OVERALL
ALTERNATIVES
SPECS
VS AVERAGE
REVIEWS
Scored using Headphones Methodology v1.0
Headphones Methodology v1.0
Mathematical & Unbiased Scoring
Products in this category are scored under Frontum Headphones Methodology v1.0: technical specifications plus authentic consumer ratings, with 0% commercial bias.
Explore Headphones Methodology v1.0

Harman Kardon NC Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price:~£260Form factor:over-earConnectivity:wiredBattery life:N/A hoursActive noise cancellation (ANC):yes

Harman Kardon NC Review: Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how this product ranks in the Headphones category and whether it is worth buying.

Harman Kardon NC
7.0/10

Overall score

Score
7.0/ 10
✕
What it is
An overall evaluation of the headphones' quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.
When it matters
When you need a quick reference to identify the best headphones on the market.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 74% of models
Score components

80%

7.0

Technical score

20%

7.0

User score

â–²Better than 74% of headphones
7.6

Value for money

Value for money
7.6/ 10
✕
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.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 66% of models
Score components

70%

7.0

Overall score

30%

9.2

Price

â–²Better than 66%
7.0

Technical score

Technical score
7.0/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of technical performance for products in the Headphones category across these key areas: Sound, Calls & Controls, Connectivity, Features, Battery, Design.
When it matters
When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 76% of models
Score components

52%

8.2

Sound

20%

5.1

Features

10%

6.0

Design

8%

4.0

Connectivity

6%

7.6

Battery

4%

9.2

Calls & Controls

â–²Better than 76%
7.0

User score

User score
7.0/ 10
✕
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.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 86% of models
Score components

70%

7.2

User ratings

30%

6.4

Number of reviews

Based on ratings from across the web.
â–¼Worse than 86%
  • harman-kardon-nc
  • harman-kardon-nc
  • harman-kardon-nc
  • harman-kardon-nc
  • harman-kardon-nc
harman-kardon-nc
harman-kardon-nc
harman-kardon-nc
harman-kardon-nc
harman-kardon-nc
Where to buy
*As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Best rankings
Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).All: ranking among all products in the database.
Loading category ranking...

Technical Specifications of pair of headphones Harman Kardon NC

Technical score
Technical score
7.0/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of technical performance for products in the Headphones category across these key areas: Sound, Calls & Controls, Connectivity, Features, Battery, Design.
When it matters
When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 76% of models
Score components:

52%

8.2

Sound

20%

5.1

Features

10%

6.0

Design

8%

4.0

Connectivity

6%

7.6

Battery

4%

9.2

Calls & Controls

7.0
User score
User score
7.0/ 10
✕
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.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 86% of models
Score components

70%

7.2

User ratings

30%

6.4

Number of reviews

Based on ratings from across the web.
7.0
Popularity
Popularity
6.4/ 10
✕
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.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 56% of models
Popularity:
Harman Kardon NC has a popularity score of 6.4 points, which is higher than that of 56.3% of products in this category.
6.4
Value for money
Value for money
7.6/ 10
✕
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.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 66% of models
Score components:

