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Sony H Ear On Review | 93 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£160
  • Avg. price in US: ~$200
  • Form factor: over-ear
  • Connectivity: wireless
  • Battery life: 20 hours
  • Active noise cancellation (ANC): yes

Sony H Ear On review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

7.8

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%

8.0

Technical Score

20.0%

7.0

User score

Very good
8.0

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%

9.7

Sound

20.0%

6.7

Features

10.0%

7.3

Design

8.0%

5.3

Connectivity

6.0%

2.9

Battery

4.0%

8.8

Calls & Controls

Excellent
7.0

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%

9.4

User reviews

30.0%

1.4

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.7
(4)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.7
(4)

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

Very good
  • 4.5
    Gaming

    Score components:

    35.0%

    2.3

    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%

    3.1

    Battery life

  • 7.5
    Travel

    Score components:

    28.0%

    10

    Active noise cancellation (ANC)

    24.0%

    3.1

    Battery life

    18.0%

    5.1

    Weight

    16.0%

    10

    Multipoint support

    14.0%

    10

    Ambient sound mode

  • 8.9
    Calls

    Score components:

    28.0%

    10

    Noise-canceling microphone

    24.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

    18.0%

    10

    Multipoint support

    16.0%

    3.1

    Battery life

    14.0%

    10

    Companion app

  • 4.2
    Workout

    Score components:

    28.0%

    5.1

    Weight

    24.0%

    1.0

    Water resistance

    20.0%

    4.0

    IP rating

    16.0%

    3.1

    Battery life

    12.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

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Best prices in UK

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 Sony h.ear on series, specifically the MDR-100AAP, features 40mm High-Resolution HD drivers with titanium-coated diaphragms and a wide frequency response of 5Hz to 60,000Hz, ensuring detailed and low-distortion audio. These over-ear headphones utilize a 24-ohm impedance and Beat Response Control for deep, rhythmic bass, all within a lightweight 220g foldable frame designed for portability. Main pros include a stylish eye-catching design, exceptional comfort with soft padded earcups, and high-resolution audio compatibility that surpasses CD quality. However, some users have noted cons such as weak passive noise isolation in loud environments, sound leakage at higher volumes, and a lack of on-cable volume controls.

Technical Specifications of Sony H Ear On

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%

9.7

Sound

20.0%

6.7

Features

10.0%

7.3

Design

8.0%

5.3

Connectivity

6.0%

2.9

Battery

4.0%

8.8

Calls & Controls

8.0
Sony H Ear On has a technical score of 8.04 points, which is higher than that of 94.3% 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%

9.4

User reviews

30.0%

1.4

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.7
(4)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.7
(4)

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

7.0
Sony H Ear On has a user score of 6.99 points, which is lower than that of 79% 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.
1.4
Sony H Ear On has a popularity of 1.4 points, which is lower than 70.6% 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%

7.8

Overall score

40.0%

9.7

Price

8.4
Sony H Ear On has a quality-to-price ratio of 8.4 points, which is higher than 92.2% 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
Sony H Ear On 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
Sony H Ear On 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
Sony H Ear On 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

5 Hz
Sony H Ear On reaches a lowest frequency of 5 Hz, lower lowest frequency than 86.3% of headphones and equal to 10.8% 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
Sony H Ear On 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
Sony H Ear On 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

1
Sony H Ear On has 1 microphones, more microphones than 25.9% of headphones and equal to 52.2% 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

no
Sony H Ear On does not include a boom microphone. 15.6% 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
Sony H Ear On 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

4.1
Sony H Ear On uses Bluetooth version 4.1, newer Bluetooth version than 62.2% of headphones and equal to 5.3% 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
Sony H Ear On 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

220 ms
Sony H Ear On has audio latency of 220 ms, higher audio latency than 88.5% of headphones and equal to 1% 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

yes
Sony H Ear On supports multipoint. 35% 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
Sony H Ear On 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
Sony H Ear On 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
Sony H Ear On 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

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

yes
Sony H Ear On 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

20 hours
Sony H Ear On offers battery life of 20 hours, lower battery life than 65.5% of headphones and equal to 8.2% 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

