10 Best Wired Earbuds 2025 in the United States

The Sennheiser IE 100 Pro earbuds are designed mainly for professional audio monitoring and music recording, making them a good choice for musicians or audio enthusiasts who want precise sound. They use a 10mm dynamic driver, which helps deliver clear and powerful audio with less distortion. With an impedance of 20 ohms, these earbuds work well with most devices without needing extra amplification. The frequency response reaches up to 18,000 Hz, which covers a broad range of sound but is slightly less than some earbuds that capture the very highest frequencies.

These earbuds connect via a standard 3.5mm jack, so they are compatible with many phones, music players, and professional equipment. Their fit is designed to be secure and comfortable, with a slim and ergonomic shape that suits most ear types. Included foam and silicone tips offer good noise isolation, helping to block out background noise naturally rather than using active noise cancellation.

One standout feature is the cable, which is retractable and built to be stage-proof, meaning it should hold up well under frequent use and movement. However, the cable is wired, so it lacks wireless convenience. Media controls are included, which is handy for managing playback without reaching for your device. These earbuds are not water-resistant, so they may not be the best option for heavy exercise or outdoor use in wet conditions. Also, while they include a microphone and remote control, the focus is on professional monitoring rather than casual phone calls or gaming. If you want reliable, clear sound for music production or detailed listening and prefer a wired connection with durable build quality, the Sennheiser IE 100 Pro is a strong candidate. But if you need water resistance, wireless freedom, or enhanced bass emphasis, you might want to explore other options.

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.

Apple EarPods with Lightning Connector offer a unique earbud design shaped to fit the ear comfortably for most users, making them stand out from traditional round earbuds. They use dynamic drivers to deliver clear sound with good audio quality and sound isolation. With an impedance of 23 Ohm, they are easy to drive, which means they work well with iPhones and other Apple devices without needing extra power.

The Lightning connector is ideal for newer Apple devices but limits compatibility with non-Apple products or phones lacking this port. These earbuds include a built-in microphone and remote controls for volume, calls, and Siri, providing convenient hands-free use. The cable is retractable and lightweight, but the product isn’t water-resistant, so it’s less suited for intense workouts or wet conditions.

Designed for everyday listening and calls, these earbuds might be considered basic for gamers or audiophiles looking for advanced sound customization or noise cancellation. Apple EarPods provide a reliable and comfortable option for iPhone users who want easy-to-use, wired earbuds with solid sound and integrated controls.