OVERALL

SPECS

VS AVERAGE

REVIEWS

ALTERNATIVES

Sony MDR ZX660AP Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£60
Avg. price in US: ~$50
Form factor: on-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Sony MDR ZX660AP review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

5.7

Good

4.9

Poor

9.0

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
1.3
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
0.0
Battery life
18.0%
5.8
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
3.9
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
5.8
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-ZX660AP is a lightweight, on-ear wired headset featuring 40mm neodymium driver units with a broad frequency response of 5Hz to 25,000Hz and a sensitivity of 104dB/mW. It is characterized by its Beat Response Control technology for tight bass, a 1.2m tangle-free flat cable with a 4-wire L/R separated ground to reduce crosstalk, and a smartphone-compatible in-line remote and microphone. Main pros include its durable stainless steel slider headband, highly efficient sound output, and versatile compatibility with mobile devices and gaming consoles. However, notable cons include a lack of dedicated on-cord volume controls and a bass-heavy profile that can sometimes subdue midrange clarity.

Technical Specifications of Sony MDR ZX660AP

Overall score

5.7

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

5.2

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

4.9

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

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

5.6

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 ZX660AP vs the average headphone

Why is Sony MDR ZX660AP better than the average headphone?

Show more

Hide

13 Hz lower bass extension
Sony MDR ZX660AP has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (5 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 ZX660AP has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (5 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.5 Hz vs 18 Hz
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Sony MDR ZX660AP 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 ZX660AP 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 ZX660AP 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 ZX660AP includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
Sidetone support
Sony MDR ZX660AP supports sidetone, the average headphone does not. 29.7% of headphones support sidetone.
What it is: Lets users hear their own voice during calls
When it matters: When long calls matter and you do not want to sound unnaturally loud in your own ears while speaking.
Importance: LOW
Sony MDR ZX660AP supports sidetone, the average headphone does not. 29.7% of headphones support sidetone.
5,000 Hz higher treble extension
Sony MDR ZX660AP has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (25,000 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 ZX660AP has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (25,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.25000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
10x higher input power handling
Sony MDR ZX660AP 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 ZX660AP 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
24 dB higher max SPL
Sony MDR ZX660AP has a higher max SPL than the average headphone (134 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 ZX660AP has a higher max SPL than the average headphone (134 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.134 dB vs 110 dB
11.5% lower weight
Sony MDR ZX660AP is lighter than the average headphone (193 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 ZX660AP is lighter than the average headphone (193 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.193 g vs 218 g
11.5% lower weight
Sony MDR ZX660AP is lighter than the average headphone (193 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
13 Hz lower bass extension
Sony MDR ZX660AP has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (5 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
5,000 Hz higher treble extension
Sony MDR ZX660AP has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (25,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
24 dB higher max SPL
Sony MDR ZX660AP has a higher max SPL than the average headphone (134 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
10x higher input power handling
Sony MDR ZX660AP 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.
2 dB/mW higher sensitivity
Sony MDR ZX660AP has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (104 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Sony MDR ZX660AP 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 ZX660AP includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
Sidetone support
Sony MDR ZX660AP supports sidetone, the average headphone does not. 29.7% of headphones support sidetone.

Calls & Controls

Why is Sony MDR ZX660AP worse than the average headphone?

Show more

Hide

Fixed cable
Sony MDR ZX660AP has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
30 mm tighter earcup height
Sony MDR ZX660AP has tighter earcup height than the average headphone (30 mm vs 60 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup height of 60 mm.
15 mm tighter earcup width
Sony MDR ZX660AP 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 ZX660AP does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
Fixed cable
Sony MDR ZX660AP 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 ZX660AP has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
30 mm tighter earcup height
Sony MDR ZX660AP has tighter earcup height than the average headphone (30 mm vs 60 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup height of 60 mm.
What it is: Internal height of the earcup cavity
When it matters: When larger ears need enough space inside the earcups.
Importance: MEDIUM
Sony MDR ZX660AP has tighter earcup height than the average headphone (30 mm vs 60 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup height of 60 mm.30 mm vs 60 mm
15 mm tighter earcup width
Sony MDR ZX660AP 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 ZX660AP 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 ZX660AP 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 ZX660AP does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.

Graphic comparison of Sony MDR ZX660AP 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 ZX660AP?

Deep and punchy bass response that doesn't easily distort at high volumes
Lightweight and portable design with swiveling earcups for easier storage
Durable build featuring a rigid metal headband for increased stability
Flat, serrated cable that effectively resists tangling during daily use
Excellent value for money, often described as 'punching above its weight'
Highly efficient 40mm drivers that provide loud, clear audio even from mobile devices
Clear in-line microphone performance for phone calls and online gaming

What customers dislike about Sony MDR ZX660AP?

