Sporting her signature red bowtie, with a cute nose, whiskers and most notably, no mouth, Hello Kitty is a character that is beloved by both the young and old since she made her first appearance in 1974. Her popularity is not limited to her homeland of Japan, and one will find dedicated Hello Kitty cafes, Hello Kitty merchandise such as fashion accessories, stationery, plush toys and more, all over the world. In fact, the Hello Kitty brand makes for the second highest-grossing franchise in the world and is a staple of popular culture.
For audiophiles and music lovers who are also fans of Hello Kitty, a pair of Hello Kitty headphones makes for the perfect fashion statement, whilst also keeping you entertained with your favorite tunes. Additionally, they make great gifts for Hello Kitty fans.
Read our latest guide about the best cat ear headphones.
Types of Hello Kitty headphones
Hello Kitty headphones on the market come in different designs to suit different lifestyles, needs and tastes.
- Wireless - These headphones are versatile and can be paired with a variety of different devices. They provide a better range, allowing users to move to other rooms without losing connectivity, and are less of a hassle to store since there are no cables to get in the way. However, they are battery-powered, so you will not be able to use them if you forgot to charge them.
- Wired - The traditional type of headphones that connect to devices with standard 3.5mm jack outputs, these are simple to use as the user simply needs to plug, play and enjoy their audio. They do not require charging, but the cables might be a hassle especially when commuting or travelling.
- Dual - Some Hello Kitty headphones come with both wireless and wired options - handy for when the battery runs low.
Read our complete guide about the best bluetooth sports headphones.
Key Features To Look Out For
Audio performance
Having a pair of stylish and cute Hello Kitty headphones may proclaim your style and love for the character to the world, but it will not count for much if they deliver poorly in the audio performance department. Just like with other headphones, look for a pair with large, dynamic drivers that offer a good range of sound, clear notes and free from scratchy audio.
Build and Durability
Like most headphones on the market, many Hello Kitty headphones are made from materials such as plastic for the shell and pleather (PVC) for the earcups. If you are willing to shell out money for a quality piece, expect better materials that are built to last. More affordable options made from cheaper plastic and components will break easily, and you might find yourself with unusable headphones in a matter of weeks.
Design and Comfort
Hello Kitty’s biggest market is for children, and as such, many of the models are built especially for children, with features such as a maximum volume control to protect their sensitive hearing, and smaller ear cups. Some models are versatile enough to be worn by both adults and children, with features like adjustable headband and rotating ear cups for a customised fit. There are generally two kinds of designs: over-ear (with the ear cups completely enveloping the ear) and in-ear (with the earbuds placed within the outer ear canal). Both styles offer different degrees of comfort. The over ear can provide better noise isolation and a plush feel, but may be warm to wear in hot weather, while the in-ear is convenient to store and portable, but may not be suitable for a child’s small ears.
Additional Features
While primarily used as a listening device, there are Hello Kitty headphones that come with additional features such as in-built mic, either on the cord or on the headphones themselves if they are wireless, which allows users to use them for phone calls. In addition, in-line controls that allow adjustment of volume levels or quick answering of calls offer convenience.
Top 6 Best Hello Kitty Headphones in 2021
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Picture |
Name | Features | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Picture |
Name | Features | Price | Rating |
| 1. Hello Kitty Bluetooth Headphones with Microphone, Voice Activation and Bonus Auxiliary Cable, by eKid |
Good wireless range | $$ | 4.8 | |
| 2. Hello Kitty Over The Ear Headphones with Built in in-line Microphone by eKids |
Over-ear, plush ear cushions | $$ | 4.8 | |
| 3. Sakar 30309-TRU Hello Kitty Kid Safe Over The Ear Headphone with Volume Limiter |
High Quality, Full Range Stereo Sound | $$ | 4.7 | |
| 4. Hello Kitty Kid Friendly Headphones with Built in Volume Limiting Feature for Safe Listening, by eKid |
Adjustable headband | $$ | 4.6 | |
| 5. Hello Kitty Earbud Headphones with Inline Volume Control |
Ultra Lightweight Design | $$ | 4.6 | |
| 6. iHome Hello Kitty Noise Isolating Earphones with in Line Microphone and Protective Pouch (Si-M15HY.FXV6) by KIDdesigns |
Plug and play wired connectivity | $$ | 4.6 |
1. Hello Kitty Bluetooth Headphones with Microphone, Voice Activation and Bonus Auxiliary Cable, by eKid
Functionality
Cute and functional is the name of the game when it comes to these Hello Kitty headphones by eKid. Designed for convenience as much as style, the headphones work via Bluetooth for wireless compatibility to different devices such as smartphones, tablets and PCs - but also come with a bonus auxiliary cable for use as a traditional, wired pair of headphones.
