Quick answer
Choose the Grado SR80x if you want a lively, mid-forward sound with a lower price and iconic open-back character. Pick the HiFiman Sundara if you prefer a more neutral, detailed planar magnetic response with a wider soundstage.
Driver technology and sound signature
The Grado SR80x uses a traditional dynamic driver with a 4-conductor cable and S Cushions. Its sound is known for a forward midrange and energetic treble, which makes vocals and guitars stand out. The HiFiman Sundara employs a planar magnetic driver with a Supernano diaphragm that is 80% thinner than earlier designs. This gives a faster transient response and lower distortion, resulting in a more linear and detailed sound across the frequency range.
Your choice depends on whether you prefer the Grado's punchy, intimate presentation or the Sundara's spacious, balanced delivery. Neither is objectively better; they serve different listening tastes.
Build and comfort differences
The Grado SR80x is hand-built in Brooklyn and features a lightweight on-ear design with foam S Cushions. It is comfortable for many listeners but the on-ear fit can become warm during long sessions. The HiFiman Sundara uses a hybrid headband and over-ear pads, which distribute weight more evenly. However, its planar magnetic drivers make it heavier than the Grado, so headband adjustment is important for extended use.
If you wear glasses or have sensitive ears, the Sundara's over-ear design may be more forgiving. If you prefer a featherlight feel and don't mind on-ear pressure, the SR80x is the lighter option.
Decision rules for choosing between Grado SR80x and HiFiman Sundara
- Budget priority: If your budget is under $100, the Grado SR80x is the clear choice. It offers a proven open-back experience at a significantly lower price than the Sundara.
- Sound signature preference: Prefer a forward, energetic midrange and treble? Go with the Grado SR80x. Prefer a neutral, balanced sound with low distortion? The HiFiman Sundara's planar drivers deliver that.
- Comfort and fit: If you prioritize lightweight on-ear design and don't mind foam pads, choose the SR80x. If you need over-ear pads and a more adjustable headband for longer sessions, the Sundara is better despite its extra weight. Try both if possible, especially for on-ear vs over-ear comfort.
- Soundstage and detail: For a wide, open soundstage and micro-detail retrieval, the HiFiman Sundara excels thanks to its planar magnetic driver. For a more intimate, immediate presentation, the Grado SR80x delivers that classic open-back feel.
Product highlights
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Grado SR80x Prestige Series Dynamic Wired On Ear Open Back Stereo Headphones: The Grado SR80x features a dynamic driver, 4-conductor cable, and S Cushion, and has been hand-built in Brooklyn since 1991. This long-running design delivers a lively, mid-forward sound that has earned a loyal following for rock, vocal, and acoustic music.
Grado SR80x Prestige Series Dynamic Wired On Ear Open Back Stereo Headphones
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HiFiman Sundara Planar Dynamic Driver Over Ear Wired Headphones Hybrid Headband: The HiFiman Sundara uses a planar magnetic driver with a Supernano diaphragm that is 80% thinner than previous designs for faster response and lower distortion. The thinner diaphragm provides a more linear, detailed sound with a wider soundstage, ideal for critical listening and complex genres.
HiFiman Sundara Planar Dynamic Driver Over Ear Wired Headphones Hybrid Headband
Which one fits you?
Best for
- Audiophiles on a budget who want a lively, mid-forward sound for rock and acoustic music (Grado SR80x)
- Listeners seeking a neutral, detailed planar magnetic experience with a wide soundstage for critical listening (HiFiman Sundara)
Not ideal for
- Those who need noise isolation or a closed-back design (both are open back and leak sound)
- Portable or on-the-go use (both are wired and require a headphone amp for best performance, especially the Sundara)
