Hey everyone! I’m sharing my top picks for earbuds under $100. You can find some real gems and perfectly decent options in this price range today – the production lines never stop, and the market is absolutely flooded with choices. The good news? This bracket already features dynamic drivers with a rich, full, and spacious sound, high-quality balanced armatures for speed and micro-detail, and hybrid setups that blend punch, clarity, and volume. These are the ones that can truly transport you – close your eyes and you’re somewhere else: the bass hits deep, the vocals resonate, and the details give you goosebumps.
My top picks aren’t just about ‘good value.’ They’re genuine finds that stand out from the pack. These are models where the engineering shines brighter than the marketing, and every dollar truly goes toward the sound. I’m ranking them based on sonic completeness, balance, and how well they handle different music genres.
Here’s my testing setup: Sources: portable DAC/amp COLORFLY CDA-M1P AK4493SEQ (modded by 4ernov), tube amp PJ.MIAOLAI D2 (modded by 4ernov), and portable DAC/amp xDuoo XD-05 Basic (modded by 4ernov).
Why you can trust us. Rating spots are never for sale — to anyone. We buy 90% of models ourselves, 10% are sent by partners for testing. Models in this rating are tested under the EMMA 0.1.8 system?
EMMA — Experts + Methodology + MyChoozers + Algorithm.
Every model goes through identical tests; the score is calculated automatically with fixed weights — a spot in the rating cannot be bought.
This ranking is alive — models change places in it.
1. QoA Cloud Scape9.38Hybrids with an Unusually Spacious Soundstage and Clear, Free Sound.
Drivers
1DD + 1Planar
Impedance
32 ohms
Sensitivity
102 dB
Frequency range
20 Hz-20 kHz.
QoA skipped the driver count race and focused on simplification – and it paid off big time. Their standard hybrid setup (1DD 10mm dynamic + 1 micro-planar) delivers a soundstage comparable to very good open-back over-ear earbuds. The driver crossover and tuning are excellent, making the sound feel like it’s coming from outside your head. The manufacturer claims an ‘adult’ spacious presentation that makes you forget you’re wearing in-ear monitors – and all this for $130.
Reasons to buy:
High detail retrieval
What’s in the box
Reasons not to buy:
Shortened highs air
Sound.
9.13 QoA Cloud Scape impress with an unexpectedly “mature” presentation for in-ear headphones. The main trumps are high resolution, easy reading of micro-details, and one of the most voluminous soundstages in the class: the sound confidently goes beyond the head, the space is wide, natural and airy, and the instruments are placed very plausibly. But for the sake of comfort and long listening, the macrodynamics are slightly smoothed out: contrasts don’t hit sharply, and the attack is not lightning-fast. The planar on the highs is clean and rapid, but the extreme reverb tails and air are slightly shortened. As a result, the sound turns out a bit “groomed” and relaxed — incredibly musical and non-fatiguing, although someone might miss the last spark of energy and complete transparency.Read more.
Frequency balance.
9 The presentation is slightly warm and musical, with a small emphasis on the lower mids and sub-bass, but without obvious overdoing. The general tonal balance is very pleasant and versatile.
Frequency response 👇
Lows.
9 Deep, textured, with good density and control. The sub-bass is felt by the body, speed is decent, not smudged.
Mids.
9 Clean, slightly warm, vocals and instruments are presented closely and emotionally. No recession, timbres are alive and “real”. A slight lift in the upper mids adds expressiveness to female vocals.
Highs.
9 Clean, fast, completely devoid of sibilance and harshness. The planar driver gives excellent cymbal and string attack, but the very last reverb tails and air are slightly muffled — for the sake of comfort and long listening.
Detail retrieval.
9.5 One of the main trumps of the model. Micro-nuances, vocalist’s breathing, string rustles, room echoes — everything reads surprisingly easily for the price. In resolution, Cloud Scape easily compete with models twice as expensive.
Natural timbre.
8.5 Timbres are generally correct and alive, especially on vocals and acoustic instruments. A slight loss in naturalness falls on the highest overtones (cymbals sound a bit “groomed”).
Soundstage.
9.5 Wide and deep for in-ear headphones. Distances between sources are handled almost perfectly, the sound almost completely goes beyond the head. In terms of volume feel, it is one of the leaders in the class.
Build.
10 The construction of the QoA Cloud Scape is made of medical resin with hand-painted art — light, durable and completely seamless. The housing is small, but perfectly repeats the anatomy of the ear, which makes the fit one of the most comfortable in the class.Read more.
Comfort.
10 Comfort is reference-grade. Despite the tight fit and good isolation, the headphones can be worn for 4–5 hours in a row without the slightest pressure and fatigue. Low weight (~5 g) and competent shape work wonders.
Durability.
10 Durability is top-notch: the resin is resistant to scratches and impacts, the pattern is sealed under a layer of lacquer and does not erase. The stock cable is one of the most reliable in the segment under $150, it doesn’t stiffen, yellow, or break at bends.
Design.
10 One of the most beautiful designs of 2025. Each pair is a unique painting in the style of a “cloud sky” (light Cloud or dark Scape). From the first glance it is clear that these are not just headphones, but a small premium art object.
What’s in the box.
10 The packaging is ideal for its money: the headphones themselves, a gorgeous 6N silver-plated cable with a 3.5/4.4 mm modular plug, 6 pairs of high-quality wide-channel silicone ear tips (S/M/L × 2 types), a stylish suede case, and documentation. Everything is packed neatly and expensively — nothing needs to be bought separately.
2. Pula Audio Unicrom9.01Dynamic in-ear earbuds with a cozy, musical sound and powerful warm bass.
Drivers
10mm DD
Impedance
32 Ohms
Sensitivity
101 dB
Frequency range
20 Hz–20 kHz.
Juzear x Z Reviews Defiant — these are the best budget earbuds under $100, featuring a hybrid quad-driver setup: one 10mm dynamic driver and three balanced armature drivers.
Reasons to buy:
Powerful bass
Vivid mids
Reasons not to buy:
Narrow soundstage
Sound.
8.61 The Pula Audio Unicrom deliver a warm, V-shaped sound with a powerful, tactile bass that does not overpower other frequencies, vivid mids, and smooth highs—ideal for emotional listening. The smoothed highs slightly lose airiness and detail in busy tracks, and the soundstage compresses in dense mixes, but the music stays lively.Read more.
The warm, natural signature with powerful, tactile bass and vivid timbres creates a cozy atmosphere. The downside is the smoothed highs and lack of airiness, causing subtle details and the sense of presence to get lost in busy tracks.
Frequency response👇
Frequency balance.
8.83 The bass is powerful and tight, but slows down slightly in fast tracks. The mids are warm and clean, and vocals are vivid, albeit slightly recessed. The highs are smooth and comfortable, without harshness, but lack a bit of air. The sound is balanced with an emphasis on musicality and coziness.
Lows.
9 Powerful, with deep sub-bass and vibration, it doesn’t drown out the rest, but loses definition in fast tracks.Read more.
In action Michael Jackson – P.Y.T, the bass guitar in the intro (0:10) hits with a tight punch, adds weight in the chorus (0:45), but in fast passages (1:30) the notes blur together with imperfect ear tips, and background effects are smeared (-0.5 points).
