Target’s $9.99 Sony Headphones Deal: Is This 38% Price Drop Real or a Glitch?
Need a cheap pair of headphones without charging or Bluetooth pairing? Sony’s MDR-ZX110 wired on-ear headphones are currently listed at $9.99 at Target, down from $15.99. That is a $6 discount, or roughly 38%, but the bigger question is whether these are actually worth buying at that price.
“The MDR-ZX110 are wired on-ear headphones with an enfolding, closed-back headband design,” Sony says, noting that the swiveling earcups fold flat for storage. There is no Bluetooth, active noise cancellation or companion app. The appeal is simplicity: plug them into a compatible device and start listening without charging or pairing anything.
“No, these are wired headphones, so they don’t require batteries or charging. They connect through a standard 3.5 mm stereo mini plug,” Sony says about the MDR-ZX110.
“Sony ZX Series Wired On Ear Headphones – (MDR-ZX110)” is currently listed at $9.99, down from $15.99, with a 4.3-star rating from more than 1,000 Target reviews. This is a basic headphone designed to be inexpensive, not a budget version of Sony’s premium lineup.
Where They Make Sense
At just $9.99, the MDR-ZX110 makes perfect sense for a few specific situations: as a reliable backup pair for home, work, or school; as a wired option for devices without Bluetooth.
As headphones you can toss in a bag without worrying about charging; or simply as an inexpensive pair that won’t feel like a major loss if damaged or misplaced.
The biggest advantage is also the simplest one: there is no battery to charge and no wireless connection to troubleshoot.
Where They Fall Short
Reviews generally describe the audio as acceptable for casual listening, but weaker in bass and clarity than more expensive headphones. Build quality is also better suited to light use than heavy daily abuse.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Closed-back, on-ear dynamic headphones |
| Driver Unit | 30 mm, dome type (Neodymium magnet) |
| Frequency Response | 12 Hz – 22,000 Hz |
| Connectivity | 3.5 mm gold-plated L-shaped stereo mini plug (1.2m cord) |
| Weight | ~120 g (4.2 oz) lightweight frame |
| Special Features | Swivel-folding ear cups for compact storage |
If you’re comparing them with Sony’s WH-1000X range, you’re looking at completely different categories.
Is $9.99 Actually Rare?
The MDR-ZX110 has repeatedly fallen into the $9.99–$10 range at Target, Amazon and other retailers over the years.
That makes this more of a recurring low-price point than a once-in-a-lifetime clearance deal. So while the current Target price is legitimate, there’s little reason to panic-buy them because you think the opportunity will never return.
If the price disappears next week, this model has a reasonable history of coming back down again.
Should You Buy Them?
| If You Want… | MDR-ZX110 At $9.99 |
|---|---|
| Cheap backup headphones | Good fit |
| No charging required | Good fit |
| Wired listening | Good fit |
| Premium sound | Not recommended |
| Noise cancellation | No |
| Wireless convenience | No |
| Heavy daily use | Questionable |
At $9.99, these are a sensible low-risk purchase if you specifically need a basic wired pair.
“MSRP is listed as $24.99. Given that, these models can go on sale from time to time,” Sony says on the MDR-ZX110 product page. Target currently lists the MDR-ZX110 as in stock at $9.99, with pickup and other fulfillment options depending on location.
They’re not good enough to justify rearranging your day around the deal, though. Check Target’s current stock and pickup availability at your local store before making a special trip.
