What are the best in-ear- monitor earbuds for musicians at a very affordable price?

If your looking for simply IEM earbuds without the full system, you’ve come to the right place. Many musicians these days use their Apps through their phone rather than a transmitter. However, many people also can’t quite afford the high-end in-ear-monitor earbuds either. Thus, we scoured the market in search of the highest quality IEM earbuds at an affordable price.

Whether you play with click tracks, scared of blowing your voice out, or generally prefer performing with an in-ear monitor system; Here is a list of the 6 best in-ear monitor earbuds under $100. 

In Short, Here Are The Best Cheap In-Ear Monitor Earbuds Under $100

• Shure SE215
• Sennheiser IE 40 PRO
• KZ ZST
• BASN Bmaster
• MEE audio M6 PRO
• KZ ZS10
• BASN Bsinger 2nd Gen

1. Shure SE215

First up, the Shure SE215 is an excellent pair of affordable in-ear-monitor earbuds under $100. There are many reasons why we like this pair. For one, they have well-balanced and accurate sound quality. Without audio manipulation to any of the frequencies, the audio is very flat which is why many musicians love the sound quality as in-ear monitors.

The vocals, mids, and highs are very clear while the bass sits well in the mix. If you’re looking for bass-heavy earbuds, these may not be for you. Overall, these have very good EIM sound quality for the low-price. With their sound-isolating sleeves, they have fantastic passive noise-isolation capabilities. It’s able to reduce outside noise by 37dB. 

These in-ear-monitor earbuds are relatively comfortable. Considering part of the earbuds press up against your outer ear, you may need to take a break from them every hour. However, many musicians get used to them further down the road and end up thoroughly enjoying their comfort. In terms of build quality, these IEM monitors are outstanding for the price.

They are tough and robust. Many musicians claim they are able to withstand touring conditions. However, don’t expect this pair to compare with much higher-priced earbuds. Overall, you will be pleasantly surprised by its durability and longevity for the price. 

I noticed a few downsides about the Shure SE215. For one, they get pretty uncomfortable once you start sweating. Another thing I noticed is the wires were a bit bulky and heavy. Overall, the Shure SE215 is an excellent bang for the buck pair of in-ear monitor earbuds running under $100. For this price range, they are a fantastic value. Be sure to check out the reviews below!

Details & Tech Specs

• Comes with 3 sizes of black foam sleeves
• Comes in three colors
• Gold plated MMCX Connector
• Noise isolating sleeves block 37dB of outside ambient noise
• Changeable and durable reinforced cable

2. Sennheiser IE 40 PRO

Next up, the Sennheiser IE 40 PRO is another great pair of in-ear monitor earbuds below $100. The well-known audio company did a great job on this one! These earbuds produce a very clear and crisp sound quality. Not only does it have a decent bass response, punchy mids, and the highs cut through the mix nicely. To my ears, however, they don’t sound as good as the previous Shure SE215’s.

Something you may either love or hate is the fact that they go pretty deep into your ears. This provides superior noise isolation from the outside world. Many people also think they are very comfortable that way. However, others don’t enjoy how deeply in the ears they go.

The earbuds themselves are pretty durable and robust. However, the cable isn’t up to par with its price. Overall, the Sennheiser IE 40 PRO is a solid bang for the buck pair of IEM earbuds. They’re competitively priced under $100. Be sure to check out the reviews below.

Details & Tech Specs

• Dynamic 10mm broadband transducer
• Ergonomic ear mold design 

3. KZ ZST

The KZ ZST is one of the highest-rated in-ear monitor earbuds running below $100. With excellent sound quality and sound stage for the price, these in-ear monitors are an excellent bang for the buck. The frequency and instrumental separation are extremely good.

You will also like the minor boost in bass. I wouldn’t call these “bass-heavy,” but they add just the right amount of low-end for most listeners. You will also enjoy the minor high-end boost that punches through the mix for added clarity. 

Some people think the default rubber ear tips are more comfortable than the silicone tips. Other musicians believe the opposite. It’s best to try out different ear tips and sizes that fit you best while maintaining decent noise isolation.

