The Monoprice Horizon ANC headphones present a compelling value proposition in the active noise-canceling market, offering a surprisingly robust feature set and commendable audio performance for their price point.
While they might not unseat premium contenders from Bose or Sony in every single metric, they deliver an impressive balance of effective noise cancellation, comfortable design, and decent sound quality, making them an excellent choice for budget-conscious audiophiles and commuters seeking a reliable everyday companion.
Think of them as a smart, practical investment that gets the job done without unnecessary bells and whistles, a true “bang for your buck” option.
Here’s a quick rundown of how the Monoprice Horizon ANC stacks up against some key players in the headphone arena:
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- Key Features: Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation, Bluetooth 5.0, 30-hour battery life, comfortable over-ear design, foldable.
- Average Price: Around $70-$80.
- Pros: Excellent value, effective ANC for the price, comfortable for long wear, decent sound profile, good battery life.
- Cons: Not as premium build quality as higher-end models, ANC may not block out all high-frequency sounds, call quality is adequate but not exceptional.
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- Key Features: Industry-leading ANC, exceptional sound quality with LDAC support, excellent call quality, comfortable, sleek design, 30-hour battery.
- Average Price: Around $350-$400.
- Pros: Best-in-class noise cancellation, superb audio fidelity, crystal-clear calls, premium features like Speak-to-Chat.
- Cons: High price, non-foldable design comes with a larger case, some users prefer the XM4’s more robust build.
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- Key Features: Renowned Bose ANC, comfortable fit, balanced sound, 24-hour battery, physical buttons, durable.
- Average Price: Around $280-$330.
- Pros: Legendary noise cancellation, extremely comfortable, user-friendly physical controls, robust build.
- Cons: No adjustable ANC levels either on or off, sound profile can be less dynamic than Sony for some, no advanced codecs like LDAC.
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- Key Features: Hybrid ANC with multiple modes, Hi-Res Audio certification, 40-hour battery life, custom EQ via app, comfortable.
- Average Price: Around $80-$100.
- Pros: Incredible battery life, customizable sound, effective multi-mode ANC, excellent value.
- Cons: Build quality feels slightly less premium than Monoprice Horizon ANC, ANC can sometimes introduce a slight hiss, call quality is average.
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- Key Features: Active Noise Cancelling, JBL Pure Bass Sound, 35-hour battery life, lightweight, foldable design.
- Average Price: Around $100-$130.
- Pros: Punchy bass-forward sound, good battery life, comfortable and lightweight, decent ANC for the price.
- Cons: ANC performance is good but not top-tier, sound signature might be too bass-heavy for some, plasticky build.
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- Key Features: Hybrid ANC, Sennheiser Signature Sound, 50-hour battery life, comfortable, lightweight, aptX HD support.
- Average Price: Around $180-$200.
- Pros: Exceptional battery life, premium Sennheiser sound quality, very comfortable for extended use, effective ANC.
- Cons: ANC is good but not “best-in-class,” plastic build, controls can be a bit fiddly.
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- Key Features: Bluetooth 5.0, 60-hour battery life, professional monitor headphone sound, over-ear design.
- Pros: Incredible battery life, neutral and accurate sound profile great for critical listening, comfortable, excellent value.
- Cons: No ANC primary drawback for comparison, build quality is functional but not premium, earcups can get warm. Note: Included as a value alternative for sound quality, but lacks ANC.
Unpacking the Horizon ANC: A Deep Dive into Performance
The Monoprice Horizon ANC headphones are often overlooked in a market saturated with big names, but savvy consumers know that Monoprice consistently delivers solid performance for a fraction of the cost. When we peel back the layers, it’s clear these aren’t just “cheap headphones.” They’re a thoughtfully designed product aimed squarely at the everyday user who values functionality and affordability above all else. This section breaks down what makes them tick, from their noise-canceling capabilities to their overall usability.
Active Noise Cancellation ANC Effectiveness
The Horizon ANC utilizes hybrid active noise cancellation, a method that combines feedforward external microphones and feedback internal microphones ANC. This dual-microphone approach is typically found in more expensive headphones, making its inclusion here a significant value add.
