Best In Ear Monitors Under $200 for 2025

Finding the best in-ear monitors (IEMs) can be challenging, especially with the vast number of options available. Whether you’re a casual listener or a serious audiophile, there are plenty of IEMs on the market that deliver exceptional sound quality, comfort, and features without breaking the bank. In this guide, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 in-ear monitors under $200, which offer great value, sound quality, and innovative features for both music lovers and professionals alike.

Best In Ear Monitors Under $200 for 2025

1. Soundcore by Anker Liberty 4

Overview

The Soundcore Liberty 4 by Anker is a feature-packed pair of true wireless earbuds designed to deliver high-quality audio, effective noise cancellation, and all-day comfort. With support for spatial audio, Hi-Res LDAC audio, and adaptive ANC, these earbuds cater to both casual listeners and audiophiles. The ergonomic fit, long battery life, and fitness-friendly design make them a strong contender in the mid-range earbud market.

Key Features & Performance

1. Sound Quality

The Liberty 4 delivers impressive audio quality, featuring dual dynamic drivers with Anker’s ACAA 3.0 (Astria Coaxial Acoustic Architecture) for a balanced and immersive listening experience. The LDAC support enables high-resolution audio streaming, providing rich details and deep bass. Additionally, spatial audio adds a 3D-like effect, enhancing the depth and separation of instruments, making it a great choice for music lovers who want an immersive soundstage.

Pros:
Clear highs and deep bass
Supports LDAC for Hi-Res Audio (better with Android devices)
Spatial audio for a 3D listening experience

Cons:
LDAC drains battery faster
Spatial audio can feel artificial in some tracks

2. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) & Transparency Mode

Equipped with adaptive ANC, the Liberty 4 intelligently adjusts noise cancellation based on the surrounding environment. It effectively reduces background noise, making it suitable for travel, commuting, and office use. The transparency mode allows ambient sounds to pass through, making it easier to stay aware of your surroundings when needed.

Pros:
Good ANC for its price range
Adaptive ANC adjusts automatically
Transparency mode is useful for conversations

Cons:
Not as strong as premium models like AirPods Pro 2 or Sony WF-1000XM5
Wind noise reduction could be better

3. Battery Life

The Liberty 4 offers up to 9 hours of playback per charge (without ANC) and 28 hours with the charging case. With ANC enabled, battery life drops to around 5-6 hours. The case supports wireless charging, and a quick 15-minute charge provides up to 3 hours of playback.

Pros:
Long battery life (9 hours without ANC)
Wireless charging support
Fast charging feature

Cons:
Battery drains faster when using LDAC and ANC together
No multi-device connection (AAC/SBC only when switching devices)

4. Comfort & Build Quality

Designed for extended wear, the Liberty 4 features a lightweight ergonomic shape with soft silicone ear tips. The earbuds include built-in heart rate monitoring, making them an attractive option for fitness enthusiasts. The case is compact and pocket-friendly, with a premium feel despite being plastic.

Pros:
Comfortable fit with multiple ear tip sizes
Secure for workouts and daily use
Sleek and lightweight design

Cons:
No official IPX rating (only splash-resistant, not fully waterproof)
May feel slightly bulky for users with small ears

5. Value for Money

Given the range of features, Liberty 4 offers excellent value. LDAC support, spatial audio, adaptive ANC, and a comfortable fit make it a standout in its price range. While it doesn’t outperform flagship models like Sony or Bose, it comes close at a much more affordable price.

Pros:
Feature-rich for the price
Premium audio experience without breaking the bank
Competitive ANC compared to higher-priced models

Cons:
Some premium features (like best-in-class ANC) are missing
LDAC support mainly benefits Android users, not iPhone users

Who Should Buy the Soundcore Liberty 4?

• Music lovers who want high-resolution audio without spending a fortune
• Commuters and travelers needing decent ANC to block out noise
• Fitness enthusiasts who can benefit from the heart rate sensor and secure fit
• Users looking for spatial audio at an affordable price
• Budget-conscious buyers who want flagship-like features for less

Final Rating (Honest Evaluation)

Final Verdict:

The Soundcore Liberty 4 is an excellent mid-range true wireless earbud with a great balance of sound quality, noise cancellation, comfort, and features. It’s perfect for users who want high-quality audio, ANC, and spatial audio without spending over $200. While it doesn’t outperform flagship models, it comes impressively close for its price, making it a top pick for budget-conscious audiophiles.

