Dyson made headlines when it leaped into the personal audio market, but its latest effort, the Dyson OnTrac, has hit a noticeable snag. Originally boasting a high price tag to match its bold, customizable aesthetics, the OnTrac has recently seen a massive price slash down to AU$299. While a steep discount on a Dyson product usually triggers a buying frenzy, savvy shoppers should pause before hitting "add to cart."
A price cut doesn't instantly turn mediocre audio engineering into a masterclass. Despite the striking industrial design, the OnTrac suffers from a noticeably heavy build, a somewhat cramped soundstage, and active noise cancellation (ANC) that merely keeps up rather than sets the standard. If you are looking to spend around AU$300 for top-tier sound, a discount on style shouldn't trump actual acoustic performance. As an audio expert, these are the three superior over-ear headphones I recommend buying instead.
3 Audio Expert-Approved Alternatives
- Sony WH-1000XM4: The Value Champion
Even with the XM5 available, the WH-1000XM4 remains the gold standard for pure value. It offers industry-leading noise cancellation, rich dynamic sound, and a lightweight, foldable design that makes Dyson’s heavy aluminum cups feel burdensome by comparison. - Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless: Best for Audiophiles
If raw sound quality and battery life are your main priorities, Sennheiser completely outperforms the OnTrac. The Momentum 4 delivers exceptionally balanced acoustic fidelity, deep bass, and an astonishing 60-hour battery life—more than double what Dyson offers. - Bose QuietComfort Headphones: Unmatched Ergonomics
Dyson’s bulk can lead to listening fatigue very quickly. Bose, on the other hand, mastered plush, featherlight comfort years ago. The base QuietComfort model offers unmatched physical comfort alongside elite noise isolation, making it ideal for daily commutes and long flights.
The Verdict: Don't Buy the Hype
Dyson deserves credit for attempting to disrupt the audio space with customizable ear caps and unconventional aesthetics. However, great headphones require sound precision and ergonomic comfort above all else. At AU$299, the OnTrac is certainly a better deal than it was at launch, but established audio legacy brands still offer far better sound, comfort, and noise cancellation for your hard-earned cash.