Due to the boom of mobile players, especially the Apple iPod as well as smartphones like the iPhone, everyone has at least a few in-ear headphones lying around at home. Thus, these are probably the most widely used headset type. Unfortunately, most MP3 players and mobile phones are delivered with bad sounding headphones, which quickly gives rise to the desire for higher-quality companions – after all, our favorite bands and songs accompany us on the bus, the train, just about anywhere!
This is to be considered when buying In-Ears:
From cheap to high end, everything is represented here, so here is a small checklist with the most important purchase criteria.
In-ears must sit tight in the ear to make them sound good, and we mean really tight. Often there are silicone fittings that help, and if not, try so called special foam tips, e.g. from Comply.
Of course, they also have to be comfortable, you carry them for hours, but please take care that they do not cause earache.
If you want to use In-Ears with your smartphone, you definitely need a pair of In-ears with a remote including a microphone. This built-in mic forwards your voice when making a call.
If you only want to connect In-Ears to an iPod or other MP3 player, you only need headphones with remote control. Depending on the model you can skip songs back and forth, pause or start. And the best is that your smartphone can stay in your backpack or pocket.
The Status Audio Pro X combine a triple-driver system with Hi-Res codecs, effective ANC and AI call clarity. With LDAC, LC3, Multipoint and Auracast support, plus up to 32 hours battery life, they rank among the most exciting premium in-ears of the year.
The Creative Aurvana Ace SXFI is the first product to offer Super X-Fi streaming, combining hybrid drivers with powerful sound to provide an impressive all-round package. Weaknesses: ANC and lack of hi-res codecs.
The Cambridge Audio Melomania A100 is a standout in the under-$150 price range. Its top-of-the-line features, including sound quality, comfort, and noise cancellation, earn it high marks.
Skullcandy Method 360 ANC: sports-ready earbuds with Bose-tuned sound, adjustable ANC, long battery life, and clear calls.
The Edifier R1 effortlessly proves that good-sounding open-ear headphones can also be affordable.
With the Audio-Technica ATH-CKS50TW2, the Japanese manufacturer introduces a new generation of true wireless in-ears focused on one standout feature: endurance.
The True Wireless in-ear headphones Beyerdynamic Amiron 300 offer wireless charging, ANC and sound detail for everyday listening and sport.
The Shokz OpenFit 2+ are the brand’s new flagship model, featuring a revamped driver architecture and Dolby Atmos support.
The Sennheiser Accentum Open are intentionally minimalist – no app support, no EQ, and no customisation options. Instead, they offer almost everything that’s currently standard for open earbuds.
The sound of the dynamic TESLA.11 drivers in the Beyerdynamic DT 72 IE is specifically optimised for vocals and guitars.