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AKG N40 Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£350
Avg. price in US: ~$400
Form factor: in-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): yes

AKG N40 review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

7.0

Very good

7.1

Very good

6.6

Good

3.2
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%
10
Noise-canceling microphone
8.0%
0.0
Battery life
4.7
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
10
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
0.0
Battery life
18.0%
10
Weight
16.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
1.0
Ambient sound mode
5.2
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
10
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
5.0
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
10
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

Best rankings

#5 in Best AKG Headphones
#14 in Best In Ear Headphones
#24 in Best Wired Headphones
#315 in Best Headphones with Mic
#317 in Best Noise Cancelling Headphones

Verdict

The AKG N40 is a high-resolution in-ear monitor featuring a hybrid driver system that combines an 8mm dynamic driver for warm bass with a Knowles balanced armature for precise mids and highs. It boasts a wide frequency response of 10Hz to 40kHz, an impedance of 20 ohms, and high sensitivity of 115dB SPL/V, making it easy to drive with portable devices. Main characteristics include its customizable sound via three interchangeable mechanical filters (Bass, Reference, and High Boost) and a premium stainless steel and soft rubber construction with a comfortable behind-the-ear hook design. Pros include its detailed acoustic signature, detachable MMCX tangle-free cables, and a comprehensive accessory package featuring a flight adapter and carrying case. However, some users note that the sound can feel flat or unengaging without a high-quality external DAC, and others find the silicone tips provided can be uncomfortable for certain ear shapes.

Technical Specifications of AKG N40

Overall score

7.0

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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

9.1

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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

hybrid

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

7.4

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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

2.9

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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

3.2

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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

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

4.0

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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

10

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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 N40 vs the average headphone

Why is AKG N40 better than the average headphone?

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Active noise cancellation
AKG N40 supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology
When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.
Importance: HIGH
AKG N40 supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
Hi-Res Audio certification
AKG N40 has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
What it is: Certified for high-resolution audio playback
When it matters: When official support for high-resolution playback matters to you.
Importance: LOW
AKG N40 has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
89.9% lower weight
AKG N40 is lighter than the average headphone (22 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 N40 is lighter than the average headphone (22 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.22 g vs 218 g
13 dB/mW higher sensitivity
AKG N40 has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (115 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 N40 has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (115 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.115 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
20,000 Hz higher treble extension
AKG N40 has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (40,000 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 N40 has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (40,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.40000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
Clear call microphone
AKG N40 offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
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
AKG N40 offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
8 Hz lower bass extension
AKG N40 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 N40 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 N40 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 N40 includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
89.9% lower weight
AKG N40 is lighter than the average headphone (22 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
Active noise cancellation
AKG N40 supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
Hi-Res Audio certification
AKG N40 has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
13 dB/mW higher sensitivity
AKG N40 has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (115 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
20,000 Hz higher treble extension
AKG N40 has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (40,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
8 Hz lower bass extension
AKG N40 has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (10 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
12 dB SPL higher sound pressure level
AKG N40 has a higher sound pressure level than the average headphone (115 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
Play while charging
AKG N40 can play while charging, the average headphone cannot. 55.9% of headphones support play while charging.
Clear call microphone
AKG N40 offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
In-line controls
AKG N40 includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
Quick mic mute
AKG N40 includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.

Calls & Controls

Why is AKG N40 worse than the average headphone?

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32 mm smaller driver size
AKG N40 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (8 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
1 fewer drivers
AKG N40 has fewer drivers than the average headphone (2 vs 1). The average headphones use 1 drivers.
32 mm smaller driver size
AKG N40 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (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 N40 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (8 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.8 mm vs 40 mm
3.89x more expensive
AKG N40 is more expensive than the average headphone (£350 vs £90).
AKG N40 is more expensive than the average headphone (£350 vs £90).£350 vs £90
20.8% lower user score
AKG N40 has a lower user score than the average headphone (6.62 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 N40 has a lower user score than the average headphone (6.62 vs 8.000).6.62 vs 8
1 fewer drivers
AKG N40 has fewer drivers than the average headphone (2 vs 1). The average headphones use 1 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
AKG N40 has fewer drivers than the average headphone (2 vs 1). The average headphones use 1 drivers.2 vs 1

Graphic comparison of AKG N40 and

Attribute category

Attribute

No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

What customers like about AKG N40?

Customizable sound via three interchangeable tuning filters (Bass, Reference, and High Boost)
High-resolution audio quality with clear instrument separation and a spacious soundstage
Lightweight and comfortable design with over-ear hooks that provide a secure fit
Detachable MMCX cable system for improved durability and easy replacement
Comprehensive accessory package including a travel case, flight adapter, and dual cables
Tangle-resistant cable design with an inline remote compatible with both iOS and Android

What customers dislike about AKG N40?