In the track The Weeknd – Blinding Lights, the intro (0:00–0:10) delivers a pulsating synth bass that brings the track to life, but in the chorus (0:50) at high volume the bass is excessive, smearing the pulsations and losing detail in the echo (-0.5 points).
Mids.
9 Warm, clean, with vivid vocals, slightly recessed due to the V-shaped signature.Read more.
Oasis – Dont Go Away, the guitar in the intro (0:00–0:17) is juicy with natural body, Liam’s vocals in the verse (0:17) are emotional with his signature raspy texture, but in the chorus (1:00) the voice is slightly pushed back, and backing vocals blend with the guitars, losing clarity (-0.5 points), which reduces analytical performance.
Michael Jackson – Man in the Mirror, the piano in the intro (0:10) is full-bodied, the choir in the chorus (1:20) is layered, but at the climax (3:00) the vocal echo and keyboard nuances are smoothed out, and instruments compress, losing separation (-0.5 points).
Highs.
8.5 Smooth, detailed, without aggression, with a slight roll-off past 4-6 kHz.Read more.
Eagles – Hotel California, the guitar fingerpicking in the intro (0:00–0:30) sounds transparent with signature clarity, cymbals in the chorus (1:30) are distinct without harshness, but the guitar solo (2:50) loses its metallic sheen, as if covered by a cloth, stripping away airiness and chilling sibilance (-0.5 points).
Daft Punk – Get Lucky, Lose Yourself to Dance, the cymbals in the Get Lucky verse (0:20) and percussion in the Lose Yourself chorus (1:10) sparkle, the synthesizers (1:00) sound airy, but the faint noise of analog synths disappears, and the highs produce a slight hiss, smoothing out nuances (-1 point for both tracks).
Detail retrieval.
8.6 They clearly convey micro-nuances and textures, especially in the mids, but smooth out background details in busy tracks.Read more.
Oasis – Dont Go Away, the intro (0:00–0:20) is a treat: the acoustic guitar sounds with a soft attack, the rustle of strings is distinct with signature warmth, but in the chorus (1:20) backing vocals and cymbals blend, losing clarity due to the subdued highs, which steals air and the sense of presence (-0.5 points).
Johnny Cash – Hurt, the intro (0:10) conveys the crunch of strings and Cash’s breathing in an intimate way, amplifying emotion, but at the climax (2:30) the dense arrangement compresses details—background noises and light string hits become indistinct, reducing the sense of liveness (-1 point).
Natural timbre.
9 Warm, analog, with vivid timbres, free of artificiality, but male vocals are sometimes a bit thin.Read more.
Sting – Englishman in New York, Sting’s voice in the verse (0:30) sounds warm with signature emotion, as if he is singing right next to you, and the saxophone (1:10) flows in layers with a realistic timbre, but in the chorus (1:40) the percussion and Sting’s breathing are subdued, losing airiness and subtle nuances, which reduces the sense of liveness (-0.5 points).
Lenny Kravitz — Low, the bass guitar in the intro (0:10) creates a powerful rhythm, the drums (0:40) hit with punch, but synth parts and background effects in the chorus (1:30) are smeared, pushing into the background, weakening brightness and texture.-0.5 points).
Soundstage.
8 The soundstage of the Pula Audio Unicrom is moderate in width and depth, with precise imaging, but not ultra-spacious.Read more.
Michael Jackson – Man in the Mirror, backing vocals in the chorus (1:20) layer clearly, creating a space behind the head with signature layering, but at the climax (3:00) the soundstage narrows, and the choir and keys blend, losing depth and volume, which weakens the impact of busy mixes (-1 point).
Yosi Horikawa – Bubbles, the bubbling sounds in the verse (0:30) bounce from left to right with precise panning, as if flying around the ears, but in the middle of the track (1:50) the low register makes instruments flat, without pronounced volume, stealing openness (-1 point).
Build quality.
10 The build of the Pula Audio Unicrom earbuds uses high-end materials that provide excellent durability and reliability. The shell features a well-thought-out shape and clean lines, making the earbuds look modern and feel quite premium. Despite the metallic elements, the model does not feel heavy and is well-balanced.Read more.
Comfort.
10 Comfort with the Unicrom is high. The ergonomic shell easily adapts to the shape of the ear, ensuring a secure fit even during long listening sessions. No fatigue or pressure builds up during 3 to 4 hours of listening, and correctly chosen ear tips create a tight seal and stable fit.
Durability.
10 Durability inspires confidence: the manufacturer used robust shell materials and reliable joints. The cable also deserves a separate mention—it is flexible, high-quality, and wear-resistant, ensuring stable performance over a long time. This combination of durability and convenience makes the Unicrom a great choice for daily use.
Design.
10 Maple wood inserts in four colors (black, blue, green, yellow) make each pair unique and give them a premium look that punches above their price segment.
What’s in the box.
10 The Pula Audio Unicrom package contents are great for the money: a silver-platinum modular cable (3.5/4.4 mm plugs), several pairs of ear tips, a manual, and warranty. A special shout-out to the leather case—the best in this price segment, you couldn’t ask for more.
3. Juzear x Z Reviews Defiant8.74Best budget in-ear earbuds under $100 – hybrid earbuds
Drivers
10 mm DD + 3BA
Impedance
32 Ohms
Sensitivity
109 dB
Frequency range
20 Hz–20 kHz.
Juzear x Z Reviews Defiant — my top budget in-ear earbuds under $100, built with a hybrid four-driver configuration: one 10mm dynamic driver and three balanced armature drivers.
Reasons to buy:
Musical tuning
Comfortable bass
Reasons not to buy:
Weak detail retrieval
Sound.
8.38 They deliver an enveloping sound with a musical W-shaped frequency response and controlled bass. However, due to the safe tuning, they sacrifice ultimate detail retrieval, sparkling highs, and aggressive punch, favoring overall immersion and comfort.Read more.
The Juzear x Z Reviews Defiant sound features a musical, enveloping W-shaped presentation with tight, comfortable bass and natural timbres, ideal for long, enjoyable listening sessions. The downside is smoothed-out detail retrieval and soft, non-sparkling highs, which causes a loss of micro-dynamics, air, and aggressive punch in complex tracks.
Frequency response👇
Frequency balance.
8.5 The earbuds feature a smooth W-shaped profile built specifically for long and enjoyable listening sessions.
Lows.
9 Dense, energetic, and boasting great body, providing a deep yet boomy-free foundation for any track.Read more.
In action Michael Jackson – P.Y.T, the smoothness of the bass does not always deliver the sharpest and hardest punch required for a pronounced transient response, for which I am deducting 0.5 points. However, these nuances do not ruin the overall impression, and the lows sound very decent overall.
In the track The Weeknd – Blinding Lights, it lacks ultimate sub-bass depth and lightning-fast speed for aggressive drive, for which I am deducting0.5 points.
Mids.
8.5 Vocals and instruments are conveyed with body, great clarity, and engagement, thanks to a very comfortable and safe presentation.Read more.
Oasis – Dont Go Away, the safety of the sound may fail to extract the tiniest microphone nuances or vocal grain inherent to more analytical earbuds—for this I deduct 0.5 points.
Michael Jackson – Man in the Mirror, the smoothness of the mids slightly dampens maximum impact and sharp dynamic contrasts during vocal climaxes, making them a bit less explosive—here I deduct 1 point. Despite these slight compromises, the earbuds still deliver a pleasant and comfortable sound.
