Claw SM90 specifications and in-depth review

Claw SM90

Manufacturer: Claw

The Claw SM90 is a wired over-ear headphone built for listeners who prioritise a straightforward, cable-based connection without the complexity of wireless pairing. It ships with a travel bag and features a detachable, tangle-free cable, making it reasonably practical for transport despite not being foldable.

On the technical side, the SM90 uses a 50 mm driver unit backed by a neodymium magnet, covering a frequency range from 10 Hz up to 40000 Hz. Impedance sits at 32 Ohms, and the sound pressure level is rated at 97 dB/mW. The closed-back design contributes to passive noise reduction, and the headset includes a control panel on the device itself, allowing it to double as a headset for calls.

Pros
  • The detachable and tangle-free cable makes storage and replacement straightforward
  • A travel bag is included, adding convenience for transport
  • The wide frequency range of 10 Hz to 40000 Hz covers both deep lows and very high frequencies
  • The 50 mm driver unit with a neodymium magnet provides a physically substantial driver setup
  • Passive noise reduction from the closed-back design helps block ambient sound without requiring power
  • Can function as a headset, supporting voice communication alongside audio use
Cons
  • The 4-metre cable length may be cumbersome in desktop or mobile contexts where a shorter cable would be more practical
  • No active noise cancellation is available for environments with persistent background noise
  • The headphone cannot be folded, making it bulkier to pack despite the included travel bag
  • No in-line control panel means adjustments must be made directly on the connected device
  • No water resistance means it cannot be used in wet or high-humidity conditions
  • Lacks spatial audio support, limiting immersive audio experiences on compatible platforms
Who is this for?

The Claw SM90 suits users who prefer a reliable wired, over-ear listening setup in a fixed environment such as a home studio, office desk, or recording space. The closed-back design with passive noise reduction makes it a reasonable choice for those who need to focus without active noise cancellation technology. Its ability to double as a headset for voice communication, combined with the wide frequency range and 50 mm neodymium driver, makes it practical for users who split their time between audio playback and calls. The included travel bag and detachable cable also appeal to users who occasionally transport their gear between locations.

Who is this NOT for?

Users who need wireless or Bluetooth connectivity will find the Claw SM90 entirely unsuitable, as it relies solely on a wired connection. The 4-metre cable and non-foldable design make it impractical for commuting, travel, or on-the-go use, where compactness and freedom of movement matter. Anyone looking for active noise cancellation, spatial audio support, or in-line controls for quick adjustments while mobile will also find this headphone lacking, as none of those features are present. Its complete absence of water resistance further rules it out for outdoor, fitness, or any moisture-prone environments.

Design:

Fit Over-ear
has a detachable cable
water resistance None
can be folded
is designed for kids
has a tangle free cable
travel bag is included
has an open-back design
cable length 4 m
has stereo speakers

The Claw SM90 uses an over-ear fit and a closed-back design, with stereo speakers delivering sound to both ears. Its detachable, tangle-free cable measures 4 metres in length, offering flexibility in how the headphone is used and stored. The unit is not foldable and carries no water resistance rating, so it is intended for dry, stationary environments rather than outdoor or active use. A travel bag is included in the package, and the headphone is not specifically designed for children.

Sound quality:

has active noise cancellation (ANC)
lowest frequency 10 Hz
highest frequency 40000 Hz
driver unit size 50 mm
impedance 32 Ohms
supports spatial audio
sound pressure level 97 dB/mW
has a neodymium magnet
has passive noise reduction

The Claw SM90 covers a wide frequency range, stretching from 10 Hz at the low end up to 40000 Hz at the top, and its 50 mm driver unit is powered by a neodymium magnet. Impedance is rated at 32 Ohms, and the sound pressure level reaches 97 dB/mW. The headphone provides passive noise reduction through its closed-back construction, though it does not include active noise cancellation or support for spatial audio.

Power:

Has USB Type-C
Has a solar power battery

The Claw SM90 does not include USB Type-C connectivity and has no solar power battery, reflecting its nature as a fully passive wired headphone that requires no charging or external power source to operate.

Connectivity:

connectivity Wired

The Claw SM90 uses a wired connection, meaning it relies entirely on a physical cable to connect to the audio source rather than any form of wireless technology.

Features:

has ambient sound mode
has in/on-ear detection
has a mute function
control panel placed on a device
can be used as a headset
Has an in-line control panel

The Claw SM90 can be used as a headset, making it suitable for voice communication in addition to audio playback. Controls are handled via a control panel placed on the device itself rather than through an in-line panel on the cable. The headphone does not include ambient sound mode, in/on-ear detection, or a dedicated mute function.

Final Verdict

The Claw SM90 is a no-frills wired over-ear headphone that delivers a straightforward, dependable listening and communication experience for stationary use. Its 50 mm neodymium driver covering a 10 Hz to 40000 Hz frequency range, combined with passive noise reduction and headset capability, makes it a practical choice for desk-bound users who value simplicity and reliability over wireless convenience or advanced smart features. Those willing to work within the constraints of a fixed cable and a non-foldable form factor will find it a capable companion for focused listening and voice use alike.