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RHA S500 Universal Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£35
Avg. price in US: ~$40
Form factor: in-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

RHA S500 Universal review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

5.2

Good

4.6

Poor

7.6

Very 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
2.1
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
0.0
Battery life
18.0%
10
Weight
16.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
0.0
Ambient sound mode
2.7
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%
0.0
Companion app
5.0
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
10
Weight
24.0%
1.0
Water resistance
20.0%
4.0
IP rating
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
12.0%
10
Can be used as a headset

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

Verdict

The RHA S500 Universal is an ultra-compact in-ear headphone featuring custom 140.1 micro-dynamic drivers housed in durable, lightweight 6063 grade aluminium. Its technical specifications include a wide frequency response of 16Hz–22,000Hz, a 16 Ohm impedance, and 100dB sensitivity, delivering a vibrant sound signature with a notable mid-bass impact and crisp highs. Main characteristics include its featherweight 14g design, a dual-material 1.35m cable with a reinforced braided section, and a universal one-button remote/microphone compatible with both Android and iOS voice assistants. Key pros include exceptional build quality for its price, an industry-leading 3-year warranty, and a generous accessory pack with seven pairs of silicone ear tips. However, potential cons include a treble-forward signature that can become sibilant or piercing at high volumes and a lack of on-cable volume controls.

Technical Specifications of RHA S500 Universal

Overall score

5.2

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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

4.2

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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

5.3

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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

8.3

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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

RHA

Form factor

What it is: Overall design type of the headphones (over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, etc.)

When it matters: When comfort, portability, and isolation depend on the overall headphone style.

Importance: HIGH

in-ear

Weight

What it is: Total weight of the headphones

When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <150 g

Acoustic design

What it is: Type of acoustic design (open-back, closed-back, semi-open)

When it matters: When you need the right balance of isolation, leakage, and soundstage.

Importance: HIGH

closed-back

Clamp force

What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head

When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

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RHA S500 Universal vs the average headphone

Why is RHA S500 Universal better than the average headphone?

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93.6% lower weight
RHA S500 Universal is lighter than the average headphone (14 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
RHA S500 Universal is lighter than the average headphone (14 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.14 g vs 218 g
Direct 3.5 mm plug
RHA S500 Universal 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
RHA S500 Universal 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
RHA S500 Universal 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
RHA S500 Universal includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
Wind noise reduction
RHA S500 Universal reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
What it is: Reduces wind interference for clearer outdoor calls
When it matters: When you take calls outdoors while walking, cycling, or commuting.
Importance: LOW
RHA S500 Universal reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
Boom microphone included
RHA S500 Universal includes a boom microphone, the average headphone does not. 15.6% of headphones have a 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
RHA S500 Universal includes a boom microphone, the average headphone does not. 15.6% of headphones have a boom microphone.
2.57x cheaper
RHA S500 Universal is cheaper than the average headphone (£35 vs £90).
RHA S500 Universal is cheaper than the average headphone (£35 vs £90).£35 vs £90
2,000 Hz higher treble extension
RHA S500 Universal has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (22,000 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
RHA S500 Universal has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (22,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.22000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
93.6% lower weight
RHA S500 Universal is lighter than the average headphone (14 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
2,000 Hz higher treble extension
RHA S500 Universal has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (22,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
RHA S500 Universal 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
RHA S500 Universal includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
Wind noise reduction
RHA S500 Universal reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
Boom microphone included
RHA S500 Universal includes a boom microphone, the average headphone does not. 15.6% of headphones have a boom microphone.

Calls & Controls

Why is RHA S500 Universal worse than the average headphone?

