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Parrot Zik Review | 93 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£310
  • Avg. price in US: ~$400
  • Form factor: over-ear
  • Connectivity: wireless
  • Battery life: 6 hours
  • Active noise cancellation (ANC): yes

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

7.9

Overall score

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 components:

80.0%

7.7

Technical Score

20.0%

8.6

User score

Very good
7.7

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the headphones' technical performance, covering key areas such as sound quality, noise cancelling, microphone performance, battery life, comfort, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

52.0%

8.8

Sound

20.0%

8.6

Features

10.0%

5.5

Design

8.0%

3.4

Connectivity

6.0%

4.8

Battery

4.0%

8.9

Calls & Controls

Very good
8.6

User score

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 components:

70.0%

8.0

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.1
(984)
amazon
3.6
(210)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.1
(984)
Amazon_logo.png
3.6
(210)

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

Excellent
  • 4.6
    Gaming

    Score components:

    35.0%

    3.1

    Audio latency

    25.0%

    1.0

    Low-latency game mode

    20.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

    12.0%

    10

    Noise-canceling microphone

    8.0%

    1.0

    Battery life

  • 5.1
    Travel

    Score components:

    28.0%

    10

    Active noise cancellation (ANC)

    24.0%

    1.0

    Battery life

    18.0%

    2.6

    Weight

    16.0%

    1.0

    Multipoint support

    14.0%

    10

    Ambient sound mode

  • 6.9
    Calls

    Score components:

    28.0%

    10

    Noise-canceling microphone

    24.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

    18.0%

    1.0

    Multipoint support

    16.0%

    1.0

    Battery life

    14.0%

    10

    Companion app

  • 3.1
    Workout

    Score components:

    28.0%

    2.6

    Weight

    24.0%

    1.0

    Water resistance

    20.0%

    4.0

    IP rating

    16.0%

    1.0

    Battery life

    12.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

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Best rankings

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Parrot Zik is a feature-rich, wireless over-ear headphone designed by Philippe Starck, featuring 40mm neodymium drivers and a frequency response of 10Hz to 20kHz. Key characteristics include an advanced active noise cancellation (ANC) system using four microphones to reduce ambient noise by up to 25dB, an intuitive capacitive touch panel on the right earpiece for gesture controls, and integrated sensors for head detection and jawbone-vibration voice pickup. Main pros are its striking premium design, NFC pairing for quick connectivity, and extensive sound customization through the Parrot Audio Suite app, including a unique 'Concert Hall' effect. However, it faces significant cons such as a relatively short battery life of approximately 6 hours with all features active and a heavy build weighing 325 grams.

Technical Specifications of Parrot Zik

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the headphones' technical performance, covering key areas such as sound quality, noise cancelling, microphone performance, battery life, comfort, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

52.0%

8.8

Sound

20.0%

8.6

Features

10.0%

5.5

Design

8.0%

3.4

Connectivity

6.0%

4.8

Battery

4.0%

8.9

Calls & Controls

7.7
Parrot Zik has a technical score of 7.73 points, which is higher than that of 91.6% of products in this category.
User score

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 components:

70.0%

8.0

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.1
(984)
amazon
3.6
(210)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.1
(984)
Amazon_logo.png
3.6
(210)

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

8.6
Parrot Zik has a user score of 8.62 points, which is higher than that of 75% of products in this category.
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.
10
Parrot Zik has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 71.9% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

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 components:

60.0%

7.9

Overall score

40.0%

8.9

Price

8.2
Parrot Zik has a quality-to-price ratio of 8.2 points, which is higher than 89.1% of products in this category.
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

yes
Parrot Zik supports active noise cancellation. 72.6% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
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

40 mm
Parrot Zik uses a driver size of 40 mm, larger driver size than 28.2% of headphones and equal to 53.6% of headphones.
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

1
Parrot Zik uses 1 drivers, equal to 96% of headphones.
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

10 Hz
Parrot Zik reaches a lowest frequency of 10 Hz, lower lowest frequency than 67.3% of headphones and equal to 12.5% of headphones.
Show more
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

yes
Parrot Zik supports a noise-canceling microphone. 54.5% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
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

yes
Parrot Zik is headset-ready, 84.7% is not. 15.3% of headphones can be used as headsets.
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