70%

7.0

Overall score

30%

9.2

Price

7.6
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
yes
This pair of headphones supports active noise cancellation. 72.6% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
Driver type
dynamic
Driver size
40 mm
Market range: <10 mm – >50 mm
This pair of headphones uses a driver size of 40 mm, larger driver size than 28.6% of headphones and equal to 53.3% of headphones.
Number of drivers
1
Market range: <1 – >4
This pair of headphones uses 1 drivers, fewer drivers than 4% of headphones and equal to 96% of headphones.
Lowest frequency
16 Hz
Market range: <5 Hz – >20 Hz
This pair of headphones reaches a lowest frequency of 16 Hz, lower lowest frequency than 54.1% of headphones and equal to 4.2% of headphones.
Show more
Noise-canceling microphone
yes
This pair of headphones supports a noise-canceling microphone. 61.1% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
Can be used as a headset
yes
This pair of headphones is headset-ready, 84.8% is not. 15.2% of headphones can be used as headsets.
Number of microphones
1
Market range: <0 – >4
This pair of headphones has 1 microphones, more microphones than 26.9% of headphones and equal to 50.9% of headphones.
Boom microphone
no
This pair of headphones does not include a boom microphone. 13.5% of headphones have a boom microphone.
Microphone SNR
?
Show more
Connectivity
wired
This pair of headphones supports wired connectivity, less flexible connectivity than 49.2% of headphones and equal to 50.8% of headphones.
Bluetooth version
N/A
Maximum Bluetooth range
N/A
Audio latency
N/A
Multipoint support
no
This pair of headphones does not support multipoint. 30.6% of headphones support multipoint.
Show more
Ambient sound mode
no
This pair of headphones does not offer ambient sound mode. 24.9% of headphones support ambient sound mode.
EQ support
?
Companion app
no
This pair of headphones does not work with a companion app. 21.6% of headphones support companion apps.
Adjustable ANC levels
N/A
Voice assistant support
yes
This pair of headphones supports voice assistants. 39.2% of headphones support voice assistants.
Show more
Battery life
N/A
Battery life with ANC
40 hours
Market range: <15 hours – >55 hours
This pair of headphones offers battery life with ANC of 40 hours, higher battery life with ANC than 61.5% of headphones and equal to 11% of headphones.
Charging time
2 hours
Market range: <1.5 hours – >3.5 hours
This pair of headphones needs 2 hours to charge, lower charging time than 47.8% of headphones and equal to 39% of headphones.
Quick charge
no
This pair of headphones does not support quick charging. 33.1% of headphones support quick charge.
Battery capacity
N/A
Show more
Brand name
Harman Kardon
Form factor
over-ear
Weight
300 g
Market range: <14 g – >340 g
This pair of headphones weighs 300 g, heavier than 80.9% of headphones and equal to 1.3% of headphones.
Acoustic design
closed-back
Clamp force
5.8
Market range: <2.5 – >6.1
This pair of headphones has a clamp force of 5.8, higher clamp force than 82.3% of headphones and equal to 5.5% of headphones.
Show more