Highs.
8 They are clean, transparent, and free of sibilance, allowing you to listen to music for hours. This is a safe zone where harshness and aggression are absent, making them ideal for long listening sessions.Read more.
Eagles – Hotel California, the highs are safe and clean, but since they lack sparkle, they lack airiness, cymbal shimmer, and the signature electric guitar bite on high notes, which is important for this track. The sound is comfortable rather than lively—for this I deduct 1.5 points.
Daft Punk – Get Lucky, Lose Yourself to Dance, the energy and groove of the tracks are conveyed well, with highs free of harshness. However, the safe tuning smooths out sharp digital detail and aggressive effect sparkle, making the sound slightly less sharp and dynamic than intended by the artists—for this I deduct 0.5 points.
Detail retrieval.
7.5 Sufficient for the comfortable perception of the overall instrumental canvas and vocal clarity.Read more.
Oasis – Dont Go Away, the finest nuances of micro-dynamics, light rustles, or barely perceptible layers in dense arrangements may be lost, and transparency might not be the highest—for this I deduct 1.5 points.
Johnny Cash – Hurt, I deduct 1 point Despite the track’s intimacy, the Defiant may fail to reveal all the tiny background noises, barely audible echoes, or subtle timbre shifts that create a full sense of presence.
Natural timbre.
9 One of the strong points of the earbuds. Instrument and vocal timbres are conveyed naturally, smoothly, and musically, creating an organic impression.Read more.
Sting – Englishman in New York, I deduct 0.5 points The safe tuning smooths out the rawest or most lifelike micro-details that could give the sound even greater studio authenticity.
Lenny Kravitz — Low, I deduct 0.5 points The lack of a maximum drum attack and multi-layered decay. Despite the subtle smoothing of micro-details and raw dynamics, the overall playback impression remains top-notch.
Soundstage.
8.5 They build a good soundstage, making it immersive and voluminous.Read more.
Michael Jackson – Man in the Mirror, being a bit intimate, the soundstage may not be as wide, lacking depth and layering—for this I deduct 1.5 points.
Yosi Horikawa – Bubbles, the earbuds handle this well, conveying a realistic 3D soundstage and providing an immersive effect; I deduct 0.5 points A lack of aggressive sharpness and clarity of effects that could make the soundstage even sharper and more etched in space.
Build quality.
9.63 The build of the Juzear x Z Reviews Defiant provides excellent comfort: high-grade resin shells and a well-designed 2Pin cable angle allow for hours of listening. Materials and hardware are reliable, and the modular cable is quite good. The appearance in Rainbow and Jade Green colors with milled faceplates looks stylish and recognizable. The only, albeit minor, remarks: personally, the cable color scheme does not pair perfectly with Jade Green, and the abundance of design details might feel slightly excessive.Read more.
Comfort.
9.5 The Defiant are certainly good in this aspect. Their shells, made of high-grade and skin-friendly resin, combined with a very successful 2Pin cable connection angle, allow you to use these earbuds for hours, ensuring complete immersion in the world of music. However, personally, the stock cable’s color scheme does not quite hit the mark for the Jade Green version, which is why I am deducting 0.5 points.
Durability.
10 The Defiant also prove to be quite solid. Let’s start with the cable: it is modular and quite good, although I must admit I have my questions about its color—but that’s pure personal preference. All the hardware also gives the impression of being high quality and reliable.
Design.
9 The Juzear x Z Reviews Defiant offer two striking design variants—the shimmering Rainbow and the cool Jade Green—with signature milled faceplates and nickel accents, which confirms the brand’s recognizable style, but an excess of details and a flashy color scheme slightly overload the overall impression, resulting in a deduction of 1 point.
What’s in the box.
10 Simply excellent! In addition to the earbuds themselves, the box contains a solid modular cable, a stylish leather case, and a good variety of ear tips for fit. A 6.35 mm adapter and a cleaning cloth are also present.
4. Artti R28.74Best single-driver dynamic earbuds under $100 with a proper upgrade
Drivers
1DD
Impedance
15 ohms
Sensitivity
106 dB
Frequency range
20 Hz-40 kHz.
Artti R2 — these in-ear earbuds use a single 10mm dynamic driver with a beryllium-coated composite diaphragm.
Reasons to buy:
Sound scalability
Three-dimensional space and air
Even, lively musicality
Price
Reasons not to buy:
The stock accessories need work
Source dependency
Sound.
8.84 Artti took the riskiest route by choosing to simplify rather than complicate things. A single 10mm dynamic driver with a beryllium coating, carefully damped instead of chasing after a high driver count, suddenly makes this single-driver minimalism sound as if the soundstage were borrowed from good open-back over-ear models, offering volume, depth, and natural decay. The tuning is a rare bullseye, featuring a flat, neutral, and scalable sound that is free of excessive brightness and grain, high resolution, and the ability to handle power without distortion.Read more.
The main pro of the sound in Artti R2 is an incredibly even and scalable presentation with stunning three-dimensional space, high resolution, and natural decay that create the feel of live music inside a tiny shell.The main con is the dependence on a quality source and cable upgrade, alongside less-than-record-breaking transparency on the highs, which causes some air, micro-details, and that same visual imagery to be lost out of the box or with a weak chain.
Frequency response 👇
Frequency balance.
8.77 Artti R2 offer surprisingly even and neutral sound that feels like a winning ticket for a single-driver design. The lows are springy, dense, and textured, featuring great punch, control, and weight without the slightest boominess or smearing. The mids are natural, full-bodied, and smooth, presenting vocals and instruments with live weight, clear timbres, and natural cohesion, without any dips or dryness. The highs are comfortable, clean, and neatly tucked away, lacking any brightness, grain, or sibilance, yet offering high resolution and detail retrieval that fully unfold in the right chain to add clarity without fatigue.
Lows.
8.7 The bass here is springy, textured, and dense, featuring great punch and weight that convey rhythm and emotion without the slightest hint of sluggishness or loss of control. The driver easily handles any power, keeping itself composed even at high volume levels, so the sound doesn’t bloat or lose shape. Although they lack the endless scale and ultra-deep extension of top-tier solutions, they compensate with speed, punch, and that signature beryllium stiffness that makes the bass lively and emotional.
Mids.
8.9 Full-bodied, smooth, and natural, vocals and instruments are presented with real weight and emotional intimacy. There is not the slightest dip, and timbres sound vivid and authentic. A slight warmth in the presentation gives male and female vocals a velvety texture and natural expressiveness, without any dryness or shrillness.
Highs.
8.7 Clean, comfortable, and completely free of sibilance and piercing harshness. The beryllium driver provides great speed and resolution, but the extreme tail-ends of decay and micro-air are slightly reined in to allow for long and relaxed listening sessions without fatigue.
Detail retrieval.
9 The resolution here is very high, and detail retrieval is at a level that makes you sit and stare at the musical imagery. Artti R2 easily compete in detail with noticeably more expensive headphones, although absolute, record-breaking transparency was not given to them, as priority was instead given to naturalness and long-term listening comfort.
Natural timbre.
8.4 Timbres in Artti R2 turn out surprisingly lively and correct, especially on vocals, guitars, and acoustic tracks, sounding with real body, weight, and organic warmth, free of any plastic or artificial sheen. A slight departure from absolute naturalness is only noticeable in the uppermost overtones, as cymbals’ decay and extreme trailing ends are slightly smoothed out by damping, which is a deliberate compromise for comfort and the absence of fatigue during long listening sessions.