2. Sony LinkBuds S

Overview

The Sony LinkBuds S are lightweight, comfortable, and versatile true wireless earbuds that combine high-quality audio, active noise cancellation (ANC), and transparency mode. Unlike the original LinkBuds, which had an open-ring design, the LinkBuds S follow a more traditional in-ear design while maintaining a compact, lightweight build. These earbuds support LDAC for Hi-Res Audio, making them a strong choice for Android users, and offer Sony’s Adaptive Sound Control, which automatically adjusts sound settings based on your activity and surroundings.

Key Features & Performance

1. Sound Quality

The LinkBuds S feature Sony’s Integrated Processor V1, the same chip used in the WF-1000XM4, delivering clear, detailed sound with a well-balanced tuning. The bass response is present but not overwhelming, making these earbuds suitable for various music genres.

Additionally, they support LDAC for Hi-Res Audio, allowing for better detail and depth when used with compatible devices. However, the lack of customizable EQ in the stock settings may limit audiophiles who prefer personalized tuning.

✅ Pros:
✔ Balanced sound with clear mids and highs
✔ LDAC support for high-resolution streaming
✔ Rich detail with a natural soundstage

❌ Cons:
✘ No customizable EQ by default (requires Sony’s Headphones Connect app)
✘ Bass is not as deep as some competitors (e.g., Sony WF-1000XM4)

2. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) & Transparency Mode

The LinkBuds S offer effective noise cancellation, though they are not as strong as Sony’s WF-1000XM4 or Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II. However, for their compact size, they do an impressive job of reducing background noise in offices, commutes, and moderate outdoor environments.

The Adaptive Sound Control feature automatically adjusts ANC and transparency mode based on user activity (e.g., walking, staying still, or commuting), providing a seamless listening experience.

✅ Pros:
✔ Good ANC for their size
✔ Adaptive Sound Control adjusts automatically
✔ Transparency mode sounds natural

❌ Cons:
✘ ANC is not as strong as high-end Sony/Bose models
✘ Wind noise can be noticeable in outdoor use

3. Battery Life

The Sony LinkBuds S provide 6 hours of battery life with ANC on, and up to 20 hours total with the charging case. While this is decent, it falls short compared to competitors like the Soundcore Liberty 4 or AirPods Pro 2, which offer longer playtime per charge.

Fast charging is a plus, giving 1 hour of playback with just 5 minutes of charging. However, wireless charging is missing, which is a notable downside for some users.

✅ Pros:
✔ 6 hours per charge (ANC on), 20 hours with case
✔ Fast charging – 5 mins = 1 hour of playback

❌ Cons:
✘ No wireless charging
✘ Battery life is average compared to competitors

4. Comfort & Build Quality

One of the biggest strengths of the Sony LinkBuds S is their ultra-lightweight and compact design. Weighing only 4.8 grams per earbud, they are one of the smallest ANC earbuds available, making them incredibly comfortable for extended use.

The earbuds come with multiple ear tip sizes to ensure a secure fit, making them suitable for workouts, commutes, and long listening sessions. While they have an IPX4 water resistance rating, making them splash-proof, they are not fully waterproof.

✅ Pros:
✔ Extremely lightweight and comfortable
✔ Secure fit for workouts and daily use
✔ IPX4 splash-resistant

❌ Cons:
✘ Plastic build feels less premium compared to some rivals
✘ No official waterproofing beyond IPX4

5. Value for Money

The Sony LinkBuds S offer a great balance of sound quality, ANC, and comfort at a mid-range price point. While they don’t have the absolute best ANC or battery life, their adaptive features, LDAC support, and ultra-light design make them a compelling option for users looking for portable, high-quality earbuds with smart noise control.

