OVERALL

SPECS

VS AVERAGE

REVIEWS

ALTERNATIVES

Sony MDR XB50ap Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£25
Avg. price in US: ~$30
Form factor: in-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Sony MDR XB50ap review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

5.8

Good

4.9

Poor

9.2

Exceptional

3.2
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%
10
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
5.2
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
10
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 Sony MDR-XB50AP is a wired, in-ear headphone featuring 12mm neodymium dome-type drivers and a wide frequency response of 4Hz to 24,000Hz, specifically engineered for powerful, club-like bass. Key characteristics include a 1.2m tangle-free Y-type flat cord, an L-shaped gold-plated plug, and a lightweight 8g build with an in-line remote and microphone for smartphone compatibility. Its main pros are a deep, punchy low-end performance facilitated by a powered bass duct, good passive noise isolation, and a comfortable angled fit with multiple silicone earbud sizes. However, notable cons include a bulky housing design that can feel heavy during long sessions, a lack of volume control on the remote, and recessed midrange and treble frequencies that may lack detail for critical listening.

Technical Specifications of Sony MDR XB50ap

Overall score

5.8

Show more

Hide

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

4.7

Show more

Hide

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

Show more

Calls & Controls

6.7

Show more

Hide

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

?

Show more

Connectivity

6.6

Show more

Hide

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

Show more

Features

4.1

Show more

Hide

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

Show more

Battery

1.0

Show more

Hide

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

Show more

Design

8.3

Show more

Hide

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

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

Show more

Sony MDR XB50ap vs the average headphone

Why is Sony MDR XB50ap better than the average headphone?

Show more

Hide

96.3% lower weight
Sony MDR XB50ap is lighter than the average headphone (8 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 XB50ap is lighter than the average headphone (8 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.8 g vs 218 g
14 Hz lower bass extension
Sony MDR XB50ap has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (4 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 XB50ap has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (4 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.4 Hz vs 18 Hz
Clear call microphone
Sony MDR XB50ap 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 MDR XB50ap offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Sony MDR XB50ap 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
Sony MDR XB50ap 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
Sony MDR XB50ap 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 XB50ap includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
4 dB/mW higher sensitivity
Sony MDR XB50ap 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 XB50ap 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
4,000 Hz higher treble extension
Sony MDR XB50ap has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (24,000 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 XB50ap has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (24,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.24000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
0.19 % lower distortion
Sony MDR XB50ap has a lower total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.1 % 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 MDR XB50ap has a lower total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.0.112 % vs 0.3 %
96.3% lower weight
Sony MDR XB50ap is lighter than the average headphone (8 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
14 Hz lower bass extension
Sony MDR XB50ap has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (4 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
4 dB/mW higher sensitivity
Sony MDR XB50ap has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (106 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
4,000 Hz higher treble extension
Sony MDR XB50ap has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (24,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
0.19 % lower distortion
Sony MDR XB50ap has a lower total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Sony MDR XB50ap includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
Clear call microphone
Sony MDR XB50ap offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
In-line controls
Sony MDR XB50ap includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.

Calls & Controls

Why is Sony MDR XB50ap worse than the average headphone?

Show more

Hide

Fixed cable
Sony MDR XB50ap has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
28 mm smaller driver size
Sony MDR XB50ap has smaller driver size than the average headphone (12 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
28 mm smaller driver size
Sony MDR XB50ap has smaller driver size than the average headphone (12 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 XB50ap has smaller driver size than the average headphone (12 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.12 mm vs 40 mm
Fixed cable
Sony MDR XB50ap 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
Sony MDR XB50ap has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.

Graphic comparison of Sony MDR XB50ap 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 XB50ap?

Powerful, punchy bass that specifically appeals to 'bassheads' and fans of EDM or hip-hop.
Excellent value for money, often described as performing better than more expensive alternatives.
Durable, tangle-free serrated cable that resists knots and physical wear.
Good passive noise isolation due to the snug in-ear seal.
Low sound leakage, making them suitable for quiet environments like libraries.
Includes a soft carrying pouch and multiple ear tip sizes for a better fit.

What customers dislike about Sony MDR XB50ap?

Bulky and heavy earpiece design can cause ear fatigue or pain after prolonged use.
Lacks dedicated volume controls on the in-line remote (single-button only).
Bass-heavy sound profile can sometimes muffle mids and highs, leading to a less balanced sound.
The large size makes them uncomfortable for side-sleeping or wearing under a helmet.
Microphone quality is inconsistent, with some users reporting failure after a few months.
Non-detachable cable means the entire unit must be replaced if the wire is damaged.