Soundstage.
9.2 Artti R2 build a surprisingly spacious and three-dimensional soundstage for single-driver in-ear earbuds, meaning the sound is not pressed against your head but literally unfolds layers of the mix and planes in front of you. Depth is felt physically, air in the recording is tangibly present, instruments and vocals are arranged with a natural perspective, and decays fade far into the background.
Build.
8.5 Artti R2 do not strive to impress with external gloss or pathos, as everything here is subordinated to thoughtful engineering and pure practicality. A seamless shell crafted using 3D-printing tech from medical-grade resin turns out incredibly light, durable, hypoallergenic, and almost completely immune to fingerprints. What is especially impressive is how well they pass the pillow test, as thanks to their miniature size and lack of protruding elements, you can genuinely sleep on your side in them without stabbing edges or any discomfort, even during prolonged contact.Read more.
Cable.
8 Artti R2 come with a quality 4-core silver-plated copper cable for the price, equipped with 2-pin connectors (0.78 mm), which is flexible and not too microphonic, featuring a solid plug of your choice between 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm. However, to get that exact sound I wrote about above, meaning maximum clarity, air, and detail, you should strictly follow Alexander Chernov’s recipe and switch to a better cable like the ivipQ-34.
What’s in the box.
9 Inside the box with Artti R2, you get the in-ear earbuds themselves, a detachable OFC + SPC cable around 1.2 m long with a 3.5 mm plug (a 4.4 mm option is available optionally), a protective storage case, two sets of replacement ear tips for fit adjustment, and standard documentation.
5. Hifiman RE800 Silver8.46Best in-ear earbuds for detail and sound transparency in their class
Drivers
1DD
Impedance
33 ohms
Sensitivity
105 dB
Frequency range
20 Hz-20 kHz.
Hifiman RE800 Silver — these earbuds feature a 9.2mm dynamic driver with an innovative Topology Diaphragm for high detail and minimal distortion. They have a brass alloy body with a silver galvanic coating for durability and improved acoustics, delivering transparent mids, clear highs, and fast, controlled bass.
Reasons to buy:
Clean details
Lively mids
Reasons not to buy:
Weak bass
Bright highs
Sound.
8.54 The RE800 Silver deliver a bright and detailed sound with a fairly wide soundstage. Thanks to Topology Diaphragm technology and a single dynamic driver, the headphones reveal micro-details well and create a sense of space.Read more.
The main advantage of the sound of the Hifiman RE800 Silver is crystal clear, almost studio-grade detail retrieval and a wide, airy soundstage with stunning instrument separation and a sense of space. The main drawback is weak, thin bass without physical impact and weight + overly bright and sometimes fatiguing highs at volumes above medium.
Frequency response 👇
Frequency balance.
8.67 The headphones demonstrate a bright, detailed, and airy sound signature with an emphasis on highs. Lows are precise and tight, but may seem insufficiently powerful for fans of rich bass. The mid-range is an absolute trump card: vocals and instruments convey naturally and cleanly, although in individual tracks they may lose a bit of body. The upper register impresses with detail and transparency, but excessive brightness sometimes leads to fatigue, especially at high listening volumes.
Lows.
8.5 This isn’t about brute power, but about refinement and control. Here the bass is precise, excellently textured, and surprisingly tight; it doesn’t push forward, doesn’t try to dominate the mix, but rather elegantly supports the overall sound.Read more.
In action Michael Jackson – P.Y.T, the bass guitar is revealed magnificently: its fingerpicking and characteristic woody tint are felt tactibly and naturally. It dances in the mix, giving funky elasticity, but never drowns out vocals or other instruments. You will be able to clearly track each of its notes, enjoying delicate articulation, which makes the bass intellectual rather than massive. However, due to the refined nature of the bass and the lack of pronounced punch, I am docking 0.5 points.
In the track The Weeknd – Blinding Lights, in the intro, the pulsating synthesizer bass is delivered clearly and rhythmically. You will hear every pulse of it, how it drives the track, while it remains dry and articulated, without a hint of smear or rumble. However, the lack of a powerful sub-bass impact might not appeal to fans of deep bass. Due to this lack of power and depth, I am docking 1 point.
Mids.
9 This is their strong point. Vocals and strings sound natural and clean, as if pushed slightly forward so as not to miss a single detail.Read more.
Oasis – Dont Go Away, already in the intro I hear how the acoustic guitar opens up with stunning clarity: literally every string sounds separately, and its reverberations create a sense of real volume. When Liam Gallagher enters, his voice is not just heard — it sounds weighty and expressive, with that signature rasp that makes him so recognizable. True, I am a bit saddened: in this track, there is a lack of overall volume and space, because of which the sound loses part of its liveness. For this, I am docking 0.5 points.
Michael Jackson – Man in the Mirror, in the chorus, the RE800 demonstrate wonderful holographic vocals. Michael’s voice is not just centered; it is surrounded by airy space, and towards the end of the track, as the choirs swell, I literally hear how the vocal layers are well separated, creating the effect of a live performance in a large hall. However, at times the vocals sound a bit distant, making the delivery of the track’s mood less deep — for this, I am docking an additional 0.5 points.
Highs.
8.5 They’re well detailed and possess lightness, adding airiness and transparency to the music. This creates a sense of clarity, but can sometimes feel overly bright.Read more.
Eagles – Hotel California, in Don Felder’s famous solo, the high guitar notes sound clean and detailed, with a light sparkle — as if the strings are vibrating right in front of you. Cymbals add energy: their hiss dies away quickly, supporting the rhythm excellently. But if you are sensitive to highs, these bright peaks might seem annoying or even piercing — for this I am docking 0.5 points.
Daft Punk – Get Lucky, Lose Yourself to Dance, hi-hats and percussion are the main heroes of the highs. The RE800 Silver convey them clearly and energetically, creating that very funky groove loved in disco. In Lose Yourself to Dance, shakers sound bright and ringing, adding pulsation and sparkle to the track. But sometimes the treble component crosses the line between lively and harsh — at high volume this can be fatiguing. For excessive aggression in the highs, I am docking 1 point.
Detail retrieval.
9 The RE800 Silver convey sound with good detail — it feels like in familiar tracks I hear slightly more nuances.Read more.
Oasis – Dont Go Away, in quiet fragments (for example, the intro with guitar and vocals) arrangement nuances are clearly audible — light fret noise, vocalist’s breathing, reverberation echoes. However, in dense sections (like the second verse when drums, bass, and rhythm guitar kick in), the instruments start to sound overly separated. For this — I am docking 0.5 points.
Johnny Cash – Hurt, the RE800 convey not just the music, but the entire atmosphere of the recording: breathing, finger slides on strings, quiet studio noises are audible. This creates a presence effect, as if the performer is nearby. But at the same time, Cash’s voice sounds a bit dry: as if it lacks rounded warmth and body, for this slight degreasing of emotions — I docked 0.5 points.
Natural timbre.
8 The RE800 convey sound naturally: voices and acoustic instruments sound lively and believable. This is especially noticeable on vocal and chamber compositions. True, sometimes increased brightness in the highs can slightly disrupt this naturalness of sound.Read more.
