Searching for the best in-ear monitors? They are great tools for bands, performing singers, and drummers. They are also extremely useful for music producers in music studios.

Whether you are a pro musician performing regularly or you want to mix from your home studio, there are some IEMs that will suit you on this list. This article has the top picks for in-ear monitors available now on Amazon.

In-Ear Monitors

1. Shure SE215 PRO Sound Isolating
2. Audio-Technica ATH-E70 PRO
3. Sennheiser Professional IE 100 PRO
4. MEE audio MX$ PRO
5. Westone PRO X10
6. Shure SE425 PRO Sound Isolating
7. Mackie MP240 – Dual Hybrid Drivers
8. KZ ZS10 – 5 Drivers
9. Behringer MO240 Studio Monitoring Earphones
10. Fender FXA9 Pro

Transmitter / Receiver

1. TAKSTAR WPM-300 UHF Wireless in-Ear Monitor System

The Best In-Ear Monitors (Top 10 In 2024)

1. Shure SE215-CL Sound Isolating Earphones (Best In-Ear Monitors Overall)

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These Shure in-ear monitors are a favorite of musicians worldwide. They block out outside noise (up to 37DB) and deliver clear, detailed sound, making them a great choice for musicians who need to hear themselves and their bandmates.

These are Bluetooth 5.0 compatible headphones that function for 10 hours on battery power, as well as IEMs, making them versatile headphones for daily use as well.

The SE 215CLs have an impedance of 17kHz, which is quite low and will allow them to be used with smart devices such as smartphones for general listening (if you want to use them for that too).

They also have a detachable wire which allows you to replace it if it breaks, adding to the longevity of the product. The single driver in the SE215s delivers ‘striking full-range sound’ and the ‘wireform’ fit ensures that they stay in place.

These in-ears come with a carry case and 3 tip sizes to fit all ears, Small, Medium, and Large. These are reliable in-ear monitors from a reputable long-standing brand, and they are designed to last you on the road and in the studio.

They are also the best In-ear Monitors under $100 (at the time of writing)

Feature	Specification
Driver Type	Single Dynamic MicroDriver
Sensitivity	107 dB SPL/mW
Impedance	17 Ω
Frequency Range	22Hz – 17.5kHz
Cable Type	Detachable, with wireform fit
Cable Length	64 inches (162 cm)
Sound Isolation	Up to 37 dB
Color Options	Clear, Black
Connectivity	3.5mm audio jack
Warranty	2 years

2. Audio-Technica ATH-E40 Pro In-Ears (Best In-ear Monitors From Audio-Technica)

These in-ear monitors deliver exceptional sound quality and are perfect for musicians who demand the best.

They’re comfortable to wear and have a durable, high-quality construction. At $99 they compete directly with the best in-ear monitors from Shure, the Se215s at the same price

One fundamental difference here is the inclusion of dual drivers. You would think this would offer better audio performance, and on paper, the specs do reflect the extra tech.

With a frequency response range of 20 – 20,000 Hz compared to the Shures 22 Hz – 17.,500 Hz, the Technica’s are covering more ground sonically.

Another difference is that Audio-Technica makes no mention of sound isolation. Certainly, the Amazon reviews are stellar, but there is a big bump in popularity with the Shures.

You get a carry case with these in-ear monitors as well, so choosing between them depends on whether you prefer the extra audio driver, greater dynamic range, and lower impedance (12kHz), or if you are swayed by the popularity of the Shures.

Feature	Specification
Driver Type	Triple Balanced Armature
Frequency Response	20 – 19,000 Hz
Sensitivity	109 dB
Impedance	39 Ω
Cable Type	Detachable 1.6 m with A2DC connectors
Connector	3.5 mm gold-plated stereo mini-plug, L-shaped
Maximum Input Power	500 mW
Weight	9 g (without cable)
Accessories Included	Carrying case, silicone ear tips (XS/S/M/L), Comply foam ear tips (M), 6.3 mm (1/4″) adapter

3. Sennheiser Professional IE 100 PRO (Best In-ear Monitors From Sennheiser)

Looking for a 3rd option in the same price range? Then look no further! The Sennheiser Pro IE 100s are ‘Innovative and dynamic’ thanks to their revolutionary ’10-mm broadband transducer’ that delivers ‘powerful, precise monitoring’.

These In-ears also have a dynamic driver system that reduces acoustic stress factors through homogenous, distortion-free reproduction.

They offer a secure fit and high level of comfort, and excellent shielding thanks to an optimized earpiece and flexible silicone or foam tip.

The cable is also sturdy and stage-proof with an internal cable duct. They offer an impressive frequency range of 20 – 18,000 Hz and can get very loud with an impedance of 20 and a sound pressure level of 115 DB.

Fitted right, these In-ears will also block out unwanted noise, with a sound isolation factor of -26DB.

