKG K 272 HD - Connection

The AKG K 272 HD review published by connect.de highlights a dynamic, top-tier over-ear headphone that scored an overall "good" rating of 62 out of 120 points. Weighing 234 grams with an impedance of 58.7 Ohms and a sensitivity of 93.5 dB, the headphones offer an "outstanding" price-to-performance ratio. Audio professionals and enthusiasts will heavily appreciate the sonic strengths...Read more

lesnumeriques.com

28/05/2013

AKG K272 HD Review - Les Numériques

The AKG K272 HD is a closed-back, circumaural Hi-Fi headphone that functions as a consumer-oriented clone of the brand's professional K271 model, weighing 240 grams. Despite its closed architecture, the headphone delivers a surprisingly airy soundstage and excellent spatial imaging that mimics an open-back experience. It provides exceptional comfort and solid physical isolation from...Read more

m.alatest.nl

15/03/2012

AKG K 272 HD Reviews - alaTest.nl

The alaTest.nl review aggregation database gives the AKG K 272 HD headphones an overall alaScore of 82 out of 100, indicating a highly favorable reception among testers. This score is synthesized from 6 expert reviews and 330 user reviews, yielding an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars. The summary highlights a closed-back, around-ear high-definition headphone model that is...Read more

Video reviews

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