- Low-Frequency Hum: Where the Horizon ANC truly shines is in its ability to suppress low-frequency, consistent noises. Think the rumble of a bus, the drone of an airplane engine, or the persistent hum of an HVAC system. In controlled tests and real-world scenarios, these headphones perform admirably, creating a noticeable pocket of quiet that makes commuting or working in noisy environments significantly more tolerable. This isn’t just about reducing volume. it’s about eliminating the fatigue that comes from constant background noise.
- Mid-to-High Frequencies: This is where the budget nature starts to show its seams slightly. While the Horizon ANC can dampen some mid-range chatter like office conversations or nearby traffic, it won’t completely silence them. Sharp, sudden noises or distinct voices will still penetrate, albeit softened. Don’t expect the eerie silence of a Bose QC45, but for typical daily use, the performance is more than satisfactory.
- Passive Isolation: The physical design of the earcups also plays a role. The over-ear design and moderately plush ear pads provide a decent amount of passive noise isolation even when ANC isn’t engaged. This combination of active and passive reduction contributes to the overall effectiveness.
Audio Quality: More Than Just “Good Enough”
Often, budget ANC headphones compromise significantly on sound quality, delivering a muddy or tinny output. The Monoprice Horizon ANC pleasantly surprises by offering a balanced and enjoyable listening experience, especially for its price point.
- Sound Profile: The headphones lean towards a slightly warm sound signature with a subtle emphasis on the bass. This isn’t an overpowering, boomy bass, but rather a controlled low end that adds richness without drowning out other frequencies. Mids are clear and present, allowing vocals and instruments like guitars to shine. Highs are crisp without being harsh, though they may lack the ultimate sparkle and detail found in audiophile-grade headphones.
- Clarity and Detail: For casual listening, streaming podcast, podcasts, or watching videos, the clarity is more than adequate. You won’t pick out every subtle nuance in a complex classical piece, but pop, rock, electronic, and podcasts sound great.
- Codecs: While they don’t support advanced codecs like aptX HD or LDAC, the standard Bluetooth SBC and AAC codecs provide a reliable connection and sufficient bandwidth for most users. For everyday listening, the difference is often negligible to the untrained ear.
- Bass Response: The bass is punchy and well-defined, providing a satisfying thump without becoming bloated. This makes them particularly enjoyable for genres with a strong rhythmic foundation.
Comfort and Design: Built for the Long Haul
Comfort is paramount for any over-ear headphone, especially those designed for commuting or extended listening sessions. The Monoprice Horizon ANC scores high marks here.
- Ergonomics: The headphones feature an over-ear design with generously padded earcups and a cushioned headband. The earcups swivel and pivot, allowing for a flexible fit that conforms to different head shapes.
- Clamping Force: The clamping force is well-judged – firm enough to feel secure without causing excessive pressure or discomfort, even for users with glasses. This is a common complaint with many headphones, but the Horizon ANC gets it right.
- Materials: While the build is primarily plastic, it feels robust and not flimsy. The matte finish helps resist fingerprints and provides a clean aesthetic. The ear pads are made of a soft protein leather that feels gentle on the skin, though like all synthetic materials, they might lead to some warmth during very long sessions in hot environments.
- Foldable Design: A crucial feature for travelers and commuters, the Horizon ANC can fold flat and inward, making them compact and easy to stow in a bag or backpack. This practicality enhances their appeal as an everyday companion.
Battery Life and Connectivity: Reliable Performance
In the wireless world, battery life and stable connectivity are non-negotiables.
The Horizon ANC delivers a strong performance on both fronts.
- Battery Endurance: Monoprice claims up to 30 hours of playback with ANC enabled, and real-world usage generally aligns with this. This is more than enough for a full week of commuting or several long-haul flights without needing a recharge. Turning ANC off extends the battery even further.
- Charging: Charging is handled via a USB-C port, which is a welcome modern convenience, ensuring compatibility with most current smartphone chargers. A full charge typically takes a couple of hours.
- Bluetooth 5.0: The inclusion of Bluetooth 5.0 ensures a stable and efficient wireless connection. Pairing is straightforward, and the headphones maintain a solid connection within typical operating ranges around 30 feet without frequent dropouts. This reliability is often underestimated until you experience a headset with poor connectivity.
- Multipoint Connectivity Limitations: While not explicitly advertised as multipoint, some users report limited success in connecting to two devices simultaneously, though it’s not a guaranteed or seamless feature like on premium models. Stick to connecting to one device at a time for optimal performance.