Overall these have impressive specs for a pair of IEMS under $100, ($85 for the clear model at the time of writing), and they come in three attractive finishes (Red, Black, and Clear).

Feature	Specification
Transducer Principle	Dynamic
Frequency Response	20 – 18,000 Hz
Impedance	20 Ω
Sound Pressure Level (SPL)	115 dB (1kHz/1Vrms)
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)	< 0.1% (1kHz, 94dB)
Noise Attenuation	< 26 dB
Cable Length	1.3m
Connector	3.5mm jack plug
Weight	Approx. 18 g

4. MEE Audio MX4 PRO In-Ear Monitors (Best Custom In-Ear Monitors)

These are the best in-ear monitors designed specifically for musicians. These are more premium In-Ears than the previous two models and come with a higher price tag ($199 at the time of writing).

They have a four-driver hybrid setup with a 10mm dynamic subwoofer and three balanced armatures which allow them to deliver linear bass, exceptional clarity, and crisp detail. They have balanced sound tuning and quad-driver resolution.

The MEE audio M^ Pros are professional in many ways. For example, you can order custom tips that are 3D printed to the exact shape of your ears, they are sweat-resistant, and come with a spare cable (detachable).

They also have a microphone built-in, a remote for smartphones, and a carry case included. If you want some professional and premium In-Ears then the MX4s are worth a look and a listen.

Feature	Specification
Driver Type	Hybrid dual balanced armature + dynamic driver
Frequency Response	20 Hz to 20 kHz
Impedance	16 Ohms at 1K
Sensitivity	110 dB (1mW at 1KHZ)
Maximum Power Input	30mW
Noise Attenuation	26 dB
Cable Length	51 inches (1.3m)
Cable Connector	3.5mm, right angle plug
Water Resistance	IPX5

5. Westone PRO X10 In-Ear Monitors (Best In-Ear Monitors For Recording & Mixing)

These in-ear monitors are for professional musicians, studio recording, and mixing. They are premium In-Ears with a premium price tag similar to the MEE audio MX4s.

The Wetstone X10s have a single driver that delivers an impressive 20Hz – 16kHz. Interestingly, these In-Ear Monitors come in different models with additional audio drivers.

The base model has 1 driver, but for $299 you can have dual drivers (X20s), $399 for 3 drivers (X30s), and a whopping $651.31 will get you 5 drivers (X50s).

This would be overkill for most musicians and producers, but it’s nice to know that Wetstone can take their best in-ear monitors to that level.

The Pro X10s are said to block an average of 25 DB of outside noise when fitted comfortably and properly in your ears. This is great for performing on stage at noisy gigs, and for isolating your Instrument or band so you can focus on the music.

It would have been nice to see the frequency response match the best in-ear monitors from Audio-Technica, the E40s in the high end (up to 20kHz), but these are still premium In-Ears that will do the job on stage.

Feature	Specification
Driver	Single-balanced armature driver. Full Range
Sensitivity	114 dB @ 1mW
Frequency Response	20Hz – 16kHz
Impedance	19 ohms
Driver	Single Balanced Armature, Full Range
Cable	Linum Bax T2™ Detachable Cable
Tips	5 Pair Foam + 5 Pair Silicone
Accessories	Impact Resistant Monitor Vault

6. Shure SE415 PRO (Best Professional In-Ear Monitors)

The upgraded favorites. These are the SE415s, the next step up from the SE215s, so how do they compare? For a start the frequency response is improved, (20Hz – 19kHz as opposed to 22 Hz – 17.5 kHz).

They also have a higher impedance output (20 instead of 17) making them slightly more high-powered (louder), and so these are better headphones as well as the best in-ear monitors from Shure.

These in-ears have Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, 10-hour battery life, accessories (carry case and buds) included, and a microphone found on the SE215s. They also have a detachable cable like the SE215s.

At $268 these a premium In-Ears at premium prices, but if quality and reliability are what you need for mixing or stage use, then the Shure SE415s will not let you down.

The SE415s come in three color options, clear, white, and black. If quality and reliability are what you need for mixing or stage use, then the Shure SE415s will not let you down.

Feature	Specification
Brand	Shure
Model Name	SE215 PRO
Color	Clear
Form Factor	In-Ear
Connectivity	Wired
Connector Type	Gold plated MMCX Connector
Speaker Amplification Type	Active
Material	Foam
Size	Clear
Units	1.0 Count
Cable Length	64 Inches

7. Mackie MP240 – Dual Hybrid Drivers (Best In-Ear Monitors / Value)

Another premium option for audiophiles, audio engineers, musicians, and producers. The MP240s represent fantastic value at $199, considering that they contain dual hybrid drivers.

Add in a dedicated hard case (included), and internally braided high-strength cables, and you can see this is a product that Mackie wants to be built to last.

