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Sony MDR XB510as Review | 93 Data compared

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

Sony MDR XB510as review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how this product ranks in the Headphones category and whether it is worth buying.

6.2

Good

5.6

Good

8.4

Excellent

6.9
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
?
Audio latency
25.0%
4.0
Low-latency game mode
20.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
12.0%
4.0
Noise-canceling microphone
8.0%
?
Battery life
5.7
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
4.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
?
Battery life
18.0%
?
Weight
16.0%
4.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
4.0
Ambient sound mode
6.1
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
4.0
Noise-canceling microphone
24.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
18.0%
4.0
Multipoint support
16.0%
?
Battery life
14.0%
4.0
Companion app
8.7
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
?
Weight
24.0%
10
Water resistance
20.0%
?
IP rating
16.0%
?
Battery life
12.0%
10
Can be used as a headset

Best prices in UK

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Verdict

The Sony MDR-XB510AS is a wired in-ear sports headphone featuring 12mm dome-type dynamic drivers designed with 'Extra Bass' technology for enhanced low-end performance. Key specifications include a wide frequency response of 4Hz to 24,000Hz, a sensitivity of 106dB/mW, and a 56-ohm impedance, all powered by high-energy neodymium magnets. Built for durability, it boasts an IPX5/7 waterproof rating, allowing it to be washed after workouts or used in heavy rain. Main pros include a secure fit provided by interchangeable arc supporters and hybrid silicone earbuds, along with a tangle-free serrated 1.2m Litz wire cable and an in-line microphone for hands-free calling. However, common cons involve a bulky design that sticks out significantly from the ears, which some users find heavy or uncomfortable for extended use, and the lack of in-line volume controls.

Technical Specifications of pair of headphones Sony MDR XB510as

Overall score

6.2

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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

6.0

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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: HIGH

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: HIGH

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

6.7

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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: LOW

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: LOW

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

4.6

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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: LOW

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: LOW

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: MEDIUM

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: LOW

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Features

4.4

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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: HIGH

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

4.0

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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: LOW

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: LOW

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: LOW

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: LOW

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: LOW

Good value: >=720 mAh

N/A

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Design

7.2

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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: LOW

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: LOW

in-ear

Weight

What it is: Total weight of the headphones

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

Importance: HIGH

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: LOW

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: LOW

N/A

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Sony MDR XB510as vs the average pair of headphones

Why is Sony MDR XB510as better than the average pair of headphones?

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95.9% lower weight
Sony MDR XB510as is lighter than the average pair of headphones (9 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: HIGH
Good value: <150 g
Sony MDR XB510as is lighter than the average pair of headphones (9 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.9 g vs 218 g
14 Hz lower bass extension
Sony MDR XB510as has a lower lowest frequency than the average pair of headphones (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 XB510as has a lower lowest frequency than the average pair of headphones (4 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.4 Hz vs 18 Hz
9 dB/mW higher sensitivity
Sony MDR XB510as has a higher sensitivity than the average pair of headphones (111 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 XB510as has a higher sensitivity than the average pair of headphones (111 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.111 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Sony MDR XB510as includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average pair of headphones does not. 39.8% 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: LOW
Sony MDR XB510as includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average pair of headphones does not. 39.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
In-line controls
Sony MDR XB510as includes in-line controls, the average pair of headphones does not. 36.6% 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 XB510as includes in-line controls, the average pair of headphones does not. 36.6% of headphones support in-line controls.
Wind noise reduction
Sony MDR XB510as reduces wind noise, the average pair of headphones does not. 34.3% 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
Sony MDR XB510as reduces wind noise, the average pair of headphones does not. 34.3% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
4,000 Hz higher treble extension
Sony MDR XB510as has a higher highest frequency than the average pair of headphones (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: LOW
Good value: >=24000 Hz
Sony MDR XB510as has a higher highest frequency than the average pair of headphones (24,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.24000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
Water resistance
Sony MDR XB510as is water resistant, the average pair of headphones is not. 20.2% of headphones are water resistant.
What it is: Protection level against water exposure
When it matters: When workouts, commuting, or outdoor use expose the headphones to moisture.
Importance: LOW
Sony MDR XB510as is water resistant, the average pair of headphones is not. 20.2% of headphones are water resistant.
95.9% lower weight
Sony MDR XB510as is lighter than the average pair of headphones (9 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
Water resistance
Sony MDR XB510as is water resistant, the average pair of headphones is not. 20.2% of headphones are water resistant.
Better IP rating
Sony MDR XB510as has a better IP rating than the average pair of headphones (IPX5 vs none). The average headphones have an IP rating of none.
14 Hz lower bass extension
Sony MDR XB510as has a lower lowest frequency than the average pair of headphones (4 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
9 dB/mW higher sensitivity
Sony MDR XB510as has a higher sensitivity than the average pair of headphones (111 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
4,000 Hz higher treble extension
Sony MDR XB510as has a higher highest frequency than the average pair of headphones (24,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Sony MDR XB510as includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average pair of headphones does not. 39.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
In-line controls
Sony MDR XB510as includes in-line controls, the average pair of headphones does not. 36.6% of headphones support in-line controls.
Wind noise reduction
Sony MDR XB510as reduces wind noise, the average pair of headphones does not. 34.3% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
Boom microphone included
Sony MDR XB510as includes a boom microphone, the average pair of headphones does not. 13.5% of headphones have a boom microphone.