Sting – Englishman in New York, Sting’s voice is conveyed with characteristic rasp and warmth, the saxophone sounds expressive. All nuances feel lively, natural, and with good space. But the cymbals and hi-hats in this track can sound a bit piercing and dry — on the verge of harshness, especially at elevated volume, for this, I docked 1 point.
Lenny Kravitz — Low, the headphones again demonstrate excellent delivery of vocals and guitars, with great separation and body. But even here, on fast percussion elements, especially in the hi-hat area, the same excessive brightness is heard — a slight feeling of artificiality arises, which spoils the integrity of the funky groove. In total, this draws a minus 1 point.
Soundstage.
8.5 You get a very interesting sense of space for such small headphones. The sound isn’t locked inside your head, but unfolds around you. You can clearly hear the location of instruments — for example, guitar on the left, drums on the right, and vocals right in the center.Read more.
Michael Jackson – Man in the Mirror, vocals in the center, backing vocals slightly further and wider, and instruments well separated — as if I’m listening to a concert from a good seat in the hall. True, when everyone plays at once, the sound becomes too disjointed: each instrument is clear on its own, but together they do not merge into a single whole, like live musicians. Because of this, the sense of a live ensemble is slightly lost — of how elements interact organically in space. For this — I docked 0.5 points.
Yosi Horikawa – Bubbles, in these headphones, it feels as if sounds literally surround me from all sides — clicks, trills, and rustles move not only left-right, but also front-back, creating a volumetric effect. But there is a nuance: at moments when sounds overlap or interact, you feel that the stage draws each sound separately rather than building a single sound canvas. For this, I am docking 1 point.
Build.
8.25 They’re made of quality materials and give the impression of a reliable, well-thought-out product. The shells are small, neat, and light — you can feel that classic Hifiman approach to compact dynamic in-ears. Despite the minimalist shape, they’re solidly assembled, and the insertion angle is designed so that the shell fits into the ear without extra effort and fixes securely. The only controversial point is the thin non-detachable cable, which requires the most careful handling.Read more.
Comfort.
9 Truly impressive. The headphones are practically weightless and have a universal shape, which makes them great for long listening sessions. They sit stably in the ears, and don’t press or cause fatigue even after several hours. I easily fell asleep with them in my ears — this is the best characteristic of ergonomics. But there’s a nuance: due to the thin cable, you might encounter microphonic noise during movement, so I’m docking 1 point. Otherwise — this is one of the most comfortable options among classic form factors.
Durability.
8.5 leaves a dual impression. The shells themselves are made with quality: the metal is durable, lightweight, and wear-resistant — you definitely don’t have to worry about them. But the cable is their weak point. It’s too thin, especially at the junction with the shell, and is non-replaceable, which reduces the overall reliability of the construction. The 3.5 mm plug looks solid, but the vulnerability remains right at the top of the chain. For all this I’m docking 1.5 points, although overall materials and build are decent, and with careful handling they’ll last a long time.
Design.
8 This is an example of classic minimalism. No design delights or wow effect, just neat metal shells in silver color. They look clean, strict, and functional — without extra pretension. However, considering their starting price of $599, you expect a more expressive and premium design. For the lack of outstanding elements and too simple appearance at such a cost, I’m lowering the score to 8 points. Nevertheless, the aesthetics here are honest and universal — suitable for those who appreciate neatness without showiness.
What’s in the box.
7.5 Includes the headphones themselves, a hard case, a cable fixing clip, two pairs of foams, ten pairs of silicone tips of various sizes, a cleaning tool, and a small Hifiman catalog. By today’s standards, especially for $40, this is a decent and even generous set. But if you recall their original price of $599 — such a kit looks modest and doesn’t match the premium segment. Therefore I’m giving 7.5 points: everything needed is there, the quality of the case is excellent, there are many tips, but the expected wow level is absent.
6. Kiwi Ears Cadenza8.26Comfortable in-ear dynamic earbuds with a melodious sound and good frequency response
Drivers
10 mm DD
Impedance
32 ohms
Sensitivity
110 dB
Frequency range
20 Hz-20 kHz.
Kiwi Ears Cadenza — these in-ear earbuds boast a 10mm beryllium dynamic driver, offering fast response and detailed sound. The 3D-printed, medical-grade resin shell provides a balanced audiophile sound with quick bass, rich mids, and natural highs.
Reasons to buy:
Natural mids
Reference comfort
Reasons not to buy:
Weak lows
Sound.
8.06 The sound of the Kiwi Ears Cadenza can be described as balanced, with an emphasis on detail retrieval and airiness. Vocals and instruments convey with high clarity, making them suitable for listening to various musical genres.Read more.
The main advantage of the sound of the Kiwi Ears Cadenza is clean, natural mid-range and detailed highs that provide a transparent and non-fatiguing presentation. The main drawback is weak, insufficiently powerful and deep bass, because of which energetic genres lack drive, impact, and physical weight.
Frequency response 👇
Frequency balance.
8.43 The frequency balance of the Kiwi Ears Cadenza can be described as close to neutral, with a slight emphasis on the upper range. Lows have sufficient flatness while retaining mass and depth. Mids convey cleanly and in a balanced manner, without obvious recessions or boosts. Highs are slightly boosted, adding airiness, but you might feel a slight accent in some tracks.
Lows.
8.5 The bass in Dr. Dre – “Still D.R.E.” (hip-hop) sounds clear and controlled, free of boominess and smearing. It’s present in sufficient quantity, but doesn’t dominate, making the sound balanced. Bass depth is sufficient for most genres, but fans of powerful and massive sub-bass might find it lacking. In hip-hop and electronic music, lows feel clean, but not as punchy as in models with pronounced V-shaped tuning.
Mids.
8.6 In Chris Stapleton – “Tennessee Whiskey” (country), vocals convey cleanly and naturally, without extra emphasis or dips. Mids are flat and linear, ensuring a balanced sound of instruments, especially guitars and piano. Timbres convey quite accurately, retaining naturalness and depth, making the headphones a good choice for vocal and instrumental music.
Highs.
8.2 In Radiohead – “Paranoid Android” (alternative rock), the 5-10 kHz emphasis gives the sound sparkle and good detail, especially in cymbals and guitar picking. Highs possess airiness, making the sound more open and detailed. However, at times you can feel a slight harshness, especially if you’re sensitive to highs. Overall, this range is well elaborated, but individual susceptibility to it may vary.
Detail retrieval.
8.5 In Metallica – “Enter Sandman” (metal), Kiwi Ears Cadenza convey tiny nuances like drum attack, string buzz, and guitar riff texture. Thanks to the emphasis on highs, details sound clear and legible, which is especially noticeable on cymbals and percussion. However, in complex overloaded sections, detail retrieval can be slightly lost, but overall the elaboration level of micro-elements remains high.
Natural timbre.
7.5 The sound of the Cadenza can be described as quite natural, especially in the mid-range. A small emphasis on highs can give the sound some brightness, but overall instrument timbres convey quite authentically. In the track Johnny Cash – “Hurt” (country), Cash’s voice sounds natural and convincing, conveying all emotional richness, though highs slightly add extra clarity without causing discomfort.
Soundstage.
7.8 The soundstage in the headphones is well elaborated and wide, letting you distinguish instruments in a track well. For example, in “Money” by Pink Floyd (rock), the stage demonstrates good sound separation despite its average depth. Sounds are located in separate positions, creating a sense of spatiality, though without obvious depth. Nevertheless, for most genres, the stage will be satisfactory and sufficiently detailed.
