Sony MDR-ZX110 Review — Best Ultra-Budget Sony Headphones Under $15

The Sony MDR-ZX110 are Sony’s most affordable wired headphones — $15, 30mm drivers, 120g, fold flat. Simple, reliable, and exactly what you’d expect from a company that’s been making headphones since the 1950s.

The 30mm drivers produce clean, accurate audio within their capabilities. The frequency response runs 12Hz–22kHz on paper, and the mid-range clarity is genuinely good for the price. Sony’s reputation for neutral audio tuning shows even at the entry level — these don’t color the sound with artificial bass boost.

At 120g the ZX110 is one of the lightest headphones in any category. The on-ear design sits lightly and the folding mechanism allows flat storage. The 1.2m cable is standard length for desktop use.

There is no microphone and no inline controls. This is a pure listening device — if you need to take calls or adjust volume from the cable, look elsewhere. The JLab Studio 2 at $25 adds those features for $10 more.

Build quality is basic plastic, but the moving parts — hinges, headband adjustment, swivel cups — all feel solid. Sony quality control at the entry level is better than typical no-name alternatives.

Verdict

The MDR-ZX110 is the answer when you need the cheapest functional headphones from a brand with a track record. No mic, no frills — just clean audio and Sony reliability at $15. If you need a mic, spend $25 on the JLab Studio 2 instead.