The MPOW H10 headphones are an affordable pair of over-ear Bluetooth headphones featuring active noise cancellation technology. In this expert review, we‘ll take an in-depth look at the features, design, sound quality, noise cancellation capabilities, and overall value of the MPOW H10 to see if they are still a recommended buy in 2023/2024.
Overview of the MPOW H10 Wireless Headphones
Released in 2019, the MPOW H10 aimed to deliver decent active noise cancelling capabilities without breaking the bank. Some key features of these closed-back headphones include:
- Over-ear design with soft protein earpads for comfort
- Foldable design for easier portability
- Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity with low latency performance for videos/games
- Hybrid active noise cancellation rated to block up to 32dB of ambient sound
- 40mm dynamic drivers delivering rich, detailed sound
- 30 hour battery life (ANC on), 38 hours (ANC off)
- Built-in microphones for taking calls
- Support for Siri/Google Assistant voice commands
On paper, the MPOW H10 seems to tick a lot of boxes those looking for an affordable yet well-rounded pair of ANC headphones. But how does real-world usage stack up? Let‘s dive into the details.
Design & Build Quality
The MPOW H10 has an understated design featuring thickly padded earcups and a padded headband all finished in black plastic. Overall comfort is quite good thanks to the plush padding and CLAMP force that is firm yet non-fatiguing for longer listening sessions. Those will larger heads should find these accommodate their size well.
However, the all-plastic build does feel rather flimsy and cheap. The swiveling earcups and folding hinges have quite a bit of wiggle and noise when adjusted, giving the impression that durability is not these headphones‘ strong suit. For the price point though, it’s fairly typical. Just don’t expect premium metals and leather here.
In terms of controls, the MPOW H10 keeps things simple. The left earcup houses the ANC and power buttons, while the right earcup has volume and playback controls alongside an LED battery indicator. The buttons provide decent tactile feedback when pressed. Also included is a 3.5mm aux port for wired listening if the batteries run out.
Connectivity & Bluetooth Performance
The MPOW H10 Wireless connects over Bluetooth 5.0, providing upgraded range and stability from older versions of Bluetooth while maintaining broad device compatibility. Pairing to mobile devices is quick and painless. Wireless range is rated at up to 33 feet, allowing freedom of movement within an average size room or office space. Connection stability is also solid thanks to Bluetooth 5.0 and the antenna design MPOW uses.
The MPOW H10 also utilizes the latest Bluetooth codecs for optimal wireless sound quality, supporting AAC and SBC. This allows hi-res audio playback from compatible source devices. Latency when watching videos or gaming is impressively low as well.
Multi-device pairing allows you to store connections for two devices at once. This makes it easy to switch playback from a phone to tablet for example. The one downside is a lack of fast pairing features, so re-pairing does take a few seconds each time a new device is connected.
Sound Quality
A well tuned sound profile is crucial for enjoying music, movies and games. Here’s an breakdown of how the MPOW H10’s 40mm dynamic drivers perform across various audio content:
Bass: Low frequencies have added emphasis leading to a slightly boomy bass response on certain tracks. Bass shows decent depth and slam on EDM or hip hop but lacks definition and control compared to more neutral headphones.
Mids: Vocals and instruments like guitars, pianos etc sound moderately clear on the MPOW H10. However there is a noticeable dip in the midrange response resulting in a scooped sound at times.
Treble: High frequency detail and sparkle is a step below more expensive headphones. The upper treble range in particular sounds more rolled off. But there is still good presence to give sound adequate airiness.
Soundstage: The closed back design of the H10 does limit soundstage size. Instrument imaging is just average and separation can sound congested when tracks get busy. But overall tonality stays fun and engaging if not fully accurate.
Considering the affordable price point, the MPOW H10 delivers pleasing sound quality for casual listening that emphasizes bass and highs. Those looking for neutral reference sound may want to consider spending more. But for mixed usage across genres, the lively sound should satisfy.
Noise Cancellation Performance
Active noise cancellation utilizes advanced microphones and audio processing to neutralize ambient environmental noise around the user automatically. This enhances both music listening in noisy environments but also improves clarity when taking voice calls.
MPOW advertises hybrid active noise cancellation capable of reducing ambient noise by up to 32dB. During testing, the results proved impressive for budget headphones. Constant background noises like vehicle rumble or humming appliances get significantly suppressed when ANC is turned on. Even nearby voices become muted and less intrusive. The technology works for a variety of indoor and outdoor noises, though very loud sounds do still bleed through as expected.
Some subtle hiss is present when no music plays as a side effect of noise cancelling, but this becomes negligible once audio starts streaming. Battery life does take about a 30% hit when frequently utilizing ANC, so weighing usage scenarios is recommended to maximize listening time. But overall the MPOW H10 punches above its class with the level of noise cancelling achieved.