20 hours
Sony H Ear On offers battery life with ANC of 20 hours, lower battery life with ANC than 74.3% of headphones and equal to 9.8% 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

6 hours
Sony H Ear On needs 6 hours to charge, higher charging time than 97% of headphones and equal to 0.9% 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

no
Sony H Ear On does not support quick charging. 69.1% 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

1,350 mAh
Sony H Ear On has a battery capacity of 1350 mAh, higher battery capacity than 97.8% 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

Sony
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

220 g
Sony H Ear On weighs 220 g, heavier than 50.3% of headphones and equal to 1.4% 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

3.6
Sony H Ear On has a clamp force of 3.6, lower clamp force than 60.6% of headphones and equal to 7.9% of headphones.
Show more

Sony H Ear On vs the average headphone

  • Active noise cancellation
    Sony H Ear On 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

    Sony H Ear On supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
  • Hi-Res Audio certification
    Sony H Ear On 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

    Sony H Ear On has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
  • EQ customization
    Sony H Ear On 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

    Sony H Ear On supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
  • Spatial audio support
    Sony H Ear On 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

    Sony H Ear On supports spatial audio, the average headphone does not. 30.7% of headphones support spatial audio.
  • 13 Hz lower bass extension
    Sony H Ear On has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (5 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

    Sony H Ear On has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (5 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.5 Hz vs 18 Hz
  • 40,000 Hz higher treble extension
    Sony H Ear On has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (60,000 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

    Sony H Ear On has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (60,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.60000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
  • More flexible connectivity
    Sony H Ear On 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

    Sony H Ear On offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.wireless vs wired
  • Clear call microphone
    Sony H Ear On 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

    Sony H Ear On offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
  • Foldable design
    Sony H Ear On has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
  • Active noise cancellation
    Sony H Ear On supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
  • Hi-Res Audio certification
    Sony H Ear On has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
  • Spatial audio support
    Sony H Ear On supports spatial audio, the average headphone does not. 30.7% of headphones support spatial audio.
  • 13 Hz lower bass extension
    Sony H Ear On has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (5 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
  • 40,000 Hz higher treble extension
    Sony H Ear On has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (60,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
  • 15x higher input power handling
    Sony H Ear On has a higher max input power than the average headphone (1,500 mW vs 100 mW). The average headphones handle max input power of 100 mW.
  • 2.25x higher battery capacity
    Sony H Ear On has a higher battery capacity than the average headphone (1,350 mAh vs 600 mAh). The average headphones have a battery capacity of 600 mAh.
  • Rechargeable battery
    Sony H Ear On has a rechargeable battery, the average headphone does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
  • More flexible connectivity
    Sony H Ear On offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
  • Clear call microphone
    Sony H Ear On offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
  • On-device controls
    Sony H Ear On includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
  • In-line controls
    Sony H Ear On includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
  • Sidetone support
    Sony H Ear On supports sidetone, the average headphone does not. 29.7% of headphones support sidetone.
  • EQ customization
    Sony H Ear On supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.

Total
Overall
Design
Sound
Battery
Connectivity
Calls & Controls
Features
  • 3 mm tighter earcup width
    Sony H Ear On has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (40 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.
  • 0.7 % higher distortion
    Sony H Ear On has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
  • 4 hours longer charging time
    Sony H Ear On has a higher charging time than the average headphone (6 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.
  • 10 hours shorter ANC battery life
    Sony H Ear On has a lower battery life with ANC than the average headphone (20 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life with ANC of 30 hours.
  • 10 hours shorter battery life
    Sony H Ear On has a lower battery life than the average headphone (20 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.
  • 92.5 ms higher audio latency
    Sony H Ear On has a higher audio latency than the average headphone (220 ms vs 127.5 ms). The average headphones have audio latency of 127.5 ms.
  • 4 hours longer charging time
    Sony H Ear On has a higher charging time than the average headphone (6 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

    Sony H Ear On has a higher charging time than the average headphone (6 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.6 hours vs 2 hours
  • 92.5 ms higher audio latency
    Sony H Ear On has a higher audio latency than the average headphone (220 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