The Bluetooth function is handy for when you need freedom of movement, and it has a decent range - allowing users to pop over to answer the door, complete chores in another room, or go to the kitchen for a snack - all without losing connectivity. The battery is USB rechargeable, offering up to an impressive 12 hours of music and talk time - ideal for uninterrupted sessions of gaming or watching your favourite TV shows. Meanwhile, the wired cable option will appeal to users who want better clarity and lossless audio.
Audio Performance
The headphones are equipped with large 40 mm dynamic drivers, and are able to produce detailed dynamic sound and an enhanced bass response. As such, they can be used in a variety of applications, whether it’s for listening to different types of music, watching films or TV shows, podcasts, or even gaming.
Design and Build
These over-ear headphones come in the Hello Kitty colours of red and white, with the character emblazoned on each side of the ear cup and Hello Kitty patterns in grey outlined on the exterior of the headband. The pivoting, padded ear cushions are made from pleather, providing a soft and comfortable feel that is still breathable, for long hours of use. The full cups also provide good noise isolation and an immersive experience, although users will still have decent situational awareness. Thanks to the adjustable sliding headband, it can fit virtually any head shape or size, making the headphones suitable for everyone from children to adults. Buildwise, the ear cushions are of good quality, but the headband is made from plastic and has a tendency to break at the top if handled roughly.
Additional Features
The headphones have an approximate measurement of 9.4 x 8.4 x 3.7 inches, and they are lightweight at 14.7 ounces – which means less fatigue when worn for longer periods of time. They are compact and easy to stow away when not in use. The headphones come with an in-built Bluetooth microphone and controls on the side of the cup for track selection, volume levels and taking phone calls. A bonus is the voice prompt system, which alerts users to the headphone’s status, such as when it is powered on, pairing with devices, and when it is at maximum volume. It also allows users to access functions such as Siri and Google Voice to make phone calls, listen to music, set reminders and more.
Pros
- Cute design
- Soft, plush ear cups
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Wired and wireless options
- Adjustable to different head shapes and sizes
- Good wireless range
- In-built microphone
- Easy controls
- Voice prompt system
- Access to Siri and Google Voice
Cons
- Flimsy headband, tends to break at the top
2. Hello Kitty Over The Ear Headphones with Built in in-line Microphone by eKids
Functionality
The eKids company specialises in attractively designed products for children that offer plenty of visual appeal, enriching their daily lives with a dose of fun and colour. Their Hello Kitty over-the-ear headphones are a more affordable option compared to the Bluetooth version, and corded connectivity means that it can be paired with an array of devices easily, be it mobile phones or tablets that have a standard 3.5mm jack.
Audio Performance
The sound quality on these Hello Kitty headphones is decent with good detailing, making them a solid choice for playing music, games or when watching Youtube videos and internet shows. The volume, however, is teeny, even when played on maximum and does not work well in blocking out sound in noisy environments.
Design and Build
Sleek and contemporary, these Hello Kitty headphones come with plush, padded red cushions in a leatherette material, which matches well with the glossy white headband. They completely envelope the ears but offer good breathability. As the headband is adjustable to fit different head sizes and shapes, and the ear cups can be pivoted to different angles, users can get a custom fit – making the headphones a versatile unit that can be worn by both adults and children. The headphones feature the cute character design on each cup and grey Hello Kitty prints all around the plastic headband, and there are prints within the ear cups as well. Care should be taken when handling the unit, however, as the build is rather fragile.
Additional Features
At 8 x 8 x 3.3 inches and weighing 9.6 ounces, the headphones are lightweight and compact for easy storage and less fatigue when worn. The unit includes an in-line microphone that is compatible with most mobile phones, and has in-built controls such as volume toggle and a button for answering calls. The mic quality is good, ideal for calls on Skype or Facebook.
Pros
- Attractive, modern design
- Plug and play via wired connection
- Over-ear, plush ear cushions
- Adjustable headband fits different shapes and sizes
- Pivoting ear cups
- Lightweight, compact
- In-line mic and controls
Cons
- No wireless function
- Fragile build, breaks easily
- Low volume, poor noise isolation
3. Sakar 30309-TRU Hello Kitty Kid Safe Over The Ear Headphone with Volume Limiter
Functionality
Playing music at high volumes can damage one’s hearing, especially in children who have sensitive ears and are still in the developing stages. Parents can rest easy with the Sakar 30309-TRU Hello Kitty headphones, knowing that the volume on these will not exceed the recommended level of 80 percent of the original maximum.
