9 Best In-Ear Headphones of 2019

1. Best Budget: EXFIT BCS-A1

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Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5

Are you looking for budget in-ear headphones you can exercise with? Then you’ll be pleased with the EXFIT BCS-A1 and the features that provide a comfortable experience. The combination of the low-key neckband design, waterproof rating, and reliable Bluetooth connectivity means there is a lot to like here. Continue reading to learn more about why these headphones are a good match for your specific needs.

You’ll achieve 10 hours of battery life per charge and there is a fast charge feature that provides 3 hours battery life for 10 minutes of charging. The combination of the lightweight 0.95 ounce design and Bluetooth connectivity means they are great for use while you’re traveling or working out.

The powerful dynamic 12mm audio drivers provide excellent audio quality that you’ll enjoy for any music genre. Furthermore, the headphones come with EQ Sound Mode that allows you to manage the bass and treble to your liking. You can achieve the exact sound profile that matches your preferences.

The headphones are IPX4 rated, which means they provide protection against moisture damage. You can use these headphones while working out or running in the rain without fear of moisture damage. However, don’t submerge them in water as that’s going to cause damage.

The EXFIT BCS-A1 headphones come with a lot of upside, but you cannot overlook the negatives for a balanced overview. Firstly, the microphone is not always capable of picking up voice clearly. Therefore, when communicating with voice assistants you may need to repeat yourself more often than you’d like. Also, the retractable earbud mechanism is prone to damage so you may need to repair.

To conclude, the EXFIT BCS-A1 is a great choice for sports enthusiasts that are looking for a competitive pair of in-ear headphones. You’ll love the combination of the retractable mechanism, quick charge feature, and ergonomic design. These headphones are a no-brainer for sports enthusiast that needs a neckband design.

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2. Mpow Upgraded Jaws Gen5

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Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5

Are you looking for budget in-ear headphones that come packed with the latest technology? Then you’ll be pleased with this offering from Mpow – a brand that consistently releases highly rated budget headphones. Take a closer look at these headphones to determine if there is enough on offer for your needs.

You’ll achieve a battery time of 18 hours per charge, which means there is no need for constant battery management. Also, there is 450 hours of standby time so you can use the headphones after leaving them unused for a while. Bluetooth 5 is added so you can enjoy stable connectivity during the entire listening session.

The neckband is made from lightweight materials that are also durable. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about dropping the headphones a few times. The earbuds provide an ergonomic secure fit and there are 4 eartip sizes for the optimal wearing experience.

The easy 3 button control scheme allows you to efficiently reject/accept calls, alter the volume, and skip tracks. Therefore, you don’t have to reach for your smartphone every time you want to make changes.

These Mpow headphones provide exceptional value, but you need to consider a few of the drawbacks. Firstly, the audio quality is not comparable to the pricier headphones in this buyer’s guide. The 8mm audio drivers lack the fidelity and lifelike reproduction. Also, the neckband is bulkier than direct competitors in this market so you’ll need to get used to the style.

To summarize, the Mpow In-Ear Headphones are the right choice for buyers on a tight budget and want excellent wireless connectivity. You’ll love the combo of the long battery life, trusted brand name, and intuitive 3 button control system. However, the lack of audio fidelity means you need to set realistic expectations.

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3. Best Value: Sennheiser HD1 In-Ear

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Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5

Sennheiser is a premium brand that provides exceptional value with the HD In-Ear. You’ll love the combination of features that enables you to use these in almost any scenario. However, they are not cheap so you’ll need to carefully examine the features to figure out if they are a good choice for you.

The Bluetooth 4.1 with AAC codec support ensures consistent audio quality throughout the listening experience. The range is 33 feet from the audio emitting device and you’ll experience no noticeable music hiccups. You’ll achieve a battery life of 10 hours per charge and the charging time is 1.5 hours. Finally, you can connect via NFC pairing, which means there is no need to forge manual connections every time.

Sennheiser provides a 2 year global warranty when you buy from an authorized dealer. The neckband and earbuds are manufactured from premium materials, which means you can buy knowing they will stand the test of time.

The intuitive controls allow you to change the volume, accept/end calls, and skip tracks. Also, there is a high-quality microphone that clearly picks up your voice when talking. Therefore, you can quickly communicate with voice assistants to control your audio experience.

The comfortable neckband and in-ear wearing format is ideal for users on the go. The neckband provides stability and a sturdy fit that allows you to comfortably take breaks. The in-ear wearing style means you can enjoy good noise isolation and a minimalist fit.

There are a few drawbacks to the Sennheiser HD1 In-Ear that are noteworthy. Firstly, the earbuds hang freely when taking breaks, which is not ideal. The lack of a retractable design means don’t worry about the earbuds getting caught on something. Also, the leather can stick to the neck – especially in hot and humid conditions. Therefore, you may get frustrated and feel like removing the neckband.

To conclude, the Sennheiser HD1 In-Ear headphones are an excellent choice for fans of the brand and those that want a neckband/in-ear wearing style. You’ll love the combination of the up to date Bluetooth, good quality mic, and intuitive button controls. Sennheiser is a trustworthy brand so buy in confidence.

