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Sony MDR X10 Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£260
Avg. price in US: ~$300
Form factor: on-ear
Connectivity: wireless
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Sony MDR X10 review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

5.2

Good

4.4

Poor

8.4

Excellent

6.2
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
9.0
Audio latency
25.0%
1.0
Low-latency game mode
20.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
12.0%
7.0
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%
3.2
Weight
16.0%
1.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
8.0
Ambient sound mode
4.7
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
7.0
Noise-canceling microphone
24.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
18.0%
1.0
Multipoint support
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
14.0%
1.0
Companion app
5.1
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
3.2
Weight
24.0%
9.0
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 Sony MDR-X10, endorsed by Simon Cowell, is a closed-back over-ear headphone designed for bass enthusiasts and modern pop mixes. It features large 50mm neodymium drivers delivering an expansive 3Hz–29kHz frequency range, 24-ohm impedance for easy driving by mobile devices, and high-quality 106 dB sensitivity. Main characteristics include a flashy silver-and-red folding design, plush memory-foam ear pads for passive noise isolation, and a tangle-free detachable flat cable with an integrated remote and microphone for iOS devices. Primary pros are its deep, 'bombastic' bass reproduction, wide 3D soundstage, and long-term wearing comfort. However, notable cons include an overwhelming low-end that often muddies mid-range and treble clarity, a high original retail price, and a headband that some users find lacks sufficient padding.

Technical Specifications of Sony MDR X10

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

4.9

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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

6.0

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Noise-canceling microphone

What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls

When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

Importance: MEDIUM

?

Can be used as a headset

What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.

When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of microphones

What it is: Total number of built-in microphones

When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

Boom microphone

What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity

When it matters: When you need stronger voice clarity for gaming, streaming, or work calls.

Importance: LOW

Microphone SNR

What it is: Signal-to-noise ratio of the microphone

When it matters: When call clarity matters and you want your voice picked up more cleanly instead of buried in background hiss.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >80 dB

?

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Connectivity

3.6

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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

?

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

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Features

2.9

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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

?

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

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

2.2

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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

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

6.5

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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

on-ear

Weight

What it is: Total weight of the headphones

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

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <150 g

Acoustic design

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

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

Importance: HIGH

closed-back

Clamp force

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

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

Importance: MEDIUM

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Sony MDR X10 vs the average headphone

Why is Sony MDR X10 better than the average headphone?

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15 Hz lower bass extension
Sony MDR X10 has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (3 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 MDR X10 has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (3 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.3 Hz vs 18 Hz
10 mm larger driver size
Sony MDR X10 uses a larger driver size than the average headphone (50 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
Sony MDR X10 uses a larger driver size than the average headphone (50 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.50 mm vs 40 mm
More flexible connectivity
Sony MDR X10 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 MDR X10 offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.wireless vs wired
In-line controls
Sony MDR X10 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
Sony MDR X10 includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
9,000 Hz higher treble extension
Sony MDR X10 has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (29,000 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 MDR X10 has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (29,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.29000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
4 dB/mW higher sensitivity
Sony MDR X10 has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (106 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
Sony MDR X10 has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (106 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.106 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
Foldable design
Sony MDR X10 has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
What it is: Earcups or headband can fold for compact storage
When it matters: When you travel often and want easier storage in a bag.
Importance: LOW
Sony MDR X10 has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
30x higher input power handling
Sony MDR X10 has a higher max input power than the average headphone (3,000 mW vs 100 mW). The average headphones handle max input power of 100 mW.
What it is: Maximum input power the drivers can safely handle
When it matters: When you pair the headphones with stronger sources or dedicated gear.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=300 mW
Sony MDR X10 has a higher max input power than the average headphone (3,000 mW vs 100 mW). The average headphones handle max input power of 100 mW.3000 mW vs 100 mW
Foldable design
Sony MDR X10 has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
0.8 lower clamp force
Sony MDR X10 has a lower clamp force than the average headphone (3.5 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.
15 Hz lower bass extension
Sony MDR X10 has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (3 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
10 mm larger driver size
Sony MDR X10 uses a larger driver size than the average headphone (50 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
9,000 Hz higher treble extension
Sony MDR X10 has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (29,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
4 dB/mW higher sensitivity
Sony MDR X10 has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (106 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
30x higher input power handling
Sony MDR X10 has a higher max input power than the average headphone (3,000 mW vs 100 mW). The average headphones handle max input power of 100 mW.
Removable battery
Sony MDR X10 has a removable battery, the average headphone does not. 7.6% of headphones have a removable battery.
Rechargeable battery
Sony MDR X10 has a rechargeable battery, the average headphone does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
More flexible connectivity
Sony MDR X10 offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
In-line controls
Sony MDR X10 includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.