Build.
8.75 The construction of the Kiwi Ears Cadenza headphones is made with quality and thought. A durable shell with neat assembly ensures comfort and reliability. The headphones have an ergonomic shape, and sit well in the ears without creating discomfort during long wear. Despite compact dimensions, they look stylish and solid, making them suitable for daily use.Read more.
Comfort.
10 The headphones sit ideally in the ears without causing discomfort even during prolonged use. Ergonomic shape and light weight make them practically unnoticeable, letting you enjoy music for hours without fatigue. For me, these are one of the most comfortable headphones.
Durability.
8 Kiwi Ears Cadenza give the impression of a reliable device thanks to the use of epoxy resin for the shell. However, the shell is prone to scratches, which can affect the appearance of the headphones in the long term (minus 1 point for the shell). In addition, the cable feels insufficiently durable and can wear out quickly with active use (minus 1 point for the cable).
Design.
10 The design of the Kiwi Ears Cadenza conquered me with its elegance and refinement. Every detail is thought out to the smallest detail, creating a harmonious and attractive image.
What’s in the box.
7 The Kiwi Ears Cadenza kit includes the headphones, a detachable cable with 2-pin 0.78 mm connectors, and several pairs of silicone ear tips of various sizes, which is sufficient, however the set is minimalist — no case or other accessories are present. The cable draws complaints: it tends to tangle, looks simple and insufficiently durable, and has mediocre insulation, which can lead to interference. The quality of the ear tips: they’re made of quality, soft, and durable silicone, and the size set lets you choose an ideal fit for any ear.
7. CVJ Shadow Blade8.26In-ear dynamic earbuds with an enveloping V-shaped sound and powerful bass
Drivers
10mm DD + 1 Vibration
Impedance
32 Ohms
Sensitivity
101 dB
Frequency range
20 Hz–20 kHz.
cvj shadow blade
CVJ Shadow Blade — these versatile in-ear monitors under $100 can truly do it all. It’s a hybrid (1DD + 2BA) with incredible flexibility, capable of delivering crushing, thunderous bass or a delicate, almost imperceptible presentation when you just want to get lost in the music. They’re also the most adaptable and ‘omnivorous’ wired in-ear monitors in their class, offering an excellent soundstage, comfort, and interchangeable tuning nozzles.
Reasons to buy:
Powerful bass
Vivid mids
Reasons not to buy:
Narrow soundstage
Sound.
8.17 As for the sound, the CVJ Shadow Blade offer a warm, enveloping V-shaped signature that lets you dive deep into music and listen for hours without fatigue. You get powerful, tactile, and deep bass that makes every track dynamic and lively. The wide soundstage that extends beyond the head and creates a volumetric presentation will also pleasantly surprise you.Read more.
The sound’s main pro for the CVJ Shadow Blade is powerful, tactile, and deep bass combined with a warm, enveloping presentation and a surprisingly wide soundstage that extends beyond the head. The main con is muted and insufficiently bright highs, which causes a loss of air, sparkle, and micro-details, making the sound too soft and lacking a spark.
Frequency response👇
Frequency balance.
8.17 Warm V-shaped sound signature, which is generally very pleasant and non-fatiguing for listening. It leans toward a balanced and warm tonal balance.
Lows.
8.5 The earbuds Provide deep immersion thanks to their low-end tactility. However, their dominant character and sometimes excessive physical impact can be both an advantage and a significant drawback, depending on personal preference.Read more.
In action Michael Jackson – P.Y.T, the bassline played by the bass guitar sounds tight and distinct, with every hit felt as a physical punch. Nevertheless, sometimes excessive bass density can blur fast and complex basslines, reducing their separation and micro-details, for which I am also deducting 0.5 points.
In the track The Weeknd – Blinding Lights, from the very first seconds of the track when the powerful synth bass kicks in, you will feel its depth and pulsation, like the heartbeat of the track. In most cases, the bass remains tight, but at high volume, the vibration sensation can become too intense, distracting from overall sound purity, for which I am deducting1 point.
Mids.
8.5 The earbuds offer a comfortable, warm presentation of vocals and instruments. But if you expect analytical dissection of every note, this warm wrapping might seem a bit smoothed out to you.Read more.
Oasis – Dont Go Away, Liam Gallagher’s vocals sound clean, with pleasant warmth and naturalness, without being intrusive. Likewise, the vocal position, especially in the verses (for example, from 0:17 onwards), might feel slightly detached, as if slightly drowning in the overall warm sound, for which I deduct 1 point.
Michael Jackson – Man in the Mirror, Michael’s vocals sound voluminous and expressive, without harshness. Backing instruments, especially the choir and piano, are well separated while maintaining arrangement richness. But there is a nuance: the warm sound with boosted bass slightly masks the finest details—such as a light vocal echo or quiet percussion nuances, for which I deduct 0.5 points.
Highs.
7.5 The highs sound clean and open enough, without harshness. There is plenty of detail, but no special brightness or wow factor. A good balance between gentleness and clarity—nothing pierces the ears, yet it doesn’t force you to strain to listen.Read more.
Eagles – Hotel California, strings ring transparently here, but I miss their metallic sheen. The guitar solo in the middle of the track: it is clean, yes, but without that soul-chilling sibilance that makes hair stand on end—as if the guitar is slightly covered by a cloth, for which I deduct 1.5 points.
Daft Punk – Get Lucky, Lose Yourself to Dance, in my opinion, the faint noise of analog synths that adds life to electronic music is nearly unnoticeable—I deduct 1 point for this.
Detail retrieval.
7.5 Feels above average—especially in the midrange. Instruments are conveyed clearly, vocals are vivid, but the highs are slightly subdued, which on one hand removes sibilance and fatigue, but on the other hand slightly blurs airy details.Read more.
Oasis – Dont Go Away, the intro sounds pleasant: the acoustic guitar has body and a soft attack. The voice in the verses is clearly distinguishable, but when backing vocals and drums kick in during the chorus, the soundstage gets slightly blurred, cymbals sound muted, and the highs lack air—I deduct 1.5 points.
Johnny Cash – Hurt, it sounds emotional and intimate, preserving the intimacy of the performance. However, at the climax where a denser arrangement emerges, the earbuds lose part of their separation—the soundstage narrows, and instruments blend—minus 1 point.
Natural timbre.
8.5 Instruments are conveyed naturally, without overshoots or coloration. However, the upper part of the spectrum is slightly smoothed out, resulting in a loss of tiny nuances and a sense of air.Read more.
Sting – Englishman in New York, Sting’s voice sounds warm and vivid, especially in the verses—timbre and emotion are well conveyed. The saxophone and backing vocals sound layered and atmospheric. However, in the chorus and quiet moments, the air is lost: percussion, breathing, rustles sound subdued. The bass is soft, but slightly smears drum attacks, for which I deduct 1 point.
Lenny Kravitz — Low, main drums and bass guitar create a powerful rhythmic foundation. But details in the electronic backing and synth parts become less distinct, as if pushed into the background—minus 0.5 points.
Soundstage.
8.5 A pleasant surprise—it is wider and more voluminous than expected from earbuds in this segment. In width, the sound extends beyond the head, creating a spacious feel, especially in atmospheric or live tracks.Read more.
