One of Sony’s most popular headphones, many of the users of the Sony MDR-XB450AP’s say it is the best at one thing—bass. With it’s super comfy ear cups, satsfying bass tones, and favorable aesthetics, it stands above most of the competition.
Pros
- High bass for a low price
- Lightweight and comfy
- Inline cups swivel for portability
- Great inline microphone
Cons
- Mids and Trebles suck at high volume
- Headband padding is poor, so comfort varies
- No ANC
The Bottom Line:
The Sony MDR-XB450AP is a budget-friendly pair of wired on-ear headphones designed for listeners who love bass-heavy sound. Its 30 mm drivers deliver deep, punchy lows that stand out in EDM, hip-hop, and pop tracks, though mids and highs take a back seat.
Comfort is decent for short to medium sessions, but the minimal headband padding and fixed cable may limit long-term durability. With a lightweight design, swivel cups, and an inline mic/remote, it’s a solid everyday choice for commuters and casual listeners who prioritize fun sound over studio-grade balance.
| Sony MDR-XB450AP | |
|---|---|
|
MSRP Price |
$59.99 |
|
Headphone Style |
On ear |
|
Connectivity |
Wired Only 3.5mm Jack |
|
Weight |
5.82 oz. (light) |
|
Sensitivity |
102 dB/mW |
|
Cable Style |
Flat L-shaped |
|
Frequency Response |
5-22,000Hz |
|
Impedance |
24 Ω |
|
ANC |
None |
|
Microphone |
Inline On Cable |
|
Cord Length |
3.92 ft (1.2m) |
|
Driver Unit |
1.18in (30mm) Dynamic Dome Type |
Overview
The Sony MDR-XB450AP is a wired on-ear headphone built around 30 mm dynamic drivers with a frequency response of 5–22,000 Hz, 24 Ω impedance, and 102 dB/mW sensitivity. For the listener, this translates to a sound signature dominated by punchy bass, making them especially engaging for EDM, hip-hop, and pop tracks.
The 1.2 m flat, tangle-resistant cable with an L-shaped 3.5 mm plug ensures simple, reliable connectivity without the need for charging, while the inline mic and single-button remote add everyday convenience for calls and playback. Lightweight construction (5.82 oz.) and swivel earcups improve portability and comfort, though long sessions may reveal the headband’s limited padding.
Overall, the specs point to a headphone that prioritizes fun, bass-forward listening and ease of use over premium materials or studio-level accuracy. How and why has this pair of headphones been on the market for over a decade? And why so inexpensive? That’s what we’re here to talk about.
Are these the best headhones for the price? Are these headphones really worht $59.99? Are these headphones for you? Let’s find out.
Design and Comfort
The Sony MDR-XB450AP features a sleek, modern design with glossy earcups and a lightweight frame. Its on-ear cushions are soft enough for casual use, and the swivel cup design helps with portability. Comfort is good for short to medium listening sessions, though the lack of padding on the headband can cause pressure over long stretches. For commuters or students, the fit strikes a balance between portability and comfort.
Build and Durability
Constructed primarily from plastic, the headphones are light and flexible but not as rugged as higher-end models. The flat, tangle-resistant cable and L-shaped plug add some durability for everyday use. However, the fixed cable design means a damaged cord can’t easily be replaced, and users have reported wear around the jack over time. These are best treated as reliable daily drivers rather than heavy-duty gear.
Mic and Controls
An inline microphone and single multifunction button make the XB450AP practical for hands-free calls and basic playback control. Call quality is serviceable for everyday conversations, especially in quieter environments. On Android, the Smart Key app allows customization of the button functions, though iOS support is more limited. It’s a straightforward setup for budget buyers who want utility without extra complexity.
Noise Cancellation
The MDR-XB450AP does not include active noise cancellation. Instead, it relies on its cushioned on-ear pads to provide basic passive isolation, which works well enough for indoor use or commuting. Sound leakage is minimal at moderate volumes, but these won’t block out the hum of airplanes or loud streets. Buyers should see them as casual headphones rather than serious travel companions.
Sound Quality
With Sony’s Extra Bass tuning, the headphones deliver powerful, punchy low-end that makes EDM, hip-hop, and pop tracks lively and immersive. The 30 mm drivers provide strong presence in the bass but sacrifice some clarity in the mids and highs, which can sound recessed at higher volumes. For casual listeners who enjoy fun, impactful sound, they excel, though they won’t satisfy those seeking studio accuracy.
Battery Life and Connectivity
As wired headphones, the MDR-XB450AP does not require charging, making them convenient for all-day use without worrying about battery life. Connectivity is handled through a standard 3.5 mm plug, which works across most devices with a headphone jack or adapter. This simplicity ensures reliable performance without the pairing issues or latency of Bluetooth models.
Value
Sony MDR-XB450AP
- High bass for a low price
- Comfy and light
- Best bass for the money
Final Verdict
Priced in the budget range, the Sony MDR-XB450AP offers impressive bass performance and everyday practicality for the money. While they lack advanced features like noise cancellation or wireless connectivity, they deliver fun sound and solid comfort at a fraction of premium headphone costs. For bass lovers and casual users on a budget, they represent excellent value if treated with reasonable care.
Who should buy these
The Sony MDR-XB450AP is a great fit for budget-conscious buyers who want a fun, bass-heavy listening experience without worrying about charging batteries. Students, commuters, and casual listeners who primarily enjoy pop, hip-hop, or electronic music will appreciate the punchy low end and simple plug-and-play design. They’re also a practical choice for anyone who needs a lightweight headset with a built-in mic for calls or gaming sessions.
Who should look elsewhere?
Those who prioritize balanced or detailed sound should avoid the MDR-XB450AP, as its bass emphasis can overshadow mids and highs. If you need advanced features like active noise cancellation, Bluetooth wireless freedom, or replaceable cables, this model will likely fall short. Audiophiles, long-session listeners who need maximum comfort, and travelers who rely on isolation will find better options elsewhere.
For those who love bass, and love to save money, these are perfect. They can last me on my long sessions for listening. I don't worry too much about sound quality with these, because I know what I'm paying for.