The build construction is lightweight while retaining a robust build. It’s made of a sturdy plastic that seems that it could last a pretty long time. You will enjoy the sturdy cord, as well. Coming in three transparent colors, they have a nice design that outperforms their price range. Overall, the KZ ZST is one of the cheapest but best-valued in-ear monitor earbuds on the market. If you’re on a very tight budget, these may be the ones for you. 

Details & Tech Specs

• Ergonomic wear
• Independent sound channel for each driver
• Impedance: 18ohm
• Frequency Response: 20Hz-20000Hz

4. BASN Bmaster

Next up, the BASN Bmaster is far too underrated compared to its fantastic performance. With it’s two dynamic drivers and single balanced armature, they produce incredible sound quality. The lows are full, mids are clear, and high are punchy. You will be delighted with the overall sonic quality of these earbuds. In terms of comfort, they are pretty decent. You can wear them for extended periods without fatigue. However, you may need to take a break every 3 hours. 

For the low price, these in-ear monitor earbuds have a very good build quality. Both the cord and the buds feel pretty sturdy without any cheaply made materials. You will also like the adjustable memory ear hooks. Coming with the nine different pairs of ear tips, you’ll surely find a pair that’s most comfortable for your ears. You’re also able to adjust the ear hook to fit your ears best.

What I like the most about the BASN Bmaster is its versatility. Not only are these earbuds great IEM for musicians, but they also have a built-in microphone for phone calls. Many people also use them for everyday life, such as casual listening to music, podcast, running, etc. 

Lastly, these earbuds have great passive noise-isolation capabilities, as well. It’s able to block out up to 30dB of outside ambient noise naturally. That also depends on the type of ear tips you choose. Overall, the BASN Bmaster is an underrated but great bang for the buck pair of in-ear monitor earbuds for musicians running under $100. 

Details & Tech Specs

• Triple Drivers
• Comes with a hardshell case
• Detachable cables
• Frequency response 18Hz – 22,000 Hz
• Blocks out ambient noise up to 30dB
• 3.5mm jack
• Adjustable Memory Earhook
• Built-in microphone
• MMCX connector

5. MEE audio M6 PRO

Next up, the MEE audio M6 PRO is a fantastic pair of noise isolating earbuds under $50. These wired earbuds have very good sound quality for the price. Many musicians use these earbuds as in-ear monitors. With a slight treble boost, some people prefer it for added clarity and detail. However, others prefer a more balanced sound.

The bass is full and well mixed with the other frequencies. It’s not too overbearing or boomy. Overall, musicians and listeners alike will be pleased with the sound quality. For musicians using these as in-ear monitors, the only downside is the audio may get a fair amount of cable noise at times.

These earbuds are extremely comfortable for most ears. The only issue I found was the cord connected to the earbud was a bit rough at times. However, it wasn’t bad enough to alter the majority of its overall comfort level. They are easily able to be worn for extended periods.

One massive benefit of the MEE audio M6 PRO is its excellent build quality for the meager price. It’s tough and durable, made of quality materials. With the memory wire ear hooks, the monitors remain in the ears very securely regardless of movement. These earbuds are able to withstand vigorous touring conditions. You will also appreciate its sweat-resistant capabilities and detachable/replaceable cable. Overall, I give it an 8 out of 10 for build quality.

One of our favorite attributes of these earbuds is their extreme noise isolation. Considering they naturally block out out a significant portion of the outside environment, you don’t need to turn the music too loud. Thus, saving your ears in the long run. I give these a 9 out of 10 for noise isolation. Overall, the MEE audio M6 PRO is an excellent pair of noise isolating earbuds under $50. They were specially designed for IEM use for musicians. Be sure to check out the reviews below.

Details & Tech Specs

• Detachable/replaceable cable
• Comes with a carry case, stereo cable, memory foam ear tips, headset cable with mic and remote, 6 sets of silicone ear tips, 1/4 adapter
• 1-year warranty
• Universal fit

6. KZ ZS10

Possibly one of the highest-rated and customer-reviewed IEM earbuds under $100, the KZ ZS10 is a superb choice. There are a plethora of things we love about these earbuds. With its 4BA 1DD Hybrid drivers, this pair produces stunning sound quality for its affordable price.

All frequencies are clearly heard while maintaining the exceptional clarity of every instrument. Many people believe their sound quality stands toe-to-toe with most IEM earbuds triple their price. Even at loud volumes, there is no static or extreme distortion in most cases. The bass response is punchy and full without overpowering the other frequencies. 

