Sony MDR-ZX310 Headphones

Gear Review

Sony MDR-ZX310 vs. ZX100: A Budget Headphone Comparison

Finding value in the entry-level audio market

$18

Price

30mm

Driver

125g

Weight

1.2m

Cable

Table of Contents

• ①Overview
• ②Basic Specifications
• ③Sound Quality
• ④Build Quality
• ⑤Summary

Section I

Overview

By luck, I stumbled upon a pair of Sony MDR-ZX310 headphones at a thrift shop. I couldn't resist the opportunity to scoop them up, especially since I've heard so many positive reviews online about their performance for the price point of $18. I also own the lower-end model, the ZX100, and can compare the two.

 

Section II

Basic Specifications

• →Driver Size — 30mm
• →Frequency Response — 10 ~ 24,000 Hz
• →Maximum Input Power — 1,000 mW
• →Sensitivity — 98 dB/mW
• →Impedance — 24 Ohms
• →Weight — 125 g
• →Cable Length — 1.2 m

Section III

Sound Quality

The ZX310s have a wider response range than the ZX100s, which is particularly noticeable in the bass. While the midrange and treble frequencies are almost identical, the weaker bass of the ZX100s makes the mids and treble feel more pronounced. However, with deeper listening, the ZX310s provide clarity in certain frequencies that the ZX100s lack.

If you prefer vocals and mids, the ZX100s might be a better option. Even with EQ bass reduction, the ZX310s can sound a bit tinny, requiring full bass for a decent audio experience.

Overall, the ZX310s are tuned for bass, but I surprisingly find myself preferring the ZX100s for their stronger vocal emphasis. However, the ZX310s deliver a fuller and richer sound.

Section IV

Build Quality

The build quality of both models is roughly the same. The earpads on the ZX310s feel tighter and softer, but overall, they are quite similar. A noticeable difference is the gold-plated 3.5 mm adapter on the ZX310s, which adds a slight touch of quality.

Feature	MDR-ZX310	MDR-ZX100
Bass Response	Fuller/Rich	Weaker
Vocal Clarity	Good	Superior
Connector	Gold-plated	Standard
Earpads	Tighter/Softer	Standard

Section V

Summary

While both models typically sell at a similar price point, it may be better to choose the ZX310s for their overall performance. However, I find myself leaning toward the ZX100s due to their midrange and treble tuning, which enhances vocal clarity. In noisy environments, the ZX310s excel, while the ZX100s hold their own in quieter settings.

   

A great pair of budget headphones can often punch well above their weight class.