In-ear monitors are a great way to enjoy music on the go. These best budget IEMs provide excellent sound quality for the earbuds and are much more comfortable to wear for long periods of time. In-ear monitors are also essential for singers and performers.
That’s because IEMs deliver clear, separated sound that helps you stay in tune and perform at your best. It also protects the singer’s hearing from loud stage noise. However, if you are on a tight budget, you may not be able to afford such an expensive kit.
Best Budget IEMs 2024: Budget In-Ear Monitors
In this article, we will take a look at the best IEMs in every budget. Let’s discuss features, sound quality, and build quality to help you find the perfect product for your needs.
So whether you’re looking for a new pair of IEMs for your daily commute or your next music festival.
1. Shure SE215 in-ear monitor
Shure is a very reliable model and Shure SE215 IEM delivers a nice, solid sound, complete with deep bass performance without being overpowering.
This model boasts a sensitivity of 20 and 107dB, but these technical features are only the beginning of its value.
Additionally, it also serves to separate sounds well. Wine connoisseurs “roll” in their mouths
while tasting so they can appreciate every “note” that makes wine, and these IEMs allow them to do the musical equivalent while clearly appreciating each note and sound.
The treble may be a little high, but otherwise, this model does a good job of isolating the sound while maintaining its original integrity.
The eartips are made of foam and silicone and offer a good balance of firmness and snug comfort.
For under $100, they’re right within your budget, but if you want a versatile and solid IEM, I think it’s worth spending an extra buck or two.
2. Moondrop Aria high-performance IEM
If you want a good-looking budget IEM, choose the Moondrop Aria. Despite having only one driver, it delivers excellent sound quality and is the most aesthetically pleasing IEM on this list.
However, one downside to the attractive design is the weight and fit.
They may be too heavy for smaller ears, especially if worn for long periods of time. It may look a bit feminine to some users.
But don’t let gender norms stop you from experiencing the highest-quality sound! Moondrop Aria combines style and substance.
It has an attractive wireless design and tons of useful features to boot. Supplied with replaceable silver-plated cables with nylon braided surface connected via a universal 0.78 dual pin interface.
This means you can replace the default cable with a microphone cable, Bluetooth cable, or any other cable as needed.
Inside is a 10mm diameter dual cavity magnetic high-performance dynamic driver. Additionally, the Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP) diaphragm provides excellent transient response and high-resolution sound detail.
It also features a newly designed high-frequency phase waveguide to reduce distortion caused by high-frequency phase interference and smooth out the treble.
3. Blon BL 03 IEM
With 32 ohms and 102 dB sensitivity, this model provides excellent sound imaging, which is one of the most important things to consider when looking at different IEMs.
It also offers excellent bass control, giving you a nice, deep sound without worrying about being overwhelmed by thumping basslines.
At the same time, it delivers great, lively sound, making it great value for its low price of around $40.
This is a 10mm dynamic driver that delivers a good punch. There are a few downsides, most notably that the nozzle and tip are a bit shallow and don’t isolate sounds as well as other models.
That said, this is still a solidly built and functionally sound option.
4. Linsoul Tin Audio T2
The Linsoul Tin Audio T2 boasts TIN HiFi’s iconic streamlined metal cavity and added features in the new model.
The T2 version takes it to the next level with dynamic driver configuration and an improved 0.78mm 2-pin connector.
It is equipped with a 4th generation DLC composite diaphragm and a 10mm DLC flagship dynamic driver, improving frequency response and significantly reducing unnecessary vibration.
Additionally, the Japanese-imported CCAW ultra-light voice coil adds richer detail and higher sensitivity.
The silver-plated cable is replaceable and features German TPU cladding to extend its life and maintain lossless transmission. The internal cavity is also made of aviation-grade aluminum, ensuring original, natural and pure sound.
Overall, the Linsoul Tin Audio T2 is the perfect budget IEM for students, professionals, and anyone who wants a powerful, affordable listening experience with excellent noise cancellation.
The shape of the earbuds was designed based on extensive research into the human ear.
These are comfortable enough to block out annoying outside noise or protect your hearing on stage. However, with noise cancellation enabled, the bass becomes a bit more shallow.
5. KZ ZSX in-ear monitor
6. 1MORE Triple Driver Hybrid
Plus, this model is quite comfortable to wear. Featuring OBLIQUE style ear fittings (nine in total), this allows you to customize the set for the most comfortable setup while ensuring they don’t fall out of your ears while performing or on the go.
