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Koss Portapro Ktc Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£70
Avg. price in US: ~$80
Form factor: on-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

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

3.8

Poor

3.8

Poor

?

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
1.9
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
0.0
Battery life
18.0%
8.9
Weight
16.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
0.0
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
4.7
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
8.9
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

No image

No image

Best prices in UK

N/A~ £70

Best rankings

#1013 in Best Wired Headphones
#1707 in Best Headphones with Mic

Verdict

The Koss Porta Pro KTC (Koss Touch Control) is an upgraded version of the iconic 1984 on-ear headphones, specifically designed for Apple devices with an integrated three-button in-line remote and microphone for call and music management. These open-back headphones feature rigid Mylar elements and oxygen-free copper voice coils that deliver a remarkably wide frequency response of 15–25,000 Hz, 60-ohm impedance, and a sensitivity of 101 dB SPL. Their standout characteristics include the unique 'Comfort Zone' temporal pads that allow for adjustable pressure against the head, a lightweight 67-gram collapsible frame for extreme portability, and a warm, bass-rich sound profile with a surprisingly spacious soundstage. While they are highly praised for their long-term comfort and lifetime warranty, notable drawbacks include a lack of passive noise isolation due to the open-air design, significant sound leakage at higher volumes, and a somewhat flimsy build quality that can occasionally catch or pull hair.

Technical Specifications of Koss Portapro Ktc

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

2.6

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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

7.2

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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

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

7.7

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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

Koss

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

on-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

open-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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Koss Portapro Ktc vs the average headphone

Why is Koss Portapro Ktc better than the average headphone?

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69.3% lower weight
Koss Portapro Ktc is lighter than the average headphone (67 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
Koss Portapro Ktc is lighter than the average headphone (67 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.67 g vs 218 g
Clear call microphone
Koss Portapro Ktc 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
Koss Portapro Ktc offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Koss Portapro Ktc 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
Koss Portapro Ktc 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
Koss Portapro Ktc 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
Koss Portapro Ktc includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
Foldable design
Koss Portapro Ktc 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
Koss Portapro Ktc has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
5000 Hz higher treble extension
Koss Portapro Ktc has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (25000 Hz vs 20000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20000 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
Koss Portapro Ktc has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (25000 Hz vs 20000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20000 Hz.25000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
Quick mic mute
Koss Portapro Ktc includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.
What it is: Ability to mute microphone during calls
When it matters: When you need to silence the mic quickly during meetings or multiplayer games.
Importance: LOW
Koss Portapro Ktc includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.
Open-back design
Koss Portapro Ktc uses an open-back design, while the average headphone does not. 9.3% of headphones have an open-back design.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones use an open-back housing that lets air and sound pass through more freely than a closed design.
When it matters: When you listen in quiet places and care more about spacious sound than blocking outside noise or preventing sound leakage.
Importance: MEDIUM
Koss Portapro Ktc uses an open-back design, while the average headphone does not. 9.3% of headphones have an open-back design.
69.3% lower weight
Koss Portapro Ktc is lighter than the average headphone (67 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
Foldable design
Koss Portapro Ktc has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
Open-back design
Koss Portapro Ktc uses an open-back design, while the average headphone does not. 9.3% of headphones have an open-back design.
5000 Hz higher treble extension
Koss Portapro Ktc has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (25000 Hz vs 20000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20000 Hz.
3 Hz lower bass extension
Koss Portapro Ktc 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
Koss Portapro Ktc includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
Clear call microphone
Koss Portapro Ktc offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
In-line controls
Koss Portapro Ktc includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
Quick mic mute
Koss Portapro Ktc includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.
Boom microphone included
Koss Portapro Ktc includes a boom microphone, the average headphone does not. 15.6% of headphones have a boom microphone.

Calls & Controls

Why is Koss Portapro Ktc worse than the average headphone?

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Fixed cable
Koss Portapro Ktc has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
4.2 higher clamp force
Koss Portapro Ktc has a higher clamp force than the average headphone (8.5 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.
Tangle-prone cable
Koss Portapro Ktc uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
No passive noise reduction
Koss Portapro Ktc does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
1.49 % higher distortion
Koss Portapro Ktc has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (1.8% vs 0.3%). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3%.
6 mm smaller driver size
Koss Portapro Ktc has smaller driver size than the average headphone (34 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
5 years older release date
Koss Portapro Ktc was released earlier than the average headphone (2012 vs 2017). The average headphones were released in 2017.
February 2012
No passive noise reduction
Koss Portapro Ktc 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
Koss Portapro Ktc does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
1.49 % higher distortion
Koss Portapro Ktc has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (1.8% vs 0.3%). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3%.
What it is: Percentage of harmonic distortion in audio output
When it matters: When cleaner sound reproduction matters at louder volumes.
Importance: LOW
Good value: <=1%
Koss Portapro Ktc has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (1.8% vs 0.3%). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3%.1.785 % vs 0.3 %
Fixed cable
Koss Portapro Ktc 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
Koss Portapro Ktc has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
6 mm smaller driver size
Koss Portapro Ktc has smaller driver size than the average headphone (34 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
Koss Portapro Ktc has smaller driver size than the average headphone (34 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.34 mm vs 40 mm
4.2 higher clamp force
Koss Portapro Ktc has a higher clamp force than the average headphone (8.5 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.
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
Koss Portapro Ktc has a higher clamp force than the average headphone (8.5 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.8.5 vs 4.3
4.65x less popular
Koss Portapro Ktc is less popular than the average headphone (1 vs 4.646).
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.
Koss Portapro Ktc is less popular than the average headphone (1 vs 4.646).1 vs 4.65
19.2% worse value for money
Koss Portapro Ktc has worse value for money than the average headphone (5.65 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.
Koss Portapro Ktc has worse value for money than the average headphone (5.65 vs 6.736).5.65 vs 6.74
Tangle-prone cable
Koss Portapro Ktc 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
Koss Portapro Ktc uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.