Calls & Controls

Why is Sony MDR X10 worse than the average headphone?

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37.6% higher weight
Sony MDR X10 is heavier than the average headphone (300 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
8.2 % higher distortion
Sony MDR X10 has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (8.5 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
No battery indicator
Sony MDR X10 does not show battery level clearly, while the average headphone does. 98.6% of headphones have a battery level indicator.
No voice assistant support
Sony MDR X10 does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
5 years older release date
Sony MDR X10 was released earlier than the average headphone (2,012 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
September 2012
8.2 % higher distortion
Sony MDR X10 has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (8.5 % 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 MDR X10 has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (8.5 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.8.5 % vs 0.3 %
No voice assistant support
Sony MDR X10 does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
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
Sony MDR X10 does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
37.6% higher weight
Sony MDR X10 is heavier than the average headphone (300 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
Sony MDR X10 is heavier than the average headphone (300 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.300 g vs 218 g
2.89x more expensive
Sony MDR X10 is more expensive than the average headphone (£260 vs £90).
Sony MDR X10 is more expensive than the average headphone (£260 vs £90).£260 vs £90
No battery indicator
Sony MDR X10 does not show battery level clearly, while the average headphone does. 98.6% of headphones have a battery level indicator.
What it is: Shows remaining battery charge visually or audibly
When it matters: When you dislike unexpected shutdowns and want clearer warning before leaving home, boarding a flight, or joining a call.
Importance: LOW
Sony MDR X10 does not show battery level clearly, while the average headphone does. 98.6% of headphones have a battery level indicator.
5 years older release date
Sony MDR X10 was released earlier than the average headphone (2,012 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
September 2012
What it is: Official release or launch date of the model
When it matters: When you want a newer model for fresher features, longer support life, or simply to avoid buying into an older generation.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=2020
Sony MDR X10 was released earlier than the average headphone (2,012 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.2012 vs 2017
5.2% worse value for money
Sony MDR X10 has worse value for money than the average headphone (6.40 vs 6.736).
What it is: An indicator that combines the headphones' overall rating with their cost.
When it matters: When you are looking for headphones that offer a strong balance of performance, features, and price.
Sony MDR X10 has worse value for money than the average headphone (6.40 vs 6.736).6.4 vs 6.74

Graphic comparison of Sony MDR X10 and

Attribute category

Attribute

No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about Sony MDR X10?

Powerful, deep bass performance ideal for EDM, hip-hop, and modern pop mixes
Stylish and bold design with high-quality metal accents and a flashy red/silver aesthetic
Extremely comfortable, plush memory-foam ear pads that offer good passive noise isolation
Convenient dual-folding design with a high-quality protective carrying case for portability
Durable build quality featuring detachable, tangle-free flat cables
Wide soundstage and impressive stereo separation for dynamic listening

What customers dislike about Sony MDR X10?

Overpowering bass that often muddles midrange and treble details
High retail price point (originally ~$300) considered overpriced for the audio quality provided
Heavy and bulky design that can cause ear fatigue or pressure during long listening sessions
In-line remote buttons are positioned too high on the cable to easily see or use
Highly 'sculpted' frequency response is not suitable for neutral studio monitoring or classical music
Headband padding can feel insufficient at the top of the head for some users

