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Onkyo ES CTI300 Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price: ~£130
Form factor: on-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Onkyo ES CTI300 review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

5.9

Good

6.1

Good

5.4

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%
4.8
Weight
16.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
0.0
Ambient sound mode
3.8
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%
8.0
Companion app
3.6
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
4.8
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

#106 in Best Wired Headphones
#564 in Best Headphones with Mic

Verdict

The Onkyo ES-CTI300 is a premium on-ear wired headphone featuring 40mm titanium drivers and a 10Hz–27kHz frequency response, delivering a balanced sound profile with punchy, deep bass and clear trebles. These headphones are specifically iOS-certified, including a 1.2m detachable 6N oxygen-free copper cable with an inline microphone and controls for Apple devices. They are praised for their stylish aluminum housing, lightweight 235g build, and comfortable memory foam ear pads. However, the proprietary gold-plated MMCX connectors have been widely criticised by users for being prone to intermittent connection issues over time, and the inline remote is exclusively fully functional with iOS hardware.

Technical Specifications of Onkyo ES CTI300

Overall score

5.9

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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

6.0

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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

5.0

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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

7.5

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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

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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

7.0

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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

Onkyo

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

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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Onkyo ES CTI300 vs the average headphone

Why is Onkyo ES CTI300 better than the average headphone?

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Hi-Res Audio certification
Onkyo ES CTI300 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
Onkyo ES CTI300 has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
EQ customization
Onkyo ES CTI300 supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
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
Onkyo ES CTI300 supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Onkyo ES CTI300 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
Onkyo ES CTI300 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
Onkyo ES CTI300 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
Onkyo ES CTI300 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
Onkyo ES CTI300 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
Onkyo ES CTI300 includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
7,000 Hz higher treble extension
Onkyo ES CTI300 has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (27,000 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
Onkyo ES CTI300 has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (27,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.27000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
Foldable design
Onkyo ES CTI300 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
Onkyo ES CTI300 has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
10x higher input power handling
Onkyo ES CTI300 has a higher max input power than the average headphone (1,000 mW vs 100 mW). The average headphones handle max input power of 100 mW.
What it is: Maximum input power the drivers can safely handle
When it matters: When you pair the headphones with stronger sources or dedicated gear.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=300 mW
Onkyo ES CTI300 has a higher max input power than the average headphone (1,000 mW vs 100 mW). The average headphones handle max input power of 100 mW.1000 mW vs 100 mW
Foldable design
Onkyo ES CTI300 has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
Hi-Res Audio certification
Onkyo ES CTI300 has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
8 Hz lower bass extension
Onkyo ES CTI300 has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (10 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
7,000 Hz higher treble extension
Onkyo ES CTI300 has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (27,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
10x higher input power handling
Onkyo ES CTI300 has a higher max input power than the average headphone (1,000 mW vs 100 mW). The average headphones handle max input power of 100 mW.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Onkyo ES CTI300 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
Onkyo ES CTI300 includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
EQ customization
Onkyo ES CTI300 supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.

Calls & Controls

Why is Onkyo ES CTI300 worse than the average headphone?

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7.8% higher weight
Onkyo ES CTI300 is heavier than the average headphone (235 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
5 dB/mW lower sensitivity
Onkyo ES CTI300 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (97 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
6 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
Onkyo ES CTI300 has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (97 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
4 years older release date
Onkyo ES CTI300 was released earlier than the average headphone (2,013 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
December 2013
5 dB/mW lower sensitivity
Onkyo ES CTI300 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (97 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
Onkyo ES CTI300 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (97 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.97 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
47.8% lower user score
Onkyo ES CTI300 has a lower user score than the average headphone (5.41 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.
Onkyo ES CTI300 has a lower user score than the average headphone (5.41 vs 8.000).5.41 vs 8
7.8% higher weight
Onkyo ES CTI300 is heavier than the average headphone (235 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
Onkyo ES CTI300 is heavier than the average headphone (235 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.235 g vs 218 g
6 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
Onkyo ES CTI300 has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (97 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
Onkyo ES CTI300 has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (97 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.97 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL
4 years older release date
Onkyo ES CTI300 was released earlier than the average headphone (2,013 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
December 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
Onkyo ES CTI300 was released earlier than the average headphone (2,013 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.2013 vs 2017
2.24x less popular
Onkyo ES CTI300 is less popular than the average headphone (2.08 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.
Onkyo ES CTI300 is less popular than the average headphone (2.08 vs 4.646).2.08 vs 4.65

Graphic comparison of Onkyo ES CTI300 and

Attribute category

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about Onkyo ES CTI300?

Balanced sound profile with deep, tight, and punchy bass performance
Excellent build quality featuring anodized aluminum ear cups and sturdy frame
Integrated iOS remote and high-quality microphone for clear calls
Sleek and stylish aesthetic design often compared to high-end audio gear
Lightweight and comfortable for shorter listening sessions and commuting
Detachable, tangle-free flat cable for improved portability and easier replacement

What customers dislike about Onkyo ES CTI300?

Proprietary MMCX connectors are prone to becoming intermittent or failing quickly
Stock cable is relatively short, which may not be ideal for home receiver use
White version of leatherette can become yellowish or stained with extended wear
In-line controls are positioned below the chin, making them difficult to see during use
On-ear design may cause uncomfortable pressure on the ears during long sessions
The headband does not fold, although the ear cups do rotate flat

Expert reviews

head-fi.org

13/04/2015

Onkyo Headphones ES-CTI300Go to product viewer dialogue for this item.

The Onkyo ES-CTI300Go, a "Wall of Fame" recipient, offers a highly capable and comfortable, non-fatiguing, versatile listening experience with clear, slightly recessed low mids. It competes with, or exceeds, industry benchmarks like the Sennheiser Momentum and Audio-Technica ATH-M50x. However, the headphones have a relaxed, soft attack speed that is not suited for fast, aggressive...Read more

01net.com

04/12/2013

Review: This high-end Onkyo headset handles all your MP3s with ease

The Onkyo ES-HF300 is a high-end, 200-euro, wired headset that features a solid, 240g design with well-articulated, comfortable, circum-aural ear pads that offer good isolation. Its design includes a clever, detachable cable connected to the back of the ear cups to prevent interference. The headphones deliver a warm, powerful, and energetic sound, making them ideal for pop, rap, and...Read more

on-mag.fr

19/10/2014

Onkyo ES-HF300 headphones (and CTI300 version): a half-hearted venture into the world of headphones

The Onkyo ES-HF300 marks the audio specialist's entry into the headphone market with a circum-aural, closed-back design featuring 40mm titanium-treated drivers and deep-bass sub-chambers. On the positive side, the headphone offers a distinctly audiophile sound signature characterized by a clear mid-range, great presence, and a beautifully refined treble. This presentation makes it...Read more

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