The Best In Ear Headphones For 2024

Nicolas Ward By, Nicolas Ward
Updated
Sony WF-C500 Truly Wireless In-Ear Bluetooth Earbud Headphones
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Sony WF-C500 Truly Wireless In-Ear Bluetooth Earbud Headphones

The Sony WF-C500 Truly Wireless In-Ear Bluetooth Earbud Headphones offers a high quality listening experience with natural sound. With the latest Bluetooth version and up to 3 hours of battery life, these earbuds are perfect for any occasion. The splashproof design also means that you can enjoy your music in the rain or at the gym without any worries. Read Review

2. Runner Up: FiiO FH7 Headphones Wired Earphones Earbuds in-Ear High Resolution

On the FH7, FiiO's patented acoustic design - S.TURBO V2.0 - has been further optimized to extract even more performance from the dynamic driver. With the right sound, you can jolt your ears. The 13.6mm large dynamic driver is made of beryllium, which is known for being light, thin, and extremely rigid for even deeper, explosive bass. Read Review

3. Best Performance: Sony IER-Z1R Signature Series in-Ear Headphones (IERZ1R)

The winner combines-z1r headphones will elevate your listening experience. You will hear a stunningly accurate sound reproduction thanks to the HD hybrid driver system, refined-phase structure, and the sonic purity provided by a balanced audio connection of 4.4mm. This will transform your listening experience to one you can actually feel. Read Review

4. Best Comfortable: Shure SE425CL Professional Sound Isolating Earphone with Secure in-Ear

The Shure SE425 cl professional earphone offers Hi-Definition sound, so you can enjoy a full range of audio. With two drivers and sound isolation in a detachable cable, you can customize the fit and listen to your favorite music with complete clarity. Read Review

When it comes to choosing the right pair of headphones, things can get pretty overwhelming. There are so many factors that need to be taken into account and it’s easy for anyone to get confused and unsure about what they should buy. Aside from performance, style is also a very important factor when buying headphones.

This is why there are so many different kinds of headphones available in the market today – from big over-ear headphones to small in-ear monitors and everything in between. There are also several different types of headphones available – open back vs closed back, sealed vs semi-open, supra-aural vs circumaural, etc. Each type has its benefits and drawbacks, but you can easily find the perfect one for you by reading this article carefully!

After nearly many hours of research, we were able to come up with many top products from prominent brands. Among them, Sony WF-C500 Truly Wireless In-Ear Bluetooth Earbud Headphones seems to be the first product you can rely on. Alternatively, if you're simply looking for a good-looking option, you may go with FiiO FH7 Headphones Wired Earphones Earbuds in-Ear High Resolution.

Our article today focuses mainly on giving you guidelines and tips to be able to buy the right product that best suits your needs. Explore with us right here.

