OVERALL

SPECS

VS AVERAGE

REVIEWS

ALTERNATIVES

Sony MDR ZX310b Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£20
Avg. price in US: ~$20
Form factor: on-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Sony MDR ZX310b review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

5.4

Good

4.4

Poor

9.3

Exceptional

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%
7.4
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
6.5
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
7.4
Weight
24.0%
10
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-ZX310B is a lightweight, closed-back on-ear headphone featuring 30mm neodymium dynamic drivers that deliver a balanced sound profile across a 10–24,000 Hz frequency range. Key specifications include an impedance of 24 ohms, a sensitivity of 98 dB/mW, and a 1.2m tangle-resistant Y-type cable ending in a gold-plated L-shaped stereo mini plug. Its primary advantages are its ultra-portable, swivel-folding design and a weight of just 125g, making it highly suitable for commuting and travel. However, notable drawbacks include a lack of headband padding, relatively thin earpads that may cause discomfort during long listening sessions, and a primarily plastic build that can feel fragile under heavy use.

Technical Specifications of Sony MDR ZX310b

Overall score

5.4

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

4.8

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

3.5

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

6.2

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

2.7

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

6.7

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

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

Show more

Sony MDR ZX310b vs the average headphone

Why is Sony MDR ZX310b better than the average headphone?

Show more

Hide

42.7% lower weight
Sony MDR ZX310b is lighter than the average headphone (125 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 ZX310b is lighter than the average headphone (125 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.125 g vs 218 g
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Sony MDR ZX310b 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 ZX310b 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 ZX310b 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 ZX310b 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
Foldable design
Sony MDR ZX310b 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 ZX310b has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
4.5x cheaper
Sony MDR ZX310b is cheaper than the average headphone (£20 vs £90).
Sony MDR ZX310b is cheaper than the average headphone (£20 vs £90).£20 vs £90
4,000 Hz higher treble extension
Sony MDR ZX310b 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 ZX310b 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
Water resistance
Sony MDR ZX310b is water resistant, the average headphone 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: MEDIUM
Sony MDR ZX310b is water resistant, the average headphone is not. 20.2% of headphones are water resistant.
Boom microphone included
Sony MDR ZX310b includes a boom microphone, the average headphone does not. 15.6% of headphones have a 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
Sony MDR ZX310b includes a boom microphone, the average headphone does not. 15.6% of headphones have a boom microphone.
42.7% lower weight
Sony MDR ZX310b is lighter than the average headphone (125 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
Foldable design
Sony MDR ZX310b has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
Water resistance
Sony MDR ZX310b is water resistant, the average headphone is not. 20.2% of headphones are water resistant.
8 Hz lower bass extension
Sony MDR ZX310b 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 ZX310b 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 ZX310b 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.
18 dB higher max SPL
Sony MDR ZX310b has a higher max SPL than the average headphone (128 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Sony MDR ZX310b includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
Boom microphone included
Sony MDR ZX310b includes a boom microphone, the average headphone does not. 15.6% of headphones have a boom microphone.

Calls & Controls

Why is Sony MDR ZX310b worse than the average headphone?

Show more

Hide

Fixed cable
Sony MDR ZX310b has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
2.4 higher clamp force
Sony MDR ZX310b has a higher clamp force than the average headphone (6.7 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.
13 mm tighter earcup width
Sony MDR ZX310b has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (30 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.
No travel bag
Sony MDR ZX310b 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 ZX310b has smaller driver size than the average headphone (30 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
4 dB/mW lower sensitivity
Sony MDR ZX310b has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (98 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
5 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
Sony MDR ZX310b has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (98 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
No voice assistant support
Sony MDR ZX310b does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
10 mm smaller driver size
Sony MDR ZX310b 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 ZX310b 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
No voice assistant support
Sony MDR ZX310b 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 ZX310b does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
Fixed cable
Sony MDR ZX310b 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 ZX310b has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
2.4 higher clamp force
Sony MDR ZX310b has a higher clamp force than the average headphone (6.7 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.
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
Sony MDR ZX310b has a higher clamp force than the average headphone (6.7 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.6.7 vs 4.3
4 dB/mW lower sensitivity
Sony MDR ZX310b has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (98 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 ZX310b has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (98 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.98 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
13 mm tighter earcup width
Sony MDR ZX310b has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (30 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 ZX310b has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (30 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.30 mm vs 43 mm
No travel bag
Sony MDR ZX310b 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 ZX310b does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
5 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
Sony MDR ZX310b has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (98 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
What it is: Output loudness level of the headphones, usually measured in dB. It helps compare how loud a model can play under similar conditions.
When it matters: When you need a rough idea of how loud the headphones can get before you pair them with a weaker source.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=108 dB SPL
Sony MDR ZX310b has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (98 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.98 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL

Graphic comparison of Sony MDR ZX310b 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 ZX310b?