These wired headphones are ideal for children aged between three to nine years old, and are compatible with a variety of portable devices that feature a 3.5mm stereo jack output, such as smartphones, tablets, portable gaming devices, laptops, PCs, CD players and home audio systems. The downside of the volume limiter function is that the headphones are best used in a quiet room, as noisy environments will drown out the music or audio that your child is listening to.
Audio Performance
Sporting large and dynamic drivers, the Sakar Hello Kitty headphones deliver a rich stereo sound experience, from crisp highs and balanced mids to warm, clear lows. Thanks to their full range, the headphones work well for everything from listening to music to in-game audio. Despite touting itself to have ‘sound isolation technology’, sound isolation is poor on the headphones, and they do not keep out noises well.
Design and Build
Add a touch of style to your child’s ears with the Sakar’s playful pink design, which features a fluffy pink headband and soft and breathable over-ear cushions that sit well on a child’s head.
Note that styles may vary when purchasing online. The headband is non-adjustable but bends easily, while the thick padded ear cups can be rotated up to 90-degrees for a more comfortable fit. Despite the plastic build, the outer shell is fairly durable and can tolerate some stretching and drops on the floor, which is good news if you have an excited toddler or child who is rough with his or her items. An issue with durability relates to the quality of the connection, as the audio on the headphones have a tendency to fail on one side after a period of time.
Additional Features
Features on the Sakar are pretty basic. The wired cord measures approximately three feet long, which is plenty of room for connecting to most devices. However, as it cannot be removed, storage can be a hassle if you do not have a cord organiser. The headphones themselves measure roughly 8 x 3 x 9 inches, and are very lightweight at just 4.8 ounces. There is no in-line volume adjustment on the cable, so volume levels have to be adjusted on the device you’re connected to. The headphones also lacks an in-built mic, so it cannot be used for taking or making calls. They do, however, come with a one-year limited warranty.
Pros
- Cute pink design
- Easy plug and play connectivity
- Volume limiter protects user’s hearing
- Rich stereo sound
- Soft, padded ear cushions
- Rotating ear cups for better fit
- Durable exterior build
Cons
- Only good for quiet environments
- Poor noise isolation
- Non-adjustable headband
- Basic functionality, no mic or volume controls
- Audio tends to fail on one side of headphones
4. Hello Kitty Kid Friendly Headphones with Built in Volume Limiting Feature for Safe Listening, by eKid
Functionality
Express your love for Hello Kitty without sacrificing on functionality with these kid-friendly headphones by eKid, ideal as a gift or birthday present. Sporting a simple plug and play function that is easy to use, even for young children, these wired headphones are able to connect to any device which has a standard 3.5mm stereo jack output, such as mobile phones, tablets, game consoles and much more. Parents will like the parental control feature via the headphones’ adjustable volume limiter, which helps to protect their child’s hearing by providing a safe and optimal listening experience. The limiter has three modes, namely low, medium and high, which can be adjusted via the side of the ear cup.
Audio Performance
Thanks to dynamic drivers, the headphones provide a decent sound range, with crisp highs and well-rounded lows. Ideally, they should be used in quiet environments due to the volume limiter. Noise isolation is poor, so they will not drown out noise if used in settings such as an airplane or while riding in a car.
Design and Build
Setting itself apart from the usual generic designs but still keeping to the Hello Kitty brand, the headphones come with adorable-looking, fluffy white cat ears on the top, complete with a pink bow tie - just like how the Sanrio character is often portrayed. The sides of the headband are in a glossy, vibrant pink, while the padded ear cushions come in a light shade of teal. The adjustable headband and pivoting ear cups allow for a comfortable custom fit, and can even expand to fit adults. However, as the material is plastic, don’t expect it to last very long, especially if the headphones are not handled with care.
Additional Features
The headphones are basic and intended to be used for listening to audio only, as it lacks an in-line mic. The cord is about three feet long, which is sufficient for most uses. It cannot be detached for easy storage, however. The headphones themselves should fit easily into most spaces, as it weighs just 5.8 ounces and measures around 5.5 x 2.5 x 7 inches.
Pros
- Hello Kitty-inspired ‘cat ears’ design
- Easy to connect to various devices
- Parental control, volume limiter
- Padded ear cushions for comfort
- Adjustable headband
- Decent sound range
Cons
- Cheap build
- Poor noise isolation, for quiet environments only
- No mic
5. Hello Kitty Earbud Headphones with Inline Volume Control
Functionality
If you’re looking for something basic, cute and inexpensive, then look no further than the Hello Kitty earbud headphones. These are original units licensed by Sanrio for the USA market, so buyers can be rest assured that they are not cheap knock-offs.