    Sony H Ear On has a higher audio latency than the average headphone (220 ms vs 127.5 ms). The average headphones have audio latency of 127.5 ms.220 ms vs 127.5 ms
  • 0.7 % higher distortion
    Sony H Ear On has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (1 % 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%

    Sony H Ear On has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.1 % vs 0.3 %
  • 10 hours shorter ANC battery life
    Sony H Ear On has a lower battery life with ANC than the average headphone (20 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

    Sony H Ear On has a lower battery life with ANC than the average headphone (20 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life with ANC of 30 hours.20 hours vs 30 hours
  • 10 hours shorter battery life
    Sony H Ear On has a lower battery life than the average headphone (20 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

    Sony H Ear On has a lower battery life than the average headphone (20 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.20 hours vs 30 hours
  • 14.4% lower user score
    Sony H Ear On has a lower user score than the average headphone (6.99 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.
    Sony H Ear On has a lower user score than the average headphone (6.99 vs 8.000).6.99 vs 8
  • 3 mm tighter earcup width
    Sony H Ear On has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (40 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

    Sony H Ear On has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (40 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.40 mm vs 43 mm
  • 3.38x less popular
    Sony H Ear On is less popular than the average headphone (1.38 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.
    Sony H Ear On is less popular than the average headphone (1.38 vs 4.646).1.38 vs 4.65
Total
Overall
Design
Sound
Battery
Connectivity

Graphic comparison of Sony H Ear On and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.7
4 Reviews
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.7
4 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

What customers like about Sony H Ear On?

  • Vibrant, high-resolution audio with well-balanced sound across various genres
  • Lightweight and comfortable design suitable for long listening sessions
  • Stylish, eye-catching color options and modern matte finishes
  • Exceptional battery life (up to 35 hours on newer models) with fast charging
  • Intuitive touch and gesture controls for music and calls
  • Convenient features like 'Quick Attention' mode to hear surroundings easily

What customers dislike about Sony H Ear On?

  • Noise cancellation is less effective compared to Sony's flagship WH-1000X series
  • Bass can feel a bit subdued or less punchy for 'bass-heads'
  • Older models use micro-USB and have very long full-charge times
  • Build materials are mostly plastic and can feel less premium than higher-end models
  • Some users report high clamping force or ears getting warm over time
  • Passive noise isolation is weak, allowing ambient sound to leak in when NC is off

Expert reviews

M
musicphotolife.com
23/12/2015
Sony MDR-100AAP Headphones Review

The Sony MDR-100AAP, part of the "h.ear on" series, is an urban-tuned, closed-back headphone designed to visually match the colorful Sony Walkman A-series with its uniform color styling across the body, ear cushions, cables, and carrying pouch. The audio profile features a responsive bass presence and a clear, recessed treble, which minimizes ear fatigue in noisy environments...Read more

T
trustedreviews.com
12/11/2015
Sony h.ear on MDR-100AAP Review", "Sony h.ear on MDR-100AAP Headphones Review

The Trusted Reviews assessment of the Sony h.ear on MDR-100AAP highlights a stylish, lower-cost option featuring a balanced, natural sound signature ideal for fatigue-free listening. Key advantages include a comfortable design and a relaxed, non-aggressive sonic profile compared to competitors. However, the evaluation notes significant drawbacks, citing a lack of dynamism,...Read more

R
rtings.com
28/07/2016
Sony MDR-100AAP h.ear on Review", "Sony MDR-100AAP h.ear on Headphones Review

The Sony MDR-100AAP h.ear on are considered average, comfortable over-ear headphones featuring a lightweight, stable design suitable for casual listening. They offer a mostly neutral sound profile and a compact, foldable, and portable build. However, the headphones suffer from poor passive noise isolation, high audio leakage, and a flimsy, plasticky construction. They are also...Read more

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xander51.medium.com
21/05/2016
Headphone Showdown: Sony MDR-100AAP Vs MDR-1A - Medium