Call Quality: Functional, Not Flawless
When it comes to making calls, the Monoprice Horizon ANC performs adequately for casual use but isn’t its strongest suit. Marvels Midnight Suns For Xbox Series S Review
- Microphone Performance: The built-in microphone picks up voices clearly in quiet environments. However, in noisy settings like a busy street or a bustling office, the microphone can struggle to isolate your voice from background noise. Callers might report muffled audio or an abundance of ambient sound.
- Usability: For quick chats or taking calls at home, they’re perfectly fine. For critical business calls or hands-free conversations in loud outdoor spaces, you might want to switch to your phone’s mic or a dedicated headset. This is a common trade-off in budget-friendly headphones.
Controls and User Experience: Intuitive and Accessible
The physical buttons on the Monoprice Horizon ANC are a breath of fresh air in an age dominated by finicky touch controls.
- Physical Buttons: All controls are managed via tactile buttons located on the earcups. There are dedicated buttons for power/pairing, ANC on/off, volume up/down, and a multi-function button for play/pause and track skipping.
- Ease of Use: The buttons are well-spaced and have a satisfying click, making them easy to locate and operate by feel without constantly having to remove the headphones or fumble around. This direct control contributes significantly to a hassle-free user experience.
- Voice Prompts: Simple voice prompts e.g., “ANC on,” “Connected” provide clear feedback on the headphones’ status, removing any guesswork.
- No Companion App: Unlike many competitors, the Monoprice Horizon ANC does not come with a companion app for customization e.g., EQ adjustments, ANC levels. While this keeps things simple, it also means less personalization. For most users, this won’t be a dealbreaker, as the default sound profile is quite good.
Value Proposition: Why the Horizon ANC Stands Out
In a world where headphone prices can soar into the hundreds, the Monoprice Horizon ANC makes a compelling argument for smart, economical purchasing. Its value proposition isn’t just about being “cheap”. it’s about delivering disproportionately high performance for its cost.
- Feature-to-Price Ratio: The combination of hybrid ANC, Bluetooth 5.0, excellent battery life, comfortable design, and decent audio quality at its price point is genuinely remarkable. Few headphones offer this complete package without demanding a significantly higher premium.
- Target Audience: These headphones are perfectly suited for students, daily commuters, casual listeners, and anyone looking for a reliable pair of ANC headphones without breaking the bank. They’re a practical tool, not a luxury item.
- Durability for the price: While not built like tanks, their plastic construction is surprisingly robust for their price bracket. They can handle the rigors of daily travel and being tossed into a bag without immediate concern.
- Beyond the Hype: Monoprice products often fly under the radar because they lack the marketing muscle of larger brands. However, this often means you’re paying for the product, not the prestige. The Horizon ANC is a prime example of getting substance over branding.
Potential Downsides and Considerations
No product is perfect, and the Monoprice Horizon ANC, despite its strengths, has areas where it naturally falls short compared to much pricier alternatives.
Understanding these can help set realistic expectations.
- ANC isn’t “Best-in-Class”: As mentioned, while excellent for the price, the ANC won’t compete with the absolute silence offered by Sony or Bose. High-frequency sounds and distinct voices will still be audible.
- Build Materials: Primarily plastic, they don’t exude the same premium feel as headphones incorporating metal or higher-grade plastics. While durable enough, they won’t feel like a luxury item.
- No App Customization: The lack of a companion app means no customizable EQ, no ANC level adjustments, and no firmware updates. What you get out of the box is what you stick with. For many, this simplicity is a pro, but for tinkerers, it’s a con.
- Call Quality in Noise: This is the most significant functional drawback. If hands-free calls in noisy environments are a primary concern, you might need to manage expectations or consider an alternative.
- Audio Purist Limitations: While the sound is good, audiophiles seeking extreme detail, expansive soundstages, or support for lossless audio codecs will naturally look elsewhere. These are not studio monitoring headphones.
Real-World Use Cases: Where the Horizon ANC Shines
Understanding the ideal scenarios for these headphones truly highlights their value.
They aren’t meant for every single use case, but for specific daily needs, they’re exceptional.
