The Audio-Technica ATH-M30x are above-average-sounding headphones with a decently sturdy and comfortable design. They don't leak much and won't distract the people around you. However, they aren't stable enough for gym use and won't fare as well in loud environments because they don't block much noise.
Our Verdict
Mediocre overall design. They would perform adequately well as everyday headphones but lack a decent control scheme, and passive isolation is a little weak.
- Above-average sound reproduction.
- Low leakage.
- Poor noise isolation.
- No audio controls.
The Audio-Technica M30X have a surprising amount of audio fidelity for their price range but have a poor soundstage because of their closed-back design. They perform above-average for neutral listening but may lack a little openness.
Not ideal for commuting. The weak noise isolation is not sufficient for loud environments.
Not designed for sports. They're a bit too bulky and unstable for high-intensity exercises.
Average at best for office use. The passive noise isolation too weak to block the chatter of a busy office. Mediocre comfort and no audio controls.
These aren't suitable for wireless gaming.
These aren't suitable for phone calls.
Changelog
- Updated Nov 21, 2019: Converted to Test Bench 1.3.1.
- Updated Nov 21, 2019: Converted to Test Bench 1.3.
- Updated Feb 16, 2018: Converted to Test Bench 1.2.
- Updated Aug 10, 2017: Converted to Test Bench 1.1.
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Popular Headphones Comparisons
The Audio-Technica ATH-M30x are a step up from the budget-oriented ATH-M20x in the lineup. They share a similar build quality and design. Both have similar sound profiles with noticeably quiet treble where sibillants (S and T sounds) reside, and the ATH-M30x output slightly more accurate bass. Unlike the ATH-M20x, the ATH-M30x are marginally more portable and protected with a pouch.
The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x are better headphones for a neutral sound than the Audio-Technica ATH-M30x from the same lineup. The biggest difference is that the M40x is definitely more neutral in the treble range, where the M30x lack a lot of detail and brightness. The M40x also come with a nice coiled cable, but other than that, they're very similar.
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