Our Top Picks

  • Ergonomic Surface Design conforms to most ear shapes
  • Up to 10hr battery life, total up to 20hr with charging case
  • Splash-proof and sweat-proof with an IPX4 rating
  • DSEE restores high frequency sounds lost in compression
  • Optional use of one earbud only
  • Fine-tune your sound using the Sony Headphones Connect app
  • Easier, clearer hands-free calling
  • Easy button operation to take control without your phone
  • Small and light for a great fit and all day wear
  • Experience 360 Reality Audio for a truly immersive experience
  • Provided with a LC-3.5C earphone cable that is composed of high-purity Litz monocrystalline copper-plated silver wires.
  • Create your own sound with 3 pairs of interchangeable sound filters and 15 pairs of eartips (with 3 pairs of SpinFit tips in S/M/L)
  • 4 Knowles DFK+SWFK BA driver units and one 13.6mm large beryllium diaphragm dynamic driver
  • S.TURBO acoustic design, exotic-inspired independent sound tubes and exotic-inspired acoustic structural design
  • Aerospace-grade aluminum-magnesium alloy, treated with five-axis CNC machining
  • 4.4mm balanced, and conventional 3.5mm, connection cables supplied
  • Crafted in Japan
  • Optimized for High-Resolution Audio reproduction
  • HD hybrid driver system (2 dynamic 1 Balanced Armature)
  • Refined-phase structure for extensive sound
  • In the box: Headphone cable (approx 1.2 m), Balanced connection headphone cable (approx. 12m), Triple Comfort ear buds: SS, S, MS, M, ML, L, Hybrid ear buds: SS, S, MS, M, ML, L, LL Clip Carrying case, Cable holder, Cleaning cloth, Cable clip
  • Quality cable for preserving signal purity
  • Sound Space Control for wide sound space
  • Formable wire ensures secure placement over the ear
  • STRIKING FULL-RANGE SOUND - Full range sound from a dual high-definition driver to deliver accurate, natural sound in a discrete, durable design.
  • COMPACT CARRYING CASE - Convenient, tangle-free solution to store and travel with your earphones.
  • CUSTOMIZED FIT - Includes three sizes (S, M, L) of the flex and black foam sleeves. Experiment with the size and style that creates the best fit for you.
  • DURABLE REINFORCED CABLE - Detachable cable is durable enough to withstand everyday wear, yet allows for easy replacement in case of damage. Gold plated MMCX Connector has a lock-snap mechanism allowing 360-degree rotation for comfortable fit.
  • Shure CBL-M-plusK Music Phone Cable with Remote plus Mic for iPone, iPod and iPad works with Shure's SE425 earphones.
  • SOUND ISOLATING TECHNOLOGY - Own your audio space with sound isolating design that eliminates noise and keeps your experience pristine. It’s the right way to listen and the only way to really hear.
  • Available in clear or metallic silver
  • WHAT'S IN THE BOX: Includes a free two-year warranty, SE425 Detachable Sound Isolating Earphones, 3.5mm cable, fit kit with a variety of sleeves for the perfect fit, 1/4“ adapter, and a carrying case.
  • Accurate and Balanced Sound
  • Flexible memory cable loops over ears for a custom fit and long-wearing comfort
  • Includes a carrying case, silicone ear tips, Comply foam ear tips and 6.3mm (1/4") plug-on adapter
  • Three balanced armature drivers provide accurate and extended response across the entire frequency range
  • Detachable cable offers exceptional durability and optimized audio performance
  • Specially designed housing provides maximum isolation, allowing you to focus on the music
  • Easy Wireless Charging with Qi Technology: No cables necessary – the WF-1000XM4 feature Qi technology for easy wireless charging. You can even use a smartphone with Qi technology, like the latest Xperia models with reverse wireless charging, to charge your headphones and charging case
  • Listen all Day, Charge in Minutes: You can enjoy a full working day of charge – 8 hours – from your wireless earbuds and store another 16 hours in the case. That means a full 24 hours of listening time every time you leave the house. In a hurry? Just a 5-minute quick charge gives you up to 60 minutes of play time
  • Everything’s at Your Fingertips: The WF-1000XM4 headphones feature intuitive touch control settings – for example, tap on the left earbud to change from Noise Canceling to Ambient Sound and long tap for Quick Attention, or double tap on the right to skip to the next track. What’s more, you can assign your own functions to each earbud using the Headphones Connect app