- Commuting: Whether on a bus, train, or even just walking through a bustling city, the ANC effectively cuts down on the background din, making your commute more peaceful and your audio clearer.
- Office Environments: For blocking out keyboard clicks, low-level chatter, or the hum of office equipment, the Horizon ANC provides a welcome respite, helping you focus.
- Air Travel: While not fully eliminating jet engine roar, they significantly reduce it, making long flights much more comfortable and allowing you to enjoy in-flight entertainment or sleep more easily.
- Studying or Working from Home: If you have noisy housemates, family, or street noise, these can create a quiet zone to concentrate.
- Casual Listening: For enjoying your favorite playlists or podcasts around the house, while doing chores, or relaxing, they offer a great blend of comfort and sound.
Long-Term Durability and Monoprice’s Reputation
When investing in budget electronics, a common concern is how long they’ll last. Monoprice has built a reputation over the years for providing solid, reliable electronics that often punch above their weight in terms of longevity.
- Consistent Quality: Unlike some fly-by-night brands on Amazon, Monoprice has a established track record. Their products, while sometimes basic in aesthetics, are generally well-engineered for their price point.
- User Reviews: A quick look at numerous user reviews across various platforms confirms that the Horizon ANC headphones generally hold up well to daily use. Common issues are rare, and consistent complaints about build quality are not prevalent.
- Care and Maintenance: Like any headphones, proper care extends their lifespan. Storing them in a case though one isn’t included, avoiding extreme temperatures, and gentle handling will ensure they serve you well for years. The folding mechanism, a potential weak point on many headphones, appears robust on the Horizon ANC.
The Verdict: Are Monoprice Horizon ANC Headphones Right for You?
If you’re on a tight budget but unwilling to compromise entirely on active noise cancellation and decent audio, the Monoprice Horizon ANC headphones are an easy recommendation. They aren’t trying to be a premium product, and they don’t carry a premium price tag. Instead, they focus on delivering core functionality effectively and affordably.
They are the ideal choice for:
- Value Seekers: Those who want maximum features for minimal outlay.
- Commuters and Travelers: Individuals who need effective noise reduction for daily journeys.
- Casual Listeners: Anyone who enjoys podcast, podcasts, and videos without needing an audiophile-grade experience.
- Students: A perfect companion for dorm life or studying in noisy campus environments.
Ultimately, the Monoprice Horizon ANC headphones are a testament to smart engineering and a focus on practical value. Wyze Mesh Router Review
They may not be flashy, but they’re reliable, comfortable, and get the job done, making them a savvy choice in a crowded market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Monoprice Horizon ANC?
The Monoprice Horizon ANC is a pair of over-ear, wireless headphones featuring active noise cancellation ANC, designed to provide a good balance of audio quality, comfort, and noise reduction at an affordable price.
How effective is the ANC on the Monoprice Horizon ANC?
The ANC is very effective for its price point, particularly at reducing low-frequency sounds like engine hums, air conditioning, and road noise.
It’s less effective at blocking out higher-frequency sounds and distinct voices compared to premium ANC headphones, but still provides noticeable quiet.
What is the battery life of the Monoprice Horizon ANC?
The Monoprice Horizon ANC headphones offer up to 30 hours of playback with ANC enabled, and even longer if ANC is turned off.
Do the Monoprice Horizon ANC headphones support Bluetooth 5.0?
Yes, they utilize Bluetooth 5.0, which ensures a stable and efficient wireless connection with compatible devices.
Are the Monoprice Horizon ANC headphones comfortable for long periods?
Yes, they are generally considered very comfortable for extended listening, thanks to their generous ear cup padding, cushioned headband, and well-balanced clamping force.
What kind of sound quality can I expect from the Monoprice Horizon ANC?
You can expect a balanced and enjoyable sound profile with a slight emphasis on the bass, clear mids, and crisp highs.
It’s suitable for most podcast genres, podcasts, and videos, offering good clarity for the price.
Do the Monoprice Horizon ANC headphones come with a carrying case?
No, typically they do not come with a dedicated carrying case, though some bundles might include a simple pouch. They do fold flat for easy storage. Asrock B660 Steel Legend Review
Can I use the Monoprice Horizon ANC headphones wired?
Yes, they usually include a 3.5mm audio cable, allowing you to use them in passive wired mode even if the battery dies.
