Looking for great earphones that don’t cost a fortune? Well, you’re in the right place! We’re on a mission to find the best in ear monitors under $100. Whether you’re really into music or just like listening casually, we’re here to guide you through the choices that give you fantastic sound without emptying your wallet.
Let’s dive into the world of best iem under $100 2024 that make your music and gaming amazing!
Also see: Why choose IEM?
5 Best IEM Under $100 2024
| Award | Image | Model | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Good For Music. |
|
BASN MMCX Triple Driver | See on Amazon |
| Best Audiophile IEM Under $100 |
|
Linsoul Kiwi Ears Melody | See on Amazon |
| Best in ear monitors under $100 for gaming |
|
KZ ZS10 PRO X | See on Amazon |
| Value-Packed HiFi IEMs |
|
CCA KZ AS16 PRO | See on Amazon |
| Budget King of Bassy IEMs |
|
Surfans SE01 | See on Amazon |
Best In Ear Monitors Under $100
BASN MMCX Triple Driver
Good For Music.
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Triple Driver Technology offers detailed clarity across the frequency spectrum.
✓ HiFi Stereo and Soundstage provide an immersive experience.
✓ Detachable Cables.
✓ Comfortable Fit.
✓ Easy-to-use Controls.
✓ Noise Isolation.
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Neutral sound stage is not good for High end games as it reduces immersion and positional awareness.
Review:
As a sound enthusiast seeking richness and precision, I eagerly delved into the world of BASN MMCX Triple Driver IEMs. Having tested them across various genres and listening environments for weeks, here’s my detailed review:
The highlight here is undeniably the triple driver setup. Each earpiece hosts a dedicated driver for bass, mids, and highs, delivering a nuanced and layered listening experience.
The bass is robust, vocals are clear, and high frequencies sparkle without being harsh. This level of detail is a game-changer for those who demand accuracy.
The MMCX IEMs live up to their HiFi promise, offering a wide and immersive soundstage. This makes them perfect for complex compositions.
The snug fit and well-designed ear tips provide excellent noise isolation, letting you truly immerse yourself in the music.
A significant win for long-term use and customization, the detachable MMCX cables prevent tangles and allow for easy upgrades.
This flexibility is invaluable for audiophiles who appreciate fine-tuning their listening experience.
Comaprison with BASN Bmaster Triple Drivers:
The BASN Bmaster and BASN MMCX Triple Driver IEMs are both great, but they’re good for different things. The Bmaster is best if you like strong bass and clear vocals, good for genres like hip-hop. It’s a bit warmer in sound.
On the other hand, the MMCX is better if you want a balanced sound, great for all kinds of music, like classical or jazz. The Bmaster is a bit cheaper and comes with two detachable cables, while the MMCX has one cable and is a bit pricier.
So, if you like strong bass and clear sound, go for the Bmaster. If you want balanced sound and simplicity, go for the MMCX. Also check the price Bmaster cost around $91 and MMCX about $100.
Linsoul Kiwi Ears Melody
Best Audiophile IEM Under $100
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Bass is deep and impactful.
✓ Mids are natural and present.
✓ Highs are crisp and airy.
✓ Comfortable fit.
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Compared to the KZ ZSX, the Melody comes at a $90
✗ Passive Noise Isolation not Active Isolation.
Review:
The Linsoul Kiwi Ears Melody sets out to deliver audiophile-grade sound in a conveniently portable package, and after diving into its features and performance, it appears to live up to its promises.
The lightweight and comfortable 3D-printed shells not only ensure an extended and pleasant listening experience but also allow for personalization through different printing materials and designs.
At the heart of its prowess is the 12mm planar driver, stealing the spotlight with its ability to produce superior detail, dynamics, and bass, offering a richer and more accurate sound reproduction, especially in the low-end and high-frequency ranges.
Another standout feature is the detachable 2-pin cable – a boon for audiophiles seeking the flexibility of upgrades, repairs, and personalization while benefiting from wide cable compatibility.
With a broad frequency response spanning from 5Hz to 40kHz, the Melody captures the full spectrum of sound with remarkable clarity and detail, catering to the discerning audiophiles in search of a faithful representation of music.
Comparison with the KZ ZSX:
The KZ ZSX features a distinctive 6-driver hybrid design, blending dynamic drivers with balanced armatures to create a unique sound profile.
It provides solid value for money, delivering punchy bass and a brighter sound signature.
However, when compared to the Melody’s planar driver, it may fall short in terms of detail and nuanced soundstage. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preferences:
- If you prioritize clarity, detail, and a nuanced soundstage, the Melody emerges as the clear winner.
- For enthusiasts of deep bass and those mindful of budget constraints, the KZ ZSX strikes a good balance between features and sound quality.
KZ ZS10 PRO X
Best in ear monitors under $100 for gaming
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Delivers crisp highs, clear mids, and surprisingly deep and impactful bass for the price point.
✓ Aims for a slightly wider and more immersive soundstage.
✓ Suitable for various genres, from EDM and pop to classical and rock.
✓ The angled nozzles and multiple ear tip options provide a personalized fit.
✓ The alloy faceplate ensure the earphones can withstand everyday wear and tear.
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ No Active Isolation, Only Passive Isolation (which is good if you have proper fit)
✗ Soundstage feels slightly narrow compared to some higher-end models.
Review:
The KZ ZS10 PRO X proves to be a formidable contender, delivering 5-driver hybrid technology at an affordable price point. Let’s explore its features to discern whether it lives up to the buzz:
The angled nozzles and multiple ear tip options contribute to an ergonomic design, providing a secure and comfortable fit. This thoughtful design helps prevent listener fatigue during extended periods of use.