Michael Jackson – Man in the Mirror, backing vocals sound in layers, which is immediately noticeable. In the middle of the song, when drums and keys are added, the soundstage narrows slightly, and depth becomes less noticeable—I deduct 0.5 points.
Yosi Horikawa – Bubbles, bubbling sounds move clearly from left to right, jumping across the panning, especially in the middle of the track where the low register adds in. However, the sub-bass, while lifting and densifying the soundstage, can slightly overshadow upper details, causing individual instruments to often sound flat without pronounced individual volume, despite overall spatial depth—for this I deduct 1 point.
Build quality.
8.5 The build of the CVJ Shadow Blade uses all-metal materials, ensuring excellent shell strength and a monolithic feel. Despite the fully metallic execution, the shape of the earbuds is well-thought-out and ergonomic—they fit really well and feel reliable. However, the design has quirks: the cable ear hooks require careful adjustment and breaking in, which reduces overall user comfort.Read more.
Comfort.
7.5 The earbuds sit securely in the ears and cause no discomfort on their own, but the cable adds complexity: the stiff ear hooks need shaping, for which 1.5 points are deducted. When installing the additional microphone, which attaches directly to the ear hooks, the setup becomes noticeably bulky, degrading ergonomics—another minus 1 point. As a result, despite the high-quality shells, overall comfort depends on keeping connected accessories to a minimum.
Durability.
8 The metal shells give an impression of reliability, and the cable in a tight fabric braid looks resistant to damage. Nevertheless, upon close inspection, potential risk points are noticeable: tiny microphone connectors and modular cable contacts are easy to damage—minus 1 point. The glossy inner surface of the shells and matte faceplates are prone to scuffs—minus 0.5 points. The most critical point is the threading on the nozzles, which wears out with frequent filter changes, potentially ruining the earbuds—minus 0.5 points.
Design.
8.5 Color options—classic black and elegant silver metallic—look strict and stylish. The 1.2-meter cable provides convenience when watching movies or gaming, allowing you to settle in comfortably. However, when using all available accessories—microphone, filters, adapters—the setup becomes noticeably bulky, losing aesthetic appeal. For this clutter, 1.5 points are deducted. Otherwise, the Shadow Blade looks solid and modern.
What’s in the box.
10 The box offers the earbuds themselves, a braided detachable cable, a removable microphone, three pairs of interchangeable acoustic filters, a set of ear tips, USB Type-C, USB Type-A adapters, a classic 3.5 mm plug, a metal case, a branded keychain, a splitter, and all necessary documentation. The kit is impressive in its completeness, quality, and thoughtfulness—it literally has everything a user might need.
8. TRN White Tiger8.14Hybrid in-ear earbuds with a V-shaped sound, emphasis on bass, and bright highs
Drivers
2DD + 1Planar
Impedance
16 ohms
Sensitivity
118 dB
Frequency range
20 Hz-40 kHz.
TRN White Tiger $70 — these hybrid in-ear earbuds combine two dynamic drivers (10.5mm + 8mm) and one 6mm planar driver. They deliver a powerful, V-shaped sound with boosted bass and treble. I was pleasantly surprised by their sound; these earbuds are atmospheric and can really immerse you in music, creating an impressive listening experience.
Reasons to buy:
Energetic sound
Low and high frequency quality
Reasons not to buy:
Recessed mids
Nozzle threads are prone to damage
Sound.
7.89 The earbuds offer a dynamic and expressive V/W-shaped sound signature with an emphasis on bass and highs. They work well for modern genres, but might struggle with more complex and balanced tracks that require flat mids and natural timbres.Read more.
The main sound pro of the TRN White Tiger is deep, energetic, and punchy bass paired with detailed highs, which makes tracks lively and engaging. The main sound con is that the mids are somewhat recessed, making vocals and instruments sound less natural, while complex tracks lose some fullness and texture.
Frequency response👇
Frequency balance.
8.07 The balance leans toward the lows and highs. Bass dominates, while the mids are pushed back. This V/W-shaped character is clearly visible on the frequency response graph.
Lows.
7.9 Bass is powerful, deep, and well-felt, matching the low-end boost on the frequency response graph. In “Still D.R.E.” (Dr. Dre, Hip-Hop/Gangsta Rap), the bass sounds energetic, but its excess can hurt texturing and integration into the mix. Drum hits might not be as tight as one would like.
Mids.
8.1 Mids are reproduced fairly flatly, but due to the V-shaped tuning, they sound less expressive compared to the lows and highs. In “Tennessee Whiskey” (Chris Stapleton, Country), vocals sound quite rich, but the guitar can lack naturalness and texture due to this mid-range dip.
Highs.
8.2 Highs are emphasized, adding brightness and detail to the sound, matching the frequency response peak around 8-10 kHz. In “Paranoid Android” (Radiohead, Alternative Rock), this can lead to some harshness and a loss of transparency in the cymbals, as well as dull-sounding guitars due to the excessive treble emphasis. The slight loss of transparency in the cymbals and guitar dullness I noticed could be tied to this peak.
Detail retrieval.
7.8 TRN White Tiger handle detail retrieval decently, especially in the highs. However, in busy and dense arrangements like “Enter Sandman” (Metallica, Rock/Metal), you might notice a lack of instrument separation and micro-detail, particularly in the mids, which are muffled due to the V-shaped frequency response.
Natural timbre.
8 TRN White Tiger reproduce timbres fairly naturally, especially in the mids, where vocals and acoustic instruments like in Johnny Cash’s “Hurt” (Country/Acoustic) sound clear. However, the treble emphasis adds “brightness” and a slight low-end roll-off “lightens” the bass, which slightly affects naturalness, especially for acoustic music where balance matters.
Soundstage.
7.7 The soundstage on the TRN White Tiger is average in width and depth. In “Money” (Pink Floyd, Rock/Progressive Rock), there is a sense of space, but it does not create a fully immersive effect. The emphasis on the frequency extremes can shift soundstage perception, making instruments at the edges more prominent and those in the middle less so.
Build quality.
8.75 The earbuds are crafted from a sturdy and lightweight composite material that combines style and durability. The elegant rounded design ensures a comfortable fit and great sound isolation. The earbuds are suitable for extended listening sessions thanks to their comfortable ergonomics. A detachable 2-pin cable makes it easy to swap accessories and replace cables, while also improving the longevity of the earbuds.Read more.
Comfort.
9 The earbuds feature an ergonomic shape that sits securely in the ears, providing good isolation and convenience during long listening sessions. However, due to their large housing, they might not suit people with small ear canals, which slightly reduces overall comfort. We deduct 1 point for this nuance, but otherwise, the earbuds sit comfortably and cause no discomfort.
Durability.
8 The durability of the TRN White Tiger is generally good, but there are a few aspects that could affect their lifespan. Detachable nozzles can cause threading issues and let debris inside, reducing longevity. Also, the modular cable, with frequent plug swaps, could lead to connector bends and breakage. We deduct 1 point each for these nuances, but otherwise, the earbuds are quite reliable and durable.
Design.
9 The design of the TRN White Tiger is justified and fully matches their specs—they look stylish and appealing. The build and shape are a great fit for this earphone type, creating a premium impression. However, we deduct 1 point for the lack of alternative color options, which limits personalization.
What’s in the box.