Expert reviews

head-fi.org

03/05/2014

Sony MDR-XB50: All of your basses...all of them. - Head-Fi

The Head-Fi review of the Sony MDR-XB50 highlights the IEMs as a heavy-hitting, budget option that delivers intense, deep sub-bass and a powerful rumble. Despite their large, "absurd" physical shell size, the earbuds offer high comfort, a tangle-resistant cable, and are exceptionally easy to drive. Conversely, the overwhelming bass severely recedes the mids and highs, causing vocals...Read more

headphoneslab.com

01/04/2020

Sony MDR-XB50AP Extra Bass Earbuds Review

The Sony MDR-XB50AP Extra Bass Earbuds earn a 4/5 editor rating for their impressive, punchy bass reproduction that remains well-mannered without bleeding into the mid-range frequencies. Designed with gym-goers in mind, these durable earbuds feature a combination of metal and stylish plastic, a 1.2-meter tangle-free flat cord, and four sizes of hybrid silicone eartips that provide...Read more

dhananjaytech.com

31/10/2016

Sony MDR-XB50AP EXTRA BASS Earphones Review

The Sony MDR-XB50AP earphones feature a premium, durable design with rugged wires that survive rough everyday use, such as being thrown loose into bags or placed in back pockets. Despite their bulky appearance, they fit comfortably and securely inside the ear for long listening sessions without causing pain, provided the user selects the correct ear tip size. In terms of...Read more

medium.com

08/01/2018

Sony MDR-XB50AP - by ameliaabha - Medium

The Sony MDR-XB50AP wired earbuds are characterized as a portable, stylish option featuring a rubberized cable, good noise isolation, and minimal sound leakage. They are designed for daily use with a focus on convenience, allowing for easy transport. Medium·ameliaabhaHowever, the review notes significant limitations, including a heavy bass emphasis that lacks balance across other...Read more

thephonograph.net

10/10/2016

Sony MDR-XB50AP - Review - ThePhonograph.net

The Sony MDR-XB50AP in-ear monitors feature a 12mm dynamic driver delivering exceptional, punchy, and deeply extending sub-bass capable of handling high power without distortion. With a solid, clean presentation, these earphones cater specifically to users seeking an intense, "basshead" sound signature. ThePhonograph.netHowever, the overwhelming bass tuning can overpower mids and...Read more

rtings.com

22/05/2018

Sony MDR-XB50AP Extra Bass Review - RTINGS.com

The Sony MDR-XB50AP Extra Bass are budget-friendly, wired in-ear headphones designed for casual, daily use with a portable, stable fit that is suitable for light workouts and commuting. Their tight design provides passive noise isolation and minimizes sound leakage, which are notable positive features. However, the, review highlights a heavily bass-dominated sound profile that lacks...Read more

sospc.name

03/09/2019

Sony MDR-XB50AP In-Ear Headphones Review

The review by Christophe on SOSPC highlights the Sony MDR-XB50APGo to product viewer dialog for this item. as an exceptional, budget-friendly wired in-ear headphone option priced around €30, offering a far better price-to-performance ratio than expensive wireless options. The author praises the excellent, well-balanced sound quality which features powerful, deep bass without...Read more

moovely.fr

28/06/2016

Sony MDR-XB50AP Headphones Review: A Pleasant Surprise

Here is a two-paragraph summary of the Sony MDR-XB50AP review: Review Summary The reviewer discovered the Sony MDR-XB50AP wired in-ear headphones at Fnac for €39.99 as a quick, budget-friendly replacement after his previous earphones broke. Despite the low price, the package is comprehensive, including four additional pairs of silicone tips (sizes SS to L), a cable tie, and a...Read more

leclaireur.fnac.com

16/11/2016

Sony MDR-XB50AP Lab Test: Wired earphones with excellent performance

The Labo Fnac review for the Sony MDR-XB50AP awards these wired, in-ear headphones a perfect 5 out of 5 stars, celebrating their excellent audio rendering and strong value. The expert lab testing gave the earphones a flawless 10 out of 10 score for distortion across multiple frequencies (80 Hz, 100 Hz, and 200 Hz), proving that the audio signal remains exceptionally clean and free...Read more

cuffie.pro

14/01/2021

Sony MDR-XB50AP: Review, Price, and Specifications

The Sony MDR-XB50AP is an affordable, entry-level-plus pair of wired, in-ear headphones priced around €25-30, designed primarily for enthusiasts of deep, powerful low frequencies. Structurally, it features 12mm neodymium drivers and a hybrid metallic-polycarbonated body that ensures excellent durability and stability during physical activities. The design is highly ergonomic,...Read more

cuffie.eu

01/02/2025

Frequency Response Analysis: Sony MDR-XB50AP Extra Bass

The analysis on cuffie.eu identifies headphones that fail to meet neutrality standards, highlighting severe deviations in audio performance and high distortion, specifically focusing on over-ear, wired, open-back, and closed-back models. While these units may possess niche design value or structural durability, they are consistently criticized for excessive bass distortion, muddy...Read more

Video reviews

Best alternatives

Sony WH 1000XM4

Headphones

JBL Tour One M3

Headphones

Sony WH 1000XM6

Headphones

Headphones

Headphones

Sony WH ULT900N

Headphones

Nothing Headphone 1

Headphones

Sony WH 1000XM5

Headphones

Headphones

Huawei Freebuds Studio

Headphones

Sennheiser Momentum

Headphones

JBL Tour One M2

Headphones

Compare Sony MDR XB50ap with

Compare