4
Parrot Zik has 4 microphones, more microphones than 88.2% of headphones and equal to 5% of headphones.
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

yes
Parrot Zik includes a boom microphone. 84.5% of headphones have a boom microphone.
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
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

wireless
Parrot Zik supports wireless connectivity, more flexible connectivity than 52.6% of headphones and equal to 47.4% of headphones.
supports both wireless and wired connectivity.
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

3.0
Parrot Zik uses Bluetooth version 3.0, newer Bluetooth version than 55.7% of headphones and equal to 1.6% of headphones.
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

10 m
Parrot Zik offers a Bluetooth range of 10 m, higher Bluetooth range than 2.6% of headphones and equal to 79.9% of headphones.
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

200 ms
Parrot Zik has audio latency of 200 ms, higher audio latency than 72% of headphones and equal to 13.9% of headphones.
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

no
Parrot Zik does not support multipoint. 65.1% of headphones support multipoint.
Show more
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

yes
Parrot Zik supports ambient sound mode. 23.2% of headphones support ambient sound mode.
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

yes
Parrot Zik supports EQ customization. 76.8% of headphones support EQ.
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

yes
Parrot Zik works with a companion app. 55.7% of headphones support companion apps.
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

continuous
Parrot Zik offers continuous adjustable ANC levels, more adjustable ANC levels than 99.3% of headphones and equal to 0.7% of headphones.
continuous ANC adjustment.
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

yes
Parrot Zik supports voice assistants. 39.2% of headphones support voice assistants.
Show more
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

6 hours
Parrot Zik offers battery life of 6 hours, lower battery life than 98.6% of headphones and equal to 1% of headphones.
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

6 hours
Parrot Zik offers battery life with ANC of 6 hours, lower battery life with ANC than 99.2% of headphones and equal to 0.6% of headphones.
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

2.5 hours
Parrot Zik needs 2.5 hours to charge, higher charging time than 52.4% of headphones and equal to 12.9% of headphones.
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

yes
Parrot Zik supports quick charge. 31% of headphones support quick charge.
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

800 mAh
Parrot Zik has a battery capacity of 800 mAh, higher battery capacity than 74.7% of headphones and equal to 7.7% of headphones.
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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

Parrot
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

over-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

325 g
Parrot Zik weighs 325 g, heavier than 86.8% of headphones and equal to 0.3% of headphones.
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

4.3
Parrot Zik has a clamp force of 4.3, lower clamp force than 49.5% of headphones and equal to 0.9% of headphones.
Show more

Parrot Zik vs the average headphone

  • Active noise cancellation
    Parrot Zik 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

    Parrot Zik supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
  • EQ customization
    Parrot Zik 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

    Parrot Zik supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
  • Spatial audio support
    Parrot Zik supports spatial audio, the average headphone does not. 30.7% of headphones support spatial audio.
    What it is: Supports immersive surround sound playback
    When it matters: When movies, games, and immersive mixes are part of your listening.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Parrot Zik supports spatial audio, the average headphone does not. 30.7% of headphones support spatial audio.
  • More flexible connectivity
    Parrot Zik offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
    supports both wireless and wired 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

    Parrot Zik offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.wireless vs wired
  • Clear call microphone
    Parrot Zik 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

    Parrot Zik offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
  • 8 Hz lower bass extension
    Parrot Zik 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

    Parrot Zik 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
  • On-device controls
    Parrot Zik includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
    What it is: Physical controls available directly on headphones
    When it matters: When you need playback, volume, or call controls to be easy to reach without pulling out your phone.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Parrot Zik includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
  • 3 more microphones
    Parrot Zik has more microphones than the average headphone (4 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 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

