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Best earbuds (in-ear headphones)

(Nov 19, 2008)

Jasmine France Jasmine France
Senior Associate Editor
Earbuds are commonly issued as freebie headphones with portable players, but higher-performance earbuds can offer sonics that rival full-size headphones. Their tiny earpieces rest on the outer ear or need to be inserted into the ear canal. Ultracompact and lightweight, earbuds are the most portable of all headphones, and they can provide moderate to excellent isolation from external noise. They also offer little to no interference with earrings, glasses, hats, or hairstyles.

Shure SE310 Sound Isolating Earphones (white)

If you're looking for a premium listening experience, check out the Shure SE310 Sound Isolating Earphones. They sound fantastic and will probably outlast your MP3 player.

Price: $249.95 - $299.99 (check prices)

Review date: Mar 5, 2007

  • 4 stars

      Overall score: 8.3 (4.0 stars)

Excellent

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Etymotic hf5 (blue)

The Etymotic hf5 earphones are an excellent option for those who want the highest level of sound isolation without sacrificing sound quality, portability, or style.

Price: $149.00 (check prices)

Review date: Aug 22, 2008

  • 4 stars

      Overall score: 8.0 (4.0 stars)

Excellent

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Klipsch Custom 3 headphones

If you're looking for a stylish pair of in-ear headphones that don't lack for low end and can withstand daily abuse, the Klipsch Custom 3s are an expensive treat.

Price: $299.99 (check prices)

Review date: Oct 20, 2008

  • 4 stars

      Overall score: 8.0 (4.0 stars)

Excellent

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Klipsch Image Headphones

The pricey Klipsch Image in-ear headphones combine rich sound with superior comfort.

Price: $211.99 - $349.99 (check prices)

Review date: Feb 28, 2008

  • 4 stars

      Overall score: 8.0 (4.0 stars)

Excellent

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Philips SHE-9850 In-Ear Headphones

The Philips SHE-9850 In-Ear Headphones are an excellent choice for style-conscious listeners who demand comfort and detailed audio response.

Price: $91.79 - $199.99 (check prices)

Review date: May 23, 2008

  • 4 stars

      Overall score: 8.0 (4.0 stars)

Excellent

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Ultimate Ears Triple.fi 10 earphones

If you're searching for stellar-sounding in-ear headphones that won't lighten your wallet quite as much as the Shure SE530, the Ultimate Ears Triple.fi 10 earphones fit the bill--just make sure the gigantic earbuds fit in your ears.

Price: $338.00 (check prices)

Review date: Jul 22, 2008

  • 4 stars

      Overall score: 8.0 (4.0 stars)

Excellent

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V-Moda Bass Freq earphones (blue)

V-Moda's Bass Freq earphones are the perfect accessory for bass-loving Creative Zen Micro owners who are on a budget. If you prefer less low end, look elsewhere.

Price: $19.99 - $44.83 (check prices)

Review date: Oct 3, 2006

  • 4 stars

      Overall score: 8.0 (4.0 stars)

Excellent

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V-moda Vibe (red roxx)

The V-moda Vibe headphones are a great option for style-conscious bass-addicts looking for some worthy portable headphones.

Price: $79.90 - $99.99 (check prices)

Review date: Nov 27, 2006

  • 3h stars

      Overall score: 7.7 (3.5 stars)

Very good

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Ultimate Ears Super.fi 5 EB (black)

Bass addicts with a desire to maintain an articulate high end in their music will enjoy the quality Ultimate Ears Super.fi 5 EB in-ear set, while purists who prefer flat EQ should steer clear.

Price: $145.99 - $206.46 (check prices)

Review date: Feb 1, 2006

  • 3h stars

      Overall score: 7.7 (3.5 stars)

Very good

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Denon AH-C551 In-Ear Headphones

The Denon AH-C551 In-Ear Headphones offer mostly great sound quality and a compact, understated design. They're a solid choice for an everyday earbud.

Price: $54.65 - $99.99 (check prices)

Review date: Apr 9, 2008

  • 3h stars

      Overall score: 7.5 (3.5 stars)

Very good

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Radius Atomic Bass earphones (green)

The Radius Atomic Bass earphones are a good choice for bass-addicts with an eye for style and a concern for budget.

Price: $29.99 - $39.99 (check prices)

Review date: Jun 12, 2008

  • 3h stars

      Overall score: 7.5 (3.5 stars)

Very good

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