Imagine commuting through noisy city streets or sitting in a bustling coffee shop, wishing you could escape into your music without spending hundreds of dollars. That’s where the Monoprice 110010 noise-cancelling headphones step in.
The Monoprice 110010 noise-cancelling headphones are your budget-friendly solution, offering solid sound, active noise reduction, and all-day comfort at a price that won’t break the bank. As someone who’s tested countless affordable headphones, I can tell you these over-ear gems deliver way more than their cost suggests, making them a top pick for commuters, students, or anyone craving quality audio on a budget.
These headphones bring impressive value, though they’re not perfect. In this guide, we’ll unbox the Monoprice 110010, explore its features, test its performance, and see how it stacks up against pricier rivals for tasks like travel or office work. Curious if they can handle airplane noise or stay comfy for hours? Let’s dive in and find out why they’re a wise choice for everyday listening.
Table of Contents
Brand Overview – Monoprice in the Audio Market
Monoprice has been a go-to since 2002 for affordable electronics like cables, speakers, and headphones. They’re known for delivering solid quality at 30-50% lower prices than big brands. They earn trust from folks who want reliable gear without the hype. The Monoprice 110010 fits into their lineup as a practical alternative to wireless earbuds, combining noise cancellation, long battery life, and portability for commuters and casual listeners.
Features & Specifications of Monoprice 110010 Headphones
The Monoprice 110010 black headphones pack numerous features, ensuring versatility and user-friendliness.
- Wired/Wireless Options: Enjoy Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless freedom up to 30 feet or switch to the included 3.5mm detachable cable for wired listening when the battery’s low.
- Battery Life: Get up to 50 hours of playtime on a single charge (a bit less with noise cancellation), perfect for long flights or workdays.
- Controls and Usability: Easy-to-use buttons on the ear cup control volume, track changes, and calls through a built-in microphone with echo cancellation. A dedicated switch toggles noise cancellation.
- Connectivity: Bluetooth profiles (A2DP, AVRCP, HFP, HSP) work with phones, laptops, and gaming consoles like PS5 or Xbox, while the 3.5mm jack ensures universal compatibility.
- Device Compatibility: These headphones pair seamlessly with smartphones, PCs, tablets, and consoles, making them great for gaming, commuting, or casual use.
- Special Features: A foldable design, adjustable headband, and an included travel case boost portability. The 40mm drivers deliver a 20Hz-20kHz frequency range for rich, immersive sound.
Design & Build Quality
Built for practicality, the Monoprice 110010 balances comfort and durability without fancy frills.
- Materials Used: Lightweight plastic with a sturdy metal frame keeps them durable yet easy to wear. Soft leather ear cushions and a padded headband add a touch of comfort, while closed-back ear cups enhance noise isolation.
- Comfort for Long Use: At about 9 ounces, these headphones feel light during 2+ hour sessions, with even pressure to avoid discomfort, ideal for office work or travel.
- Weight & Portability: The foldable design fits neatly into the included travel case, making it easy to toss it in a bag for commutes or trips.
- Comparison with Pricier Rivals: Compared to premium brands like Bose, the plastic build feels less luxurious but holds up for daily use. They lack water resistance, so they’re not suited for heavy workouts, but they outshine many budget competitors in durability.
Sound Quality
The Monoprice 110010 delivers sound that’s impressive for its price, perfect for casual listeners.
- Bass, Mids, and Highs: Expect punchy bass for tracks like hip-hop or EDM, clear mids for vocals in podcasts or acoustic songs, and crisp highs that don’t get harsh, thanks to a 20Hz-20kHz frequency range.
- Soundstage and Clarity: The 40mm drivers offer a decent soundstage with clear audio, even during calls with echo cancellation. It’s immersive in quiet settings but slightly less open in noisy ones.
- Noise Isolation/Cancellation: Active noise cancellation reduces low-frequency sounds like engine hums by 20-25dB, paired with closed-back ear cups for extra isolation—excellent for gaming or office focus, though voices may still slip through.
- Suitable Music Genres: These handle pop, rock, jazz, and podcasts well, offering balanced sound for everyday listening, though audiophiles might want more detail.
- Comparison with Similar-Priced Headphones: Compared with other budget headphones, the Monoprice 110010 stands out with deeper bass and less distortion than basic wired models, though premium brands offer more refinement.
Comfort & Usability
- Long-Term Comfort: Soft leather ear cushions and a padded headband make 2+ hour sessions a breeze, with no hotspots, even for glasses wearers.
- Headband and Ear Cup Design: The adjustable headband fits most head sizes, and the over-ear fit seals sound effectively, boosting noise cancellation for travel or work.
- Clamping Force and Pressure: Gentle clamping keeps them secure without squeezing, ensuring comfort during long flights or study sessions.
- Portability and Storage: The foldable design and travel case make these easy to carry and perfect for commutes or travel.
Pros and Cons of Monoprice 110010 Headphones
| Pros | Cons |
| Affordable price, making quality audio accessible | Not for audiophiles seeking ultra-detailed sound |
| Balanced sound with strong bass and clear highs/mids | Noise cancellation struggles with high-pitched noises like voices |
| Comfortable for extended wear with soft cushions and lightweight design | Plastic-heavy build feels less premium than high-end brands |
| Up to 50 hours of battery life for all-day use | Microphone is okay but not great for professional calls |
| Decent noise cancellation for travel or office settings | No water resistance or advanced features like app controls |
Comparisons & Value
Compared to pricier Bose alternatives, the Monoprice 110010 delivers about 80% of premium noise-cancelling performance at a fraction of the cost, making it a strong choice for budget-conscious buyers. Compared to other headphones under $100, its long battery life, portability, and solid sound give it an edge over flimsier competitors. These are a fantastic upgrade from basic earbuds, offering great value for casual listeners who want reliable audio without splurging.
FAQs
How to Connect Monoprice Headphones?
Press and hold the power button on the left ear cup for wireless use until you hear “pairing” and the LED flashes. Select “Monoprice 110010” in your device’s Bluetooth settings. For wired use, plug in the 3.5mm cable. They work with phones, PCs, and consoles.
Do Noise-Cancelling Headphones Actually Work?
Yes, they cut low-frequency noises like plane engines or fans by 20-25dB using active noise cancellation. The Monoprice 110010 is effective for moderate settings but won’t block all sounds, like voices.
Which Headphone Cancels the Most Noise?
Premium models like Bose QuietComfort Ultra or Sony WH-1000XM5 reduce 30-40dB across frequencies. The 110010’s 25dB reduction for lows is solid for its price, but not the absolute best.
Is Noise Cancelling Worth It in Headphones?
For noisy commutes or offices, yes, it lets you listen at lower volumes, reducing ear strain and boosting focus. The Monoprice 110010’s noise cancellation is a great value, though it slightly shortens battery life.
What Are the Downsides of Noise-Cancelling Headphones?
They use more battery, which may cause slight ear pressure, and struggle with irregular noises like chatter. The 110010’s plastic build and basic microphone are minor drawbacks, but its value shines through.
Summary
The Monoprice 110010 noise-cancelling headphones prove you don’t need to spend big for excellent audio. They’re perfect for travel, office work, and gaming with a 50-hour battery, balanced sound, and decent noise cancellation. Minor flaws like a plastic build and an average microphone don’t overshadow their value as affordable over-ear headphones. If you want reliable, budget-friendly audio that tunes out the world, these are a smart pick for everyday listening.
