Photos: iFrogz Ear Pollution

The Ear Pollution Toxix headphones might be a suitable choice for budget-conscious users with distaste for earbuds, but others should look elsewhere.

Jasmine France

Nov. 25, 2008 3:53 p.m. PT

1 of 5

The on-ear Ear Pollution Toxix headphones ($20) don't totally live up to their name, but neither do they sound particularly good. The earphones offer a hint of style and a lightweight design, so they could work in a pinch for those on a budget, but the Toxix are far from the best portable option out there.

2 of 5

Let's tackle the design first. No denying that the Ear Pollution Toxix headphones are lightweight and the earcups compact, but the materials are cheap and there's no way to fold the headphones down for storage and transport. This creates a concern for space and durability, as it leaves the headband vulnerable to breakage.

3 of 5

A single--impressively thick--47-inch cable descends from the left cup and terminates in a silver-plated L-plug.

4 of 5

We found that the slight pressure applied to our upper ears by the earcups proved uncomfortable after only 30 minutes of wear, although this is highly subjective.

5 of 5

On the plus side, the Toxix headphones present a touch of style; radiation symbols are stamped on each earcup and there are various color options. You can choose from silver, gold, pink, or brown versions, with each offering one main color and at least one accent to accompany it.