9 The TRN White Tiger package is quite rich and includes: the TRN White Tiger earbuds with pre-installed ear tips; a detachable braided silver-plated copper cable with two interchangeable plugs: 3.5 mm (standard) and 4.4 mm (balanced); several sets of silicone ear tips in different sizes (S, M, L); three pairs of interchangeable acoustic filters/nozzles to alter the sound signature; a hard case for storing and transporting the earbuds and accessories.
9. ooopusX Op.227.38In-ear earbuds with a mechanical tuning wheel
Drivers
2DD+2BA
Impedance
22 ohms
Sensitivity
124 dB
Frequency range
10 Hz-40 kHz.
The main reason to buy: If you’re just getting into in-ear earbuds and want something with character that lets you experiment with the sound on the fly. The mechanical tuning wheel isn’t a gimmick; it’s a real tool for developing your ear. Mode O shows you what control and neutrality sound like. Mode B demonstrates excessive bass. Both lessons for $35 – a pretty good deal, right?
Reasons to buy:
Massive lows
Safe highs
Mechanical dial
Reasons not to buy:
Basic audio resolution
Stiff cable ear hooks
Sound.
7.00 In Mode B, the sound feels over-the-top, heavy, and aggressively woofer-heavy. The lows don’t just dominate here—they overpower the rest of the range, bleeding into the mids. Bass resolution is weak: instead of a punchy, tight hit, you get boominess and smear. The overall picture feels congested: the sound lacks air, and instrument separation stays average. The main pro of this tuning is the density and weight, which some listeners perceive as a powerful sound. For background listening to electronic music or hip-hop, where atmosphere matters more than details, Mode B will set the right mood. The main con is the complete lack of technicality and control in the low-end. The sheer amount of bass here doesn’t complement the dynamics—it replaces them. The soundstage loses volume, the music loses transparency, and what should sound powerful ends up sounding heavy and dark. An audiophile will get tired of this fast. A beginner might enjoy it—but not for long.Read more.
Build.
8.50 The ooopusX Op.22 features a compact in-ear form factor made of plastic resin. Visually, the model leans into a cyberpunk aesthetic: angular edges, a tech-inspired faceplate pattern, and a mechanical tuning wheel right on the housing look original and recognizable against the backdrop of cookie-cutter budget IEMs. However, behind the flashy design hides heavy cost-cutting on materials—the touted “wood” elements visually and tactilely resemble plain plastic. The housings turned out surprisingly lightweight and ergonomic, fitting into the outer ear without issue. But the overall experience is ruined by the stock cable: the stiff pre-shaped ear hooks noticeably press against the ear during early listening sessions. The fit takes some getting used to before you stop noticing the physical presence of the headphones.Read more.
10. CCZ CZ107.09Good budget earbuds with five drivers
Drivers
10mm 1DD + 4BA
Impedance
16 ohms
Sensitivity
102 dB
Frequency range
20 Hz-20 kHz.
CCZ CZ10 are decent for background listening after EQ adjustments. The earbuds have powerful bass and plenty of volume headroom. While the bloated bass adds dynamism and the first few tracks are engaging, this sound gets tiring quickly. There’s not much airiness, separation, or sense of space. With five drivers, you’d expect more; the four balanced armatures aren’t really noticeable. Build quality is solid, though. The metal body is free of flashy textures or patterns, looking neat and tidy.
Reasons to buy:
Deep and fast bass.
Pleasant background sound after EQ tweaking.
Sturdy metal housing.
Reasons not to buy:
Bloated bass and a narrow soundstage.
Sound blends together in a busy mix.
Sound.
7.23 With bloated bass, muddy mids, and slightly recessed highs. An average-sounding model lacking detail, naturalness, and soundstage. The sound gets better with an EQ, you just need to add some mids. You get more brightness and transparency. Though the synthetic timbre becomes more noticeable too. The CCZ CZ10 lands in the MyChooz bronze league, even though expectations for a five-driver model were higher.Read more.
Frequency balance.
7.4 Emphasized on lows, mids are slightly recessed, highs are slightly muted.
Lows.
7.2 Too much quantity. The bass is fast, deep, and overly boosted. In the track The Weeknd – Blinding Lights, the bassline pushes the mids and highs back. Sometimes it drowns out the vocals. In Lenny Kravitz — Low, the kick is boomy, the drums lack snap, and the bass guitar is overly boosted and boomy. The bass guitar sound fills the space and crowds out the other instruments. The double bass in Sting – Englishman in New York handles the lower register well.
Mids.
7.5 Lacks quantity, and the sound is muffled. Vocals are clear, yet some detail in the voice is lost. Vocals sound too close, the artist is practically shouting in your face. Most noticeable in the track Oasis – Dont Go Away.
Highs.
7.5 Insufficient quantity, lacking airiness in the sound. Highs are smoothed out, not piercing or harsh on most tracks. The exception is Oasis – Dont Go Away, where the abundance of percussion makes you flinch.
Detail retrieval.
7 Main and secondary parts are clear. Micro-details are harder to pick out. Even harder in a busy mix because instrument sounds blend together: Oasis – Dont Go Away, Lenny Kravitz — Low, etc. Low-end detail is enough to tell apart the bass guitar and double bass. Only the muddy sound gets in the way of catching details due to a lack of clarity. High-frequency instruments sound better. Moderately bright, and you can pick out the tambourine in Oasis – Dont Go Away. At the same time, the instrument easily gets lost in the overall mix.
Natural timbre.
7.5 Low-end instruments sound unnatural due to the bloated bass. Bass guitar, double bass, and kick drum sound boomy. Percussion sounds smoothed out and vague as well.
Soundstage.
7 The sound is congested and feels mostly inside your head. At the same time, the sound doesn’t come from a single point; in Michael Jackson – Man in the Mirror, there is instrument separation, and the soundstage is mostly wide.
Build.
6.75 Sturdy and reliable. The metal housing looks more interesting next to plastic competitor shells. The headphones aren’t heavy and feel comfortable, though it took a little time to find the right fit in the ears.Read more.
Comfort.
7 The headphones are comfortable, with no noticeable discomfort or fatigue after two hours of use. The only challenge is finding the right fit in the ears.
Durability.
8 Dust and water resistance is not specified. The earbud housing is metal, with no build defects. Only the plastic insert is a fingerprint magnet.
Design.
8 The CCZ CZ10 launched in a single color—black. They look neat, and the gear design, while simple, is interesting in its own way.
What’s in the box.
4 Only 4 pairs of ear tips are included. Optionally, you can buy the version with an in-line microphone.
Conclusion
The sub-$100 segment often involves compromises, but it’s also where the most interesting finds tend to appear. It’s in this price range that you’ll discover models that manage to sound noticeably more balanced and versatile.
It’s important to understand: this isn’t just ‘cheap and cheerful’ anymore; it’s a genuine entry into the world of conscious listening. With the right source and ear tips, many of these earbuds can genuinely surprise you and reveal your system’s true capabilities.
Everything needs to be experienced personally: relying solely on frequency response graphs is a questionable approach, as you can’t predict exactly how earbuds will sound to you. So, I hope everyone finds their own diamond – and with the help of their source, cable, and ear tips, gives it the right cut, at least temporarily satisfying the urge to keep searching. After all, an audiophile is always on a quest.
No need to come back and check — we will write when the ranking changes.