Expert reviews

christopherspenn.com

27/10/2012

Klout Product Review: Sony MDR-X10 Headphones

In his review, Christopher S. Penn praises the Sony MDR-X10 headphonesGo to product viewer dialog for this item. for their exceptional comfort, featuring a secure yet gentle fit that allows for extended wear even with eyeglasses. While the packaging is noted as high-quality, the design's intended fashion-forward, head-turning appeal was considered unremarkable. Christopher S....Read more

androidpolice.com

26/11/2012

Sony MDR-X10 Headphones Review: So Much Bass That Even I Feel Old

The Sony MDR-X10 headphones are a $300 designer pair heavily focused on deep bass and a flashy aesthetic aimed directly at competing with the Beats brand. On the positive side, they feature structural engineering from Sony’s decades of experience, offering a highly comfortable, cozy fit thanks to memory-foam cushions that form an amazing seal to isolate outside sound. They also...Read more

reviewed.com

29/03/2013

Sony MDR-X10 On-ear Headphone Review

The Sony MDR-X10 on-ear headphones feature a unique, celebrity-endorsed grooved metal aesthetic backed by Simon Cowell, offering excellent physical construction and impressive passive noise reduction. On the positive side, these headphones boast a solid housing with easily replaceable cables that can withstand heavy daily use in bags or backpacks. They provide surprising comfort for...Read more

soundandvision.com

24/10/2012

MDR-X10 Simon Cowell headphones - Sound & Vision

The Sound & Vision review of the Sony MDR-X10 Simon Cowell edition highlights a massive, yet muddy and overwhelming bass output that obscures the midrange and treble, despite featuring a decent, clear sound profile. While the pros are limited to some treble clarity, the significant cons center on this "wall of boom" that lacks definition. Regarding the Sony MDR-1RNC, the analysis...Read more

wired.com

06/11/2012

Review: Sony MDR-X10 Headphones

The Sony MDR-X10 headphones, developed in a promotional partnership with British music producer Simon Cowell, receive an overall rating of 8 out of 10 in this WIRED review. The reviewer notes that out of the box, the massive 50-millimeter proprietary drivers heavily emphasize bass and treble, which initially masks the finer details of the midrange frequencies. However, after...Read more

cultofandroid.com

25/08/2013

The Sony MDR-X10 Headphones: Absolutely The Best Bass Bang For Your Buck Review

The Sony MDR-X10 headphones are a $200, bass-heavy set designed with input from entertainment personality Simon Cowell. They feature large 50mm drivers that deliver incredibly smooth, detailed, and powerful bass performance, making them spectacular for tracks with deep basslines. The headphones are lightweight despite a metal and plastic build, and the earcups pivot easily. This...Read more

urbanmag-online.com

28/02/2013

Editor’s Choice: Sony MDR-X10

The Urban Magazine review characterizes the Sony MDR-X10 as an exceptional, premium pair of headphones that successfully challenges market giants like the Beats by Dre Pros. The reviewer, a self-proclaimed audiophile, notes that the headphones deliver incredible audio clarity and detail across varied playlists. Powered by 50mm driver units and high-energy neodymium magnets, the...Read more

uk.pcmag.com

27/09/2012

Sony X Headphones (MDR-X10) Review

Review Summary The Simon Cowell-endorsed Sony X Headphones (MDR-X10) are a flashy, circumaural pair of over-ear headphones designed primarily for low-end bass lovers and modern pop mixes. Priced at $299.99, these non-wireless headphones feature massive earcups housing 50mm driver units capable of replicating sub-bass frequencies as low as 3Hz. While the audio profile is heavily...Read more

geekometry.com

25/01/2015

Sony MDR-x10 headphones – awesome cans two years later WIRED

The Sony MDR-x10 headphones are highly praised by the reviewer as a durable, "bass-head" friendly option that excels in loud environments like server datacenters. After two years of heavy daily use, the headphones delivered an immersive, 3D sound stage with tight, buttery low-end bass that balanced well with higher frequencies without becoming boomy. Their memory foam cups offer...Read more

manhattandigest.com

02/04/2013

Sony X Review- MDR-X10 Headphones

The Manhattan Digest review praises the Sony MDR-X10 headphones for their sleek design, exceptional comfort, and powerful audio performance characterized by deep bass and clear instrument separation. These headphones are highlighted for their effective passive noise isolation, making them ideal for urban environments. Conversely, the review notes that the sound profile, which is...Read more

Video reviews

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