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10 Best In Ear Monitors 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

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
10.0
Chosen by1,238
Driver Type
Sensitivity
Fit and Comfort

Most important from
971 reviews

Driver Type
The dual-driver setup provides clean, balanced audio with no distortion, even at higher volumes.
Sensitivity
The SE425s allow for lower volume listening, which is less fatiguing and better for ear health.
Fit and Comfort
These earbuds offer a secure fit with their over-the-ear design, although it may take some time to get used to how they hug the ear.
Noise Isolation
The noise isolation on these earbuds is truly amazing, effectively blocking out ambient noise even at low music volumes.
Cable Quality
The detachable, durable cable and replaceable parts ensure longevity and ease of maintenance.

The Shure SE425 PRO Wired Earbuds are well-suited for anyone seeking professional-grade, in-ear monitors. They feature dual high-definition MicroDrivers, which deliver detailed and accurate sound. This makes them excellent for those who value precise audio quality, such as musicians or audiophiles. The sound isolating technology is a standout feature, effectively blocking out external noise to ensure an immersive listening experience.

Additionally, the over-the-ear design with formable wire provides a secure and comfortable fit, preventing the earbuds from falling out during use. Multiple ear tip sizes (small, medium, large) are included to help users find the best fit for long listening sessions. The detachable, durable cable is another practical feature, allowing for easy replacement if damaged, and the included carrying case offers convenient storage and travel options.

Although the frequency response range might leave some users guessing about its performance at very low frequencies, and the impedance of 22 Ohms is relatively low, making it easy to drive but potentially less detailed when paired with high-end audio equipment, the Shure SE425s offer balanced sound and practical features making them a strong choice for professional and personal use.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,238
Driver Type
Sensitivity
Fit and Comfort

Most important from
971 reviews

Driver Type
The dual-driver setup provides clean, balanced audio with no distortion, even at higher volumes.
Sensitivity
The SE425s allow for lower volume listening, which is less fatiguing and better for ear health.
Fit and Comfort
These earbuds offer a secure fit with their over-the-ear design, although it may take some time to get used to how they hug the ear.
Noise Isolation
The noise isolation on these earbuds is truly amazing, effectively blocking out ambient noise even at low music volumes.
Cable Quality
The detachable, durable cable and replaceable parts ensure longevity and ease of maintenance.
#2

ULTIMATE EARS PROFESSIONAL UE 350 Universal in-Ear Monitors, Triple Driver Stage Monitors with Exceptional Headroom for Musicians & Audio Engineers, 1 Pair

Rating
9.4
Fit and Comfort
Noise Isolation
Cable Quality

Most important from
47 reviews

Fit and Comfort
The UE350 offers a secure, natural fit with angled nozzles that create impressive passive noise isolation without the artificial feel of active cancellation.
Noise Isolation
The UE350 offers a secure, natural fit with angled nozzles that create impressive passive noise isolation without the artificial feel of active cancellation.
Cable Quality
The thin, supple cable minimizes microphonics but can tangle easily if not handled carefully; the UE350vi variant adds convenient inline controls for smartphone use.
Impedance
It is easy to drive from smartphones or portable DACs, scaling slightly with better amplification but maintaining its warm, forgiving character.
Driver Type
For those seeking studio-level clarity and precision, the UE-250 model offers excellent separation, tight low end, and a bright tonal balance that helps vocals and instruments cut through mixes.
Frequency Response
Some users found the bass lacking in live band settings and described the treble as sharp or tinny, suggesting the UE350 may not suit all professional stage monitoring needs.

The Ultimate Ears Professional UE 350 in-ear monitors are designed with serious musicians and audio engineers in mind. They feature triple Knowles balanced armature drivers, including dual low-mid drivers and a dedicated high-frequency driver, which work together to deliver clear and detailed sound across all frequencies. This setup offers good headroom and dynamic range, making them suitable for live performances where audio clarity is crucial.

The fit is another strong point; the Perform Fit design ensures a secure and comfortable seal, which helps with noise isolation and keeps the monitors in place during long sessions. A handy tactile red dot marking makes it easy to identify the right earpiece even on a dark stage. The build is lightweight and includes volume control, adding to convenience. The wired connection means you don’t have to worry about battery life, but it can restrict mobility compared to wireless options.

These monitors excel in delivering detailed, reliable sound with good comfort and noise isolation, making them a solid choice for musicians needing dependable stage monitors.