  • A Clearer, More Stable Bluetooth Signal: The optimization of the transmission algorithm with the Integrated Processor V1 has made the connection more stable and less prone to sound skipping, even in an environment where there is interference. It allows sound to be transmitted to both ears at the same time with very low latency, and with a higher signal strength than ever before
  • Bundle Includes: Sony WF-1000XM4 True Wireless Noise Canceling In-Ear Headphones (Black) and Focus 10,000mAh Ultra Portable LED Display Wireless Quick Charge Battery Bank
  • IP54 DUST, SPLASH & SWEAT: Enjoy an outstanding audio experience no matter where you are or how much you push the limits
  • Number of items: 3
  • Included components: Wireless Charging Case
  • LONG BATTERY LIFE: Get up to 27 hours of music playtime with on the go charging with the high-quality case that comes with the product
  • SECURE CUSTOMIZED FIT: Compact, ergonomic design, interchangeable fins and a choice of ear adapters let you achieve optimal comfort and a secure fit
  • FULL DIGITAL CONTROL: Our Smart Control App for iOS / Android allows earbud functionalities to be personalized for your everyday needs; fully adaptable controls for music, calls and voice assistant, along with independent earbud use
  • SUPERIOR SOUND, NO COMPROMISE: Powered by Sennheiser’s TrueResponse transducer, personalized with the built-in equalizer and with a wide range of Bluetooth codec support (AAC, aptX, SBC)
  • ADAPTABLE ACOUSTICS: Open ear adapters for situational awareness so you can stay in tune with the world and closed ear adapters for passive noise cancellation to block distractions so you can focus on your workout
  • Speak-to-chat technology automatically reduces volume during conversations
  • Exceptional sound quality with new Integrated Processor V1 and supporting LDAC codec.
  • Easy wireless charging with Qi technology
  • IPX4 Water resistance
  • 8 hours long battery with Noise Canceling
  • Industry-leading noise canceling bluetooth earbuds with the new Integrated Processor V1
  • “Sony | Headphones Connect” App for Android /iOS
  • Ergonomic surface design for a better fit
  • Stable Bluetooth connection
  • Crystal-clear call quality, beamforming microphone and a bone-conduction sensor provide clear voice detection even in noisy environments
  • ENHANCED EXPERIENCE – Get the best and improved performance by updating your headset through Jabra Sound+ App
  • CRYSTAL-CLEAR CALLS – Whether you’re working out or working on that big deadline, Elite 7 Active offers amazing clarity; With 4 microphones and covered with fine SAATI Acoustex mesh for wind protection, these earbuds have you covered
  • MY SOUND IS YOUR SOUND – Our latest pioneering technology tests your hearing in the Jabra Sound+ app, and tailors your music to suit your individual hearing profile; My Sound makes the music you love even better
  • MAXIMUM PERFORMANCE – Personalization options and 6 mm speakers for a powerful sound - use just one bud with Mono Mode - each offers up to 8 hours battery and 30 hrs with the case
  • FREE YOUR WORKOUT – When you’re working up a sweat, Elite 7 Active stay comfortably in place; With our unique ShakeGrip technology along with being IP57 water and sweatproof, these earbuds are designed to stay in no matter how hard you work out
  • INTELLIGENT NOISE CONTROL – Choose your preferred levels of immersion or awareness for your workout with adjustable ANC and HearThrough technology - only hear what you want to hear
  • The IE 800 S provides breathtaking reference-grade audiophile sound you can fit in a pocket
  • Sealed ear canal fit isolates the listener from their environment for giant-sized sound anywhere (wide assortment of eartips are included for a seamless fit)
  • A specially developed Dual Chamber Absorber system prevents frequency crowding to reveal subtle details buried in your music
  • Made in Germany with proprietary 7mm Extra Wide Band transducers in a rugged ceramic body that sounds like a full-size headphone
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a best in ear headphones?