Harman Kardon NC vs the average pair of headphones

246810TotalDesignSoundBatteryConnectivityCalls & ControlsFeatures
  • Active noise cancellation
    This pair of headphones supports active noise cancellation, the average pair of headphones does not. 27.5% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
  • Clear call microphone
    This pair of headphones offers a clear call microphone, while the average pair of headphones does not. 39% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
  • On-device controls
    This pair of headphones includes on-device controls, the average pair of headphones does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
  • In-line controls
    This pair of headphones includes in-line controls, the average pair of headphones does not. 36.6% of headphones support in-line controls.
  • Wind noise reduction
    This pair of headphones reduces wind noise, the average pair of headphones does not. 34.3% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
  • 10 hours longer ANC battery life
    This pair of headphones has a higher battery life with ANC than the average pair of headphones (40 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life with ANC of 30 hours.
    40 hours vs 30 hours
  • Quick mic mute
    This pair of headphones includes a quick mic mute, the average pair of headphones does not. 29.3% of headphones support a mute function.
  • 5 mm more spacious earcup height
    This pair of headphones offers more spacious earcup height than the average pair of headphones (65 mm vs 60 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup height of 60 mm.
    65 mm vs 60 mm
  • 5 mm more spacious earcup height
    This pair of headphones offers more spacious earcup height than the average pair of headphones (65 mm vs 60 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup height of 60 mm.
    65 mm vs 60 mm
  • Active noise cancellation
    This pair of headphones supports active noise cancellation, the average pair of headphones does not. 27.5% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
  • 10 hours longer ANC battery life
    This pair of headphones has a higher battery life with ANC than the average pair of headphones (40 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life with ANC of 30 hours.
    40 hours vs 30 hours
  • Rechargeable battery
    This pair of headphones has a rechargeable battery, the average pair of headphones does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
  • Clear call microphone
    This pair of headphones offers a clear call microphone, while the average pair of headphones does not. 39% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
  • On-device controls
    This pair of headphones includes on-device controls, the average pair of headphones does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
  • In-line controls
    This pair of headphones includes in-line controls, the average pair of headphones does not. 36.6% of headphones support in-line controls.
  • Wind noise reduction
    This pair of headphones reduces wind noise, the average pair of headphones does not. 34.3% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
  • Quick mic mute
    This pair of headphones includes a quick mic mute, the average pair of headphones does not. 29.3% of headphones support a mute function.
  • 37.6% higher weight
    This pair of headphones is heavier than the average pair of headphones (300 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
    300 g vs 218 g
  • 1.3 % higher distortion
    This pair of headphones has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average pair of headphones (1.6 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
    1.604 % vs 0.3 %
  • 1.5 higher clamp force
    This pair of headphones has a higher clamp force than the average pair of headphones (5.8 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.
    5.8 vs 4.3
  • 14.7% lower user score
    User score
    7.0/ 10
    ✕
    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.
    Score distribution
    ▼▼
    <55-66-77-88-99-10
    Harman Kardon NC
    the average pair of headphones
    Harman Kardon NC has a lower user score than the average pair of headphones (6.97 vs 8).
    6.97 vs 8
  • 2.89x more expensive
    Harman Kardon NC is more expensive than the average pair of headphones (£260 vs £90).
    £260 vs £90
  • 2 dB/mW lower sensitivity
    This pair of headphones has a lower sensitivity than the average pair of headphones (100 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
    100 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
  • Tangle-prone cable
    This pair of headphones uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average pair of headphones is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
  • 4 older release date
    This pair of headphones was released earlier than the average pair of headphones (2012 vs 2016). The average headphones were released in 2016.
    June 2012
    2012 vs 2016
  • 14.7% lower user score
    User score
    7.0/ 10
    ✕
    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.
    Score distribution
    ▼▼
    <55-66-77-88-99-10
    Harman Kardon NC
    the average pair of headphones
    Harman Kardon NC has a lower user score than the average pair of headphones (6.97 vs 8).
    6.97 vs 8
  • 2.89x more expensive
    Harman Kardon NC is more expensive than the average pair of headphones (£260 vs £90).
    £260 vs £90
  • 37.6% higher weight
    This pair of headphones is heavier than the average pair of headphones (300 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
    300 g vs 218 g
  • 1.5 higher clamp force
    This pair of headphones has a higher clamp force than the average pair of headphones (5.8 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.
    5.8 vs 4.3
  • Tangle-prone cable
    This pair of headphones uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average pair of headphones is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
  • 1.3 % higher distortion
    This pair of headphones has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average pair of headphones (1.6 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
    1.604 % vs 0.3 %
  • 2 dB/mW lower sensitivity
    This pair of headphones has a lower sensitivity than the average pair of headphones (100 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
    100 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
  • 4 older release date
    This pair of headphones was released earlier than the average pair of headphones (2012 vs 2016). The average headphones were released in 2016.
    June 2012
    2012 vs 2016

Video reviews

Hands-on testing, unboxing, and real-world video evaluations

9.0
TechDredge
≈ estimated
29/11/2015
Long-term test · two years of daily and travel use
Verdict
Harman Kardon NC offers comfort, sound and portability, ranking among the best mid-range picks despite a few flaws.
9.0
Omar Correa
≈ estimated
01/10/2013
Hands-on review · sound, comfort and build tests
Verdict
Harman Kardon NC impresses with its look, materials and balanced, even sound; the creator clearly recommends it.
9.5
Gear Diary
≈ estimated
09/05/2013
Hands-on review · noise cancelling and comfort tests
Verdict
Harman Kardon NC delivers excellent noise cancelling and comfort, the standout among noise cancelling headphones.
Not graded
Not graded yet