Not only are these one of the best sounding in-ear-monitors under $100, but they are relatively comfortable, as well. You can wear them for extended periods up to 5-6 hours without needing a break. However, most people purchase additional foam tips for added comfort.

In terms of build quality, again, unbeatable for the price range. They’re made out of 304 stainless steel metal for increased durability and longevity. You’ll be highly pleased with the overall construction and splendid passive noise isolation, as well. They reduce outside ambient noise up to 26dB. Overall, the is possibly the best in-ear monitor earbuds below $100. We highly recommend them. Be sure to check out the reviews below! 

Details & Tech Specs

• 4BA 1DD Hybrid drivers
• Reduces outside noise up to 26dB
• Sensitivity: 111dB
• Made of 304 stainless steel metal
• Detachable cable
• Does not come with a carrying case

7. BASN Bsinger 2nd Gen

Lastly, the BASN Bsinger 2nd Gen is an excellent pair of affordable in-ear-monitors under $100. These earbuds have pretty decent sound quality for the cheap price. However, the highs slightly lack. I would say the overall sound quality is roughly on par for its price range. In terms of build quality, they are pretty good.

These earbuds have a very warm sound with a low-end emphasis. If that’s the sound you’re looking for, they will be a good choice. The earbuds seem relatively sturdy. Unfortunately, the earbud sometimes falls out from the wire during movement. It would have been better if it had a more secure connection.

The BASN Bsinger 2nd Gen is pretty comfortable. Again, not the comfiest on this list, but not too bad either. The earbuds are a bit too bulky for my ears. Where these earbuds absolutely shine is its outstanding noise-isolation capabilities. If adjusted properly, they reduce outside ambient noise up to 40dB. Overall, the BASN Bsinger 2nd Gen is a decent pair of affordable in-ear-monitor earbuds well below $100.

Details & Tech Specs

• Ergonomic earphone
• MMCX connector
• Block up to 40dB of outside ambient noise
• Dual dynamic driver
• Cable splitter

Our Winner

Keep in mind that our opinion is not the end all be all. Like mentioned earlier, everyone has different needs, requirements, and budgets for their earbuds. However, our winner is the KZ ZS10 due to its unbeatable bang for the buck. They have fantastic sound quality, build, comfort, and noise isolation. We highly recommend them. In a close second is the famous Shure SE215. Either one of these IEM earbuds will be a great choice.

Quick Recap

Here Are The Best In-Ear Monitor Earbuds Under $100

• Shure SE215
• Sennheiser IE 40 PRO
• KZ ZST
• BASN Bmaster
• MEE audio M6 PRO
• KZ ZS10
• BASN Bsinger 2nd Gen

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The 6 Things To Look Out For When Purchasing Earbuds

1. Sound Quality

Especially for music listeners, the overall quality of sound is a massive factor in finding your perfect pair of earbuds. There are various factors that impact a pair of earbuds’ sound quality.

2. Comfort

The ability for earbuds to remain comfortable for extended periods of time without itchiness, annoyance, pressure, or ear pain. Considering many people use earbuds for commute, air travel, or work; Comfort is a vital factor.

3. Build Quality

What good are your amazingly sounding earbuds if they break in a few months? The overall durability and longevity are crucial for any investment you make. Especially for those who need earbuds for commute, it’s important they’re able to withstand vigorous traveling conditions consistently.

4. Noise Isolation/Active Noise Cancelling

Don’t be confused between active noise cancelling and noise isolation earbuds. They are both entirely different. Noise-cancelling technology is very unique. Unlike noise-isolating earbuds, noise-cancelling earbuds do not eradicate outside noise by physical insulation. Within the ear cups, they have a mini microphone that picks up the outside environmental noise. It then triggers a frequency entirely opposite to the outside ambient noise. Thus, canceling out most outside ambient sound.

5. Battery Life

Battery life is an overlooked subject when speaking about over-ear earbuds. Obviously, the only earbuds that have a battery life are those which are wireless. Many earbuds on the market do not have wireless capabilities. But for those who do, a more extended battery life becomes a convenient factor.

6. Added Features

A few examples of added features earbuds offer can be Bluetooth wireless capabilities or a built-in microphone for phone calls.