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Sennheiser HD 400 vs Shure Srh240a: 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.

Sennheiser HD 400
Sound8.5
Value8.0
Shure Srh240a
Sound5.5
Value6.0

Specifications

Specification comparison of Sennheiser HD 400 vs Shure Srh240a
SpecSennheiser HD 400Shure Srh240a
TypeOver-EarOver-Ear
Price (USD)$77$59
HearWiki score82 / 100 · Great58 / 100 · Average
Released-2024
Audio
DriverSennheiser dynamic driversdynamic
Driver size40 mm40 mm
Drivers per side12
Frequency response18Hz-20kHz20Hz-20kHz
Impedance120 Ω38 Ω
Sensitivity-107 dB/mW
Wireless
Multipoint pairingNoNo
Battery
Wireless chargingNo-
Features
Active noise cancellingNoNo
Controlsbuttons-
Design
Weight240 g238 g
Water resistancenonenone
Foldable-No
Detachable cable-No
USB-CYesNo
Calls
Microphones1-

What reviewers said

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

Shure Srh240a

The Shure SRH240A is an affordable wired over-ear headphone aimed at budget-conscious users, though it delivers only average performance. Its sound is clear and reasonably detailed, but the overall experience is hampered by a plasticky build, weak isolation, and comfort issues that limit its appeal beyond casual home listening.

  • Pro:Clear, fairly detailed sound for the price
  • Pro:Lightweight and easy to drive with most devices
  • Pro:Budget-friendly wired design with simple controls
  • Con:Cheap, creaky build quality
  • Con:Weak noise isolation and noticeable sound leakage
  • Con:Uncomfortable fit for extended sessions

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

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