Apple EarPods Headphones with Lightning Connector, Wired Ear Buds for iPhone with Built-in Remote to Control Music, Phone Calls, and Volume vs Sony ZX Series Wired On-Ear Headphones with Mic, Black MDR-ZX110AP

Price Comparison

The Apple EarPods Headphones with Lightning Connector are priced at $15.98, while the Sony ZX Series Wired On-Ear Headphones with Mic cost $15.99. This makes the Apple model about 0.06% cheaper than the Sony alternative. Both products are nearly identical in price, with less than a penny separating them. The minimal difference suggests that pricing is tightly aligned between the two, and neither offers a significant financial advantage over the other based on cost alone.

Design and Comfort

The Apple EarPods feature an ergonomic design shaped to fit the natural geometry of the ear, which Apple claims makes them more comfortable for more people than traditional circular earbuds. In contrast, the Sony ZX Series headphones use cushioned earpads and an enfolding closed-back design that seals in sound and enhances comfort during extended listening sessions. While the Apple model is designed for in-ear wear, the Sony headphones are on-ear, offering a different physical experience. The Sony’s swiveling earcups also improve portability and storage convenience, a practical benefit not mentioned in the Apple product description.

Audio Quality

The Apple EarPods are engineered to maximize sound output and minimize sound loss, delivering high-quality audio through speakers specifically tuned for clarity and performance. The Sony ZX Series headphones utilize lightweight 1.38-inch neodymium dynamic drivers that provide a punchy, rhythmic response suitable for demanding tracks. Additionally, the Sony model boasts a wide frequency range spanning from 12 Hz to 22 kHz, covering deep bass, rich midrange, and soaring highs. While both claim strong audio performance, the Sony’s broader frequency range and dedicated driver size suggest a more detailed sonic profile compared to the Apple EarPods’ general optimization.

Built-In Controls and Connectivity

Both products include built-in remote controls integrated into the cord. The Apple EarPods feature a built-in remote that allows users to adjust volume, control music and video playback, and answer or end phone calls with a pinch of the cord. Similarly, the Sony ZX Series includes an inline remote and built-in microphone on the headphone cord, enabling hands-free calls from selected smartphones while listening to music. However, the Apple model is explicitly compatible only with devices featuring a Lightning connector and iOS 10 or later, whereas the Sony model uses a standard L-shaped stereo mini plug 3.5mm jack, making it universally compatible with most devices beyond Apple ecosystems.

Microphone Performance

Both the Apple EarPods and Sony ZX Series headphones have built-in microphones designed to capture voice clearly during phone calls, FaceTime conversations, or when using Siri. The Apple version emphasizes precise voice capture for consistent clarity, while the Sony model highlights its microphone’s integration with smartphone calling functions. Neither product specifies microphone sensitivity or noise-cancellation features, so their performance in noisy environments remains unspecified. Both rely on their respective device ecosystems to optimize call quality, but no data indicates one outperforms the other in this category.

Portability and Use Case

The Sony ZX Series headphones stand out with their swiveling earcup design, which facilitates easy storage and improved portability—ideal for travel or daily commutes. The Apple EarPods, being compact in-ear buds, are inherently portable and can be stored in pockets or small cases without taking up much space. However, the Sony model’s foldable structure adds a functional advantage for users who prioritize ease of transport. The Apple EarPods, while highly portable, lack any mention of collapsible or foldable components in their description, suggesting they may be less convenient for frequent travelers.

Which should you buy?

If your primary device is an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch with a Lightning connector, the Apple EarPods Headphones with Lightning Connector offer seamless compatibility and a familiar user experience with built-in controls and Siri integration. They are slightly cheaper at $15.98 and designed specifically for Apple’s ecosystem. However, if you value broader device compatibility, deeper bass response, and enhanced portability through swiveling earcups, the Sony ZX Series Wired On-Ear Headphones with Mic at $15.99 are the better choice. Despite the near-identical prices, the Sony model’s 3.5mm jack and wider frequency range make it more versatile across platforms, especially for non-Apple users. Ultimately, choose the Apple EarPods for Apple ecosystem loyalty and simplicity; opt for the Sony ZX Series for greater flexibility, superior audio range, and travel-friendly design.