✅ Pros:
✔ Competitive pricing for Sony’s premium sound technology
✔ Lightweight and adaptive features enhance user experience
✔ LDAC support makes it a great choice for Android users

❌ Cons:
✘ Better ANC options exist at a slightly higher price (e.g., Sony WF-1000XM4, Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II)
✘ No wireless charging, which is common in this price range

Who Should Buy the Sony LinkBuds S?

• Commuters and travelers who need lightweight ANC earbuds with good sound quality
• Android users who want LDAC Hi-Res Audio support
• People who prefer a compact, ultra-light design for extended wear
• Users who appreciate smart features like Adaptive Sound Control
• Anyone looking for a more affordable alternative to Sony’s high-end WF-1000XM4

Final Rating (Honest Evaluation)

Final Verdict

The Sony LinkBuds S are one of the lightest and most comfortable ANC earbuds available, offering high-quality sound, smart noise cancellation, and LDAC support. While they may not have the strongest ANC or longest battery life, their adaptive features and compact design make them an excellent choice for users prioritizing comfort and versatility over maximum noise cancellation.

If you value ultra-light earbuds with smart features and great sound, the Sony LinkBuds S are worth considering—especially for Android users who can take advantage of LDAC support for Hi-Res Audio.

3. Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II

Overview

The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II (QCE II) are the second generation of Bose’s true wireless earbuds, launched on September 15, 2022. They have set a new standard in the industry with their exceptional active noise cancellation (ANC) capabilities, delivering an immersive listening experience. These earbuds are designed for users who prioritize top-tier noise cancellation, high-quality sound, and comfort.​

Key Features & Performance

1. Sound Quality 🎵

The QCE II offer a balanced and engaging audio performance characterized by deep lows and bright highs. Bose’s CustomTune technology automatically adjusts the sound profile to the unique shape of the user’s ears, ensuring a personalized listening experience. This results in clear and detailed audio across various genres.​

Pros:

• Rich and immersive sound with well-defined bass and treble.​
• CustomTune technology enhances personalization.​

Cons:

• Lack of support for high-definition wireless audio codecs like aptX Adaptive. ​

2. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) & Transparency Mode 🔇

Bose has long been a leader in ANC technology, and the QCE II reinforce this reputation. The earbuds effectively reduce both low-frequency noises, such as engine rumbles, and higher-frequency sounds, like ambient chatter. The Aware Mode with ActiveSense allows users to remain aware of their surroundings by letting in ambient sounds when needed, providing a balance between immersion and awareness.​

Pros:

• Industry-leading ANC performance.​
• Effective transparency mode for situational awareness.​

Cons:

• No option to completely disable noise cancellation. ​

3. Battery Life 🔋

The QCE II provide up to 6 hours of continuous playback with ANC activated. The charging case offers an additional three full charges, extending the total battery life to approximately 24 hours. A quick 15-minute charge yields up to 2 hours of playback, which is convenient for users on the go.​

Pros:

• Adequate battery life for daily use.​
• Quick charge feature enhances usability.​

Cons:

• Charging case lacks wireless charging capabilities.

4. Comfort & Build Quality 🎧

Bose has significantly reduced the size and weight of the QCE II compared to their predecessors, enhancing comfort for extended wear. The earbuds come with the Fit Kit, which includes multiple ear tips and stability bands to ensure a secure and personalized fit. With an IPX4 rating, they are resistant to sweat and light rain, making them suitable for workouts and outdoor activities.​

Pros:

• Lightweight and comfortable for prolonged use.​
• Secure fit with customizable ear tips and stability bands.​
• IPX4-rated for sweat and water resistance.​

Cons:

• Plastic build may feel less premium to some users.​

5. Value for Money 💰

Initially launched at a premium price of $299, the QCE II have seen price reductions, with current listings around $159 during sales events. While they lack features like wireless charging and support for high-definition audio codecs, their unparalleled ANC performance and sound quality justify the investment for users seeking top-tier noise cancellation.​

Pros:

• Exceptional ANC and sound quality justify the price.​
• Recent price reductions enhance affordability.​

Cons:

• Still relatively expensive compared to some competitors.​
• Missing features like wireless charging and advanced audio codec support.​

Who Should Buy the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II?