Over-ear headphones can be bulky and uncomfortable for extended periods of wear, so the earbud style is well suited for those who are constantly on the go and need a quick and fuss-free solution for their audio needs. The wired connectivity means that users can simply plug the headphones into any device with a standard 3.5mm output jack, be it smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles or iPods, and enjoy seamless audio.
Audio Performance
For their price point, these headphones offer a good range and clarity. Highs are clear and sweet, while mids are balanced, with a nice thump in the lower end of the spectrum. The headphones should be more than sufficient for day-to-day activities, such as jogging, commuting or watching films on a plane. Noise isolation is decent as well. However, the audio does tend to get scratchy over time.
Design and Build
Going for a minimalist design, these headphones still manage to pull off a stylish look, with sleek metallic earpieces complemented by a black plastic ring embossed with the Hello Kitty branding, topped off by hot pink earbuds. The earbuds come in sets of three in different sizes, namely small, medium and large, so users can get a more customised fit. These are standard sizes so they might be too large for young children. You will also find Hello Kitty printed on the exterior of the in-line control knob. The cord itself is white which goes with the Hello Kitty colour scheme.
Additional Features
The headphones are pretty basic so they do not come with a mic for taking or making calls. They do, however, come with an in-line volume control knob, which allows users to easily adjust it via a wheelie without having to fiddle with their electronic devices. Some users have noted that the volume causes static and crackling when it is adjusted, however. The cord is longer than usual, measuring 1.2 metres, so a cord organiser might be needed to keep mess to a minimum. The headphones’ lightweight of 5.3 ounces makes them easy to carry around on the commute, making them a handy travel accessory.
Pros
- Lightweight, portable
- Good range and clarity
- Simple but attractive design
- In-line volume control
- Easy to operate
- Connects to various devices
- Different earbud sizes
Cons
- Crackling when volume is adjusted
- Long cable
- Not for children
6. iHome Hello Kitty Noise Isolating Earphones with in Line Microphone and Protective Pouch (Si-M15HY.FXV6) by KIDdesigns
Functionality
KIDdesigns is known as a manufacturer of interactive toys and electronics, combining state-of-the-art technology with old-fashioned fun to create innovative and enjoyable products that can be enjoyed by children of all ages. Those looking for a stylish and portable audio companion for their travels will find it in their iHome Hello Kitty noise-isolating earphones range. These earbud-style headphones work with a variety of electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, PCs, laptops, gaming consoles, iPods and more, by simply plugging the cord into any standard 3.5mm jack output. While they are designed for kids, parents looking for volume control to protect their children’s hearing will have to try their luck elsewhere, however, as the earphones do not come with a volume limiter.
Audio Performance
Enjoy crystal clear, crisp sound whilst still looking your best, as the iHome comes with large, dynamic drivers that offer solid performance and a well balanced range. The noise isolating technology helps to keep listeners immersed - ideal for noisy environments such as in public spaces or an airplane - but still offers a degree of situational awareness.
Design and Build
Stay sporty and cool with the earphones’ simple but adorable design, featuring Hello Kitty prints on the exterior of the buds in a metallic finish, juxtaposed against a white background which makes the prints stand out even more. The buds and cord are in a vivid red, similar to Hello Kitty’s bow and outfit. Meanwhile, the eartips come in varying sizes for a customised fit, including smaller ones for children and larger ones for adults. Build wise, the earphones should be handled with care as they are not very durable, which is disappointing given their higher-than-average price point.
Additional Features
Aside from listening to music or watching films, these earphones can also be utilised for making and taking calls, or even in-game conversation, thanks to the in-line microphone which offers decent clarity. A convenient answer button on the cord allows users to accept calls without having to reach for their smartphones. However, the unit does not come with in-line volume control.
The earphones measure 7 x 1 x 3 inches and is the lightest model on this list, weighing in at a feather-light 2.08 ounces. Owing to their compact size, they can be easily misplaced - but fret not, as also included with the earphones is a cute Hello Kitty carry pouch in white and red, complete with draw string so that you can keep the earbuds clean and secure. The entire package makes for the perfect gift for Hello Kitty fans.
Pros
- Cute design
- Plug and play wired connectivity
- Solid audio performance
- Good noise isolation, ideal for commuting or travelling
- Comes with a carry pouch for storage
- In-line mic control
- Varying ear tip sizes for custom fit
Cons
- No in-line volume control
- No volume limiter
- Expensive
- Not durable