Display & Audio Setup
Sennheiser HD 490 PRO
By Nick Miles · Updated 2026-10-03 · 3 expert sources
Pros
- +130-ohm impedance (Sennheiser); SoundGuys had no trouble getting enough volume plugged straight into a laptop
- +RTINGS calls it lighter on the head than some open-backs and very comfortable
- +Two ear-pad options in the box, and SoundGuys found both comfortable for hours
- +SoundGuys lists neutral sound and a lightweight, comfortable fit among its strengths
- +Includes a 3.5 mm to 6.3 mm adapter, so it moves between an audio interface and a laptop (SoundGuys)
Cons
- −SoundGuys found the ear pads difficult to swap and worries the plastic clasps might eventually break
- −SoundGuys' FAQ cautions that at 130 ohms some laptops may not deliver enough volume
- −RTINGS notes it is still quite bulky
- −No mic on the cable and no wireless option (SoundGuys)
Score breakdown
- Expert consensus6.8
- Effectiveness10.0
- Build safety9.0
- Durability9.2
- Value8.7
Expert Consensus rests on one rated review (SoundGuys, 6.8/10); no other rated review of this model was found on 2026-10-03. Build safety is provisional. Our 2026-10-03 search of CPSC recall data found no recall for this product, and no safety, heat or failure reports turned up in our sources, but we have not yet verified its UL/ETL or equivalent safety certification. The 9.0 is a placeholder until that evidence is reviewed, not a certified rating.
What the experts say
“The headphones have an impedance of 130 ohms, and I had no trouble getting enough volume by plugging the headphones directly into my laptop.”
“While they're lighter on the head than some open-backs and are very comfortable, they're still quite bulky and will easily fall off your head if you decide to take them on a run.”