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Sony MDR ZX300IP Review | 93 Data compared

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

Sony MDR ZX300IP review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

5.2

Good

4.8

Poor

6.8

Good

2.1
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
0.0
Audio latency
25.0%
0.0
Low-latency game mode
20.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
12.0%
1.0
Noise-canceling microphone
8.0%
0.0
Battery life
1.6
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
0.0
Battery life
18.0%
7.6
Weight
16.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
0.0
Ambient sound mode
2.7
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Noise-canceling microphone
24.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
18.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
14.0%
0.0
Companion app
4.4
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
7.6
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

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Best rankings

Verdict

The Sony MDR-ZX300iP is a lightweight, on-ear wired headset featuring 30mm neodymium drivers that deliver a frequency response of 10Hz to 24,000Hz and a sensitivity of 102dB/mW. Designed for portability, these 120g headphones include swivel, folding earcups with pressure-relieving urethane cushions and a 1.2m tangle-proof Y-type serrated cord. A primary characteristic is its in-line remote and omni-directional electret condenser microphone, specifically designed for seamless iPhone, iPod, and iPad control, allowing users to manage volume, tracks, and calls. Its main pros include high-quality audio components for powerful bass, a low 24-ohm impedance for easy driving by mobile devices, and a comfortable, compact build ideal for travel. However, cons include a non-detachable cable and a primarily plastic chassis that some users find feels less durable compared to premium models.

Technical Specifications of Sony MDR ZX300IP

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

4.5

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Noise-canceling microphone

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

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

Importance: MEDIUM

Can be used as a headset

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

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

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of microphones

What it is: Total number of built-in microphones

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

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

Boom microphone

What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity

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

Importance: LOW

Microphone SNR

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

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

Importance: LOW

Good value: >80 dB

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Connectivity

6.2

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Connectivity

What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)

When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

Importance: HIGH

Bluetooth version

What it is: Version of Bluetooth technology supported

When it matters: When wireless stability, efficiency, and feature support matter more than treating Bluetooth as a box-check spec.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5.0

N/A

Maximum Bluetooth range

What it is: Maximum wireless operating distance from source device

When it matters: When you move around rooms and want fewer dropouts from your source device.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

N/A

Audio latency

What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode

When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <60 ms

N/A

Multipoint support

What it is: Supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices

When it matters: When you switch often between a phone and a laptop during the day.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

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Features

4.1

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Ambient sound mode

What it is: Allows external sounds to pass through for awareness

When it matters: When you need to stay aware of traffic, voices, or announcements.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

EQ support

What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer

When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

Importance: MEDIUM

Companion app

What it is: Dedicated mobile app for customization and updates

When it matters: When software customization, updates, and extra controls matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Adjustable ANC levels

What it is: Allows adjustment of noise cancellation intensity levels

When it matters: When you move between quiet rooms, offices, streets, and public transport and do not want one ANC setting for every situation.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=4

N/A

Voice assistant support

What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant

When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

Importance: LOW

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Battery

1.0

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Battery life

What it is: Playback time on a single charge

When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >45 hours

N/A

Battery life with ANC

What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled

When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >40 hours

N/A

Charging time

What it is: Time required for a full battery charge

When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=2 hours

N/A

Quick charge

What it is: Provides quick playback time with short charging period

When it matters: When a short top-up needs to deliver useful playback before you leave.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Battery capacity

What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery

When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=720 mAh

N/A

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Design

7.1

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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 ZX300IP vs the average headphone

Why is Sony MDR ZX300IP better than the average headphone?

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45% lower weight
Sony MDR ZX300IP is lighter than the average headphone (120 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 ZX300IP is lighter than the average headphone (120 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.120 g vs 218 g
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Sony MDR ZX300IP 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 ZX300IP includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
8 Hz lower bass extension
Sony MDR ZX300IP has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (10 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 ZX300IP has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (10 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.10 Hz vs 18 Hz
In-line controls
Sony MDR ZX300IP 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 ZX300IP includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
Foldable design
Sony MDR ZX300IP 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 ZX300IP has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
4,000 Hz higher treble extension
Sony MDR ZX300IP 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 ZX300IP 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
3.6x cheaper
Sony MDR ZX300IP is cheaper than the average headphone (£25 vs £90).
Sony MDR ZX300IP is cheaper than the average headphone (£25 vs £90).£25 vs £90
10x higher input power handling
Sony MDR ZX300IP has a higher max input power than the average headphone (1,000 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 ZX300IP has a higher max input power than the average headphone (1,000 mW vs 100 mW). The average headphones handle max input power of 100 mW.1000 mW vs 100 mW
45% lower weight
Sony MDR ZX300IP is lighter than the average headphone (120 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
Foldable design
Sony MDR ZX300IP has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
8 Hz lower bass extension
Sony MDR ZX300IP has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (10 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
4,000 Hz higher treble extension
Sony MDR ZX300IP 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.
10x higher input power handling
Sony MDR ZX300IP has a higher max input power than the average headphone (1,000 mW vs 100 mW). The average headphones handle max input power of 100 mW.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Sony MDR ZX300IP 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 ZX300IP includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.

Calls & Controls

Why is Sony MDR ZX300IP worse than the average headphone?