With regards to the drivers, the MP-240 in-ear monitor headphones keep the same driver count as the lower-end models In the MP series, but ‘reach the next level of detail and clarity thanks to their hybrid configuration’.

Instead of two dynamic drivers like the MP-220, you get a balanced armature driver and a custom crossover that splits the frequencies between the two drivers. These deliver fantastic sound quality and are the best in-ear monitors from Mackie.

Feature	Specification
Driver Configuration	Hybrid (Single Dynamic + Single Balanced Armature)
Frequency Response	20 Hz – 20 kHz
Impedance	32 Ohms
Sensitivity	94dB/mW
Sound Isolation	Up to 40dB
Ear Tip Types	Foam, Silicone, and Double-Flange (available in small, medium, and large sizes)
Cable Type	Gold-Plated 3.5mm with 1/4″ adapter
Additional Features	Ergonomically molded enclosures, High-Performance Balanced Armatures, Swappable 3.5mm and Bluetooth Cables, In-Line Microphone, Durable hard carrying case

8. KZ ZS10 – 5 Drivers (Best In-Ear Monitors and Most Drivers)

These are some of the cheapest and best in-ear monitors on our list.

While it is not always advisable to go for budget options when purchasing professional audio equipment, if you are looking for some decent In-Ears, then one budget option to consider is the KZ ZS10.

With a whopping five drivers (one dynamic driver and four balanced armature drivers), for only $58.99, these are the definition of high quality at a low price.

The ZS10s are made of 304 stainless steel, and so are strong and sturdy. They have a detachable and replaceable cable (excellent for longevity), and also a one-year warranty.

Clearly, KZ believes in its product and expects it to last life on the road for touring musicians.

Again, the reviews speak for themselves with these In-Ears, and though they are a budget option, they. clearly seem to fit the bill for many musicians around the world.

Feature	Specification
Driver Configuration	1 Dynamic + 4 Balanced Armature per side
Frequency Response	Not specified
Cable Type	Detachable & Copper Plated
Design	Ergonomic Design Ear Hook
Special Features	A high-intensity resolution, a rich sense of quality, full of vocals
Additional Features	Easy to change from wired to Bluetooth cable. High-purity OFC cable enhances sound performance.

9. Behringer MO240 Studio Monitoring Earphones (Best In-Ear Monitors on a Budget)

An even cheaper option than the KZ ZS10 is the Behringer MO240. These come in at only $45 and tick some boxes for most musicians’ needs. They are some of the best in-ear monitors on a budget.

The ZS10s offer impressive specs at their price point with the following stand-out features:

• Single dynamic and single balanced armature micro-drivers delivering full bass and detailed highs 
• Ultra-linear frequency response from 20 Hz to 20 kHz 
• Sound-isolating design blocks outside noise for a detailed musical experience 
• Secure over-the-ear cable design ensures in-ear stability and comfort
• Only 40 grams
• Detachable cable
• Zipper case included
• Dual Hybrid drivers

Feature	Specification
Driver Configuration	Dual Hybrid Drivers (Balanced Armature + Neodymium Dynamic)
Technology	Electromagnetically Shielded Wire
Audio Quality	High-Fidelity Audio for Instruments and Vocals
High-Frequency Response	Balanced Armature Driver
Bass Response	Neodymium Dynamic Driver
Design	Secure Over-The-Ear, Ultra-Light Weight
Earplugs	3 Sets of Ultra-Soft Earplugs
Additional Features	Inline Wire-Slider for Tangle-Free Experience

10. Fender FXA9 Pro

The Fender FXA9 Pro IEMs are a testament to Fender’s commitment to delivering top-tier audio performance.

Crafted with a unique hex driver system, these in-ear monitors offer a pristine and balanced sound profile that caters to the nuanced needs of professional musicians and audiophiles alike.

The FXA9 Pro boasts a transparent soundstage, ensuring that every instrument and vocal is distinctly audible, making them some of the best in-ear monitors for live performances.

Furthermore, the ergonomic design, coupled with custom-molded thermoplastic shells, ensures a comfortable fit, allowing users to wear them for extended periods without any discomfort.

The Fender FXA9 Pro IEMs are a harmonious blend of style, comfort, and unmatched audio fidelity.

Specification	Detail
Driver System	Hexadriver (6 drivers per ear)
Frequency Response	12Hz – 22kHz
Impedance	16Ω
Sensitivity	120dB @1mW
Noise Isolation	Up to 22dB
Cable Type	Detachable MMCX with silver-plated low-oxygen cable
Housing	Custom-molded thermoplastic shells
Included Accessories	Deluxe carrying case, 1/8” to 1/4” adapter, secure-fit tips, cleaning tool and cable

Best In-ear Monitor System

Takstar WPM-300 UHF Wireless in-Ear Monitor System 

If you are settled on getting some of the best in-ear monitors, you will likely be buying a transmitter and receiver as well (otherwise they are just fancy headphones).

