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AKG K323xs Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price: ~£25
Form factor: in-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

AKG K323xs review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

4.8

Poor

4.4

Poor

6.3

Good

2.8
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%
7.0
Noise-canceling microphone
8.0%
0.0
Battery life
2.1
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
0.0
Battery life
18.0%
10
Weight
16.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
0.0
Ambient sound mode
4.4
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
7.0
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
8.0
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
10
Weight
24.0%
9.0
Water resistance
20.0%
9.0
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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Verdict

The AKG K323XS is an ultra-small, dynamic in-ear headphone featuring high-performance 5.8mm drivers and a closed-back design aimed at providing studio-quality sound in a discreet, featherweight package. Technical specifications include a frequency response of 20Hz–20kHz, 16-ohm impedance for easy driving by mobile devices, and a sensitivity of 98dB SPL/V. Main characteristics include its 'XS' ultra-compact housing—which is often smaller than the eartip itself—and compatibility options including a straight cable, a one-button universal remote, or a three-button MFI remote for iOS. Pros include exceptional passive noise isolation (up to 28dB), four sizes of silicone eartips (XS, S, M, L) for a customized fit, and a balanced sound profile with thumping bass and clear highs. Cons include a relatively short 1-metre cable and potential durability concerns regarding the reinforcement around the jack and earpieces.

Technical Specifications of AKG K323xs

Overall score

4.8

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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

4.4

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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

6.3

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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

?

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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

8.3

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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

in-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

N/A

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AKG K323xs vs the average headphone

Why is AKG K323xs better than the average headphone?

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90.8% lower weight
AKG K323xs is lighter than the average headphone (20.1 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 K323xs is lighter than the average headphone (20.1 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.20.1 g vs 218 g
Direct 3.5 mm plug
AKG K323xs 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 K323xs includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
8 Hz lower bass extension
AKG K323xs has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (10 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 K323xs has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (10 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.10 Hz vs 18 Hz
In-line controls
AKG K323xs includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
What it is: Controls available on in-line remote of wired cable
When it matters: When your wired setup depends on cable-mounted buttons or call controls.
Importance: LOW
AKG K323xs includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
5,000 Hz higher treble extension
AKG K323xs 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 K323xs 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
3.6x cheaper
AKG K323xs is cheaper than the average headphone (£25 vs £90).
AKG K323xs is cheaper than the average headphone (£25 vs £90).£25 vs £90
90.8% lower weight
AKG K323xs is lighter than the average headphone (20.1 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
8 Hz lower bass extension
AKG K323xs has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (10 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
5,000 Hz higher treble extension
AKG K323xs 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.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
AKG K323xs includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
In-line controls
AKG K323xs includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.

Calls & Controls

Why is AKG K323xs worse than the average headphone?

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Fixed cable
AKG K323xs has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
34.2 mm smaller driver size
AKG K323xs has smaller driver size than the average headphone (5.8 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
4 dB/mW lower sensitivity
AKG K323xs has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (98 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
5 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
AKG K323xs has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (98 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
No voice assistant support
AKG K323xs does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
4 years older release date
AKG K323xs was released earlier than the average headphone (2,013 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
November 2013
34.2 mm smaller driver size
AKG K323xs has smaller driver size than the average headphone (5.8 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 K323xs has smaller driver size than the average headphone (5.8 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.5.8 mm vs 40 mm
No voice assistant support
AKG K323xs 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 K323xs does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
Fixed cable
AKG K323xs 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 K323xs has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
4 dB/mW lower sensitivity
AKG K323xs has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (98 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 K323xs has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (98 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.98 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
26.2% lower user score
AKG K323xs has a lower user score than the average headphone (6.34 vs 8.000).
What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.
When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.
AKG K323xs has a lower user score than the average headphone (6.34 vs 8.000).6.34 vs 8
4 years older release date
AKG K323xs was released earlier than the average headphone (2,013 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
November 2013
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 K323xs was released earlier than the average headphone (2,013 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.2013 vs 2017
5.8% worse value for money
AKG K323xs has worse value for money than the average headphone (6.37 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 K323xs has worse value for money than the average headphone (6.37 vs 6.736).6.37 vs 6.74
5 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
AKG K323xs has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (98 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 K323xs has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (98 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.98 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL

Graphic comparison of AKG K323xs 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 K323xs?