Graphic comparison of Koss Portapro Ktc and

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Koss Portapro Ktc?

Exceptional audio quality for the price, featuring a warm, balanced sound profile and impactful bass.
Highly portable and lightweight design that remains comfortable for extended listening sessions.
Integrated Apple-compatible inline remote and microphone for convenient playback control and calls.
Open-back design provides a decent, airy soundstage compared to typical budget on-ears.
Legendary lifetime warranty offered by Koss ensures long-term support for the product.

What customers dislike about Koss Portapro Ktc?

Significantly more expensive than the standard non-KTC Porta Pro model.
Flimsy build quality with a thin metal headband that can occasionally snag or pull hair.
Open-back design lacks noise isolation and leaks audio, making them unsuitable for loud or quiet public environments.
The 'ComfortZone' adjustment sliders are often cited as being ineffective or difficult to use.
Inline remote buttons lack tactile distinction, making them hard to navigate by feel alone.

Expert reviews

rtings.com

31/08/2018

Summary of the review

Koss Porta Pro KTC Headphones Review - RTINGS.com

The Koss Porta Pro KTCGo are lightweight, open-back on-ear headphones praised by RTINGS.com for their detailed, well-balanced sound profile, comfortable fit, and convenient in-line microphone. Their retro design allows them to fold into a compact size, making them highly portable, while the open-back architecture delivers an airy, natural soundstage. RTINGS.comHowever, the review notes significant drawbacks, including a fragile, plastic-heavy build and a clamping force that may cause discomfort, as well as a high risk of snagging hair in the adjustable headband. Furthermore, the open design provides no passive noise isolation, resulting in substantial sound leakage that makes them unsuitable for noisy environments or quiet offices. RTINGS.

cnet.com

08/11/2012

Summary of the review

Koss Porta Pro KTC review - CNET

The Koss Porta Pro KTC headphones are ultra-lightweight, utilitarian, on-ear street headphones that deliver high-quality audio performance at an affordable price point under AU$130. Weighing only 67 grams, they feature a unique retro, open-backed design and a thin metal headband that provides a comfortable fit without exerting excessive pressure on the ears. Tonally, the headphones offer a highly precise, clean, and well-balanced sound stage with a full, extended bass response and smooth mid-to-high frequencies that avoid sibilance. Additionally, they come equipped with a built-in Apple-compatible inline remote control and microphone, plus the backing of a Koss lifetime warranty. Pros and Cons Pros: Outstanding sound quality for the price, excellent value for money, a highly convenient inline Apple remote/microphone, and a lightweight, comfortably fitting frame. Cons: Low output sensitivity that might not satisfy those looking for extreme volumes, a physical styling that some users may find unappealing, useless adjustable temple pads that fail to touch the head, and a double-sided cable design that is prone to tangling.

stereo.de

n/a

Summary of the review

Headphones Review: Porta Pro KTC by Koss

The Koss Porta Pro KTCGo review highlights the iconic on-ear headphones for their lively sound signature, impressive bass, and natural mids, paired with a lightweight, comfortable design featuring "Comfort Zone" adjustments. The KTC model adds convenient inline remote control for iOS devices, making it an excellent choice for portable, everyday audio. Conversely, the review notes the flimsy, thin plastic and steel construction, which feels fragile despite its comfort. Due to their open-back nature, they provide zero noise isolation and significant sound leakage, while the dual-sided cable is prone to tangling.

lesnumeriques.com

22/04/2014

Summary of the review

Review: Koss Porta Pro KTC, the prehistoric headphones with a remote

The Koss Porta Pro KTC is a lightweight, ultra-portable open-back headset that updates a 30-year-old classic design by adding a smartphone-compatible cable with integrated controls and a microphone. Acoustically, it offers an energetic, warm, and groovy sound profile featuring a very generous yet controlled bass response and a highly detailed, harmonious midrange. On the technical side, it features 40 mm electrodynamic transducers, weighs a mere 67 grams including the cable, and operates with an impedance of 60 ohms. Its overall construction is highly robust and flexible, allowing the entire frame to roll up into a compact shape for easy transport. Despite its energetic audio performance and budget-friendly price, the headset suffers from significant ergonomics and isolation flaws. The rigid metal headband is prone to catching and pulling hair, and its bare-bones foam ear cushions provide a rather rudimentary level of comfort. Because of its completely open-back design, the headset offers zero acoustic isolation, making it poorly suited for noisy environments like public transit where it will bleed sound to surrounding people. Furthermore, the treble range lacks extension, and the sonic...

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