This model also lets you easily switch between songs, adjust the volume, and even answer calls while eliminating background noise.
With an overall sensitivity of 32Ω and 99dB, this is by far one of the most balanced sets on this list. This is a very affordable hybrid IEM.
7. KZ ZS10 Pro in-ear monitor
KZ ZS10 Pro is an upgraded version of KZ ZS10. Features four balanced armature drivers (two 30095 drivers for high frequencies and two 50060 drivers for mid frequencies).
This provides a dynamic, transient, and bright sound.
It also adopts the second-generation Tesla dual magnetic dynamic device to extend the frequency beyond 40KHz.
The faceplate is made of 304 stainless steel, and the cavity is made of imported resin, providing a stylish and durable design. It is also available in a variety of colors including black, blue, purple, and yellow.
Meanwhile, the PCB frequency division board provides full playback to all drivers, displaying a smooth, sensuous, and detailed music experience.
The detachable gold-plated QDC cable offers full upgradeability, and the limited slot protection design prevents pin breakage.
Lastly, the ergonomic design and noise-canceling technology ensure a comfortable and immersive listening experience.
8. FiiO F9 in-ear monitor
This is another example of a very simple model. However, it may be too simplistic for its own sake. In terms of features, it can’t compete with the higher-level options on this list.
Still, if you’re short on cash and want a simple model that can get the job done reliably while also providing good noise isolation, this is a decent choice, with a total sensitivity of 28 ohms and 106 dB.
FiiO has a great reputation for building amazing DACs and DAP players that have also found their way into the IEM market. Like 1MORE, it is a hybrid.
9. Shure SE215 PRO
Shure SE215 SE215 PRO delivers detailed sound with enhanced bass for personal listening or professional monitoring. It boasts a sensitivity of 20 ohms and 107dB.
A single-vented balanced armature driver lets you hear your music the way it was meant to be heard.
Noise-canceling technology blocks up to 37 dB of noise, eliminating distractions and ensuring sound comes through clearly and faithfully.
Durable reinforced cables allow for easy replacement or customization. Plus, the moldable wires ensure secure placement and the over-the-ear configuration keeps the cables out of the way.
Gold-plated MMCX connectors feature a lock-snap mechanism that allows 360-degree rotation for a comfortable fit.
Overall, the Shure SE215 is a good choice for anyone looking for a reliable, well-built in-ear monitor with good sound quality and noise isolation.
The sound of this IEM is rich and balanced with deep bass that doesn’t invade other frequencies. It is relatively light, so it is comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
10. BASN Bmaster Triple Driver IEM
The BASN IEM Bmaster Triple Driver performs well in all areas, making it the perfect all-rounder. First, the sound quality is excellent, with clear highs, deep lows, and balanced mids.
The included eartips and ergonomic housing design ensure a comfortable and secure fit.
Best of all, the metal housing and braided cable make it extremely durable. This is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality IEM on a budget.
BASN IEM Bmaster Triple Driver IEM offers excellent noise isolation, HiFi stereo sound, comfortable and secure fit, and a detachable cable design.
Noise-canceling technology prevents outside noise from interfering with your listening experience, so you can enjoy your music while riding your motorcycle!
HiFi stereo sound has rich low frequencies, rich details, balanced sound characteristics, and good bass effects.
The comfortable and secure fit rivals custom models and ensures that the headphones always stay perfectly in place, even while walking, running, or doing other activities.
The detachable cable design makes it easy to replace or customize, and the MMCX connector can rotate 360 degrees for a comfortable fit.
11. Final Audio E2000 earphones
Technically, the Final Audio E2000 doesn’t meet the usual criteria for an IEM, but its price and value for money make it worth adding to the list.
These durable black IEMs boast an incredibly durable aluminum construction. It also comes with a portable carrying case, making it much easier to take it to gigs.
It’s a small thing, but in lists like this, little things add up and make a big difference.
If you’re going to invest in IEMs, you’ll need to be careful not to damage them while transporting them, so a carrying case is a very welcome touch here.
On the technical side, this model features a sensitivity of 16Ω and 102dB, both of which are respectable for a device of this level.
Conclusion
Buying IEMs doesn’t have to be an expensive venture. Conversely, when you’re first starting out, it’s ideal to buy something reasonably priced so you can see what’s right for you.
Each model on this list has its own pros and cons, so consider them carefully and decide which next-generation IEM suits your needs.