Extremely compact and lightweight 'XS' design for high portability
Impressive passive noise isolation comparable to some active systems
Balanced and clear sound signature across different genres
Low harmonic distortion results in pure audio playback
Includes a variety of silicone eartip sizes (XS, S, M, L) for a snug fit
Excellent value for money, often outperforming pricier competitors
Manageable, 1-meter cable length ideal for commuting

What customers dislike about AKG K323xs?

Thin cable lacks significant reinforcement at the jack and earpieces
Some users report a 'veiled' quality in the mid-range frequencies
Cable is prone to microphonics (movement noise carrying to the ears)
Sub-bass extension may feel lacking for fans of heavy bass music
Android users typically lose volume control functionality on the remote
Non-detachable cable makes the unit difficult to repair if damaged

Expert reviews

reviewed.com

17/04/2014

AKG K 323XS Headphones Review

The AKG K 323XS in-ear headphones (MSRP $59.95, with online prices around $40) deliver an impressively large, well-balanced soundstage packed into an ultra-compact and lightweight frame. The audio performance is highly praised for its flat bass response that supports rather than overpowers music, coupled with a boost in high frequencies that creates an equal loudness curve across...Read more

thechrisvossshow.com

31/03/2014

AKG K323XS Ultra Small In-Ear Headphones Review Would you like to find user-reported durability issues or replacement ear tip sizes for this specific...

The review from The Chris Voss Show highly praises the AKG K323XS ultra-small in-ear headphones as a lightweight, subtle, and convenient option tailored for consumers on the go. A standout pro is their extremely small, dainty, and compact form factor, making them highly discreet to wear to work or daily commutes without drawing unwanted attention. Despite their diminutive blueprint,...Read more

head-fi.org

12/07/2014

AKG X323XS | Headphone Reviews and Discussion

The Head-Fi community review highlights the AKG X323XS as an exceptionally small, comfortable, and affordable sub-$50 in-ear monitor that delivers a balanced, mid-centric sound. Key strengths include a lightweight design and impressive sound quality for the price, boasting full bass, clear mids, and well-extended, non-sibilant treble. Conversely, the review notes significant design...Read more

usatoday.com

20/04/2014

Tiny in-ear headphones boast a massive soundstage

The USA TODAY review praises the AKG K323 XS as an exceptionally lightweight, ultra-portable, and affordable pair of in-ear headphones (originally retailing at an MSRP of $59.95, with online sale prices around $40) that delivers impressive, high-fidelity audio performance. The primary pros highlighted in the review focus on the product's massive, well-balanced soundstage, which...Read more

whathifi.com

24/06/2014

AKG K323XSi review

The What Hi-Fi? review of the AKG K323XSi wired earphones awards them a positive verdict, praising them as a budget-friendly, "box-ticking" choice originally priced at £50. A major pro of these in-ears is their incredibly tiny, light, and comfortable build, meaning they barely register when worn. They feature an Apple-spec three-button remote and microphone that allows iOS users...Read more

appgefahren.de

31/03/2014

AKG K323 XS: Mini In-Ear Headphones with Great Sound on a Budget

The appgefahren.de review highlights the AKG K323 XS (specifically the Apple-compatible "i" variant) as an ultra-compact, lightweight pair of in-ear headphones that delivers a well-balanced acoustic performance for its €59.95 price tag. A major pro emphasized by the reviewer is the exceptionally comfortable, pressure-free fit made possible by the microscopic size of the earbuds,...Read more

hifitest.de

06/06/2014

AKG K323XS In-Ear Headphones Review: Excellent

The AKG K323XS is an entry-class, ultra-compact in-ear headphone marketed as potentially the smallest in the world, priced at approximately 40 Euro. In terms of advantages, the review highlights its highly attractive design and wide color selection—available in black, white, green, blue, red, and yellow, with the black and white versions featuring an inline remote and microphone for...Read more

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