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AKG K175 vs Sennheiser HD 400: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Sennheiser HD 400 comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 82. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Sennheiser HD 400 - Great overall at around $77.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

AKG K175
Sound7.5
Value8.0
Sennheiser HD 400
Sound8.5
Value8.0

Specifications

Specification comparison of AKG K175 vs Sennheiser HD 400
SpecAKG K175Sennheiser HD 400
TypeOver-EarOver-Ear
Price (USD)$58$77
HearWiki score76 / 100 · Great82 / 100 · Great
Released2018-
Audio
DriverdynamicSennheiser dynamic drivers
Driver size40 mm40 mm
Drivers per side21
Frequency response18Hz-26kHz18Hz-20kHz
Impedance32 Ω120 Ω
Sensitivity114 dB/mW-
Wireless
Multipoint pairing-No
Battery
Wireless chargingNoNo
Features
Active noise cancelling-No
Controls-buttons
Design
Weight247 g240 g
Water resistance-none
Detachable cableYes-
USB-CNoYes
Calls
Microphones-1

What reviewers said

AKG K175

The AKG K175 is a wired, closed-back on-ear headphone designed for studio work and portable use, featuring a punchy, engaging sound signature with a wide frequency response. Its low 32-ohm impedance and high sensitivity make it easy to drive from phones and laptops, while the detachable coiled cable adds practical flexibility. The build quality and design are generally praised, though comfort and a slightly aggressive treble may not suit everyone.

  • Pro:Easy to drive with any device
  • Pro:Detachable coiled cable
  • Pro:Punchy bass and engaging sound
  • Con:Treble can sound aggressive at times
  • Con:Comfort is rated lower than other aspects
  • Con:No noise cancellation or wireless options

Sennheiser HD 400

These over-ear Sennheiser headphones are built around a neutral, open-back design aimed at studio work, delivering a wide soundstage and detailed, transparent audio for critical listening. They are lightweight and comfortable for long sessions, with a high-impedance driver setup that helps maintain low distortion, though they lack isolation and come without a carry case. Wired connectivity via USB-C and detachable cables adds versatility, but the open-back nature means sound leaks both ways.

  • Pro:Accurate, transparent sound with wide soundstage
  • Pro:Lightweight and comfortable for extended wear
  • Pro:Detachable cables and USB-C connectivity
  • Con:No included carry case or spare ear pads
  • Con:Open-back design leaks sound and offers no isolation
  • Con:High impedance may require a dedicated amplifier for best results

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

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