Sound performance is highly dependent on a high-quality source; can sound flat or harsh directly from a smartphone
Premium price point compared to some competitors
Reference filters may have more bass than expected for purists seeking a perfectly neutral sound
Silicone ear tips may be uncomfortable for some users during long listening sessions
The low-end can occasionally overshadow the midrange on certain tracks

Expert reviews

head-fi.org

26/11/2017

AKG N40 In-Ear Monitors - Reviews - Head-Fi

The AKG N40 In-Ear Monitor on Head-Fi is described as a highly dynamic, cohesive, and musical hybrid earphone that adapts to recording quality, featuring a customizable sound via three interchangeable, screw-in acoustic nozzle filters (neutral, bass plus, treble plus). Physical design pros include a comfortable wire-free rubber memory over-ear design that minimizes microphonics,...Read more

stereowiseplus.com

17/09/2017

AKG N40 2-way Hybrid In-Ear Monitor Review

The AKG N40 is a sealed 2-way hybrid in-ear monitor designed for Hi-Res Audio, featuring a durable hybrid metal and plastic construction with an MSRP of $399. Performance-wise, it delivers exceptional sound quality marked by crisp, clean percussion, deep and tight bass with great authority, natural-sounding acoustic elements, and smooth vocals featuring rich textures. It stands out...Read more

majorhifi.com

03/10/2016

AKG N40 Review - Major HiFi

The Major HiFi review highlights the AKG N40 as a musical, hybrid dual-driver in-ear monitor (IEM) that combines a balanced armature and a dynamic driver to create a rich, warm tonality 0.1.1. Structurally, it features detachable MMCX connectors and a unique cable design that transitions from nylon near the jack to plastic near the earpieces to eliminate distracting cable noise...Read more

whathifi.com

08/10/2018

The AKG N40 earphones offer exceptional build quality and a lightweight design with fitted over-ear hooks that provide a secure, comfortable fit and isolate external vibration. Their primary pro is the ability to deliver stunning, spacious sound with excellent detail recovery, low-level dynamics, and well-balanced treble when paired with a high-quality source. They also feature a...Read more

stereo.de

01/09/2017

AKG N40 - Test Results - stereo.de

The STEREO magazine review highlights the AKG N40 in-ear monitors as a premium, "HD-capable" device that offers an open soundstage with exceptionally clear vocals and punchy bass. Key strengths include the high-resolution audio performance and, specifically, the inclusion of interchangeable filter modules that allow users to customize the frequency balance. The review notes that...Read more

likehifi.de

22/08/2017

Review: AKG N40 - Sport Free! - likehifi.de", "Test: AKG N40 - Free to Move! - likehifi.de

The AKG N40 is a high-end, hybrid in-ear headphone priced at 400 Euros with a 20 Ohm impedance. Designed for portability and sport, the headphones use a dual-driver design featuring a dynamic driver for deep, clear bass and a balanced-armature driver to handle precise high frequencies. A standout feature is the inclusion of three physical sound filters—Reference, Bass-Boost, and...Read more

areadvd.de

09/09/2016

REVIEW: AKG N40 High-End In-Ear Headphones – Best Sound and Cutting-Edge Tech for €399?

The German publication AREA DVD published an enthusiastic review of the AKG N40 high-end in-ear headphones, which retail for 399 EUR. Boasting a 2-way hybrid driver system that marries balanced armature and dynamic drivers, these lightweight (22-gram) earphones deliver an expansive frequency response of 10 Hz to 40 kHz, making them an exceptional match for High-Resolution audio. The...Read more

computerbild.de

15/09/2016

AKG N40 Review: In-Ear Headphones with Sound Filters - COMPUTER BILD

This review from COMPUTER BILD evaluates the AKG N40, a high-quality, lightweight in-ear headphone that weighs just 20 grams. The device stands out by combining balanced-armature drivers for sharp high frequencies with dynamic drivers for deep bass, a setup typically reserved for professional stage equipment. Testers awarded it a "good" rating of 1.9, praising its superb build...Read more

kopfhoerer.de

09/12/2016

AKG N40 review on kopfhoerer.de

The AKG N40 is a premium, high-end pair of in-ear headphones utilizing a 2-way hybrid driver system designed to appeal to audio enthusiasts and professionals. A standout feature highlighted in the review is the inclusion of three interchangeable tuning filters ("Bass Boost", "Reference Sound", and "High Boost") that allow users to mechanically customize the frequency response...Read more

xgn.nl

09/10/2016

For the true music lover

The XGN.nl review describes the AKG N40 as premium in-ear monitors tailored for audiophiles, highlighting exceptional, clear, high-resolution sound and a comfortable, secure design with stainless steel elements. A key strength is the inclusion of three interchangeable sound filters—Bass Boost, Reference, and High Boost—which allow for physical acoustic customization. However, the...Read more

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