Alex Rowe’s review concludes that the Sony MDR-1A and MDR-100AAP represent a conceptual tie, with the 1A offering a "fun," energetic sound featuring powerful, heavy-hitting bass, a dynamic soundstage, and superior comfort. However, the 1A’s aggressive, warm low-end can sometimes feel muddy to purists. Medium· Conversely, the MDR-100AAP provides a more precise, balanced sound with a...Read more

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xander51.medium.com
18/05/2016
Alex Reviews a Headphone: Sony h.ear on MDR-100AAP - Medium", "Sony h.ear on MDR-100AAP Headphone Review by Alex - Medium

The Sony h.ear on MDR-100AAPGo to product viewer dialog for this item. is highlighted as a top-tier, lightweight portable headphone featuring a slim, foldable design and secure headband. The review praises the titanium-coated drivers for delivering a balanced, realistic sound with great instrument separation and good passive noise isolation. Medium·Alex RoweDespite the positive...Read more

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cnet.com
06/04/2016
Sony H.ear On review: A 'hi-res' headphone that comes in eye-catching colors

The Sony H.ear On MDR-100A is a stylish over-ear headphone that earns praise for its lightweight, 8-ounce design and high comfort levels during extended wear. Pros highlighted in the review include its vibrant, eye-catching color options (such as cinnabar red, Bordeaux pink, and viridian blue), its space-saving folding design that packs into an included protective nylon carrying...Read more

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whathifi.com
05/02/2016
Sony MDR-100AAP review", "What Hi-Fi? Sony MDR-100AAP review

The What Hi-Fi? Sony MDR-100AAP review presents the "h.ear on" as a respectable, lightweight (220g), and tidy folding pair of portable headphones equipped with 40mm HD drivers and titanium-coated diaphragms[0.1.1]. Key structural and usability pros include an easily listenable balance, a roomy soundstage, and plenty of detail, wrapped in a portable package that features a...Read more

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likehifi.de
26/08/2016
Sony "h.ear on" MDR-100AAP: Simple Design – Big Sound

The Sony h.ear on (MDR-100AAP) is a lightweight, 220-gram, closed-back headphone featuring a minimalist design with high-quality, thin aluminum ear cup covers and soft, comfortable faux leather pads for extended wear. Its key advantages include a highly space-saving, foldable construction, effective passive noise isolation that makes active noise-canceling unnecessary, and a...Read more

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techtest.org
29/08/2016
Sony MDR-100AAP Headphones Review: It Hardly Gets Any Better!", "Sony MDR-100AAP Review: It Doesn't Get Much Better Than This!

The Sony MDR-100AAP "Hear your Colours" are wired, over-ear headphones that offer premium aesthetics and high-quality build materials for around €120, a significantly lower price point than their visually identical, Bluetooth-enabled sibling (the MDR-100ABN). On the positive side, they feature an elegant design available in five vibrant colors, excellent tactile haptics with an...Read more

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beyondpixels.at
09/02/2016
Sony h.ear on (MDR-100A) Review - Beyond Pixels

According to the review from Beyond Pixels, the Sony h.ear on (MDR-100A) headphones serve as an attractive, premium middle-class option targeting the fashion-conscious demographic popularized by Beats by Dre. The reviewer notes that the device provides a sleek, minimalist aluminum design with matching color paths across its uniform body, which stays comfortable during long listening...Read more

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chip.de
13/12/2016
Sony MDR-100AAP Headphones Review - CHIP", "Sony MDR-100AAP Headphones - CHIP

The Sony MDR-100AAP is an over-ear headphone reviewed by CHIP as a highly balanced, all-rounder device that justifies its premium price tag of over 100 Euros. It shines across all music genres, reproducing crisp highs, clear mids, and excellent vocal separation that make it especially perfect for classical, jazz, and rock music. The overall sound profile is incredibly detailed and...Read more

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on-mag.fr
03/03/2016
Sony h.ear on (MDR-100AAP) headphones review

The ON-mag review evaluates the Sony h.ear on (MDR-100AAP) circum-aural, closed-back headphones, which were released for the 2015/2016 autumn/winter collection at an official price of 180 €. The reviewer highlights the sleek, carefully crafted design featuring aluminum ear cups available in five distinct colors (red, dusky pink, yellow, teal, or black). On the positive side (pros),...Read more