Battery Life
The MPOW H10 is rated to deliver an excellent 30 hours of listening time with ANC on. Turning noise cancellation off stretches playtime even longer to 38 hours per charge. Quick charging via USB-C allows a 5 minute charge to gain 2 hours of battery for those in a pinch. The standby time when stored in a bag or drawer can last for weeks as well, making it easy to pick back up anytime with ample juice leftover.
In practice, reaching the 30+ hour battery claim was achievable at moderate volume levels. Even heavy users should be able to go days between charges, which is impressive for over-ear ANC headphones. The battery status LED keeps you informed when recharge time approaches.
Call Quality
Thanks to the built-in microphones and background noise cancelling capabilities, the MPOW H10 performs quite respectably for voice calls. The person on the other end comes through loud and clear with minimal background noise that might lead to miscommunication. Some muffling is present compared to dedicated headset mics, but for casual usage the call functionality is above average.
MPOW H10 vs Taotronics TT-BH092
The Taotronics TT-BH092 are a similarly priced pair of ANC headphones worthy of comparison. Both models aim to deliver value proposition features to the sub $100 category. Here‘s how they stack up in key areas:
Noise Cancellation: The MPOW H10 system rated at 32dB edges out the 30dB rating of the Taotronics model. Real world testing shows this to translate into slightly better muting of ambient sound on the MPOW pair.
Sound Quality: Preference for audio tuning will come down to the listener here. The MPOW H10 delivers more bass impact where as the TT-BH092 aims for flatter reference sound. For those that enjoy added low end thump, the MPOW gets the nod.
Battery Life: Again the MPOW H10 comes out ahead with 2+ hours of extra listening time thanks to the efficiency of Bluetooth 5.0 and chipsets used. Both can last days of moderate usage however.
Build Quality: Neither headphone screams premium with cheaper plastic used throughout. The Taotronics may feel slightly more solid and durable depending on handling.
Overall both these sub $100 ANC headphones make reasonable cases as budget picks for shoppers. The MPOW H10 gets the win for stronger noise cancellation and bass lovers. But the Taotronics shouldn‘t be overlooked either if you prefer balanced reference sound and build.
MPOW H10 Wireless: Verdict For 2023/2024
The MPOW H10 over-ear headphones with ANC continue to make a compelling value proposition in 2023/2024 for shoppers that want good noise cancelling effect on a modest budget. Sound quality and battery life also outperform average at this low price point. Just set expectations accordingly for plasticky build quality and boomy bass heavy tonality that audiophiles will take issue with.
If your needs are more casual listening to enjoy music, watch movies or make calls with reduced ambient noise, the MPOW H10 absolutely delivers bang for buck. Noise cancelling ability punches far above typical budget models. And excellent wireless performance for most everyday situations seals the deal.
For shoppers needing extra durability though or more critical listening demands, spending up into mid-range headphones would be advisable. Models like the Sony WH-XB910N for example offer improved comfort, sound and noise cancelling in one well built package at around $248 when on sale.
But overall the MPOW H10 Wireless keeps holding its own in 2023/2024 as a sub $100 headphone buy for ANC seekers that can overlook just average build and sound to gain excellent noise reduction.
Where To Buy
The MPOW H10 Wireless headphones have an MSRP of $59.99 directly from MPOW, however better deals can often be found on Amazon and other major retailers:
Be sure to look for coupons and seasonal sales around major holidays when shopping for maximum savings. Used/refurbished units are also sometimes available at bigger discounts for further value.
At the time of review, new MPOW H10 Wireless units started around $38 from Amazon Warehouse with warehouse deals.
FAQ
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the MPOW H10 Wireless headphones:
What colors do the MPOW H10 Wireless headphones come in?
The headphones only are produced in an all black finish. No other color options exist.
Do the MPOW H10 have wireless charging?
Unfortunately no, the MPOW H10 charge via an included USB-C cable. There is no Qi wireless charging support.
Can you use the headphones wired?
Yes, the MPOW H10 will function as passive headphones using the included 3.5mm aux cable when battery life depletes. ANC capabilities will be disabled in wired mode however.
Do the ear pads come off for replacement?
The H10 earpads do not appear to be user replaceable. You would need to inquire with MPOW about potential earpad replacements if they wore out over time.
Is the MPOW H10 good for working out?
The lightweight foldable design can work reasonably well for gym use. They may not stay firmly in place during intense activity due to looser fit. Also sweat resistance is unknown, so corrosion risk exists long term. Check manufacturer guidance to confirm workout suitability.
I hope this expert analysis of the features, capabilities, sound quality and overall value of the budget-friendly MPOW H10 Wireless headphones helps you determine if they are still a recommended ANC model going into 2023/2024. Let me know if you have any other questions!