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4. Audeze iSINE LX

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Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5

The Audeze iSINE LX has an interesting visual design and the audio quality is amazing. You’ll love enjoying the small details of the audio for all music genres. They are also manufactured from premium materials that adds value to the purchase. However, they are expensive so you’ll need to consider if they match your requirements.

The headphones are ideal for Apple users since they come with a Cipher Lightning Cable. However, they are also compatible with other devices such as laptops and tablets via a 3.5mm cable. They also come with an ear hook that adds to the wearing comfort.

Visually they have a unique and divisive design that you may or may not like. The comfort is also not the best in the in-ear marketplace, so you will need to get used to the fit. However, lightweight premium materials are used so they are not as heavy as they look.

The patented voice-coil technology ensures a uniform driving force is delivered that results in near zero distortion. The sound profile means you’ll hear the small details of the track other headphones cannot provide. The handcrafted audio drivers receive special care and attention. They are engineered by professionals at the top of their game.

Don’t buy the Audeze iSINE LX headphones before looking at a few of the disadvantages. Firstly, the audio profile provides minimal bass in favor of more realistic audio. It is not ideal for users that lack strong bass. Also, the wearing comfort could be improved in future versions to reduce the bulk.

To conclude, the Audeze iSINE LX headphones are a solid choice for buyers that want the exceptional audio quality from a premium brand. These headphones are full of patented and innovative technology that brings your listening experience to another level.

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5. EXFIT BCS-S1000

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Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5

The EXFIT BCS-S1000 headphones come packed with advanced features that allows you to enjoy practicality and great audio at the same time. You’ll love the combination of the long battery life, ergonomic fit, and external speakers. Take a closer peek at what’s on offer to figure out if it matches your needs.

The 4 way external speaker are a unique touch that allows you to use the headphones differently compared to others in this buyer’s guide. You can share music with your friends, which means you can be the hub of attention. However, the speakers add bulk to the headphones, which means it’s a compromise you need to make.

The max battery life per charge is 25 hours, but it drops to 7.5 hours when using the external speakers. The long battery life means you can use these while traveling since there is no need to look for a power outlet to charge constantly.

The EQ Sound Mode allows you to change the audio profile of the dynamic 12mm drivers. You can achieve the exact sound profile that matches the music genre you’re enjoying. The users among you that like to play around with audio settings will appreciate this feature.

A serviceable microphone is included and there is a vibration based alert to let you know when calls are incoming. The vibration alert also activates when you forge a Bluetooth connection with another device. Also, the headphones are compatible with Siri and Google Assistant for a modern way of enjoying your audio.

The IPX4 rating means audio drivers are protected from moisture damage when sweating and jogging in the rain. However, don’t submerge them in water since they will be damaged. The waterproof rating gives you the peace of mind that you can use them in different environments.

The EXFIT BCS-S1000 headphones have a lot of upside, but don’t disregard the negatives. Firstly, the bulky feel due to the speaker takes a while to get used to. Users that want to exercise may be better served to buy the EXFIT BCS-A1 headphones instead. Also, the speakers consume battery life at a much faster rate, which means you’ll need to charge more often.

To summarize, the EXFIT BCS-S1000 is an excellent choice if you are after in-ear headphones with powerful external speakers. The versatility of these headphones means you can use them in several ways. You’ll love the mixture of the strong audio drivers, bass-heavy external speakers, and retractable earbud mechanism. The value for money here is great and worthy of your consideration.

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6. 1MORE Dual Driver

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Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5

1MORE is a proven audio brand at the budget end of the scale that provides excellent quality and practical features. You’ll love the mixture of the dual drivers, ANC, wireless connectivity, and ergonomic neckband. Take a closer look at the features offered to figure out if there is enough on offer to meet your needs.

The dual driver setup means the audio sounds superb since there is a dynamic and balanced armature driver. You’ll enjoy a listening experience that has excellent dynamic power and clarity. The patented titanium diaphragms contribute to an immersive soundstage that adds a lot of value to the purchase.

The active noise cancelation allows you to block out the surrounding environment so you can enjoy good music clarity. The feature eats up battery life at a faster rate and does not block out the loudest of noises such as shouting and construction work.

Bluetooth 4.2 is added that allows you to enjoy music up to a range of 30 feet and the audio consistency is excellent. The battery life is 7 hours, which is not impressive in the modern Bluetooth headphone marketplace. There are no noticeable audio hiccups that can ruin an immersive listening session. Furthermore, a 3.5mm cable is included that can be used when the battery runs low.

The ergonomic headband means you’ll enjoy wearing the headband for extended periods without the need to take constant breaks. The silicone cover means there is good durability without sacrificing a nice feeling on the skin.

The 1MORE Dual Driver headphones offer amazing value, but you need to consider the drawbacks for a balanced overview. Firstly, the lack of long battery life means they are not ideal for long journeys – especially if you use active noise cancelation that drains battery faster. Also, the brand name is not an established competitor in the marketplace so you’ll be buying from a second tier brand.