Rating
9.4
Fit and Comfort
Noise Isolation
Cable Quality

Most important from
47 reviews

Fit and Comfort
The UE350 offers a secure, natural fit with angled nozzles that create impressive passive noise isolation without the artificial feel of active cancellation.
Noise Isolation
The UE350 offers a secure, natural fit with angled nozzles that create impressive passive noise isolation without the artificial feel of active cancellation.
Cable Quality
The thin, supple cable minimizes microphonics but can tangle easily if not handled carefully; the UE350vi variant adds convenient inline controls for smartphone use.
Impedance
It is easy to drive from smartphones or portable DACs, scaling slightly with better amplification but maintaining its warm, forgiving character.
Driver Type
For those seeking studio-level clarity and precision, the UE-250 model offers excellent separation, tight low end, and a bright tonal balance that helps vocals and instruments cut through mixes.
Frequency Response
Some users found the bass lacking in live band settings and described the treble as sharp or tinny, suggesting the UE350 may not suit all professional stage monitoring needs.
#3

Shure SE535-CL Professional Sound Isolating Earphones, High Definition Sound + Natural Bass, Three Drivers, in-Ear Fit, Detachable Cable, Durable Quality - Clear

Rating
8.5
Fit and Comfort
Noise Isolation
Cable Quality

Most important from
420 reviews

Fit and Comfort
The customizable fit with soft flex sleeves provides really good isolation and amazing bass response.
Noise Isolation
These earphones provide excellent sound isolation, perfect for use on planes or during commutes.
Cable Quality
The detachable and replaceable cables add substantial service life, making these a practical investment.

The Shure SE535-CL Professional Sound Isolating Earphones are a solid choice for those seeking high-definition sound and natural bass. With three drivers, these earphones offer impressive full-range sound, making them suitable for audiophiles and professionals who require detailed audio reproduction. The customizable fit with three sizes of flex and foam sleeves ensures comfort and good sound isolation, reducing ambient noise effectively.

The over-the-ear design helps keep the earphones secure during movement. The detachable cable is a practical feature, allowing for easy replacement if needed, which can extend the product's lifespan. At 36 Ohms, their impedance might not make them the best match for low-power devices like some smartphones without amplification. Additionally, while the frequency response range of 18 Hz to 19.5 kHz is adequate for most music genres, it may not capture the very low or very high extremes some users might desire.

The clear, durable design is aesthetically pleasing but might not be to everyone's taste. These earphones are slightly heavier and bulkier than some competitors, which could affect comfort during extended use. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Shure SE535-CL is a robust option for anyone serious about their in-ear audio experience.

Rating
8.5
Fit and Comfort
Noise Isolation
Cable Quality

Most important from
420 reviews

Fit and Comfort
The customizable fit with soft flex sleeves provides really good isolation and amazing bass response.
Noise Isolation
These earphones provide excellent sound isolation, perfect for use on planes or during commutes.
Cable Quality
The detachable and replaceable cables add substantial service life, making these a practical investment.

Buying Guide for the Best In Ear Monitors

In-ear monitors (IEMs) are a great choice for anyone looking for high-quality sound in a compact and portable form. Whether you're a musician, an audiophile, or just someone who enjoys listening to music on the go, picking the right IEMs can significantly enhance your listening experience. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your needs and preferences.
Driver TypeThe driver is the component inside the IEM that produces sound. Common types include dynamic, balanced armature, and hybrid drivers. Dynamic drivers are known for their strong bass and durability, making them suitable for bass-heavy music genres. Balanced armature drivers offer detailed and accurate sound, ideal for classical or acoustic music. Hybrid drivers combine both types to provide a balanced sound profile. Choose the driver type based on the kind of music you listen to and your sound quality preferences.
Frequency ResponseFrequency response indicates the range of sound frequencies that the IEMs can reproduce, typically measured in Hertz (Hz). A wider frequency range means the IEMs can produce both very low and very high sounds. For most users, a range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz is sufficient, as it covers the typical human hearing range. If you prefer more detailed sound, especially in the bass or treble regions, look for IEMs with an extended frequency response.
ImpedanceImpedance is measured in ohms and indicates how much power the IEMs need to produce sound. Lower impedance (16-32 ohms) is suitable for use with smartphones and portable devices, as they require less power. Higher impedance (above 32 ohms) IEMs are better suited for professional audio equipment and can provide better sound quality but may require an amplifier. Choose based on the device you plan to use with your IEMs.
SensitivitySensitivity, measured in decibels (dB), indicates how loud the IEMs can get with a given power input. Higher sensitivity means the IEMs can produce louder sound with less power. For everyday use with portable devices, a sensitivity of around 100 dB is usually sufficient. If you need higher volume levels or plan to use the IEMs in noisy environments, look for higher sensitivity ratings.
Fit and ComfortFit and comfort are crucial for IEMs, especially if you plan to wear them for extended periods. IEMs come with various ear tip sizes and materials, such as silicone or foam. Foam tips generally provide better noise isolation and comfort, while silicone tips are more durable and easier to clean. Try different sizes and materials to find the best fit for your ears. A good fit ensures better sound quality and comfort.
Noise IsolationNoise isolation refers to the IEMs' ability to block out external sounds. This is achieved through the design and fit of the ear tips. Good noise isolation is important if you plan to use the IEMs in noisy environments, as it allows you to enjoy your music without distractions. Look for IEMs with multiple ear tip options and a snug fit to ensure effective noise isolation.
Cable QualityThe quality of the cable can affect both the durability and sound quality of the IEMs. Look for cables that are tangle-resistant and have reinforced connectors to prevent breakage. Some IEMs come with detachable cables, which can be replaced if damaged. If you plan to use your IEMs frequently or in demanding environments, investing in a model with a high-quality cable is a good idea.

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