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cnetfrance.fr
03/05/2016
Sony h.ear on MDR-100A - CNET France

The Sony h.ear on MDR-100A is a stylish over-ear headphone praised primarily for its eye-catching aesthetic and exceptional comfort. Moving away from traditional utilitarian headphone looks, Sony offers this model in vibrant, uniform colors like cinnabar red, lime yellow, Bordeaux pink, and viridian blue. The physical build is remarkably lightweight at 8 ounces (227 grams) and...Read more

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numerama.com
07/12/2017
Sony MDR-100ABN Headphones Review: Great Design and Great Sound Go Hand in Hand", "Sony MDR-100ABN Review: Where Good Design Meets Good Sound

The Sony MDR-100ABN is a closed-back, active noise-canceling wireless headphone priced at €249 that stands out primarily for its sleek, minimalist matte design and robust build quality. On the positive side, it offers an exceptionally comfortable fit at 290 grams, an impressive 20-hour battery life, and comprehensive high-definition codec support including SBC, AAC, aptX, and Sony's...Read more

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lesnumeriques.com
01/09/2016
Sony H.ear On Wireless NC Review: Noise-Canceling Wireless Headphones

The review of the Sony H.ear On Wireless NC (MDR-100ABN) by Les Numériques awards the headphones a 3 out of 5-star rating, highlighting a well-built but audio-compromised design. On the positive side, the review praises its strong 30-hour battery life, robust construction quality, comprehensive onboard controls, and easy pairing via Bluetooth and NFC. Ergonomically, the device is...Read more

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01net.com
30/10/2015
Sony MDR-100AAP Review: A Good Hi-Res Headphone for Bass Lovers

The Sony MDR-100AAP is a comfortable, over-ear (circum-aural) Hi-Res Audio headset available in five vibrant colors, featuring elegant brushed aluminum earcups. It delivers a warm sound profile rich in detail, performing exceptionally well with uncompressed CD-quality and high-resolution files like FLAC. However, the heavy bass emphasis can easily become overwhelming and invasive,...Read more

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m.alatest.fr
10/03/2026
Sony MDR-100AAP | Avis, Tests et Prix 💡 Points clés du modèle testé (MDR-100AAPGo to product viewer dialogue for this item.) Type : Casque circum-aur...

The Sony h.ear on MDR-100AAP headphones offer a comfortable, lightweight, and stylish over-ear design featuring balanced sound with clear mids, making them suitable for long listening sessions. Their portability is enhanced by a foldable design and tangle-free cable. However, the headphones are primarily constructed from plastic, which can feel less premium to some users....Read more

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daily-passions.com
15/02/2016
Sony h.ear on Review: Pure Bliss!", "Sony h.ear on: A Real Joy!

The Sony h.ear on (MDR-100A) is a comfortable, over-ear wired headphone featuring a solid plastic design, 40mm titanium-coated dome diaphragms, and an adjustable headband wrapped in leatherette ear cushions. Priced at CHF 229.00, it targets a younger demographic with its vibrant color selection and flawless construction. On the performance side, the device excels with an...Read more

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audiocasque.fr
28/01/2016
Sony MDR-100AAP h.ear on | REVIEW | The Hi-Res Headphones

The Sony MDR-100AAP (h.ear on) is a wired, over-ear headphone that targets a younger audience by balancing a vibrant, premium design with strong high-resolution audio performance at an affordable price point of around €150–€170. Built with a combination of rigid and flexible plastics featuring a metallic finish, the headphones feature an adjustable headband, memory foam ear cushions...Read more

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on-mag.fr
25/02/2016
Sony MDR-100AAP (h.ear on) headphones review

The Sony h.ear on MDR-100AAP is a closed-back, circum-aural (over-ear) wired headphone released as part of Sony's 2015/2016 autumn/winter collection with an official price tag of 180 €. Weighing in at a lightweight 220 grams, the review highlights its carefully sculpted aesthetic, clean lines, and high-quality finishes available in a variety of vibrant colors. The review serves as...Read more