To summarize, the 1MORE Dual Driver headphones are a competitive choice that brings a lot of value to the table. You’ll love the mixture of the dual driver setup, ANC, ergonomic neckband, and reliable Bluetooth connectivity. However, there are a few negatives you need to consider for a balanced buying decision.

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7. Top Pick: Audeze iSINE10 in-Ear

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Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5

The Audeze iSINE10 in-Ear is a good choice for audiophile fans that want a sophisticated and distinctive design. You’ll love the mix of the patented technology and secure fit that allows you to enjoy great music for hours. Read onwards to learn more about what these headphones bring to the table.

The all black design looks striking and goes with almost any outfit. The use of lightweight materials means these headphones are lighter than they look and the durability is excellent. You don’t have to worry about dropping the headphones a few times since the materials can take a beating. Furthermore, there is an over-ear loop that attaches to your ear. It promotes a secure fit that prevents the headphones from coming loose when moving your head.

The advanced design makes use of planar magnetic technology that significantly reduces distortion. Furthermore, each pair of headphones is engineered for acoustic accuracy. Fluxor magnets are used that have 2 times the efficiency of other magnets and the diagrams are thinner than a human hair, which means you can enjoy fast response times.

Audeze provides a selection of ear hooks and eartips to help you get the right fit for your ears. Choosing the right accessories is important so you don’t get frustrated while enjoying your music. Furthermore, ear hooks and eartips can be replaced by buying alternatives.

The Audeze iSINE10 in-Ear headphones come with a few drawbacks that you need to consider for a balanced overview. Firstly, the treble can be harsh and there is no way to change the settings. Also, they are only suitable for home use due to the bulky wired design.

To conclude, the Audeze iSINE10 in-Ear is a good choice for fans of audiophile brands that provide exceptional audio quality. You’ll love the combination of the NASA grade materials, advanced audio drivers, and ergonomic fit. However, they are pricey and mostly limited to home use.

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8. Audeze iSINE20

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Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5

Audeze is a premier audio company that uses industry-leading features in their line of headphones. You’ll love the combination of the NASA grade materials, USA manufacturing, superior resolution, and high quality sound. They are expensive, but the quality is amazing so give these headphones careful consideration.

Superior planar magnetic drivers are used to deliver audiophile grade quality. They don’t weigh as much as comparable drivers and the sophisticated design ensures there is no noticeable distortion. The diaphragms are thinner than a human hair and they are acoustically engineered for accuracy.

You’ll love the premium use of materials and they look distinctive visually. However, they are not waterproof and you need to be careful when handling them. The expensive headphones can take a beating physically, but they can also wear down.

An ear hook is included to help you get the right fit. It gives you some personalization so you can achieve a secure fit that doesn’t come loose when moving your head. The headphones have a large design for the in-ear wearing format, but the bulk is worth it when you try out the audio. They are not wireless, which means you are restricted physically since there is a wire to hide.

The Audeze iSINE20 headphones is an amazing piece of technology, but do not ignore the drawbacks when buying. Firstly, comfort is not the best compared to other in-ear headphones in this buyer’s guide. Also, the audio lacks bass so it may not be the best headphone if you enjoy bass boosted music.

To summarize, the Audeze iSINE20 headphones is a great choice for buyers that have a big budget and want industry leading quality. The mixture of the audiophile grade audio, NASA grade materials, and sophisticated audio drivers means there is enough quality to justify the asking price.

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9. Nuraphone

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Editor’s Rating: 4.6/5

The Nuraphone headphones have a unique design since they are a combination of the over-ear and in-ear wearing format. They are pricey, but you’re getting advanced wireless technology that takes practicality to a whole new level. Read onwards to learn more about what these headphones bring to the table.

The headphones come with an app that learns your hearing profile within a minute. Consequently, the ideal sound profile is created for your ears. The audio quality is finely tuned so that you can have a personalized experience, which other headphones don’t offer.

TeslaFlow active cooling is added that provides excellent ventilation within the earcups. Therefore, you can use the headphones for longer without the need to take breaks from hot/sweaty ears. Also, the headphones make use of lightweight materials, which means that they will not wear you down over time.

Crystal clear highs and deep lows are delivered via the ergonomic in-ear design. Nura’s patented in and over ear architecture means that you’re able to enjoy noise isolating audio. The wearing experience feels comfortable from the moment you place them on your head. However, there is no choice of different earcups sizes, which means that you may feel discomfort if your ear size doesn’t match.

Consider a few of the drawbacks before you place the Nuraphone headphones in your virtual shopping basket. Firstly, they are pricey and you can get better value from other options in this buyer’s guide. Also, the custom sound profile is not always effective at providing an amazing tailor-made experience.

To conclude, the Nuraphone are a good choice for the buyer that’s after a unique design. You’ll love the in-ear and over-ear combo that is not found elsewhere in the headphone marketplace. You’ll love the way audio profiles are set based on your hearing profile. However, it’s a pricey pair of headphones, which means you need to be sure that the quality is worth the asking price.

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