Monoprice 110010 Headphones Review & Buyer’s Guide
Introduction to Monoprice 110010 Headphones
The Monoprice 110010 is a reliable and budget-friendly option in a market saturated with flashy, overpriced headphones. Known for its affordable electronics, Monoprice has carved a niche for users who want functionality without breaking the bank. The Monoprice 110010 headphones are designed for everyday users, casual listeners, students, remote workers, and travelers seeking decent audio performance without the hefty price tag.
What sets these headphones apart isn’t just the price—the balance of features. With active noise cancellation (ANC), a lightweight build, and a decent sound profile, the Monoprice 110010 offers surprising value. This comprehensive guide explores everything from design to sound quality, battery life, and how it compares to similar products in 2025.
Monoprice 110010: Key Specifications at a Glance
Let’s start with a quick breakdown of what you get with the Monoprice 110010:
- Type: Over-ear headphones
- Connectivity: Wired with optional Bluetooth
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancelling (ANC)
- Battery Life: Up to 14 hours (with ANC)
- Driver Size: 40mm
- Weight: Approximately 6.3 ounces
- Mic: Built-in for calls
- Controls: On-ear buttons
These headphones offer a blend of wired and wireless functionality, making them adaptable for different setups—whether you’re listening on a smartphone, laptop, or console. One of the key selling points is the ANC feature, which is rare at this price point. While it doesn’t rival high-end brands like Bose or Sony, it performs well for casual users and office environments.
Design, Build Quality & Aesthetic Appeal
Visually, the Monoprice 110010 headphones are sleek and minimalist. They feature a matte black finish with subtle branding, making them suitable for casual and professional settings. The over-ear design includes large ear cups that help provide passive noise isolation, while the adjustable headband offers a customizable fit.
In terms of durability, the plastic build feels sturdy enough for daily use. Although it doesn’t scream “premium,” it doesn’t feel cheap either. The foldable design and included carrying case enhance its portability, making it a smart choice for commuters or frequent travelers.
Comfort & Wearability for Long Listening Sessions
Comfort is where the Monoprice 110010 delivers more than expected. The ear cushions are soft and padded with faux leather, which provides decent comfort during long listening sessions. The headband, while not heavily cushioned, distributes weight evenly, preventing pressure build-up on the crown of your head.
These headphones are surprisingly lightweight, which helps reduce fatigue even after hours of use. However, users with more prominent ears might find the ear cups snug. That said, the fit will be more than satisfactory for most people, especially those using them for commuting or Zoom calls.
Sound Quality: Monoprice 110010 Audio Performance Review
The audio quality of the Monoprice 110010 is respectable for the price. The 40mm drivers deliver balanced sound with decent clarity across bass, mids, and highs. Bass response is present but not overwhelming, making it suitable for various genres, from classical to hip-hop.
It excels in vocal clarity. Podcasts, audiobooks, and calls come through crisp and clean. The soundstage isn’t vast for music, but it avoids sounding too flat or boxy. The Monoprice 110010 offers a more refined and enjoyable listening experience than similarly priced models from lesser-known brands.
Noise Cancellation: Does It Work?
One of the headline features of the Monoprice 110010 is its Active Noise Cancellation—a rarity in this price range. But does it work? In short, yes—but with limitations.
The ANC function effectively reduces consistent, low-frequency noises like air conditioners, engine hums, or background chatter. It won’t completely block out loud conversations or keyboard clicks, but it significantly dampens ambient noise in office and commuting environments. This is for budget-conscious users who want some degree of noise control.
Compared to premium ANC headphones like the Sony WH-1000XM5 or Bose QuietComfort series, the Monoprice 110010 falls short—but that’s to be expected. For its price, the ANC is functional and a genuine bonus feature.
Battery Life & Charging Efficiency
With ANC turned on, the Monoprice 110010 offers around 14 hours of playback, which is decent. If you turn ANC off and use it as standard Bluetooth headphones, you can stretch battery life even further—sometimes up to 20 hours, depending on usage.
Charging is done via a standard micro-USB port, which is a slight downside in 2025 as most devices have moved to USB-C. Charging from 0% to complete takes about 2–3 hours. There’s no fast-charging feature, so you must plan if you’re on the go.
Connectivity Options & Controls Overview
These headphones offer wired and wireless functionality, giving you flexibility for different devices. The Bluetooth connection is stable and works well within the standard 30-foot range. Minimal latency makes it usable for video streaming and casual gaming.
The onboard controls include volume, playback, call handling, and ANC toggling buttons. They’re tactile and easy to locate, even without looking. The built-in microphone works well for voice calls and online meetings, although it may pick up background noise in crowded settings.
User Feedback: What Real Buyers Are Saying
The Monoprice 110010 has generally received positive user reviews across platforms like Amazon, Reddit, and tech blogs. Many buyers praise its affordability and feature set, including ANC and the surprisingly straightforward audio performance.
Common compliments include:
- Great value for the price
- Comfortable fit for everyday use
- Decent noise cancellation for casual environments
However, some users mention that the ANC creates a mild hissing sound, a typical tradeoff in budget noise-cancelling headphones. A few also noted that the materials, while durable, don’t feel as premium as high-end models.
Pros and Cons of the Monoprice 110010
Pros:
- Affordable price with premium-like features
- Active noise cancellation included
- Lightweight and portable design
- Balanced audio for casual listening
- Wired + wireless options available
Cons:
- No USB-C charging
- Ear cups may feel tight for more prominent ears
- ANC performance is essential compared to premium models
- Plastic build lacks a luxurious feel
Despite the few drawbacks, the pros outweigh the cons for most budget-conscious buyers.
Best Alternatives to Consider in 2025
If you’re still undecided, here are a few solid alternatives:
| Model | Price Range | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Anker Soundcore Life Q20 | ~$55 | Strong ANC, 40-hour battery |
| JBL Tune 510BT | ~$50 | Punchy bass, great comfort |
| Sony WH-CH520 | ~$60 | Lightweight, clear sound |
| Monoprice BT-300ANC | ~$70 | Upgrade from 110010, better ANC |
Each offers something slightly different, whether it’s longer battery life or enhanced ANC, depending on your priorities.
Final Verdict: Is the Monoprice 110010 Worth Buying?
If you’re looking for affordable headphones with decent noise cancellation, clear sound, and a comfortable fit, the Monoprice 110010 is a smart buy in 2025. While it won’t compete with Bose or Sony, it offers a compelling set of features for less than half the price.
These headphones are ideal for casual listeners, remote workers, students, and travelers who need functional gear without the frills. The Monoprice 110010 delivers solid performance and unbeatable value if your expectations are realistic.
