We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Wired Earbuds 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Shure SE846 Gen 2 Sound-Isolating Earphones with 64" Detachable Cable - Clear

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,452
Sound Quality
Comfort and Fit
Durability

Most important from
730 reviews

Sound Quality
The SE846's bass performance is astonishing; it's the best I've heard from any IEM.
Comfort and Fit
Comfortable for long periods, the SE846 fits well even for extended use.
Durability
Build quality is exceptional, with robust cables and a design that exudes quality.

The Shure SE846 Pro Gen 2 Wired Earbuds come with an impressive array of features designed for a high-quality listening experience. One of the standout features is its state-of-the-art sound quality, thanks to the four high-definition drivers that provide clear highs and robust low-end performance. These earbuds also offer four different sound signatures due to the new sound filter, making them versatile for various audio preferences whether you're gaming, streaming, or listening to music.

These earbuds are built for comfort and fit, with an ergonomic low-profile design and optimized nozzle angle, ensuring they can be worn for extended periods without discomfort. The over-the-ear design also helps in keeping the cables out of your way. Durability is another strong point, as Shure is known for its robust build quality, ensuring these earbuds can withstand daily use. Noise isolation is effectively handled through the sound-isolating design, which helps eliminate outside noise to provide an immersive audio experience.

It's worth noting that while the earbuds excel in sound and build quality, they lack an integrated microphone, which might be a drawback if you plan to use them for calls. Additionally, the cable length and type are standard with a 3.5mm jack, which means they are widely compatible but might not be ideal for users looking for USB-C or Lightning connectivity. The impedance is low at 9 ohms, making these earbuds easily driven by most devices, ensuring you get a powerful sound without needing an external amplifier. The Shure SE846 Pro Gen 2 Wired Earbuds are an excellent choice for audiophiles and professionals seeking high-fidelity sound and durable build quality but might not be the best fit if you prioritize having a built-in microphone for calls.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,452
Sound Quality
Comfort and Fit
Durability

Most important from
730 reviews

Sound Quality
The SE846's bass performance is astonishing; it's the best I've heard from any IEM.
Comfort and Fit
Comfortable for long periods, the SE846 fits well even for extended use.
Durability
Build quality is exceptional, with robust cables and a design that exudes quality.
#2

SENNHEISER Professional IE 100 PRO Dynamic In-Ear Monitoring Headphones, Clear

Rating
9.7
Sound Quality
Comfort and Fit
Noise Isolation

Most important from
818 reviews

Sound Quality
Sound quality is well-balanced with a boost in trebles, making snare drums and cymbals sound more forward.
Comfort and Fit
The comfort of the monitors is simply great, fitting into most ears with a customizable over-ear hook.
Noise Isolation
Switching to foam tips can significantly improve noise isolation, offering better enclosure from ambient sounds.

The SENNHEISER In-Ear Audio Monitor (508941) excels in sound quality, featuring a 10-mm broadband transducer for powerful and precise audio. Its dynamic driver system ensures clear, distortion-free sound, making it a strong choice for audio monitoring and music enthusiasts.

Comfort and fit are also well-addressed with its slim and ergonomic design, along with multiple silicone and foam ear tips to cater to different ear sizes. However, it’s crucial to find the right fit to achieve optimal sound quality and call performance, which may require some trial and error.

Durability is a notable strength, with a stage-proof cable and an internal cable duct for added robustness, though the detachable cable can be a point of preference for some users. The earbuds provide excellent noise isolation, thanks to the optimized earpiece design and high-quality tips. The detachable cable adds convenience for storage and replacement.

Rating
9.7
Sound Quality
Comfort and Fit
Noise Isolation

Most important from
818 reviews

Sound Quality
Sound quality is well-balanced with a boost in trebles, making snare drums and cymbals sound more forward.
Comfort and Fit
The comfort of the monitors is simply great, fitting into most ears with a customizable over-ear hook.
Noise Isolation
Switching to foam tips can significantly improve noise isolation, offering better enclosure from ambient sounds.
#3

Shure SE425 PRO Wired Earbuds - Professional Sound Isolating Earphones with Detailed Sound, Dual-Driver Hybrid, Secure in-Ear Fit, Detachable Cable, Durable Quality - Clear (SE425-CL)

Rating
9.7
Sound Quality
Comfort and Fit
Durability

Most important from
968 reviews

Sound Quality
The sound clarity is unreal—every detail comes through so precisely that I feel completely immersed in whatever I’m listening to.
Comfort and Fit
The over-the-ear method of wearing them provides the most amount of security from accidental tugs and movement.
Durability
The earbuds are very durable, with a solid build quality and easy replacement of broken parts.
Noise Isolation
The 425's ability of noise-isolation is better than what I've used in the past.

