Skip to content
HearWiki

AKG K240 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 K240
Sound6.5
Value6.0
Sennheiser HD 400
Sound8.5
Value8.0

Specifications

Specification comparison of AKG K240 vs Sennheiser HD 400
SpecAKG K240Sennheiser HD 400
TypeOver-EarOver-Ear
Price (USD)$69$77
HearWiki score62 / 100 · Average82 / 100 · Great
Released1975-
Audio
DriverdynamicSennheiser dynamic drivers
Driver size30 mm40 mm
Drivers per side21
Frequency response15Hz-25kHz18Hz-20kHz
Impedance55 Ω120 Ω
Sensitivity91 dB/mW-
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)104-
Wireless
Multipoint pairingNoNo
Battery
Wireless charging-No
Features
Active noise cancellingNoNo
Controls-buttons
Design
Weight240 g240 g
Water resistance-none
FoldableNo-
Detachable cableYes-
USB-CNoYes
Calls
Microphones-1

What reviewers said

AKG K240

The AKG K240 is a semi-open, wired studio headphone with a classic design and a spacious, even sound that works well for critical listening in quiet environments. It offers good comfort and a detachable cable, but its niche appeal, notable sound leakage, and need for EQ to sound its best limit its versatility for everyday use.

  • Pro:Spacious and even sound presentation
  • Pro:Comfortable for long listening sessions
  • Pro:Detachable cable for easy replacement
  • Con:Significant sound leakage, unsuitable for noisy places
  • Con:Requires EQ to sound acceptable to some listeners
  • Con:Limited bass punch and detail compared to rivals

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.

Compare something else

Swap either side out, or start again from the picker.