Lacks integrated volume controls on the in-line remote
Weak headband grip can cause the headphones to slide during active movement
Pronounced bass can sometimes override the midrange, leading to a loss of detail
On-ear design may become uncomfortable or cause ear fatigue during long sessions
Minimal passive noise isolation in very loud environments like busy streets
The leatherette material on the headband can peel or lose color over time

Expert reviews

whathifi.com

09/11/2015

Sony MDR-ZX660AP review - What Hi-Fi?

The Sony MDR-ZX660AP is a budget-friendly pair of on-ear headphones that stands out for its exceptionally rugged, attractive build quality and affordable £50 price tag. The design smartly fuses matte plastic and 'pleather', offering a premium look available in finishes like champagne, white, charcoal, or black with vibrant colored trims. Key pros highlighted in the review include...Read more

chip.de

08/12/2016

Sony MDR-ZX660AP Review - CHIP

The Sony MDR-ZX660AP is an entry-level on-ear headphone that delivers a strong overall performance, standing out primarily for its high comfort levels and good sound quality. In testing, the headphones provided a highly satisfactory price-to-performance ratio, making them a solid budget-friendly option. On the audio front, the sound is praised for its detailed presentation and...Read more

chip.de

02/12/2016

A Blast for Your Ears: The Best Headphones on Test", "Turn It Up: The Best Headphones in Review", "A Treat for Your Ears: The Best Headphones Tested

The CHIP video review evaluates three prominent headphone models to determine the top contenders for buyers. The premium Sony MDR-100AAP stands out for demanding listeners, offering an exceptionally balanced sound profile with clean high frequencies that justify its higher price tag exceeding 100 euros. Its primary pros include superb, balanced audio quality and a highly comfortable...Read more

on-mag.fr

Unknown

Sony MDR-ZX660AP - ON-mag: Front Page", "Sony MDR-ZX660AP - ON-mag: Headline

The Sony MDR-ZX660AP is presented as the latest evolution of a best-selling line of compact, portable on-ear headphones from Sony, officially priced at €60. Weighing 193 grams, this lightweight, wired supra-auricular model is specifically upgraded for modern smartphone users by incorporating an integrated microphone and remote into its tangle-free flat cable to handle voice calls....Read more

test-achats.be

Unknown

Sony MDR-ZX660AP Review - Testachats", "Sony MDR-ZX660AP Test - Testachats

The Sony MDR-ZX660AP is a wired, on-ear (supra-auricular) headphone that weighs 206 grams and features a 124 cm cable. In laboratory testing, it achieved a moderate overall quality score of 58 out of 100, positioning it as a budget-friendly option that delivers sufficient quality for its last-known market price of €43.95. However, this model is no longer available on the market, and...Read more

on-mag.fr

25/03/2016

Sony MDR-ZX660 Review: It Can Now Make Calls and Remains One of the Best Budget Headphones

The Sony MDR-ZX660AP is an updated, budget-friendly portable headphone priced officially at 60 € that improves upon its predecessor, the MDR-ZX600. A key functional upgrade is its flat cable, which now features an in-line one-button remote and microphone, making it a highly versatile choice for taking smartphone calls. In terms of design and build, the headphones offer enhanced...Read more

leclaireur.fnac.com

24/06/2015

Sony MDR-ZX660AP Review: A Headset That Is a Bit Too Light", "Sony MDR-ZX660AP Review: Headphones That Feel Just a Little Too Light

The Labo Fnac review rates the Sony MDR-ZX660AP on-ear wired headphones a disappointing 2 out of 5 stars, defining them as a very basic accessory suited only for casual, backup smartphone use rather than dedicated high-resolution listening. The testers praised the physical design, highlighting its lightweight frame weighing just 205.6 grams and a comfortable clamping force of 423...Read more

01net.com

12/06/2015

Sony MDR-ZX660AP Review: This €70 headset really blew us away

The Sony MDR-ZX660AP is a budget-friendly, on-ear wired headset praised for delivering impressive value. The reviewer notes that finding a great pair of headphones under €100 is typically a major challenge due to poor build materials and distorted audio profile tuning. However, this €70 model stands out as a commendable exception, securing a 4-star rating due to its stable...Read more

test-aankoop.be

14/10/2015

Sony MDR-ZX660AP review and test - Test Achats

The Sony MDR-ZX660AP is a wired, on-ear headphone model that has been discontinued but originally retailed for approximately €43.95. In laboratory testing conducted by Testaankoop, it received a moderate overall score of 58 out of 100, classifying it as a product of "reasonable quality". Its physical design features a 124 cm audio cable, a total weight of 206 grams, and ear cushions...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 ZX660AP with

Compare