• Frequent travelers and commuters who need superior noise cancellation to block out ambient sounds.
• Audiophiles seeking a balanced and immersive sound experience.
• Fitness enthusiasts looking for comfortable, secure-fitting earbuds with sweat resistance.
• Professionals requiring high-quality audio for calls and virtual meetings in noisy environments.

Final Rating (Honest Evaluation)

Final Verdict

The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II excel in delivering unparalleled noise cancellation and high-quality sound in a comfortable, compact design. Despite the absence of features like wireless charging and support for advanced audio codecs, their performance in key areas makes them a top choice for users prioritizing ANC and audio quality. With recent price reductions, they offer better value, solidifying their position as a leading option in the premium true wireless earbuds market.​

4. BEATS STUDIO BUDS +

Overview

The Beats Studio Buds + are true wireless earbuds released by Beats by Dre, building upon the original Studio Buds with enhanced features and performance. Priced at $169.99, they aim to deliver high-quality sound, effective noise cancellation, and seamless integration with both Apple and Android devices. ​

Key Features & Performance

1. Sound Quality 🎵

The Studio Buds + are equipped with custom two-layer transducers that deliver deep bass and crisp highs, resulting in a vibrant and immersive listening experience. This design minimizes distortion, ensuring clear audio across various music genres.​

Pros:

• Rich, immersive sound with deep bass and crisp highs.​
• Custom transducers reduce distortion for clear audio.​

Cons:

• Lack of customizable EQ settings limits personalized sound adjustments. ​

2. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) & Transparency Mode 🔇

The Studio Buds + feature Active Noise Cancellation to reduce ambient sounds, enhancing the listening experience. Transparency Mode allows users to hear their surroundings when needed, providing a balance between immersion and awareness. ​

Pros:

• Effective ANC performance for the price point.​
• Transparency Mode maintains situational awareness without removing the earbuds.​

Cons:

• ANC performance may not match that of premium models, such as the AirPods Pro. ​

3. Battery Life 🔋

The Studio Buds + offer up to 8 hours of continuous playback with ANC enabled. The charging case provides additional charges, extending total listening time to up to 36 hours. A quick 10-minute charge offers up to 1 hour of playback. ​

Pros:

• Extended battery life suitable for long listening sessions.​
• Quick charge feature provides convenience during busy schedules.​

Cons:

• Absence of wireless charging may be a drawback for some users. ​

4. Comfort & Build Quality 🎧

Designed for a comfortable fit, the Studio Buds + come with multiple ear tip sizes to accommodate different ear shapes. They are rated IPX4 for water and sweat resistance, making them suitable for workouts and outdoor activities. ​

Pros:

• Lightweight design ensures comfort during extended use.​
• IPX4 rating offers protection against sweat and light rain.​

Cons:

• Some users may experience fit issues during intense physical activities. ​

5. Value for Money 💰

Priced at $169.99, the Studio Buds + offer a competitive mix of features, including ANC, high-quality sound, and robust battery life. They provide a more affordable alternative to premium earbuds like the AirPods Pro, delivering solid performance without a premium price tag. ​

Pros:

• Competitive pricing offers value for the features provided.​
• Effective ANC and sound quality at a more accessible price point.​

Cons:

• Lack of advanced features found in higher-end models, such as spatial audio and customizable EQ. ​

Who Should Buy the Beats Studio Buds +?

• Budget-conscious consumers seeking quality ANC earbuds without the premium price.
• Fitness enthusiasts desiring comfortable, sweat-resistant earbuds for workouts.
• Users with both Apple and Android devices looking for seamless integration across platforms.
• Commuters and travelers needing reliable noise cancellation and extended battery life.

