According to the mechanism of action on the ear canal, vacuum headphones resemble earplugs. Due to this arrangement, the “plugs” suppress extraneous noise and produce good bass. But not all.
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Rating of the TOP 12 best in-ear headphones of 2020-2021
| Place | Name | Price |
| TOP 6 best wired in-ear headphones | ||
| 1 | Sennheiser IE 40 Pro | Find out the price |
| 2 | JBL T110 | Find out the price |
| 3 | Sony MDR-XB50AP | Find out the price |
| 4 | Sony MDR-EX155AP | Find out the price |
| 5 | Xiaomi Mi In-Ear Headphones Pro HD | Find out the price |
| 6 | Sennheiser IE 4 | Find out the price |
| TOP 6 best wireless in-ear headphones | ||
| 1 | Xiaomi Redmi AirDots (Mi True Wireless Earbuds Basic) | Find out the price |
| 2 | Samsung Galaxy Buds+ | Find out the price |
| 3 | Samsung Galaxy Buds | Find out the price |
| 4 | Sony WF-1000XM3 | Find out the price |
| 5 | HUAWEI FreeBuds Lite | Find out the price |
| 6 | Samsung EO-BG950 U Flex | Find out the price |
How to choose and what to pay attention to?
In order to choose good headphones, you need to pay attention to some characteristics of various models.:
- Impedance . Resistance (impedance) is also important for the sensation of loudness. It also affects the purity of the sound. If gadgets are used with portable equipment, a resistance of 16 - 32 Ohms is sufficient. If with a stationary one, it can be 32 - 100 Ohms. Which headphones are best to choose in this range depends on the power of the sound source. The higher the resistance, the better the sound, but at low power it will be too quiet.
- Sensitivity . This parameter indicates the ratio of useful signal to noise. The higher it is, the clearer the headphones sound and the wider the dynamic range. It is advisable to choose a value not lower than 100 dB.
- Noise suppression . The noise reduction system is also an important criterion when choosing headphones, since with its help the level of ambient noise is noticeably reduced, which allows you to enjoy your favorite music even in particularly noisy places (for example, on the subway or train).
Headphones or headset?
In-ear headphones are especially popular for mobile use because you can always have them with you. Basically, you can use them to listen to music through your smartphone.
That's why most of the phones we tested are designed as headsets. Although we tested some headphones even in versions without a microphone, we still decided to include pure headphones in the test.
On the one hand, there are still different versions for Android or iPhone, especially for wired phones, on the other hand, there are more and more smartphones that do not have a headphone jack and are completely configured with Bluetooth.
The best wired in-ear headphones
Sennheiser IE 40 Pro
Sennheiser IE 40 Pro headphones are designed for daily use on stage, in the studio and in rehearsals..
They have an ergonomic body, excellent sound characteristics and the most reliable connection principle to a monitor receiver.
The wideband dynamic driver guarantees excellent intelligibility and absence of distortion even at particularly high volume levels, a flat frequency response with good low-frequency foundation.
The compact 10 mm diaphragm allows for a high level of design ergonomics and wearing comfort.
It is worth noting that this is one of the best models of 2021.
Main functional characteristics:
- intracanal, closed;
- dynamic;
- mini jack 3.5 mm connector.
pros
- reliability;
- high-quality assembly;
- comfortable to wear.
Minuses
- not specified by buyers.
JBL T110
JBL T110 headphones are lightweight and compact in size, perfect for those who prefer to listen to music while on the move..
Insertable vacuum ear pads are securely attached to the ear, do not fall out and do not cause any discomfort.
Frequency range from 20 to 20,000 Hz, impedance of 16 Ohms - acoustic characteristics responsible for surround, balanced sound.
The design of the headphones includes function keys and a microphone, which greatly facilitate the operation of the device..
The set includes three pairs of replaceable ear pads for long-term use.
Main functional characteristics:
- with microphone;
- intracanal, closed;
- sensitivity - 100 dB;
- mini jack 3.5 mm connector.
pros
- soundproofing;
- high-quality assembly;
- comfortable to wear.
Minuses
- soundproofing;
- high-quality assembly;
- comfortable to wear.
Sony MDR-XB50AP
Sony MDR-XB50AP over-ear headphones block extraneous noise, have effective sound insulation and high sound quality.
Ear pads of various sizes fit comfortably into the ear.
Having a high-quality microphone makes it possible to answer phone calls, since its high sensitivity guarantees clear speech transmission.
Sensitivity of 106 dB and power of 100 mW provide high power and volume of sound, and also makes it possible to use the headset as efficiently as possible without additional amplifiers.
Main functional characteristics:
- with microphone;
- intracanal, closed;
- sensitivity - 106 dB.
pros
- soundproofing;
- sound quality;
- reliability.
Minuses
- not detected by users.
Sony MDR-EX155AP
Sony MDR-EX155AP headphones are compact and have high sound quality.
