It’s getting very affordable to be able to hear high-quality audio. Listening to any of these IEMs might make you ditch your overpriced Bluetooth earbuds altogether. If pure sound quality is your only concern, you’ll easily find something right for you. However, there is so much to choose from, with each IEM possessing its own sound signature that may or may not be to your specific tastes. We’ve all got different ears, but hopefully, this guide can help steer you in the right direction.
Meze Alba
$159
The Alba has been freshly released, and as soon as I started listening to it, I knew it would be one of my new favorites. Meze has made a few IEMs before, but the Alba is the most affordable one they’ve made. Nothing about it looks or sounds like a downgrade from their higher-end models, though. Tons of details come across over the Alba, from its bass warmth to its focused midrange and top-end glisten. Add some of the most precise imaging and stereo-scope you’ll find over IEMs for this price, and you have one of the best sounds you can hear. As a bonus, the Alba also comes with its own USB-C DAC dongle that will do the sound justice over any smartphone, tablet, or laptop.
Sennheiser IE 200
$159.95
It’s never a surprise to see Sennheiser show up on a list regarding anything labeled “best” of audio products. Their IE line of IEMs has been very successful, with the IE 200 being their most affordable. The housing is smaller than every selection on this list, making them comfortable to wear for long periods. Its sound is very lively, combining accuracy with intimate imaging and detailed performances. Some of the treble can get hot, but it matches the energy provided by the rest of the sound profile.
Final Audio A4000
$159
There are numerous great budget IEMs available from Final Audio. The A4000 is one of my favorites from the brand, being one of their most comfortable pairs on top of its great sound. While the A4000 can be a bit sibilant at times, the crispness of its midrange and treble is hard to come by in this price range. Add a wide soundstage and natural separation to that, and the A4000 becomes hard to deny.
Sivga Que UTG
$89
The Sivga Que UTG is one of the most technically impressive IEMs you can get under $100, offering a fast, detailed sound thanks to its unique ultra-thin glass diaphragm driver. With a refined, balanced tuning, crisp treble, and excellent imaging, it’s a great pick for those who value clarity and precision across genres. Add to that its modular cable system with both 3.5mm and 4.4mm terminations and beautifully crafted zinc-alloy and wood housing, and you’ve got a high-end experience at a budget-friendly price.
Letshuoer S12 Pro
$169
Another great planar IEM is the Letshuoer S12. I decided to give the Pro a slot over the original due to its enhanced sound properties. The soundstage has better layering on the Pro version, as well as better midrange definition and bass clarity. The S12 Pro also has a great cable with switchable adapters.
Dunu Titan S
$69
Inexpensive, lots of bass, a wide soundstage, and plenty of detail make for one of the surest bets you can make on an IEM. The Dunu Titan S is a ton of fun, especially with its bass. However, nothing about the Titan S is sloppy. It’s a concise response that also gives texture to its tone. This is also an IEM that only gets better the more you upgrade it, like replacing the cable or using a different DAC.
Moondrop Aria 2
$99
The Moondrop Aria 2 is an outstanding choice under $100, offering a refined and natural sound signature with deep, controlled bass, clear mids, and smooth treble. Its titanium-coated dynamic driver delivers excellent technical performance and imaging, making it a great all-rounder for a wide range of genres. With a sturdy zinc-alloy build, swappable 3.5mm and 4.4mm cable terminations, and premium accessories, the Aria 2 brings a high-end feel to an affordable price point, perfect for both new audiophiles and seasoned listeners alike.
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