Note that ANC functionality typically requires battery power.
Are the Monoprice Horizon ANC good for making phone calls?
They are adequate for phone calls in quiet environments.
However, in noisy surroundings, the microphone may pick up significant background noise, making your voice less clear to the caller.
Do these headphones have touch controls?
No, the Monoprice Horizon ANC headphones use physical buttons for all controls power, volume, ANC on/off, play/pause, track skipping, which are tactile and easy to use.
Is there a companion app for the Monoprice Horizon ANC headphones?
No, there is no dedicated companion app for the Monoprice Horizon ANC headphones, meaning there are no options for custom EQ or ANC level adjustments.
What is hybrid active noise cancellation?
Hybrid active noise cancellation uses microphones both on the outside feedforward and inside feedback of the earcups to detect and counteract noise, offering a more effective noise reduction than single-microphone systems.
Are the Monoprice Horizon ANC headphones good for travel?
Yes, their effective ANC for low-frequency noise, long battery life, and foldable design make them a very good option for travel, especially for flights and commutes.
Do they support aptX or other high-quality audio codecs?
Typically, the Monoprice Horizon ANC headphones support standard Bluetooth codecs like SBC and AAC, but not higher-quality codecs like aptX or LDAC.
How long does it take to charge the Monoprice Horizon ANC?
A full charge typically takes a couple of hours using a USB-C cable. Caffeine Review
What is the warranty like for Monoprice products?
Monoprice generally offers a limited warranty on their products, which can vary.
It’s always best to check the specific product page or Monoprice’s official website for the most current warranty information.
Can I connect the Monoprice Horizon ANC to multiple devices simultaneously multipoint?
While some users might experience limited, unofficial multipoint behavior, it is not a consistently advertised or seamlessly supported feature like on many premium headphones.
It’s generally best to assume single-device connection for optimal performance.
Are the ear pads replaceable on the Monoprice Horizon ANC?
Typically, the ear pads on budget headphones like the Horizon ANC are not designed to be easily user-replaceable, though third-party replacements might exist if you’re handy.
Do these headphones leak sound?
Like most over-ear headphones, they offer decent passive isolation, but some sound leakage can occur at very high volumes, especially if the fit isn’t perfect.
Are they suitable for gaming?
For casual gaming where precise audio cues or ultra-low latency aren’t critical, they can work.
However, for competitive gaming, dedicated gaming headsets with lower latency and better microphone performance are usually preferred.
How do they compare to the Anker Soundcore Life Q30?
Both are excellent budget ANC headphones.
The Anker Soundcore Life Q30 often has better battery life and app customization, while the Monoprice Horizon ANC is praised for its comfort, solid build for the price, and effective ANC right out of the box without needing an app. Corel Aftershot Pro Review
Are they sweat-resistant or waterproof?
No, the Monoprice Horizon ANC headphones are not advertised as sweat-resistant or waterproof.
They are not designed for intense workouts or exposure to rain.
Do they have a transparency mode?
No, the Monoprice Horizon ANC typically does not feature a dedicated transparency or ambient sound mode. It’s either ANC on or off.
What type of charging port do they use?
They use a USB-C charging port, which is a modern and convenient standard.
Can I control podcast playback from the headphones?
Yes, the physical buttons on the earcups allow you to play/pause podcast, skip tracks forward and backward, and adjust volume.
Is the headband adjustable?
Yes, the headband is adjustable to accommodate various head sizes for a comfortable fit.
Do they produce a “hiss” with ANC on?
Some very sensitive users might detect a faint, almost imperceptible hiss when ANC is engaged in a very quiet environment, which is common even with premium ANC headphones.
In normal listening situations, it’s not noticeable.
Are these headphones suitable for small heads?
Thanks to their adjustable headband and flexible earcups, they can generally provide a comfortable fit for a wide range of head sizes, including smaller ones.
Is a microphone built-in for calls?
Yes, there is a built-in microphone for hands-free calling. Panasonic Lumix Dc S5 Ii Review
What’s the main advantage of the Monoprice Horizon ANC over other budget headphones?
Its main advantage lies in offering very effective hybrid active noise cancellation, comfortable design, and decent sound quality for a price that significantly undercuts most competitors with similar features.
It’s a strong value proposition for essential ANC functionality.
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