A range of elements, including those listed below, influence the best in ear headphones. The study process varies depending on the material. We'll be able to assist you and provide solutions since we're here to help you.

Please keep in mind the following points before selecting best in ear headphones:

Durability

A headphone shouldn't be considered disposable technology. This year's headphones will not be outdated six months from now, unlike almost all other consumer electronics. A pair of good headphones should last at least ten years.
Make sure you check the quality of headphones before purchasing. For example, some earbuds or portable devices can be quite fragile. Are the hinges strong enough to hold the headphones together for storage? Or will they break in just a few months? Remember that headphones' earpads, earbuds, and headphone cables will experience a lot of wear over their lifetime.

Special Features

A lot of earbuds or headphones have bonus features like Dolby Atmos support, spatial audio and adaptive EQ. You can also participate in calls and video calls when they are paired with your phone.
Many of these earbuds can be used with either your phone's native app or a separate app that allows you to locate an errant earbud quickly. Most headphones, however, aren't waterproof or water-resistant.
Consider the audio type and the place you will be listening. Then, pick the headphones that have the most common features and functions.

Headphone Type

Do you prefer a pair of headphones that are sealed or in-ear? Is active noise cancellation technology available in a headphone?
It is important to consider comfort. You might be using your headphone at least 4-5 hours per days. Would you choose a product that is strong but also isolates you well? Would you choose a larger can, which is lighter but still portable, or a smaller can?

Design

The design is often more important than everything. Do you want in-ear or on-ear headphones, as well as over-ear and under-ear models? Wireless or wired? Sporty or luxury? These headphones can be worn for many occasions so you need something that fits your needs. No matter what type of headphones you decide to get, ensure that they are sturdy, lightweight, comfortable, and easy to transport.

Mobile App

Most popular headphones and earbuds have an app that allows you to control your audio experience.
Some apps allow you to pair the device and control the settings, while others let you manually adjust the volume and bass levels of the headphones or earbuds.

Accessories

Accessories are equally important for wired models. The manufacturer should include an aux cable. It is a good idea to get headphones with an carrying case, charger cable, user manual, extra tips, or ear cups.

Audio Quality

The second option is sound. There are many models that offer different sound quality. You want to choose headphones that suit your taste. With the companion app, some models can be customized to produce a sound that suits their needs.

FAQs

Does A Higher Price Tag Mean The Headphones Will Sound Better?

Not necessarily. It's surprising that so many people spend hundreds on smartphones but don't want to buy quality headphones. However, you shouldn't assume that all cheap headphones are equal.

Do I Need A Headphone Amplifier?

The quality of portable MP3/CD players' amplifiers can be affected by the headphones you use. They aren't responsible for this. The little guys must power both their electronic devices and internal amplifiers using very few volts. The sound quality of some home AV receivers with headphone jacks can be very variable.

Are Wired Headphones Better Than Wireless?

Wireless headphones generally have better sound quality than wired headphones. However, there has been so much advancement in audio technology in the last few years that you won't notice any difference with most of the top wireless headphones.
We recommend that audiophiles keep choosing wired headphones. It's up to you, the individual. Wireless headphones are a good choice if you prefer wireless headphones and they offer more convenience. You won't regret buying a high-quality pair if you want to enjoy the best sound quality.

How Do Noise-canceling Headphones Work?

Two types of noise-canceling exist: active and passive. Passive noise cancellation is where noise is blocked by headphones. Earbuds that are too close to your ears, such as over-the-ear or earbuds, can block the sound.
The active noise cancelling headphones feature a microphone to pick up noise and produce an opposing sound wave that blocks it.

How Do Wireless Headphones Work?

The wireless headphones can be powered by batteries and pair with an infrared or radio signal. Bluetooth technology is available on many devices, which makes it easy to connect and provides high-quality audio.

If I Lose The Eartips That Came With My Headphones, Do I Need To Purchase A New Pair?

Absolutely, unless you are just trying something different. If you don't have the funds, you can contact the manufacturer to get a replacement pair. It can be frustrating to lose an earbud because they only have one size. Comply has a range of aftermarket tips to suit your brand if you are in an adventurous mood.

What Is The Difference Between Headsets, Headphones, And Earphones?

- A headset is an amalgamation of headphones and microphones. Gaming headsets are most popular.
- Headphones can be worn on the ears or over-ear.
- Earphones can be described as small, earbud-shaped earbuds that are worn inside the ears.

When updated data are available, our system and editor will update a list of best in ear headphones. Please periodically review our website for the newest data.

We can help you with more than just finding best in ear headphones.  Please do not hesitate to contact us when you need assistance.


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About Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward is an elite author with many years of experience in the music field and the owner of many engaging articles at TheAudioInsights. He studies music production and has many years of passionate research into sound systems. Appearing in many popular newspapers, Nicolas Ward provides useful knowledge and the latest information on music and sound.