Monoprice BT-600ANC Over Ear Headphones Review Bluetooth 5 and Active Noise Cancelling

Description

Premium Design and Build Quality

I’ve been using these Monoprice BT-600ANC Over Ear Headphones, and honestly, the design caught my attention right away. The foldable, portable structure makes it super easy to slide into the carrying case and toss in a bag without worrying about damaging them. The plush earpads are incredibly soft, and the padded headband adds that extra touch of comfort, even during extended wear. While they are lightweight at 1.25 pounds, they still feel sturdy enough to survive daily use. The soft-touch texture on the ear cups not only feels premium but also keeps fingerprints at bay. However, the overall plastic construction might not scream “luxury” to everyone, especially when compared to pricier options.

Sound Performance That Delivers

I wasn’t expecting the sound to be this impressive, but these headphones surprised me. Thanks to the custom-tuned 40mm drivers, the audio clarity is fantastic. The bass is punchy without being overwhelming, and the mids and highs are well-balanced. With a frequency range of 20Hz to 20kHz, they capture all the subtle details in music, making them perfect for audiophiles on a budget. The Qualcomm aptX HD audio codec ensures that even over Bluetooth, the sound quality doesn’t take a hit. It genuinely feels like listening to better-than-CD quality audio when paired with an aptX-compatible device. Whether it’s podcasts, music, or calls, I found the performance consistently reliable.

Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling (ANC)

The Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling on this model deserves a special mention. Utilizing both internal and external microphones, the headphones effectively cancel out low and mid-frequency noises like airplane engines and bustling traffic. I tested these on a particularly noisy subway ride, and they managed to suppress a significant amount of background noise, although not entirely. With up to 35dB of noise reduction, it’s not the most powerful ANC out there, but it’s more than adequate for most environments. The ambient mode is also a handy feature for moments when you need to stay aware of your surroundings, like walking through busy streets.

Crystal Clear Calls and Bluetooth Connectivity

Making calls with these headphones was a breeze. The Qualcomm cVc 8.0 noise cancellation technology ensures that both ends of the conversation are clear, even if you’re in a noisy environment. I had a work call while sitting outdoors, and the background noise suppression worked wonders—it cut out the wind and chatter around me. Pairing the headphones was straightforward, thanks to Bluetooth 5 technology. The connection remained stable within the 32-foot range, even when I moved between rooms. Multi-pairing is another win, letting me switch between my laptop and phone seamlessly without having to re-pair each time.

Positives

Here are some key benefits I noticed while using these headphones:

• Impressive sound clarity with custom-tuned drivers and aptX HD codec.
• Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling effectively reduces environmental noise.
• Long battery life, providing up to 40 hours of playback on a single charge.
• Comfortable design with plush earpads and a padded headband, suitable for extended use.
• Touch controls make it easy to adjust volume, skip tracks, or answer calls.

Downsides

Despite the great features, there are a few shortcomings to consider:

• The build feels a bit plasticky, which might not appeal to those seeking a more premium feel.
• Noise cancellation, while good, doesn’t quite match the performance of higher-end competitors.
• Touch controls can occasionally be overly sensitive, leading to unintended inputs.

Competing Brands

When comparing these headphones to competitors like the Sony WH-1000XM4 or the Bose QuietComfort 45, it’s clear that the Monoprice BT-600ANC is aiming at a more budget-conscious audience. Both Sony and Bose are known for their superior ANC and premium build quality, but they come at a significantly higher price point. That said, the Monoprice model holds its own in terms of sound quality, especially with the aptX HD codec, which is something not all competitors offer. The touch controls and 40-hour battery life are also standout features in this price bracket. However, if you’re looking for absolute top-tier noise cancellation, you might want to consider those higher-end options.

Value for Money

Are these headphones worth the investment? For the price, I’d say yes. They strike a great balance between affordability and performance, offering high-quality sound, functional ANC, and a comfortable design. While they might not have the polish or robust noise cancellation of pricier alternatives, the Monoprice BT-600ANC delivers where it matters most: audio performance and usability. It’s a solid choice for anyone seeking a dependable pair of over-ear headphones without breaking the bank.

Additional information