    Parrot Zik has more microphones than the average headphone (4 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.4 vs 1
  • Active noise cancellation
    Parrot Zik supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
  • Spatial audio support
    Parrot Zik supports spatial audio, the average headphone does not. 30.7% of headphones support spatial audio.
  • 8 Hz lower bass extension
    Parrot Zik has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (10 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
  • 33.3% higher battery capacity
    Parrot Zik has a higher battery capacity than the average headphone (800 mAh vs 600 mAh). The average headphones have a battery capacity of 600 mAh.
  • Removable battery
    Parrot Zik has a removable battery, the average headphone does not. 7.6% of headphones have a removable battery.
  • Rechargeable battery
    Parrot Zik has a rechargeable battery, the average headphone does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
  • Play while charging
    Parrot Zik can play while charging, the average headphone cannot. 55.9% of headphones support play while charging.
  • More flexible connectivity
    Parrot Zik offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
  • Clear call microphone
    Parrot Zik offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
  • On-device controls
    Parrot Zik includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
  • 3 more microphones
    Parrot Zik has more microphones than the average headphone (4 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
  • Wind noise reduction
    Parrot Zik reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
  • Sidetone support
    Parrot Zik supports sidetone, the average headphone does not. 29.7% of headphones support sidetone.
  • Quick mic mute
    Parrot Zik includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.
  • Boom microphone included
    Parrot Zik includes a boom microphone, the average headphone does not. 15.6% of headphones have a boom microphone.
  • EQ customization
    Parrot Zik supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.

Total
Overall
Sound
Battery
Connectivity
Calls & Controls
Features
  • 49.1% higher weight
    Parrot Zik is heavier than the average headphone (325 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
  • 13 mm tighter earcup width
    Parrot Zik has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (30 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.
  • 5 mm tighter earcup height
    Parrot Zik has tighter earcup height than the average headphone (55 mm vs 60 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup height of 60 mm.
  • 24 hours shorter battery life
    Parrot Zik has a lower battery life than the average headphone (6 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.
  • 24 hours shorter ANC battery life
    Parrot Zik has a lower battery life with ANC than the average headphone (6 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life with ANC of 30 hours.
  • 0.5 hours longer charging time
    Parrot Zik has a higher charging time than the average headphone (2.5 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.
  • 72.5 ms higher audio latency
    Parrot Zik has a higher audio latency than the average headphone (200 ms vs 127.5 ms). The average headphones have audio latency of 127.5 ms.
  • 5 older release date
    Parrot Zik was released earlier than the average headphone (2,012 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
    August 2012
  • 49.1% higher weight
    Parrot Zik is heavier than the average headphone (325 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

    Parrot Zik is heavier than the average headphone (325 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.325 g vs 218 g
  • 24 hours shorter battery life
    Parrot Zik has a lower battery life than the average headphone (6 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.
    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

    Parrot Zik has a lower battery life than the average headphone (6 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.6 hours vs 30 hours
  • 72.5 ms higher audio latency
    Parrot Zik has a higher audio latency than the average headphone (200 ms vs 127.5 ms). The average headphones have audio latency of 127.5 ms.
    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

    Parrot Zik has a higher audio latency than the average headphone (200 ms vs 127.5 ms). The average headphones have audio latency of 127.5 ms.200 ms vs 127.5 ms
  • 24 hours shorter ANC battery life
    Parrot Zik has a lower battery life with ANC than the average headphone (6 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life with ANC of 30 hours.
    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

    Parrot Zik has a lower battery life with ANC than the average headphone (6 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life with ANC of 30 hours.6 hours vs 30 hours
  • 0.5 hours longer charging time
    Parrot Zik has a higher charging time than the average headphone (2.5 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.
    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

    Parrot Zik has a higher charging time than the average headphone (2.5 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.2.5 hours vs 2 hours
  • 13 mm tighter earcup width
    Parrot Zik has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (30 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.
    What it is: Internal width of the earcup cavity
    When it matters: When earcup fit affects comfort and pressure around your ears.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Parrot Zik has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (30 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.30 mm vs 43 mm
  • 3.44x more expensive
    Parrot Zik is more expensive than the average headphone (£310 vs £90).
    Parrot Zik is more expensive than the average headphone (£310 vs £90).£310 vs £90
  • 5 mm tighter earcup height
    Parrot Zik has tighter earcup height than the average headphone (55 mm vs 60 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup height of 60 mm.
    What it is: Internal height of the earcup cavity
    When it matters: When larger ears need enough space inside the earcups.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Parrot Zik has tighter earcup height than the average headphone (55 mm vs 60 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup height of 60 mm.55 mm vs 60 mm
Total
Overall
Design
Battery
Connectivity
Features

Graphic comparison of Parrot Zik and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.1
984 Reviews
amazon
3.6
210 Reviews
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.1
984 Reviews
Amazon_logo.png
3.6
210 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

What customers like about Parrot Zik?