Expert reviews

In-depth analysis and verdict from leading tech publications

cnet.com
12/03/2013
Hands-on review · Noise-cancelling headphones
Verdict
The Harman Kardon NC is a distinctive, natural-sounding noise canceller that keeps playing with the battery dead, though its weight and Apple-focused remote limit it.
whathifi.com
22/02/2013
Listening review · Noise-cancelling headphones
Verdict
The Harman Kardon NC has detailed, balanced sound and attractive styling, but its noise cancelling trails the Bose QC15 and its sound feels a little lean.
reviewed.com
04/03/2013
Lab test · Noise-cancelling headphones
Verdict
The Harman Kardon NC is a stylish, strong noise isolator for planes and subways, but it is heavy and not built for studio mixing.
R
rtings.com
07/03/2016
Summary of the review
Harman/Kardon NC Noise-Cancelling Review - RTINGS.com
thephonograph.net
07/09/2018
Lab test · Noise-cancelling headphones
Verdict
The Harman Kardon NC is balanced, comfortable and strong at blocking noise, though its firm clamp can feel too tight and its noise cancelling makes bass less controlled.
areadvd.de
03/04/2014
Hands-on test · Noise-cancelling headphones
Verdict
The Harman Kardon NC is comfortable and well made, and its noise cancelling blocks engine rumble, but its mids and highs weaken when it's switched on.
macwelt.de
04/11/2014
Hands-on test · Noise-cancelling headphones
Verdict
The Harman Kardon NC is a balanced, comfortable noise canceller that softens low hums, but its sound is a bit dull for rock and pop.
audiocasque.fr
17/12/2013
Hands-on test · Noise-cancelling headphones
Verdict
The Harman Kardon NC is a natural-sounding, comfortable noise canceller that folds flat, though its weight of about 320 g and unusual design may not suit everyone.
A
alpha-audio.net
06/07/2012
Summary of the review
Review of the Harman Kardon CL On-Ear Headphones (Includes Direct Comparisons and Testing Context for the NC Model)
(Translated)Show original

Third-party reviews

Based on ratings from across the web.
Reviews last updated: November 2026 · How we calculate this

What customers like about Harman Kardon NC

  • Sophisticated and unique rectangular metal design
  • Excellent build quality with premium materials like leather and sandblasted steel
  • Effective passive isolation and respectable active noise cancellation for consistent low-frequency drones
  • Audio continues to work in passive mode even if the battery dies
  • Impressive clarity and detail reproduction for ANC headphones
  • Interchangeable metal headbands (two sizes included) to customize fit
  • Built-in rechargeable battery eliminates the need for disposable batteries

What customers don't like about Harman Kardon NC

  • Strong clamping force can lead to ear fatigue or discomfort during long sessions
  • Relatively heavy compared to competitors like the Bose QuietComfort series
  • Active noise cancellation is less effective at blocking voices than industry leaders
  • Proprietary charging cable rather than standard Micro-USB or USB-C
  • Inline remote and microphone features are primarily optimized for Apple devices
  • Bulky, boxy design does not fold as compactly as other travel-oriented models
  • Some users reported mechanical creaking or durability issues with the headband over time

Verdict

The Harman Kardon NC is a premium over-ear headphone known for its distinct retro-modern rectangular design and high-quality build featuring sandblasted steel frames and leather-encased housings. It utilizes 40mm high-performance drivers that deliver a frequency response of 16Hz to 20,000Hz, providing a balanced, warm audio profile with punchy bass and smooth mids. Key features include a proprietary active noise-cancellation (ANC) system adapted from luxury automotive technology, two swappable metal headbands for a customized fit, and a built-in USB-rechargeable battery offering up to 40 hours of performance. A major benefit is its ability to operate in passive mode, allowing music playback even when the battery is depleted. However, some users find the design polarizing and heavier than competitors at roughly 320g, and the proprietary 2.5mm-to-USB charging cable is non-standard, making replacements difficult if lost.

Compare Harman Kardon NC with other products in the Headphones category

1Product to compare no. 1
VS
2Product to compare no. 2
VS
3Product to compare no. 3 (optional)

Graphic comparison of Harman Kardon NC and other products in the Headphones category

No results found