Highly sensitive speakers in a compact design provide clear highs and powerful bass.
The corrugated cable with protection against tangling and twisting ensures ease of use of the headphones.
Four sizes of earbuds allow you to adapt the headphones to the user's anatomical features for maximum comfortable listening on the go.
These headphones are intended primarily for use with portable multimedia devices and are connected using a 3.5mm mini-jack connector.
Main functional characteristics:
- with microphone;
- intracanal, closed;
- sensitivity - 103 dB.
pros
- ergonomics;
- high-quality assembly;
- reliability.
Minuses
- microphone quality.
Xiaomi Mi In-Ear Headphones Pro HD
Xiaomi Mi In-Ear Headphones Pro HD headphones are equipped with hybrid emitters that combine the advantages of reinforcement and dynamic.
This solution makes it possible to reproduce clear bass and at the same time detailed mids and highs.
The headphones can also be used as a headset: on the wire there is a microphone and buttons for receiving/ending and waiting/holding a call, and sound settings.
Main functional characteristics:
- with microphone;
- intracanal;
- reinforcement + dynamic, number of drivers - 3;
- sensitivity - 98 dB.
pros
- high-quality assembly;
- microphone quality;
- reliability.
Minuses
- poor sound insulation.
Sennheiser IE 4
Sennheiser IE 4 in-ear headphones are designed for both professional and personal audio listening..
The volume is quite high thanks to the sensitivity of 106 dB. A 3.5 mm plug allows you to connect the headphones to any audio device, including a smartphone.
The headphone body is completely made of durable plastic, and the ring located in front of the sound guide is made of metal. The headphone cable is rubberized, which gives it additional flexibility and lightness.
In order to easily distinguish the right earphone from the left, corresponding inscriptions are applied to each of them. Thanks to the silicone tips, the headset fits comfortably in the ears and will not fall out when moving. .
To select the optimal size, the kit includes three pairs of replacement ear pads.
The emitter membranes have a standard diameter and are covered with a metal mesh. Good noise insulation is ensured thanks to closed acoustics.
Main functional characteristics:
- intracanal, closed;
- dynamic;
- sensitivity - 106 dB.
pros
- soundproofing;
- reliability;
- sound quality.
Minuses
- not identified by buyers.
Panasonic RP-HJE125
The best budget vacuum headphones of 2021.
The TOP 16 best wired headphones open with familiar headphones, Panasonic RP-HJE125 ($8) - the best budget in-ear headphones. The model has been tested over time and has appeared in our ratings more than once.
The best budget wired headphones Panasonic RP-HJE125 have been impossible to force out of the market for many years, because manufacturers have made such an optimal balance of price and quality that a minimal improvement in sound quality will entail a good increase in price.
Main characteristics
- Frequency range: 10 – 24000 Hz
- Impedance: 16 Ohm
- Sensitivity: 97 dB/mW
- Weight: 44 g
- Membrane diameter: 9 mm
- Headphone connector: mini jack 3.5 mm
- Cable length: 1.1 m
Equipment
- Headphones
- 3 pairs of replaceable ear pads
- Documentation
Video review
- Sound. You won't find even similar sound in models in the same price range.
- Appearance. The model is available in several colors.
- Price.
- Durability. It has already been mentioned more than once that you should buy several models at once.
The best wireless in-ear headphones
Xiaomi Redmi AirDots (Mi True Wireless Earbuds Basic)
Xiaomi Redmi AirDots headphones (Mi True Wireless Earbuds Basic) are presented in a compact ergonomic case, and the “True Wireless” design means that you can use the ear pads independently of each other.
In-ear headphones provide comfortable wearing because they have a design that follows the shape of the ears.
For a secure fit, the kit includes pairs of additional ear pads..
The device uses speakers with a diameter of 7.2 mm, which allow you to enjoy high-quality, balanced sound.
Main functional characteristics:
- intracanal;
- Bluetooth 5.0;
- operating time - 4 hours (from the battery in the case - 12 hours);
- protection from water.
pros
- sound quality;
- high-quality assembly;
- soundproofing.
Minuses
- microphone quality.
Samsung Galaxy Buds+
Samsung Galaxy Buds+ headphones have a completely wireless design with miniature ear pads and two-way speakers.
The latter create a closed acoustic design of excellent quality, due to which this model is especially appreciated by music lovers.
Also, the design of the device provides as many as 3 microphones with a fixed mount in the housing: 2 external and 1 internal.
The features of the headphones also include touch control and the presence of one multifunction button.
Main functional characteristics:
- intracanal;
- Bluetooth 5.0;
- dynamic;
- operating time - 11 hours (from the battery in the case - 22 hours).
pros
- high-quality assembly;
- reliability;
- comfortable to wear.
Minuses
- not specified by users.
Samsung Galaxy Buds
The Samsung Galaxy Buds TWS headset consists of 2 miniature headphones with a built-in dual microphone.