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Fixed cable
RHA S500 Universal has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
34 mm smaller driver size
RHA S500 Universal has smaller driver size than the average headphone (6 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
2 dB/mW lower sensitivity
RHA S500 Universal has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (100 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
10 dB lower max SPL
RHA S500 Universal has a lower max SPL than the average headphone (100 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
95% lower input power handling
RHA S500 Universal has a lower max input power than the average headphone (5 mW vs 100 mW). The average headphones handle max input power of 100 mW.
34 mm smaller driver size
RHA S500 Universal has smaller driver size than the average headphone (6 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
RHA S500 Universal has smaller driver size than the average headphone (6 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.6 mm vs 40 mm
Fixed cable
RHA S500 Universal 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
RHA S500 Universal has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
2 dB/mW lower sensitivity
RHA S500 Universal has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (100 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
RHA S500 Universal has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (100 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.100 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
10 dB lower max SPL
RHA S500 Universal has a lower max SPL than the average headphone (100 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
What it is: Maximum safe sound pressure level
When it matters: When high-volume headroom is part of your use case.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=116 dB
RHA S500 Universal has a lower max SPL than the average headphone (100 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.100 dB vs 110 dB
95% lower input power handling
RHA S500 Universal has a lower max input power than the average headphone (5 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
RHA S500 Universal has a lower max input power than the average headphone (5 mW vs 100 mW). The average headphones handle max input power of 100 mW.5 mW vs 100 mW
5.9% lower user score
RHA S500 Universal has a lower user score than the average headphone (7.55 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.
RHA S500 Universal has a lower user score than the average headphone (7.55 vs 8.000).7.55 vs 8

Graphic comparison of RHA S500 Universal and

Attribute category

Attribute

No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about RHA S500 Universal?

Excellent build quality using lightweight, aircraft-grade aluminum housings.
Very compact and ergonomic design that fits well in small ears.
Generous accessory bundle including seven pairs of ear tips and a carrying pouch.
Clear and detailed sound signature with a notable 3-year warranty.
Balanced audio performance with punchy bass that doesn't overwhelm the mix.
Good passive noise isolation due to the deep-fitting micro-driver design.

What customers dislike about RHA S500 Universal?

High frequencies can be overly bright or sibilant, causing listener fatigue.
Cable can produce microphonics (noise from rubbing against clothing).
Soundstage is often described as narrow, lacking instrumental depth.
Midrange may lack warmth and sound slightly 'dry' to some listeners.
Inline remote lacks volume controls on the 'Universal' version.

Expert reviews

tonepublications.com

10/01/2018

The RHA S500 Phones - TONEAudio MAGAZINE

The RHA S500 in-ear headphones deliver exceptional audiophile-grade performance and premium build quality at an affordable retail price of $39.95. Built with a classy machined aluminum body and a custom 140.1 driver, these headphones far exceed expectations for budget audio gear. They deliver a smooth, undistorted clarity and high-frequency response that remains clean even at high...Read more

headphoneslab.com

01/04/2020

RHA S500 Ultra-compact Aluminium In-Ear Headphones Review

The RHA S500 ultra-compact in-ear headphones receive an exceptionally high review for delivering premium build and audio quality on a restricted budget. Designed in Scotland by British manufacturer RHA, these entry-level earbuds stand out due to their high-grade, lightweight aluminum alloy housing and an outstanding 3-year manufacturer's warranty. The evaluation highlights a diverse...Read more

hifiplus.com

31/03/2016

RHA Audio S500i universal-fit earphones

The RHA Audio S500i universal-fit earphones offer an unexpectedly premium, high-fidelity experience at an affordable entry-level price point of £39.95. Built with robust aluminium alloy housings, the earphones utilize proprietary model 140.1 micro dynamic drivers to deliver a bright, midrange-forward sound signature that prioritizes clarity, openness, and exceptional detail...Read more

macsources.com

17/04/2020

RHA S500 Wired Earphones REVIEW

The RHA S500 Universal wired earphones are reviewed as a lightweight, low-tech, and reliable audio option designed for users who want dependable performance without worrying about battery charging limits. Weighing just 0.42 ounces, these earphones feature compact aluminum housings, a model 140.1 driver, and a 3.5mm jack. Pros highlighted in the review include their high comfort...Read more

majorhifi.com

02/09/2018

RHA S500 Universal Review - Major HiFi

The RHA S500 Universal earphones are an ultra-lightweight, affordable, and durable audio option valued at $40, boasting exceptional value backed by an impressive 3-year warranty. On the pros side, the reviewer praises their minimalist aluminum housing and featherlight design, which provides a highly comfortable, isolating fit complemented by six pairs of silicone tips, one pair of...Read more