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lesnumeriques.com
19/11/2015
Sony h.ear on review: simplicity and comfort

The Sony h.ear on (MDR-100A) is a wired over-ear headphone designed with a solid, sleek plastic frame and a foldable headband that fits small to large heads comfortably. It delivers a smooth, precise, and powerful audio experience with a wide soundstage and excellent stereo separation, ensuring low distortion even at high volumes. The memory foam ear cushions provide solid comfort...Read more

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audiocasque.fr
13/06/2016
Sony MDR-100ABN | REVIEW | ANC and Bluetooth, the winning combo

The Sony MDR-100ABN (h.ear on Wireless NC) is a well-built, comfortable, and minimalist circum-aural Bluetooth headphone that offers effective active noise cancellation (ANC) and high-quality sound for around €280. It features an intuitive controls setup, stable headband construction with generous memory foam padding, and versatile connectivity including NFC pairing, aptX, and...Read more

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leclaireur.fnac.com
16/11/2016
Sony MDR-100AAP h.ear on Review", "Sony MDR-100AAP h.ear on Lab Test

The Labo Fnac review of the Sony MDR-100AAP h.ear On closed-back, over-ear wired headphones awards the product a moderate technical score of 3 out of 5 stars. On the positive side, the headphones deliver a stellar acoustic performance in frequency response, scoring 8.7 out of 10 for reproducing sound fields with great fidelity and minimal distortion. Additionally, they score a...Read more

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chicageek.com
03/02/2016
Sony h.ear on MDR-100AAP Headphones Review

The Sony h.ear on MDR-100AAP headphones are a stylish, mid-range option designed for standard, daily use rather than high-end audiophile performance. On the positive side, they feature an eye-catching, well-crafted design available in multiple matching colors, along with foldable earcups and a flat, tangle-free cable for enhanced portability. They offer high comfort with large,...Read more

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culturageek.com.ar
24/02/2016
Sony h.ear on MDR-100AAP Headphones Review - Cultura Geek

The Cultura Geek review of the Sony h.ear on MDR-100AAP highlights these over-ear headphones as an aesthetically striking, highly portable, and great-sounding option designed for daily urban use. They feature 40mm drivers that support Hi-Res Audio, delivering a balanced sound and a comfortable, lightweight design with a tangle-free cable. While praising the design, the review notes...Read more

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macitynet.it
29/05/2016
Sony h.ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones Review

The Macitynet review of the Sony h.ear Wireless Noise Cancelling headphones highlights them as a total and definitive evolution of the h.ear lineup, successfully blending modern technology with a comfortable, retro-inspired aesthetic. The reviewer praises the design for its distinct, curved lines and practical, tactile button placement on the earcups, which avoids the minimalism of...Read more

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saggiamente.com
16/06/2016
Review: Sony MDR-100 h.ear on Wireless NC, the almost perfect headphones

The Saggiamente review highlights the Sony MDR-100 h.ear on Wireless NC as a versatile, comfortable, and stylish option for daily use. The headset offers seamless Bluetooth connectivity, a solid build, and effective active noise cancellation, making it ideal for commuters and commuters. However, the review notes a significant drawback in that passive audio quality is poor, with...Read more

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qualescegliere.it
17/05/2016
Sony MDR-100AAP Review - QualeScegliere.it

The Sony MDR-100AAP, released in late 2015, is a solid mid-range pair of closed-back headphones designed primarily for portable use and daily commutes. With a 7.8/10 overall rating, it stands out for its wide frequency response of 5–60,000 Hz, which ensures high-fidelity audio reproduction, and its 40 mm drivers that deliver powerful bass. The structure is highly functional for...Read more

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onehandinmypocket.nl
11/11/2015
A Day in Munich with Michael and Sony h.ear

In this personal lifestyle review, the author shares her experience testing the Sony h.ear MDR-100AAP on-ear headphones during a quick, single-day business trip from Amsterdam to Munich. While waiting at airport security and walking around the city, she utilized her Spotify playlists to test the device's capabilities. Highlighting official brand claims, she notes that the headset's...Read more

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