In-ear headphones, also known as earphones, are very popular for on the go use. They are smaller in size than regular headphones and usually cost a fraction of their larger cousins. They also rest inside your ear, which is nice for when you want to shut out the world all that much more. Sound quality is generally as good as regular headphones, though you usually lack the sophisticated electronics which can create surround sound or other effects. For ideas on some of the better earphones currently out there, check out the top picks below.
1. Sony MDR-ED12LP
Sony
These simplistic Sony bud style earphones come in four body colors – silver, red, gold and blue – and offer a cord slider to reduce tangles. They are simple in design but offer up 16mm sound drivers to offer good sound quality for the inexpensive price. Bass boost is built-in to add a little extra thump to your music as well.
2. Sennheiser MX55
Sennheiser
The MX55 earphones take an interesting approach to fit in your ears via a "twist-to-fit" system for holding it in the outer ear. An ear adapter set with rubber pads (S/M/L) comes with it for a better in-ear fit. Sound is enhanced by a specialty bass boost feature and exchangeable design parts are available as accessories. A carrying case is included.
3. Bose In-Ear Headphones
Bose
One of the higher end earphones in this mix belongs to Bose. These in-ear headphones are designed to sit in the bowls of your ears and not the ear canal for a more comfortable fit. Soft silicone tips are available in three sizes for better comfort as well. The sound system of these earphones is Bose's Triport design, featuring "tiny vents" in the earcups which produce good sound across the entire spectrum. Accessories included are an angled plug, "stability-enhancing" lanyard, clothing clip and carrying case.
4. Etymotic Research ER6i
Etymotic Research
Another high end set of earphones are these ER6is from Etymotic Research. They offer a form of sound isolation via the way they are designed and the secure in-ear fit. They come with flanged and foam eartips as well as two filters for preventing earwax from entering the earphones. Sound quality is solid, including enhanced bass. Included is a five-foot 3.5mm cord, a filter changing tool, carrying pouch and shirt clip.
5. Shure SE110
Shure
The SE110 are perhaps the most advanced of all these earphones. They offer sound isolating sleeves which block out around 90 percent of outside noises. Three sizes are included of both flex and black foam so you can get a more comfortable, personal fit in-ear. Shure is known for developing gear for professional musicians, so its experience at that tends to show in the overall sound quality produced by these earphones. Included is a detachable cable and carrying case.