  • Striking and premium design by Philippe Starck using high-quality metal and leather
  • Effective active noise cancellation (ANC) that significantly reduces ambient noise
  • Intuitive touch-sensitive controls on the right earcup for volume and track navigation
  • Proximity sensor that automatically pauses music when the headphones are removed
  • Highly customizable sound profile through a feature-rich dedicated app
  • Strong call quality supported by advanced bone-conducting and noise-cancelling microphones

What customers dislike about Parrot Zik?

  • Subpar battery life (averaging 6–8 hours with all features active) compared to competitors
  • Heavier build that can become uncomfortable during long listening sessions
  • High price point that may not be fully justified by audio performance alone
  • Reliance on the app for essential functions like ANC control and battery monitoring
  • Passive audio quality is significantly worse once the battery dies
  • Touch controls can be prone to accidental inputs when adjusting the fit

Expert reviews

S
soundandvision.com
19/11/2012
Parrot Zik Noise-Cancelling Headphones Review

Sound & Vision’s review praises the Parrot Zik headphones for superior comfort, solid build quality, and an excellent ear seal, rating them among the most comfortable models evaluated. The headphones offer phenomenal active noise-canceling performance and strong, customizable sound profiles. However, the experience is severely hindered by heavy reliance on a mobile app that requires...Read more

S
stereophile.com
31/10/2012
The Elegant and Complex Parrot Zik Bluetooth Noise-Canceling Headphones

The Stereophile review calls the Parrot Zik a pioneering, stylish, and technologically advanced Bluetooth headset, marking it as a top contender in wireless audio performance. Key pros include exceptional active noise cancellation rivaling market leaders, solid build quality, and an enjoyable, flat frequency response with strong bass when utilizing its DSP features. Conversely, the...Read more

C
cnet.com
13/08/2012
Parrot Zik Wireless Bluetooth Headphones Review - CNET

The Parrot Zik is an expensive set of high-tech wireless Bluetooth headphones designed by Philippe Starck that costs $400. It delivers excellent, detailed, and well-balanced sound quality for wireless headphones, making it a great match for music lovers who appreciate audiophile-grade profiles. The design is eye-catching and beautiful, featuring sculpted metal, heavily padded...Read more

W
wired.com
03/07/2012
Review: Parrot Zik Headphones - WIRED

The Parrot Zik wireless, noise-cancelling headphones ($400) feature a high-quality, Starck-designed metal and leather body that ensures comfort for over seven hours of continuous wear. Their standout innovation is a touch-sensitive outer panel on the right earcup for intuitive gesture controls, paired with an accelerometer that automatically pauses music when removed. Additionally,...Read more

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whathifi.com
14/06/2013
Parrot Zik review - What Hi-Fi?

The Parrot Zik wireless headphones, designed by Philippe Starck, offer a highly stylish and comfortable build made of synthetic leather, soft-touch plastic, and curved aluminium. They stand out as some of the most advanced headphones available due to an innovative, touch-sensitive cover on the right ear-cup that lets you swipe for volume and track changes. They also feature five...Read more

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pcmag.com
24/01/2013
Parrot Zik Review - PCMag", "Parrot Zik Headphones Review - PCMag

The PCMag review highlights the Parrot ZikGo as a technologically advanced, Philippe Starck-designed headset featuring intuitive gesture controls, effective active noise cancellation, and a highly customizable app experience. Pros include its luxurious aesthetic, plush ear pads, and innovative NFC pairing. Conversely, the review notes significant cons, including uncomfortable...Read more

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annabelle.ch
19/03/2013
Digital Test: The Parrot Zik by Starck Bluetooth Headphones", "Digital Review: Parrot Zik by Starck Bluetooth Headphones

This review from the Swiss magazine annabelle provides a first-hand tester experience of the Parrot Zik by StarckGo wireless headphones. The author initially tests them using a wired connection with an iPod and is immediately impressed by the premium audio quality. The headphones deliver exceptional depth, handling heavy bass tracks from artists like Jay-Z and complex orchestral...Read more

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diepresse.com
18/10/2012
Wireless, striking, and deeply musical", "Wireless, eye-catching, and highly musical

This 2012 review evaluates two premium Bluetooth headphones priced at €350 each: the Parrot Zik (designed by Philippe Starck) and the Logitech UE9000. The Parrot Zik stands out for its innovative touch-pad controls on the right ear cup for volume and playback, automatic play/pause when putting them on or taking them off, and a highly customizable companion app featuring active noise...Read more

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konsolenfan.de
10/08/2012
Parrot Zik Review: A Toy or a Real Pair of Headphones?