majorhifi.com

02/09/2018

RHA S500 Universal Review

The RHA S500 Universal earphones offer an affordable, lightweight design crafted from durable aluminum housing, backed by a generous three-year warranty. They provide great comfort and excellent sound isolation thanks to a diverse selection of six different-sized silicone tips and a pair of double flange tips included in the box. The mostly woven cable is flexible and easy to store,...Read more

audisseus.de

16/04/2016

Scottish Beauty - RHA S500i In-Ear Headphones Review

The RHA S500i is a highly compact and lightweight entry-level in-ear headphone featuring a durable aluminium alloy housing and a custom-developed 140.1 micro-dynamic driver. Priced moderately at 49.00 Euros, it serves as a robust and stylish alternative to poor-quality stock smartphone earbuds. Key advantages highlighted in the review include its outstanding comfort—being so small...Read more

techtest.org

02/12/2016

The RHA S500 Earphones Review - Techtest

This review from Techtest highlights the RHA S500 as a stylish and durable set of wired, budget-friendly earphones priced at around €39. The reviewer praises their exceptional aluminum build quality and premium haptics, which far exceed expectations for this price point. Their incredibly tiny design allows them to fit effortlessly into most ears, offering slightly above-average...Read more

modernhifi.de

13/10/2015

RHA S500i Test: die besseren EarPods? | MODERNHIFI

The RHA S500i is a lightweight, ultra-compact in-ear headphone designed by Glasgow-based Reid and Heath Acoustics (RHA) as a premium yet affordable alternative to Apple's stock EarPods. Retailing at approximately 50 Euros and backed by a generous three-year warranty, these headphones feature a durable aluminum body housing miniature 6mm mikrodynamic drivers. Designed specifically...Read more

kopfhoerer.de

28/03/2016

RHA S500i review on kopfhoerer.de

The Kopfhoerer review rates the RHA S500i in-ear headphones highly at 4.5 out of 5 stars, highlighting them as a budget-friendly price-performance tip under 50 Euros. The pros emphasized in the review include their exceptional build quality with a glossy aluminum housing, gold-plated plugs, and a partial fabric-braided cable. They also offer great value by bundling a massive...Read more

on-mag.fr

18/11/2016

RHA S500(i) Earphones Review: Little Scottish troublemakers with ironclad health

Based on the review, the RHA S500 and S500i are highly compact, budget-friendly in-ear headphones (priced between €40 and €50) that offer exceptional build quality and performance for their price point. Key advantages include a durable lightweight aluminum alloy housing, excellent noise isolation, and a highly comfortable, slim design (under 8mm in diameter) that easily fits narrow...Read more

lesnumeriques.com

17/03/2016

RHA S500i review: well-built and discreet in-ear headphones", "RHA S500i review: well-built, low-profile in-ears

The RHA S500i is a compact and lightweight set of in-ear headphones featuring a durable aluminum chassis and a high-quality cable that is rubberized on top and braided at the bottom. The review highlights several notable strengths, including very clear vocal reproduction, low overall distortion, and a highly discreet design that fits comfortably into the ear canal without being...Read more

on-mag.fr

18/11/2016

RHA S500(i) headphones review", "RHA S500(i) earphones review

The ON-mag review highlights the RHA S500(i) as a pair of ultra-discreet, compact, wired in-ear headphones that deliver exceptional value. The primary pros center around its premium construction and high-level audio performance relative to its budget-friendly official price of €40 to €50. Designed by the Scottish brand RHA, these entry-level earphones stand out for offering a...Read more

head-fi.org

29/09/2015

RHA S500i Ultra-Compact In-Ear Headphone - Reviews

The RHA S500i, lauded for its budget-friendly price, features an exceptionally small, lightweight aluminum housing, a 3-button iOS-compatible remote, and a durable fabric-braided cable. Pros include surprising, punchy bass for its size and impressive sonic clarity, coupled with a 3-year warranty. However, the bright V-shaped sound signature produces a harsh, metallic treble and...Read more

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