Beats Solo Buds vs Sony ZX Series Wired On-Ear Headphones, Black MDR-ZX110
Updated August 2026 — Beats Solo Buds wins on battery and sound, Sony ZX Series Wired On-Ear Headphones, Black MDR-ZX110 wins on price.
The Beats Solo Buds offer superior sound quality and wireless convenience, while the Sony ZX Series headphones provide a budget-friendly wired option. Choose based on your audio needs.
Why Beats Solo Buds is better
Sound Quality
Beats Solo Buds have advanced acoustic architecture.
Battery Life
Beats Solo Buds offer up to 18 hours of battery.
Wireless Convenience
Beats Solo Buds are wireless with Bluetooth pairing.
Why Sony ZX Series Wired On-Ear Headphones, Black MDR-ZX110 is better
Price
Sony ZX Series is significantly cheaper.
Portability
Sony ZX Series has a compact design.
Simplicity
Sony ZX Series requires no charging.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | Beats Solo Buds | Sony ZX Series Wired On-Ear Headphones, Black MDR-ZX110 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Wireless | Wired |
| Battery Life | 18 hours | N/A |
| Drivers | Dual-layer | Neodymium |
| Weight | Lightweight | Lightweight |
| Frequency Range | N/A | 12 Hz - 22 kHz |
| Microphone | Built-in | N/A |
Dimension comparison
Overview of Beats Solo Buds and Sony ZX Series Headphones
The Beats Solo Buds are designed for those seeking wireless convenience and high-quality sound, while the Sony ZX Series headphones offer a wired, budget-friendly option with a focus on comfort and portability. The Beats Solo Buds are priced at $69.95, significantly higher than the Sony ZX Series, which retails for only $14.88. This price difference of about 370% reflects the differing technologies and functionalities of these two audio devices.
Sound Quality Comparison
When it comes to sound quality, the Beats Solo Buds excel with custom acoustic architecture designed to deliver powerful sound with clarity. These earbuds feature dual-layer drivers that minimize distortion and provide a full range of audio. In contrast, the Sony ZX Series headphones utilize 1.38-inch neodymium dynamic drivers, which offer a wide frequency range from 12 Hz to 22 kHz, ensuring a solid audio experience. While both products aim to provide rich sound, the technology in the Beats Solo Buds is tailored for a more immersive listening experience.
Battery Life vs. Wired Convenience
The Beats Solo Buds boast an impressive battery life of up to 18 hours, with a quick 5-minute charge offering an additional hour of playback. This feature makes them an excellent choice for users who value long listening sessions without the hassle of frequent recharging. On the other hand, the Sony ZX Series headphones, being wired, do not require charging but are limited by the length of the cable. For users who prefer a simple plug-and-play experience, the Sony headphones offer the convenience of never needing to worry about battery life.
Portability and Design
The Beats Solo Buds come in the smallest case ever made by Beats, which enhances their portability for on-the-go lifestyles. Their design focuses on delivering sound directly to your ears while minimizing pressure, thanks to laser-cut vents. Meanwhile, the Sony ZX Series headphones feature a swiveling earcup design that allows for easy storage and portability. While both products are designed for convenience, the compact case of the Beats Solo Buds gives them an edge for travel, especially for those who frequently move between locations.
Compatibility with Devices
The Beats Solo Buds are compatible with both Apple and Android devices, facilitating seamless one-touch pairing thanks to industry-leading Class 1 Bluetooth technology. This compatibility makes them versatile for users with different devices. In comparison, the Sony ZX Series headphones utilize a 3.5mm stereo mini plug, which ensures compatibility with a wide range of audio devices, but lacks the wireless convenience of the Beats. Users who prioritize ease of connectivity may find the Beats Solo Buds more appealing.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort is crucial for prolonged listening sessions, and both products offer features designed to enhance the user experience. The Beats Solo Buds are equipped with custom-designed microphones for exceptional call quality and a fit that minimizes discomfort. The Sony ZX Series headphones come with cushioned earpads and an enfolding closed-back design that seals in sound, providing a comfortable fit for extended wear. While both options are designed for comfort, the choice may depend on whether users prefer the in-ear design of the Beats or the over-ear style of the Sony headphones.
Pricing and Value
The Beats Solo Buds are priced at $69.95, while the Sony ZX Series headphones are very budget-friendly at $14.88. This price difference of approximately $55.07 makes the Sony headphones about 370% cheaper than the Beats. While the higher price of the Beats Solo Buds reflects advanced features such as wireless connectivity and enhanced sound quality, the Sony ZX Series offers excellent value for users seeking an economical option without sacrificing basic audio performance.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the Beats Solo Buds and the Sony ZX Series headphones ultimately depends on your audio needs and lifestyle preferences. If you value wireless functionality, superior sound quality, and extended battery life, the Beats Solo Buds are the clear winner. However, if you are looking for a budget-friendly, wired option that offers solid performance and comfort, the Sony ZX Series headphones are an excellent choice. Consider your priorities—whether they lean towards advanced technology or affordability—as you make your decision.