Calls & Controls

Why is Sony MDR XB510as worse than the average pair of headphones?

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Non-replaceable earpads
Sony MDR XB510as has non-replaceable earpads, while the average pair of headphones has replaceable ones. 75.6% of headphones have replaceable earpads.
Fixed cable
Sony MDR XB510as has a fixed cable, while the average pair of headphones has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
28 mm smaller driver size
Sony MDR XB510as has smaller driver size than the average pair of headphones (12 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
No battery indicator
Sony MDR XB510as does not show battery level clearly, while the average pair of headphones does. 56.3% of headphones have a battery level indicator.
28 mm smaller driver size
Sony MDR XB510as has smaller driver size than the average pair of headphones (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: HIGH
Sony MDR XB510as has smaller driver size than the average pair of headphones (12 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.12 mm vs 40 mm
Non-replaceable earpads
Sony MDR XB510as has non-replaceable earpads, while the average pair of headphones has replaceable ones. 75.6% of headphones have replaceable earpads.
What it is: Earpads can be replaced when worn out
When it matters: When you care about long-term maintenance and extending product life.
Importance: LOW
Sony MDR XB510as has non-replaceable earpads, while the average pair of headphones has replaceable ones. 75.6% of headphones have replaceable earpads.
Fixed cable
Sony MDR XB510as has a fixed cable, while the average pair of headphones 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: LOW
Sony MDR XB510as has a fixed cable, while the average pair of headphones has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
No battery indicator
Sony MDR XB510as does not show battery level clearly, while the average pair of headphones does. 56.3% 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 XB510as does not show battery level clearly, while the average pair of headphones does. 56.3% of headphones have a battery level indicator.

Graphic comparison of Sony MDR XB510as and other products in the Headphones category

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about Sony MDR XB510as?

Deep, powerful bass suitable for EDM and bass-heavy music
Secure fit during sports and running thanks to arc supporters/ear fins
IPX5/7 rating makes them waterproof, sweatproof, and washable
Durable build quality with a tangle-resistant flat serrated cable
Good overall value for the price point
Includes a variety of ear tip and wing sizes for customization
Passive noise isolation effectively blocks out gym or commuting noise

What customers dislike about Sony MDR XB510as?

Bulky design that sticks out significantly from the ears
Can become uncomfortable or cause ear pain after long periods of wear
Average high and mid-range frequencies compared to audiophile models
Wired-only design can be restrictive for some users
Microphone and one-button remote may stop working over time according to some users
The large size makes them unsuitable for use under helmets or while sleeping
Cable microphonics (static noise) can occur if the wire brushes against clothing while running

Expert reviews

expertreviews.co.uk

28/11/2023

Summary of the review

The best Sony headphones to buy | Expert Reviews (Section 9: Sony MDR-XB510AS) Are you looking for these specifically for their waterproof features or...