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Fixed cable
Sony MDR ZX300IP has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
15 mm tighter earcup width
Sony MDR ZX300IP has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (28 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.
No travel bag
Sony MDR ZX300IP does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
10 mm smaller driver size
Sony MDR ZX300IP has smaller driver size than the average headphone (30 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
8 dB lower max SPL
Sony MDR ZX300IP has a lower max SPL than the average headphone (102 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
6 years older release date
Sony MDR ZX300IP was released earlier than the average headphone (2,011 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
10 mm smaller driver size
Sony MDR ZX300IP has smaller driver size than the average headphone (30 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 ZX300IP has smaller driver size than the average headphone (30 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.30 mm vs 40 mm
Fixed cable
Sony MDR ZX300IP 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 ZX300IP has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
15 mm tighter earcup width
Sony MDR ZX300IP has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (28 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 MDR ZX300IP has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (28 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.28 mm vs 43 mm
No travel bag
Sony MDR ZX300IP does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
What it is: Comes with a protective carrying case or pouch
When it matters: When protection in transit matters right out of the box.
Importance: LOW
Sony MDR ZX300IP does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
17.1% lower user score
Sony MDR ZX300IP has a lower user score than the average headphone (6.83 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 MDR ZX300IP has a lower user score than the average headphone (6.83 vs 8.000).6.83 vs 8
6 years older release date
Sony MDR ZX300IP was released earlier than the average headphone (2,011 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
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 ZX300IP was released earlier than the average headphone (2,011 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.2011 vs 2017
8 dB lower max SPL
Sony MDR ZX300IP has a lower max SPL than the average headphone (102 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
What it is: Maximum safe sound pressure level
When it matters: When high-volume headroom is part of your use case.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=116 dB
Sony MDR ZX300IP has a lower max SPL than the average headphone (102 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.102 dB vs 110 dB

Graphic comparison of Sony MDR ZX300IP and

Attribute category

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about Sony MDR ZX300IP?

Excellent value for the price, often cited as a high-quality budget option
Lightweight and portable design, making them easy to carry for commuting
Surprisingly clear audio quality with deep bass and clear mid-range for its category
Tangle-resistant, thick Y-type serrated cord that is durable for daily use
In-line remote and microphone providing convenient control for Apple devices (iPod/iPhone/iPad)
Foldable earcups allow for more compact storage in bags or cases

What customers dislike about Sony MDR ZX300IP?

Lack of headband padding can cause discomfort during long listening sessions
Thin earpad material tends to flatten quickly and may begin flaking or peeling over time
Small earcup size can lead to ear fatigue or discomfort after several hours of wear
The all-plastic construction can feel cheap and may produce creaking sounds during movement
Limited noise isolation due to the on-ear design, allowing ambient sound to leak in and music to leak out

Expert reviews

headphoneslab.com

01/04/2020

Sony MDR-ZX300 Stereo Headphones Review

The Sony MDR-ZX300 stereo headphones are highlighted as an upgraded, premium version of the older MDR-ZX100 model, offering exceptional value and a stylish design for a budget price. Built primarily from lightweight plastic to ensure portability, they feature eye-catching metallic finishes on the earcups alongside a thick, highly tangle-resistant cable. Performance-wise, these...Read more

hifitest.de

01/07/2026

Sony MDR-ZX300 - Hi-Fi headphones technical specifications", "Sony MDR-ZX300 - Hi-Fi headphones specs

The hifitest.de product profile outlines the technical configuration and structural parameters of the Sony MDR-ZX300 dynamic, on-ear headphones. The specifications showcase a lightweight audio solution built for mobility, utilizing 30mm dome-type drivers with PET diaphragms and neodymium magnets to deliver a wide frequency response range of 10 Hz to 24,000 Hz. Designed as a highly...Read more

01net.com

28/02/2012

Sony ZX300 review: A budget-friendly pair of headphones that delivers

The Sony MDR-ZX300 is an entry-level, on-ear (supra-aural) headphone that balances a budget-friendly price point of around €30 to €35 with a highly respectable build quality. Weighing just 120 grams, its matte plastic chassis features earcups that are height-adjustable, pivoting, and tilting to adapt comfortably to the user's head. On the downside, the review highlights that the...Read more

clubic.com

23/09/2011

Sony MDR-ZX300 Review: The Budget Option

The Sony MDR-ZX300 is a budget-friendly, supra-aural (on-ear) headphone designed as an entry-level option by the Japanese manufacturer, retailing for around €30. Weighing only 120 grams, the headphones feature a comfortable and balanced fit with earcups that can pivot 90 degrees forward and tilt for a stable grip. Despite using basic, unpadded hard plastic for the headband, the...Read more

01net.com

28/02/2012

Sony MDR-ZX300 Technical Specifications (iPhone Compatible ZX Series)

The 01net review details the Sony MDR-ZX300 as a highly acceptable, budget-friendly pair of wired, on-ear headphones. Priced around 30 euros, the review commends the entry-level headphones for delivering a robust build and a recognizable audio signature typically reserved for Sony's more expensive models. Standout technical pros highlighted in the specification breakdown include its...Read more

lesnumeriques.com

18/08/2011

Sony MDR-ZX300 Review (iP variant included in the review)

The Sony MDR-ZX300 is a budget-friendly, entry-level headphone designed as a lightweight and compact option for casual or secondary use. Weighing just 120 grams, it features a comfortable, low-pressure fit and an aesthetically pleasing, discreet design available in various color combinations. Despite its very affordable price tag under €30, the build quality is correct and reliable,...Read more

lesnumeriques.com

22/03/2011

Sony MDR-ZX300: Best Price - Les Numériques

The Sony MDR-ZX300 is a lightweight, on-ear (supra-aural) headphone weighing 120 grams that functions without active noise cancellation or a hands-free kit. Evaluated by Les Numériques, the headphone received a 3 out of 5 editor rating. It is praised for its highly affordable price point, light build, comfortable initial fit, and subtle yet polished aesthetic design. The audio...Read more

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