Final Rating (Honest Evaluation)

Final Verdict

The Beats Studio Buds + provide a compelling mix of features, including effective noise cancellation, high-quality sound, and extended battery life, all at a competitive price point. While they may not match the performance of premium models in every aspect, they offer substantial value for users seeking quality earbuds without a premium price. Their compatibility with both Apple and Android devices further enhances their appeal, making them a solid choice for a wide range of users.​

5. Nothing Ear (1)

Overview

The Nothing Ear (1) are true wireless earbuds introduced by Nothing Technology Limited in August 2021. Known for their distinctive transparent design, these earbuds aim to combine aesthetics with functionality. Priced around $99, they offer features such as active noise cancellation (ANC), wireless charging, and water resistance, positioning them as a competitive option in the budget-friendly earbuds market. ​

Key Features & Performance

1. Sound Quality 🎵

The Ear (1) earbuds deliver a balanced audio profile suitable for various music genres. They feature 13.5mm dynamic drivers that produce clear vocals and adequate bass response. However, some users have noted that at higher volumes, the sound quality may degrade, with potential issues in the treble frequencies. ​

Pros:

• Balanced sound profile suitable for diverse music genres.​
• Clear vocals and sufficient bass for casual listening.​

Cons:

• Sound quality may diminish at higher volumes, with possible treble distortion.​

2. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) & Transparency Mode 🔇

The Ear (1) earbuds feature ANC that effectively reduces ambient noise, enhancing the listening experience in noisy environments. The earbuds also offer a Transparency Mode, allowing users to hear surrounding sounds without removing them. However, the ANC performance may not match that of higher-end models, and some users have reported connectivity issues affecting the overall experience. ​

Pros:

• Effective noise reduction suitable for daily commutes and travel.​
• Transparency Mode facilitates situational awareness when needed.​

Cons:

• ANC performance may be less effective compared to premium earbuds.​
• Potential connectivity issues affecting seamless usage.​

3. Battery Life 🔋

The Ear (1) earbuds provide up to 5 hours of continuous playback with ANC enabled. The included charging case offers additional charges, extending the total battery life to approximately 34 hours. They also support wireless charging, adding convenience for users who prefer cable-free charging options. ​

Pros:

• Adequate battery life suitable for daily use and travel.​
• Wireless charging support adds convenience.​

Cons:

• Battery life may be shorter with ANC and higher volume levels.​

4. Comfort & Build Quality 🎧

Featuring a lightweight design with IPX4 water resistance, the Ear (1) earbuds are comfortable for extended wear and suitable for workouts. The transparent casing provides a unique aesthetic, showcasing the internal components. Some users have reported that the earbuds may not fit securely during intense physical activities, potentially affecting stability. ​

Pros:

• Lightweight design ensures comfort during extended use.​
• IPX4 rating offers protection against sweat and water splashes.​

Cons:

• Fit may not be secure during vigorous physical activities.​

5. Value for Money 💰

Priced around $99, the Ear (1) earbuds offer a compelling feature set, including ANC, wireless charging, and water resistance, making them a strong value proposition in the budget earbuds segment. However, users seeking top-tier ANC performance and premium sound quality may find them lacking compared to higher-end models. ​

Pros:

• Competitive pricing offers a rich feature set for the cost.​
• Inclusion of ANC and wireless charging at an affordable price point.​

Cons:

• Not suitable for users seeking premium ANC and superior sound quality.​

Who Should Buy the Nothing Ear (1)?

• Budget-conscious consumers seeking earbuds with essential features like ANC and wireless charging without a premium price tag.
• Casual listeners who prioritize comfort and design over high-fidelity audio.
• Fitness enthusiasts looking for water-resistant earbuds suitable for workouts.
• Users desiring a unique, transparent design that stands out from conventional earbuds aesthetics.

Final Rating (Honest Evaluation)

Final Verdict

The Nothing Ear (1) earbuds offer a distinctive design and a solid feature set, including active noise cancellation and wireless charging, at an accessible price point. While they may not match the performance of premium earbuds in terms of sound quality and advanced features, they provide excellent value for budget-conscious consumers seeking essential functionalities. Their unique aesthetic and comfortable design make them a noteworthy option in the crowded earbuds market.​

Conclusion

The best in-ear monitors under $200 offer a wide range of features to suit different preferences, whether you’re after noise cancellation, excellent sound quality, or unique design. Each of these options delivers value and performance, ensuring you get the most for your money. Whether you’re commuting, traveling, or enjoying music at home, these earbuds will elevate your listening experience without exceeding your budget.