Introduction: Is the Kogan NC45 Ultra worth your money?
When a brand known for affordable tech releases a flagship-feeling pair of headphones priced around $80, the question isn’t whether they exist, but whether they actually deliver. The Kogan NC45 Ultra Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones aim to offer premium features at a budget price. In this review, I’ll unpack what you get, where the compromises lie, and who should consider buying these before reaching for a pricier option.
What’s in the box and initial impressions
First impressions matter, and the NC45 Ultra scores well here. The box includes a protective grey case, a USB-A to USB-C charging cable, and a 3.5mm audio cable for wired listening. I appreciated that packaging and accessories feel deliberate rather than bare-bones, especially at this price point. The headphones arrived pre-charged and paired quickly, a nice touch for immediate testing.
Noise cancellation and awareness features
The standout feature is the active noise cancellation (ANC). For an $80 pair, the NC45 Ultra performs commendably in typical office environments, muting keyboard clatter and ambient chatter without completely isolating you from the world. On buses and trains, the cancellation is still audible but not overpowering; you’ll notice the world—a safer, more balanced approach for daily use. A transparency mode is present, letting you converse with someone near you without removing the headphones. It’s a practical feature that complements casual listening and gym sessions alike.
Sound quality and listening experience
Be prepared for honest, budget-conscious sound. The bass is present but not overpowering, with a slight muffling when pushed to higher volumes. Mid-tones carry vocal clarity relatively well, which benefits lyric-heavy tracks, while high frequencies remain listenable without harshness. If you crave audiophile-grade sound customization, the NC45 Ultra isn’t the target; but for everyday listening, streaming, and commuting playlists, the sound profile remains enjoyable and forgiving for various genres.
Battery life and practical endurance
Kogan promises up to 35 hours of use with ANC active, which translates to several days of mixed use for most people. In real-world testing, the headphones comfortably covered multiple sessions without a recharge. If you’re rarely listening at max volume, you’ll likely squeeze even more hours out of a single charge.
Controls, comfort, and build quality
The NC45 Ultra’s control scheme is where some users may stumble. There isn’t a dedicated Bluetooth pairing button; instead, it relies on a multifunction control. This means a few extra taps to switch devices, which can be fiddly during quick device hops. The touch-sensitive ANC and volume controls can feel overly sensitive if you’re not deliberate, so a careful touch is advisable. Pairing and control responsiveness aside, the build feels sturdy for the price, and the headband is adjustable to accommodate larger heads. Comfort is decent, though the padding isn’t plush for extended sessions, and the cans don’t fold flat. Carrying them in the supplied case is your best bet for portability.
No sound customization and practical trade-offs
Custom sound profiles aren’t part of the package here. If you’re someone who likes to tailor EQ settings for different genres, you’ll be disappointed. Distortion can appear at higher listening levels, so I’d recommend moderate volumes to preserve clarity and your hearing. For many users, especially casual listeners, the lack of customization is a fair trade-off for the price and battery life.
Should you buy the NC45 Ultra?
Bottom line: yes, with caveats. If you’re shopping on a budget but want decent ANC, solid battery life, and a protective case included, the NC45 Ultra offers compelling value. It won’t satisfy true audiophiles seeking deep customization or the absolute top-tier sound quality, but for everyday listening, commuting, and office use, it’s a strong contender in the under-$100 segment.
The verdict
Kogan’s NC45 Ultra Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones strike a rare balance: practical ANC, respectable sound, long battery life, and an included case—all at a wallet-friendly price. If you’re ready to trade some premium refinements for affordability, these headphones deserve a place on your shortlist. The real catch isn’t a hidden flaw—it’s the honest truth that you’re trading a few premium features for substantial savings. For many, that’s a worthy exchange.
The author tested the NC45 Ultra Headphones as part of a device evaluation. Results reflect typical mixed-use scenarios and may vary with individual listening habits.
