Finding high-quality in-ear monitors at a reasonable price is not easy in the audio world. This review focuses on IEMs in the $50 price range.
We’re here to introduce some products that will not break the budget but still deliver great sound quality.
Best IEM Under $50 2025
1. Linsoul KZ ZS10 Pro
The ZS10 Pro features four balanced armature drivers and one dynamic driver.
According to KZ, “Compared to existing unit dynamic headphones, the KZ ZS10 PRO boasts a more independent high-frequency unit combination, mid-range and high-range unit combination, and powerful full-band sound quality output.”
The impedance of the ZS10 Pro is 30 ohms, and the sensitivity is 111 dB. In terms of appearance, the ZS10 Pro is a relatively stylish IEM for its price, especially if you prefer a “modern industrial” vibe for your ear gear.
The faceplate of the shell is made of aluminum or steel, depending on the model.
The metal has three L-shaped grooves, and the faceplate, grooves, or both are available in a variety of color combinations, including silver, black, gold, blue, and pink.
The back of the shell is made of transparent resin, allowing you to see the inside. The metal nozzle with a lip has a perforation pattern that looks like a showerhead, and the connector is a slot/socket 2-pin style.
The accessories of the ZS10 Pro are somewhat unimpressive, but not disappointing at this price point. The included plastic-coated wire cable feels relatively cheap, but it’s not the worst cable I’ve ever seen.
The three pairs of included tips are average quality silicone. The case isn’t included, and the packaging box is too thin to be used as a case (at least not with any erotic animation).
2. Final Audio E500
This is the cheapest IEM that Final Audio makes, and ironically, it’s the best sounding one in my opinion. The bass is punchy yet well-controlled, with a strong emphasis on the mids and lows.
The mids, unlike Final Audio, aren’t harsh, but are just neutral. The highs are quite smooth. Overall, it’s a dark IEM, but it doesn’t cause fatigue.
If you’re having trouble finding the Sony MH755, or want a more neutral option, I recommend the Final Audio E500.
Also, make sure to get the Final Type-E eartips, which are great for dealing with poorly tuned IEMs like this one.
3. Linsoul TinHifi T2 DLC
Headquartered in Guangdong, China, TinHifi was launched in 2017 by popular IEM-focused online retailer Linsoul with the goal of “providing Hi-Fi sound and quality at a more reasonable price point.”
There’s no denying that Tin has failed to establish itself as a strong budget brand.
The original T2 IEM received generally positive reviews and was easily recommended to anyone looking for a decent $50 IEM.
In fact, the T2 was one of the first IEMs I ever bought, and while it’s not without its flaws, it’s one of the most recommended to IEM-curious friends.
The T2 DLC is advertised as an upgraded version of the T2, with “improved and optimized 4th generation DLC composite diaphragm and 10mm DLC flagship dynamic driver.
Additionally, the Japanese CCAW ultra-light voice coil provides richer detail and higher sensitivity.
The brushed aluminum T2 DLC looks premium and solid for its price range, but the sharp edges, wide, lipped nozzle, and earbud-like form factor do compromise comfort somewhat.
However, this doesn’t mean that the IEM is overly uncomfortable to wear, and the included foam tip is dense enough to protect the nozzle.
The DLC connector is a standard flush-mounted 2-pin type, but the color coding is clear.
Considering the recommended retail price, the DLC’s packaging and accessories are, unsurprisingly, modest, but still relatively noteworthy for this price range.
The DLC doesn’t come with a typical case, but the included flip-top box with faux leather lining is more than enough to serve as a case in case of emergency.
The DLC’s 8-core silver 2-pin cable is the best of the five IEMs reviewed. The T2 DLC comes with a number of relatively plain-looking silicone tips, but it also includes the aforementioned Tin’s sky-blue memory foam tips.
4. BLON BL-03 II IEM
The BLON BL-03 II IEM is a work of art, inside and out. Like a great mix or masterpiece, the pressure-cast zinc alloy case has been shaped to perfection through dozens of design interactions.
Available in either high-gloss silver or matte black, the case is incredibly sleek with smooth edges and a curved design. It’s not just for show.
The carefully designed internal cavity supports the frequency spectrum, delivering crisp highs and deep, rich lows.
Driving the sound is the upgraded 10mm reinforced carbon diaphragm driver with 2nd generation technology and the dual chamber structure that provides strong power and focus.
The BL-03 II comes with a 1.2m long high-purity silver-plated copper cable that ensures stable transmission along with high-frequency sound quality.
5. BASIN- Bsinger+PRO
I really like that the cable doesn’t get caught in my clothes. I really like the fact that it uses a rotating cable connection!
This makes it much easier to talk to others without having to take off my clothes completely. The in-ear earphones fit my outer ear very well and are not noticeable even when worn for long periods of time.
The ear hooks are adjustable and stay in place. They fit snugly behind the ear and don’t fall out even when moving. I like the cable tension slider! They’re also lightweight.
The eartips fit snugly in my ear canal. I can open and close my mouth while singing without any problems. Same as Shure, Westone, and UE cables.
6. 7Hz Salnotes Zero
Considering that many high-end IEMs these days do not come with detachable cables, it is quite satisfying that the Salnotes Zero offers a 2-pin detachable option.
However, compromises are inevitable at this price point. The Salnotes Zero lacks bass (although the quality is excellent) and is not suitable for bassheads.
The Zero also boasts a thin frequency range and sterile tuning. The treble can be tiring to listen to for long periods of time, and the slightly large shell can make for an uncomfortable fit.
Nevertheless, compared to its $20 competitors, the Salnotes Zero boasts mature tuning and performs well in most areas.
These are definitely good choices for those looking to dip their hands (or ears) into a budget IEM or for those considering them as a gift.
The Astrotec Vesna and Tanchjim Tanya are also great value for money entry-level IEMs.
7. BLON BL-03
With sidegrades coming out every week, it’s easy to assume that the newer one is better.
However, these sidegrade hype products are often forgotten and relegated to footnotes on audio forums a few weeks after their release.
The fact that this IEM is still talked about and recommended months after its release is a good sign that something is still going strong.
The venerable BLON BL-03 is a pair that has been the subject of a lot of hype, but for good reason.
The BLON BL-03 was released over 3 years ago to great acclaim and completely changed our expectations for $20 IEMs. In fact, it is still recommended on forums by budget IEM enthusiasts to this day.
Also read: Top 7 Best IEM Under $150