With that in mind check out this all-in-one system from Takstar that includes everything in one package.

The WPM-300 In-ear monitor system comes with 1 Transmitter, 1 Body-pack Receiver, 1 in-earphone, 1 Silicone Ear Tip (S, M, L), and 2 AA Dry Batteries.

This is a professional 10-channel system ideal for bands to use for performances, though you would of course need additional receivers for the other members of the band.

Feature/Specification	Description
Brand	Takstar
Model	WPM-300
Frequency Range	780-789MHz
Frequency Response	30Hz-18kHz
Transmitter Power	≤10mW
Working Distance	50 meters
Power Supply	2 x AA batteries (Receiver), DC 12V/300mA (Transmitter)
S/N Ratio	>50dB

Best In-ear Monitor App

Audiofusion Performer In-Ear Monitor App (Apple)

The Audiofusion Performer App can be used as a mixer and a live monitor on stage. Audiovision Performer is an IOS App, and it is completely FREE! Their reviews are also very impressive with a 4.3 out of 5 rating on the App Store.

‘By receiving real-time audio over Wi-Fi and playing it through your earphones, Audiofusion Performer turns your iPhone into a wireless in-ear monitoring system.

Plus, the Performer is a complete monitor mixer, giving you complete control over the sound in your ears.

Adjust the volume, panning and labeling of each audio input to create your personalized mix.’

What Are In-ear Monitors? (IEMs)

What does an in-ear monitor do and why do I need a pair of the best in-ear monitors?

In-Ears are designed for musicians and producers and not just for the average listener who wants some earbuds for the commute.

These are professional earphones for performers to use on stage, audio engineers, and audiophiles, and will provide an optimal dynamic range and frequency response for producers when mixing music.

That does not mean you cannot use them as headphones as well for everyday listening. Pro headphones will of course enhance the listening experience when you simply want to put on your favorite tunes.

For keyboardists, guitarists, singers, and drummers, In-Ear monitors will be a game-changer on stage. As a professional musician, I can say this was definitely the case when I first tried them.

Hearing the band mix directly in your ears instead of through monitors (speakers facing the musicians), just revolutionized the performance, and improved my playing too.

You will find you can play ‘tighter’ with your band when you can actually hear their parts and yours clearly! A drummer’s in-ear monitors are even more useful considering how loud the drumkit is as an instrument.

In-ear Monitor Features to Look For

There are several features to look for with in-ear monitors such as noise isolation, comfort for long sessions in the studio and on stage, frequency response, price, and what’s included with the package (accessories).

You may find that the molded tips that come prepackaged with the In-ear monitors you buy will fit your ears perfectly. If not, you should consider purchasing some in-ear monitor molds that are custom-fitted to your exact ear shape.

Custom In-ear monitor molds will allow you to be fully immersed in your music as they will block out more outside noise than ill-fitting tips.

In-ear Monitor Systems (Transmitters and Receivers)

It is important to note that the In-Ears or IEMs are only the headphones for your ears, and without a transmitter and receiver, you will not hear the mix.

The audio will be sent wirelessly from the transmitter to the receiver, which is normally worn by the performer on their belt or on their person somewhere.

In-ear monitors are plugged into this device, and there you have it, crystal-clear audio during your performance!

Times change and technology moves fast, but wireless in-ear monitors are still hard to find.

The ‘wireless’ functionality comes from the fact that the transmitter and receiver will wirelessly send the sound, but the actual headphones will still be connected with a wire to your wireless receiver.

You will need to look into an In-Ear Monitor system if you want to use IEMs.

Check out this article on the best In-Ear audio monitor systems:

Best In-Ear Monitor Systems (transmitters and receivers)

In-ear Monitors vs. Earbuds

What are the main differences between In-ears and earbuds? Simple! In-ears will have better sound technology such as drivers and frequency response and will be ‘flat’ or close to flat.

This means that they do not have boosted frequencies that appeal to the average music enthusiast (such as bass-boosted).

A flat response is ideal for live performance and mixing because you want to hear exactly what is being played, in the exact way that it was played.

In-ears trump headphones in quality, but you can use headphones as In-ears. When you have an In-ear monitor system, you can technically use any earbuds with them.

However, using high-quality In-Ears is advisable as the sound will only be as good as the monitor system, and In-ears that you use.

Conclusion

These premium in-ear monitor headphones deliver exceptional sound quality and are perfect for musicians who need the best of the best.

Consider your budget and the level of quality you need from the sound you will get from the In-Ear monitors you purchase.

If in doubt, go for the tried and tested favorites (Shure SE215s / SE415s) and you will not be disappointed. The reviews speak for themselves, and you can always upgrade them in the future when the time is right.