Excellent value for the price, often cited as a top budget-friendly choice
Highly portable with a compact, foldable swivel design ideal for commuting and travel
Extremely lightweight (4.4 ounces), providing comfort during extended use without a heavy clamping force
Tangle-free serrated flat cable that is durable and convenient for on-the-go use
Clear and balanced audio profile suitable for casual listening across various genres
Universal compatibility with any device featuring a standard 3.5mm audio jack

What customers dislike about Sony MDR ZX310b?

Bass lacks depth and can sound muddy or poorly controlled to audiophiles
Build quality feels somewhat cheap and fragile due to the predominantly plastic construction
On-ear design may cause ear fatigue or discomfort after several hours of wear
Poor noise isolation as the ear cups do not always create a tight seal, allowing ambient noise to leak in
High-end frequencies (treble) can be muted or lack detail in complex tracks
The 1.2-meter cable is non-removable, meaning the whole unit is unusable if the cord breaks

Expert reviews

head-fi.org

19/12/2020

Sony MDR-ZX310 / MDR-ZX310AP - Reviews - Head-Fi

The Sony MDR-ZX310/ZX310AP are reviewed as a 3.5-star, ultra-budget ($20) option featuring a "squished V" sound signature, providing clear audio, modest bass, and slightly elevated highs. Designed for mobile use, pros include a practical 1.2-meter knurled cable that reduces microphonic noise. Conversely, the headphones suffer from structural cons, specifically fragile plastic bridge...Read more

trustedreviews.com

01/09/2014

Sony MDR-ZX310 Review

The Trusted Reviews evaluation of the Sony MDR-ZX310 highlights these budget-friendly, on-ear headphones as a highly portable and visually appealing option for price-conscious listeners. Pros include an extremely lightweight, fully folding design for travel, a stylish finish, and a functional one-button remote with a microphone for both iOS and Android devices. However, the review...Read more

computerbild.de

09/11/2014

Headphone Review: Sony MDR-ZX310 - COMPUTER BILD

The Sony MDR-ZX310 is a highly budget-friendly and lightweight (135 grams) on-ear headphone option designed primarily for daily, on-the-go use. It earned a "befriedigend" (satisfactory) test score of 2.8 from Computer Bild, heavily praised for its exceptionally low price under €30 and its comfortable fit during long trips. Additional advantages include a highly practical,...Read more

forum.lesnumeriques.com

24/06/2014

[Official Thread] Audio Headphones Review: Sony MDR-ZX310 Les Numériques +5

The Les Numériques review characterizes the Sony MDR-ZX310 as a basic yet cleverly designed supra-aural (on-ear) headphone that serves as an evolution to the highly popular MDR-ZX300. On the ergonomic side, the review highlights several pros, including its remarkably lightweight build weighing only 109 grams, an adjustable design that sits comfortably without clamping the ears too...Read more

leclaireur.fnac.com

16/11/2016

Sony MDR-ZX310 Review: An unimpressive pair of wired headphones

The Fnac Lab review gives the Sony MDR-ZX310Go to product viewer dialog for this item. wired headphones a mediocre 3 out of 5 stars, calling them "unconvincing". The expert test reveals a massive mix of high and low technical scores. On the positive side, the headphones scored a high 9 out of 10 for sound leakage (perturbation), meaning they will not disturb people sitting next to...Read more

lesnumeriques.com

24/06/2014

Sony MDR-ZX310 Review: A Small Headphone with a Warm Sound", "Sony MDR-ZX310 Test: Compact Headphones with Warm Sound

The Les Numériques review awards the entry-level, wired Sony MDR-ZX310 a 3 out of 5-star rating, characterizing it as a lightweight option with punchy but limited performance. On the positive side, the review highlights its very low price point (often under €30), decent comfort, clean and well-assembled plastic build, and a warm, smooth, and overall pleasant sound profile....Read more

robadainformatici.it

09/02/2023

Sony MDR-ZX310 - Full review

Sony MDR-ZX310 Review Summary The Sony MDR-ZX310 is an entry-level pair of wired, on-ear headphones designed for budget-conscious users who want reliable daily or backup audio without dealing with battery life or wireless latency. Weighing just 125 grams, these headphones feature a compact, foldable design that makes them highly portable, alongside padded synthetic leather earcups...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 ZX310b with

Compare