The weight of the model is only 5.6 g, which, in combination with a miniature charging case, makes it indispensable and allows you to always keep it handy in your bag, pocket or backpack.
The model has touch control and wireless design.
The TWS headset is connected to the sound-reproducing device via a Bluetooth connection. The device can work offline for up to 6 hours.
Main functional characteristics:
- intracanal;
- Bluetooth 5.0;
- dynamic;
- duration of work - 6 hours.
pros
- high-quality assembly;
- soundproofing;
- reliability.
Minuses
- microphone quality.
Sony WF-1000XM3
Sony WF-1000XM3 - wireless headphones with digital noise reduction, adaptive sound control, NFC and Bluetooth technologies and a whole day charge.
This model's noise-canceling technology is industry-leading in the wireless headphone industry and is powered by the QN1e HD noise-canceling processor.
By picking up ambient sound, it not only cancels out much more noise across almost the entire frequency range, but also consumes less power.
The location and shape of the built-in Bluetooth antenna is optimized to maintain a clear signal and remain in constant sync with the audio source.
Main functional characteristics:
- intracanal, closed;
- active noise cancellation (ANC) system;
- Bluetooth 5.0, NFC;
- dynamic;
- operating time - 6 hours (from the battery in the case - 24 hours).
pros
- sound quality;
- high-quality assembly;
- soundproofing.
Minuses
- microphone quality.
HUAWEI FreeBuds Lite
The HUAWEI FreeBuds Lite stereo headset connects to your smartphone via Bluetooth technology with a range of up to 10 meters.
A microphone located in each earphone will allow you to answer calls without having to take your mobile device out of your pocket.
The TWS headset has an in-ear design that isolates the user from ambient noise and securely fixes the headphones in the ear canals.
Dynamic drivers guarantee impeccable sound throughout the entire frequency range (20-20,000 Hz).
The multifunctional button is responsible for answering/ending a call, pausing the song being played and its further playback, as well as switching between tracks.
The model does not lose its relevance in 2021.
Main functional characteristics:
- intracanal;
- Bluetooth;
- dynamic;
- protection from water.
pros
- high-quality assembly;
- soundproofing;
- comfortable to wear.
Minuses
- not noted by buyers.
Samsung EO-BG950 U Flex
Samsung EO-BG950 U Flex headphones, equipped with two pairs of drivers, will delight you with a high level of quality audio playback..
Ease of use is ensured by a flexible neckband with which the headphones are attached.
The headphones do not require a wired connection: they are synchronized with sound sources via a Bluetooth connection.
The wireless communication radius of 10 m will please most users . You can also highlight the high level of autonomy of the model: the headphones can work wirelessly for 10 hours.
The functionality of the device is expanded by the presence of a microphone, so the headphones can be used as a headset.
Main functional characteristics:
- intracanal;
- Bluetooth;
- dynamic;
- duration of work - 10 hours;
- foldable design.
pros
- high-quality assembly;
- ergonomics;
- soundproofing.
Minuses
- not detected by users.
Criteria for choosing vacuum headphones
When choosing vacuum seals, it is necessary to evaluate indicators that affect comfort (ear pad material, cable shape, assembly and materials used), as well as key technical characteristics.
Ear pad type
The tips in vacuum headphones are of great importance. The comfort of using the device depends on them. For their manufacture they are most often used:
- Porous foam that easily adapts to the size and characteristics of the ear canal. The softer the nozzles, the more convenient it is. But such material wears out quite quickly.
- Standard silicone ear pads. They are quite elastic and provide good sound insulation. These ear pads vary in shape and diameter. If they are stiff enough, they can cause discomfort when worn for long periods of time. But silicone tips are durable and easy to clean.
The headphone package is usually complemented by several ear tips of different shapes (from “barrel” to “herringbone”) and sizes. Some ear pads are custom made from other materials.
Cable
In wired vacuum headphones, you need to pay attention to the cord connecting the speakers to the sound source. It is important that it is long enough, strong and moderately elastic.
When choosing between a round and flat cable, it is better to give preference to the latter, since it does not get tangled, is easily twisted if necessary, and practically does not slip on clothing.
Build quality
The headphone body must be made of high-quality plastic, without cracks or burrs. Premium models may use other, more expensive, but lightweight materials.
Driver design
Modern headphones have two types of speakers:
- Dynamic ones are the most common and relatively inexpensive (unless they are the own development of some serious company). By themselves, they do not have high acoustic capabilities, but when using specific materials and introducing various improvements, they produce excellent live sound.
- Reinforcement ones are distinguished by a complex design that improves the quality of playback, but for some their sound may seem unemotional and uninteresting.
Some models successfully combine both types of speakers, creating truly cool-sounding hybrids.
Resistance
Since earbuds are most often used with smartphones, it is more advisable to use a headset with low resistance to the incoming signal.
Electrical impedance up to 25 ohms requires less power for high-quality sound. Increased resistance affects sound volume, while decreased resistance leads to distortion of sound waves.