The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones stand as the top over-ear noise-cancelling option on the market, praised for delivering exceptional sound quality and utilizing the smartest active noise cancellation available. They incorporate upgraded drivers that extract rich details from audio files, while boasting a streamlined design that successfully reduces wind interference. Comfort is another major highlight, featuring soft earcups lined with vegan leather alongside a touch-sensitive control panel for effortless navigation. However, a significant drawback is their premium price tag, which makes them less accessible for average buyers. Additionally, unlike their WH-1000XM4 predecessors, the XM5 design does not fold, reducing their overall portability and convenience for travel. For users seeking in-ear alternatives, the Sony WF-1000XM5 wireless earbuds offer a highly refined, ergonomic, and aesthetic design that is noticeably smaller and lighter than previous iterations. They feature upgraded drivers that enhance low-end bass reproduction, stellar battery life, and an unmatched Adaptive Sound Control system that automatically adjusts settings based on your environment. On the downside, these earbuds offer only incremental upgrades over the older WF-1000XM4 model rather than a massive technological leap. Furthermore,...

musicphotolife.com

23/05/2017

Summary of the review

Sony MDR-XB510AS Review: Washable Sports Earphones

The Sony MDR-XB510AS is a pair of wired sports earphones retailing in Singapore for S$69, designed specifically for active users seeking durability and reliable battery life. The audio profile features a deep, firm, and boomy bass that remains well-contained without completely overwhelming the soundstage. While the midrange is pronounced enough to add warmth to your music, the treble is tuned to be comfortably clear for everyday consumers rather than audiophile-level bright. Physically, the earbuds have a relatively long design that noticeably sticks out of the ears. However, they remain highly secure during intensive workouts due to Sony’s "arc supporters" (ear fins).

fr.fnac.be

04/05/2020

Summary of the review

Sony MDR-XB510AS - headphones with microphone

The Sony MDR-XB510AS wired in-ear headphonesGo to product viewer dialog for this item. are designed for intensive workouts, featuring a robust IPX5/7 water-resistance rating that allows them to be washed after use. They offer deep audio via 12mm drivers with Extra Bass technology, a tangle-free cable, and secure fit stabilizers. YouTube· Key constraints include a 3.5mm wired connection rather than Bluetooth and the lack of active noise cancellation. While the fit is secure, some users may experience ear fatigue from the stabilizers during prolonged wear.

palabraderunner.com

06/11/2017

Summary of the review

Sony MDR-XB510AS: Review and opinion of these sports headphones

The Palabra de Runner review gives a highly positive 4.5 out of 5 rating to the Sony MDR-XB510AS wired sports earbuds, highlighting them as an excellent, budget-friendly option under 50 euros for athletes who still prefer a wired setup. The core pros emphasize their infinite battery life because they connect via a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack, eliminating the need for recharging. At just 9 grams, they are incredibly lightweight. Their standout feature is an IPX5/7 waterproof rating, making them fully sweatproof, weatherproof, and capable of being directly rinsed under a tap after a workout. Additionally, they include a reliable multi-size rubber arc support system that hooks into the inner ear fold to prevent them from falling out during aggressive movement, a 1.2-meter tangle-resistant cord with a clothing clip, and a built-in microphone for hands-free calling. On the flip side, the review points out several notable cons regarding their aesthetic and acoustic design. Visually, the earbuds have a bulky construction and protrude significantly out of the ears compared to standard modern earbuds. While the physical fit is secure, the review notes...

sony.es

08/02/2017

Summary of the review

MDR-XB510AS In-Ear Headphones Opinions and Reviews

The Sony MDR-XB510AS wired in-ear headphones are designed for active use, featuring an IPX5/7 rating for washability, secure arc supports, and 12mm drivers delivering powerful EXTRA BASS™ for workouts. However, the bulky housing can cause discomfort during extended wear, and the sound profile prioritizes low-end frequencies over clear mids and highs. and Sony waterproof Sports Earphones. YouTube

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