The Parrot Zik, designed by Philippe Starck, is a high-end Bluetooth headphone packed with innovative tech features, though it targets casual gadget lovers rather than audiophiles. Its biggest advantages are its intuitive, touch-sensitive ear cup controls for volume and track skipping, and a built-in sensor that automatically pauses music when the headset is removed. Setting up the...Read more

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avguide.ch
07/04/2013
Test of 8 Noise-Cancelling Headphones - Sound of Silence

The Parrot Zik is a feature-rich, high-tech noise-cancelling headphone that delivers excellent performance when properly configured through its dedicated Parrot Audio Suite app. The reviewer notes that out of the box, the headphones can sound unbalanced or extreme due to previously saved user profiles. However, using the app's comprehensive 7-band equalizer (ranging from 60 Hz to...Read more

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heise.de
13/07/2013
Parrot Zik – Bluetooth headphones with noise cancelling

The original Heise review evaluates the Parrot ZikGo, a premium, feature-packed set of over-ear Bluetooth headphones designed by Philippe Starck. Pros highlighted in the assessment include an elegant, comfortable design utilizing high-quality materials, highly effective active noise cancellation (ANC), and intuitive touch controls on the right earcup for seamless volume adjustments...Read more

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pcwelt.de
14/10/2013
Parrot Zik Review: Luxury Bluetooth Headphones

The Parrot Zik is a premium, relatively slim over-ear Bluetooth headphone that delivers a high-quality build and a stable fit, though its integrated battery brings the weight to a noticeable 330 grams. Tested in a unique steampunk-inspired grey and copper leather finish, it features a highly intuitive touch control panel on the right ear cup for volume, track skipping, and calls,...Read more

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kopfbox.de
05/12/2013
The Parrot ZIK | A Review

The Parrot Zik is an innovative and highly versatile Bluetooth headphone designed by Philippe Starck, offering premium build quality, exceptional voice clarity for calls, and unique app-driven customisation. Key highlights include a highly responsive capacitive touch panel on the right ear cup for playback controls, reliable auto-pause sensor when removed from the head, effective...Read more

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audiocasque.fr
06/01/2014
Parrot Zik | REVIEW | A complete and high-performance Bluetooth headset

The Parrot Zik is a feature-rich, circum-aural Bluetooth and NFC-enabled headset designed in collaboration with the renowned French designer Philippe Starck. It features an elegant, bone-like metallic aesthetic paired with exceptionally plush memory foam ear cushions that deliver premium comfort for long listening sessions. The right ear cup integrates an intuitive, highly...Read more

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darty.com
03/12/2012
Review: The Parrot Zik noise-canceling headphones - Darty

The Parrot Zik, reviewed by Darty, is a visually striking, premium headset designed by Philippe Starck featuring a compact, elegant blend of chrome and leather. It offers high-quality, immersive sound with effective active noise cancellation, supported by a comfortable design with soft earcups and a solid, durable headband. DartyWhile the battery lasts for a standard work week,...Read more

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igen.fr
03/01/2014
Parrot Zik Bluetooth Headphones Review - iGeneration

The iGeneration review highlights the first-generation Parrot ZikGo as a technologically ambitious, premium headset designed by Philippe Starck, featuring excellent active noise cancellation (ANC), intuitive touch controls, and a functional companion app. Pros include a sleek design with high-quality materials and smart features like a presence sensor that automatically pauses...Read more

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journaldugeek.com
09/07/2012
Review: Parrot Zik Headphones - Journal du Geek

The Parrot Zik is a feature-rich, high-end Bluetooth headphone designed by Philippe Starck that stands out for its unique, organic design inspired by the human inner ear bones and premium leather and soft-touch finishes. Its strongest selling points are its highly intuitive touch-sensitive controls on the right ear cup for volume and track navigation, and a built-in sensor that...Read more

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lesnumeriques.com
21/06/2012
Parrot Zik Review - Les Numériques