KZ prioritizes user comfort by utilizing skin-friendly resin for the earpieces and high-purity copper for the cables. This combination ensures a comfortable fit while minimizing signal loss, underlining the commitment to quality materials.
This IEM employs a combination of four balanced armature (BA) drivers for accurate high and mid-range, paired with one dynamic driver (DD) for robust bass. The result is an endeavor towards a balanced and detailed sonic landscape.
Beyond aesthetics, the alloy faceplate serves dual purposes. It enhances durability and contributes to a premium feel while minimizing vibrations for clearer audio, adding a touch of sophistication to its performance.
A game-changer for audiophiles, the detachable cable with 0.75mm 2-pin connectors enables easy cable upgrades, sound signature customization, and extends the overall lifespan of the earphones.
You can also see Fanmusic TRUTHEAR x Crinacle Zero having similar features.
Comparison with KZ ZS10 Pro:
Choose the KZ ZS10 Pro X if:
- You want a smoother, more cohesive sound with better bass extension.
- You prefer a slightly wider soundstage and improved imaging.
- You’re willing to spend a little more for potentially improved comfort and performance.
Choose the KZ ZS10 Pro if:
- You prefer a brighter sound with more emphasis on highs and clarity.
- You’re on a tighter budget, and the slight price difference matters.
- You’re already familiar with the original Pro and like its sound signature.
CCA KZ AS16 PRO
Value-Packed HiFi IEMs
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Impressive Detail and Clarity.
✓ Well-balanced sound with clear highs.
✓ Comfortable and Secure Fit.
✓ Exceptional Value for Money.
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Only Passive Noise Isolation.
✗ Fatiguing for some listeners during long listening sessions.
✗ Bit Narrow Soundstage.
Review:
The CCA KZ AS16 PRO boldly promises high-fidelity audio without breaking the bank. Let’s explore its features and performance to determine if it lives up to the hype in the competitive IEM market:
Equipped with a multi-BA setup, the AS16 PRO aims for a detailed and nuanced sound spanning the entire frequency spectrum. Leveraging Balanced Armature drivers, known for superior precision and clarity, particularly in the mids and highs, it seeks to deliver an elevated audio experience.
The inclusion of a detachable cable with 0.75mm 2-pin connectors opens avenues for customization and future-proofing. Users can upgrade cables for enhanced sound or durability, replace damaged ones, and even fine-tune the sound signature to match their preferences.
With metal faceplates and high-purity copper cables, the AS16 PRO prioritizes durability while minimizing signal loss. These high-quality materials contribute to a robust build, ensuring a reliable and consistent audio performance.
Featuring angled nozzles and a variety of ear tip options, the AS16 PRO’s ergonomic design ensures a snug and comfortable fit. This is crucial for preventing listener fatigue during extended listening sessions, enhancing overall user comfort.
An added feature in the AS16 PRO is the sub-bass boost switch, providing users with the flexibility to tailor the bass response to their preference. Whether craving extra thump for bass-heavy genres or opting for a more neutral sound, this switch offers a personalized audio experience.
When to Buy and When Not?
The CCA KZ AS16 PRO is a true champion in the budget HiFi IEM category. It delivers exceptional sound quality with detailed highs, natural mids, and punchy bass, all wrapped in a comfortable and durable design.
The detachable cables and sub-bass boost switch add another layer of flexibility and customization.
However, if you prioritize a wider soundstage, active noise cancellation, or a warmer sound signature, you might want to consider any IEM from top 3 options.
Surfans SE01
Budget King of Bassy IEMs
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Most Durable IEM under $100
✓ Punchy and Deep Bass.
✓ Mids are smooth and present.
✓ Highs are rolled off for a warm and pleasant listening experience.
✓ Excellent value for money.
✓ Comfortable and Secure Fit.
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ The focus on bass comes at the expense of a wide soundstage. The sound can feel a bit congested in complex tracks.
✗ The overwhelming bass might become fatiguing for some listeners.
✗ Less Clarity in Highs.
Review:
The Surfans SE01 boldly immerses itself in the realm of bass-heavy sound, catering to enthusiasts on a budget. Let’s explore its features and performance to determine if it transcends being a one-trick pony:
The SE01’s robust bass response is driven by its sizable 10mm dynamic driver. This generous driver size facilitates increased air movement and deeper sub-bass extension, setting the stage for a potent low-frequency experience.
Enabling customization and future-proofing, the detachable cable with MMCX connectors allows users to upgrade cables, replace damaged ones, and personalize the sound signature according to their preferences.
The angled nozzles and diverse ear tip options ensure a secure and comfortable fit, especially vital for extended listening sessions common in bass-heavy music genres where head movement is frequent.
The SE01 showcases a robust metal construction, providing a premium feel while ensuring resilience to everyday wear and tear, contributing to a lasting and reliable build quality.
Designed with water resistance in mind, the SE01 is well-equipped to withstand exposure to rain or the rigors of a workout. This feature enhances durability and ensures protection from sweat and light splashes, making it a versatile companion in various environments.
When To Buy:
If you’re on a budget and prioritize powerful bass above all else, the SE01 is a better option.
But if you’re looking for a more balanced and detailed sound signature, or if you’re sensitive to fatiguing bass, you might want to consider KZ ZS10 PRO X mentioned above.
Conclusion:
Whether it’s the dynamic bass of the Surfans SE01, the balanced precision of the CCA KZ AS16 PRO, or the immersive experience from the BASN MMCX Triple Driver, these IEMs offer unique strengths. With features like detachable cables and customizable sound signatures, these models cater to discerning listeners, making premium audio accessible to a broader audience.