The Shure SE425 PRO Wired Earbuds are a solid choice for those seeking high-quality sound and comfort in a wired format. The standout feature is their sound isolation technology, which effectively blocks out external noise, making them perfect for a focused listening experience. With dual high-definition drivers, they deliver a striking full-range sound that caters well to audiophiles looking for accuracy and balance in their audio. The customization options with three sizes of ear sleeves ensure a secure fit, enhancing both comfort and sound isolation.

Durability is another strong point with these earbuds. The detachable cable adds versatility, allowing users to replace it easily in case of wear and tear. The reinforced design means they can withstand daily use without compromising on performance. Plus, the over-the-ear design keeps the earbuds in place during activities, which is a bonus for active listeners.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the earbuds excel in sound quality, they may not be the best fit for casual listeners who prefer a more straightforward, easy-to-use option. The need for a secure fit and proper insertion might be challenging for some users. Additionally, the price point is relatively high compared to standard earbuds, which may be a deterrent for budget-conscious shoppers. Lastly, while the carrying case is convenient, some users may find the overall setup to be less portable due to the cable management.

Rating
9.7
Sound Quality
Comfort and Fit
Durability

Most important from
968 reviews

Sound Quality
The sound clarity is unreal—every detail comes through so precisely that I feel completely immersed in whatever I’m listening to.
Comfort and Fit
The over-the-ear method of wearing them provides the most amount of security from accidental tugs and movement.
Durability
The earbuds are very durable, with a solid build quality and easy replacement of broken parts.
Noise Isolation
The 425's ability of noise-isolation is better than what I've used in the past.

Buying Guide for the Best Wired Earbuds

When choosing wired earbuds, focus on comfort, sound quality, and compatibility with your device. Wired earbuds are popular because they offer reliable sound without the need to charge batteries and often have less audio delay. To find the best fit for you, consider how and where you’ll use them—whether for commuting, exercise, calls, or just casual listening. Aim for a balance between audio performance and wearing comfort that suits your daily habits.
Driver SizeThe driver is the component inside the earbuds that produces sound, and its size impacts audio quality, particularly bass. Generally, larger drivers can produce deeper and richer sound, although earbud drivers are usually smaller than those in headphones. Most wired earbuds have drivers between 6mm and 15mm. If you want powerful bass and fuller sound, look for earbuds with drivers on the larger end of this range. If you prioritize compactness and don't mind less pronounced bass, smaller drivers might suit you just fine. Your choice should depend on what kind of music you listen to and your overall sound preference.
Frequency ResponseFrequency response is the range of audio frequencies that the earbuds can produce, measured in Hertz (Hz). The wider the range, the more sounds—from deep bass to high treble—the earbuds can reproduce. Most human hearing ranges from 20Hz to 20,000Hz, so earbuds covering those frequencies will display all the details humans can perceive. If a pair of earbuds offers a slightly wider range, it won’t hurt, but focus on how balanced and clear the sound feels to your ears, since not all frequencies are equally important for all types of listening.
ImpedanceImpedance refers to the electrical resistance of the earbuds, measured in Ohms (Ω), and affects how much power they need from your device. Lower impedance (16-32Ω) works best with smartphones, tablets, and laptops because these devices have less powerful audio outputs. High-impedance earbuds are designed for specialized audio equipment. For everyday use, low impedance is your friend: it means you can plug your earbuds into almost any gadget and get sufficient volume and good clarity.
Wired Connector TypeThis refers to the plug that connects the earbuds to your device. The most common is the 3.5mm audio jack, but some wired earbuds may use USB-C or Lightning connectors, especially for newer smartphones that lack a traditional headphone jack. It is important to pick the correct connector that matches your device—otherwise, you’ll need an adapter, which can affect both convenience and sound quality. Always check what ports your main device uses, and select earbuds with a compatible connector.
Earbud Design and FitEarbuds come in different shapes: some are worn just inside the outer ear (standard earbuds), while others go deeper into the ear canal (in-ear monitors or IEMs) and may include various ear tip sizes for a custom fit. The right fit is essential for both comfort and sound quality since earbuds that seal well also block more outside noise and deliver clearer audio. If you’re sensitive to wearing things in your ear for long periods or if you use earbuds for exercise, pay close attention to the design and choose one that feels secure and comfortable for your daily routines.
Microphone and ControlsMany wired earbuds have a built-in microphone for making calls and buttons to control music playback or answer phone calls. Some even have volume controls or track skipping. If you use your earbuds for calls or meetings, or want on-the-go control without touching your phone, look for a model with these extra features. For pure listening, you might not need them, but for commuting or multitasking, they can be very handy.
Cable Quality and LengthThe cable connects your earbuds to your device, and its durability and length can greatly affect everyday use. A longer, tangle-resistant, or braided cable is ideal if you move around a lot, while a shorter cable might be better for pocket use and portability. Consider the thickness and flexibility of the cable as well—thicker or braided cables tend to last longer, but thin, soft cables are lighter and less bulky. If you have specific needs, such as using your earbuds at a desk, during sports, or while traveling, let that guide your choice.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now