The Parrot Zik is a highly technical, feature-rich wireless headphone designed by Philippe Starck that prioritises modern urban utility over pure audiophile performance. Visually, it stands out with a much cleaner and more stylish aesthetic than its traditional competitors. Key strengths highlighted in the review include its versatile wired or Bluetooth operation, comfortable fit...Read more

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applesfera.com
20/05/2013
Parrot Zik: The iPhone headphones you won't stop touching

The Parrot ZikGo headphones represent a premium, high-tech entry into the luxury audio market, boasting an elegant aesthetic crafted from metal and leather. The absolute standout feature highlighted in the review is the intuitive sensor system; the right ear cup hides a touch-sensitive panel allowing users to control volume and skip tracks with simple finger swipes, while a built-in...Read more

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xataka.com
24/10/2012
Parrot Zik video review

The Xataka review highlights the Parrot ZikGo as a technologically advanced pair of wireless headphones that stood out for their futuristic approach. Designed by Philippe Starck, they feature a high-quality leather and metal headband, offering excellent comfort, weight distribution, and effective passive isolation. On the positive side (pros), the reviewer praises the spectacular...Read more

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droidpanic.com
14/10/2013
Parrot Zik Bluetooth and NFC Headphones Review: A Gift from the Gods for Your Ears

The Parrot Zik Bluetooth and NFC headphones, designed by the renowned French industrial designer Philippe Starck, deliver a premium audio experience packaged in a high-end luxury aesthetic. Built with premium materials like leather and matte chrome-plated metal, the headphones feature 40mm neodymium magnets and impressive active noise cancellation that isolates up to 90% of...Read more

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elpais.com
28/05/2012
Parrot Zik, very human headphones", "Parrot Zik: Headphones with a human touch

The 2012 EL PAÍS review highlights the Parrot Zik headphonesGo as innovative, "human-centric" devices featuring a premium Philippe Starck design and comfortable fit. Key technical advantages include an intuitive gesture-based touch panel on the ear cup, rapid NFC pairing, and smart sensors that automatically pause audio upon removal. However, the review cites significant drawbacks,...Read more

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panorama.it
19/11/2013
Parrot Zik, Our Review", "Parrot Zik, Our Test

The Parrot Zik wireless headphones, designed by Philippe Starck, offer a highly versatile and stylish listening experience with advanced feature integration. A standout feature is the responsive touch control panel on the right earcup, which allows users to intuitively swipe vertically for volume and horizontally to skip tracks, as well as tap to pause or answer calls. Additionally,...Read more

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saggiamente.com
12/01/2013
Review: Parrot Zik design by Starck, Bluetooth headphones with NFC, ANC, and touch controls

The Saggiamente review highlights the Parrot Zik by Philippe StarckGo as a premium Bluetooth headset, praising its elegant, durable, and comfortable design combined with an advanced four-microphone active noise cancellation (ANC) system. Key features noted are the intuitive, invisible touch-sensitive controls on the earcup, seamless NFC pairing, and extensive sound customization...Read more

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dday.it
10/09/2012
Parrot Zik: testing the "hi-tech" headphones with NFC

The Parrot Zik is a highly innovative, premium circumaural headphone designed by Philippe Starck that aims to merge high-end audio performance with cutting-edge mobile features. It is specifically optimized for outdoor smartphone use, boasting Bluetooth 2.1 connectivity, 4 integrated microphones for advanced active noise cancellation, and automated motion sensors that pause playback...Read more

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bluetoothkoptelefoon.com
03/03/2014
Parrot Zik review - Bluetooth headphones

The Parrot Zik is a high-tech, stylish Bluetooth over-ear headphone designed by Philippe Starck that prioritises both aesthetics and technology. On the positive side, it delivers excellent, well-balanced sound quality for audiophiles, effective active noise cancellation, and intuitive touch controls on the right ear cup. It also features smart automation, such as a bone conduction...Read more

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gadgetgear.nl
01/01/2013
Review: Parrot Zik headphones

GadgetGear.nl rated the Philippe Starck-designed Parrot Zik headphones 3 out of 5 stars, praising the robust, comfortable build and strong bass performance suitable for EDM and hip-hop. The review highlights user-friendly features like NFC pairing and a convenient app, although the overall experience was deemed mixed. Significant drawbacks include the use of outdated Bluetooth 2.0...Read more

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