Despite the decreasing popularity of wired headphones, some users still prefer them due to their high-quality sound and lack of pairing, latency, or battery issues. Additionally, wired headphones are often more affordable than their wireless counterparts while providing the same sound quality. With this in mind, we have scoured the market for the latest products and innovations, and have compiled a list of the top wired headphones available in 2023.
Best wired headphones: our selection in 2023
1. Sennheiser IE 600: the best wired headphones of 2023
The Sennheiser IE 600 stands out as the top wired headphones in 2023, delivering exceptional sound quality and comfort. These headphones feature 7mm TrueResponse dynamic transducers, which produce efficient and detailed sound. The soundstage is rich and immersive, making it easy to appreciate every aspect of a song. Moreover, they provide excellent passive noise isolation, although the sound insulation of the foam tips could be improved. The earpieces are made of high-quality 3D printed aluminum and remain securely in the ear.
Sennheiser’s IE 600 incorporates top-notch technology and premium materials, but this luxury comes at a steep price. At €700, these headphones are among the most expensive on the market. However, they deliver the best sound quality in portable audio.
2. Sennheiser IE 300: always a reference!
The Sennheiser IE 300, released a year prior to the IE 600 model, still stands as one of the top wired audio devices. Their sound quality is almost as good as the new version but they are much more affordable, costing around €300. Even though they are not entry-level headphones, we can’t ignore their similarities with the IE 600. They are ergonomically designed, comfortable to wear, and fit well in the ear. Their cable is also tangle-resistant, which is a small but appreciated detail.
Regarding sound quality, the IE 300 headphones are almost flawless. They are efficient enough to impress audiophiles, although there is a slight lack of bass performance. Nevertheless, the sound reproduction is rich and highly detailed. If you have been using average quality headphones until now, the Sennheiser IE 300 will allow you to rediscover your favorite songs in a new light!
3. Shure SE215-CL: very good in-ear headphones
Although the Shure SE125-CL may not match the quality of Sennheiser, they still offer exceptional wired in-ear monitoring with impressive sound insulation. The brand promises a 37 dB attenuation of surrounding noise, creating a more immersive listening experience. The SE215 model also boasts detachable earpieces, allowing for easy replacement of damaged cables without having to purchase the product again, resulting in substantial savings for the buyer, especially considering the model’s price of approximately 130 €.
While some may not appreciate the retro look of the transparent case used for the headsets, the design of the SE215 breaks away from the traditional style. The sound quality of these monitors is precise and consistent with no significant issues to report. Some may find the sound “neutral,” but this is a personal preference. Additionally, the headphones are comfortable to wear and do not suffer from distortion. However, the bass sometimes overpowers the mids and highs, which is a minor flaw.
Despite this minor issue, the Shure SE215-CL wired headphones are still among the best on the market in 2023. Once again, Shure has demonstrated its exceptional know-how in producing high-quality headphones.
4. 1More Triple Driver: one of the best value for money
It’s hard to find a better value for money than the 1More Triple Driver headphones. Priced at less than $80, these headphones offer exceptional sound quality and superior construction. The earpieces are made of durable aluminum, the cable is braided with Kevlar, and the silicone tips are angled at 45° for comfort.
Moreover, the Triple Drivers come with a handy control box on the cable, which is becoming increasingly rare in wired headphones. This box lets you make calls, pause your listening, or use voice assistants like Siri or Google Assistant.
True to their name, the 1More Triple Drives have three “Hi-Res” and “THX” certified transducers, which produce high-quality sound reproduction. Although the bass is present, the overall sound is balanced. However, the midrange sometimes overpowers the other frequencies, which is a minor drawback. Nonetheless, considering the attractive price, the audio quality of these headphones is still impressive.
What about the 1More Dual Driver & 1MORE Quad Driver?
The Dual Driver and Quad Driver models have a different number of transducers compared to the Triple Driver model. The Dual Drivers have 2 speakers per earphone, while the Quad Drivers have 4. Having more components allows for better sound reproduction, with each transducer handling a specific frequency band. As a result, the 1More Quad Driver provides a more balanced and precise audio experience than the Dual Driver.
However, there is a difference in price between these models. In our view, the 1More Triple Driver provides the best quality/price ratio. Therefore, we recommend this version.
5. Sony MDR-EX110APB: An excellent model at a low price
Sony’s audio products are known for their excellent quality, whether it be Bluetooth headsets or wired headphones. In fact, our list of the best Bluetooth headphones of 2023 features several of Sony’s exceptional offerings. The MDR-EX110APB is a budget-friendly option that delivers very decent in-ear headphones for under 20 €.
While the cable, which is 1m20 long, is a bit fragile, the earbuds are lightweight and comfortable, fitting perfectly in the ear. Though not perfect, the sound quality is surprisingly good for headphones at this price point, with dominant bass but still a pleasant listening experience. Additionally, the product comes with a built-in microphone, making it an even better value. As such, we consider the MDR-EX110APB as the best entry-level wired headphones of 2023.
What about EarPods?
The issue of compatibility with iPhone users has not been overlooked. It is true that using regular wired headphones with an iPhone requires a Lightning to 3.5mm headphone jack adapter, which is not the most convenient solution. However, wireless headphones are a viable alternative. For those who prefer analog connections, the EarPods are a wired version of the AirPods and offer impressive sound quality with deep bass. Additionally, they have sleek and durable finishes, typical of Apple products.
However, it should be noted that the EarPods’ cable is prone to damage, and they are not true in-ear headphones, which means that they may not fit everyone’s ear comfortably. As a result, they may not stay in place during use. Therefore, it is debatable whether they should be included among the best wired headphones of 2023. What is your opinion? Let us know in the comment section below
Choosing the right wired headphones: buying guide!
There are wired headphones available at various price points, and it’s crucial to select the right one that meets your requirements and budget. To make an informed purchase, it’s essential to consider several factors. We’ve compiled a list of crucial aspects that you should take into account when deciding on the right headphones for you
Sound quality
Before buying a pair of wired headphones, it is crucial to prioritize the sound quality. Look for headphones that offer excellent sound quality and a well-balanced frequency response for clear and accurate sound. To achieve this, you may want to consider the quality of the transducers, which can either be dynamic or electrostatic, as well as the dominant frequency ranges, whether it’s bass, midrange, or treble. It’s also important to consider the maximum sound volume delivered. High-quality headphones should be able to deliver high volume without saturation or distortion.
Comfort and design
Comfort is an essential aspect to consider when purchasing wired headphones, especially if you plan on using them for long periods. Many users prefer in-ear headphones for a more immersive listening experience. However, for those who prefer the classic earphones like EarPods, it is important to ensure that they fit comfortably without causing any discomfort or pain.
If you decide to go for in-ear headphones, make sure they come with several tips of different sizes to ensure a perfect fit for your ears. The design of the headphones should also match your style and preference. While some headphones come with a hoop that wraps around the ear for a better hold, they may not be the most aesthetically pleasing option.
Connectivity and cable length
Most wired headphones are equipped with a standard 3.5mm jack, making them compatible with all devices equipped with a headphone socket such as smartphones, PCs, tablets, and televisions. However, Apple products require a Lightning adapter to use regular wired headphones. In this case, wireless headphones may be a better option, and you can refer to our selection of the best wireless headphones. The cable length of wired headphones should be adequate for comfortable use but not excessively long to avoid tangling. Opt for flexible and sturdy cables rather than rigid ones, which are more prone to damage.
Soundproofing
When using headphones in noisy environments, it is essential to consider their ability to isolate noise. In-ear headphones with good noise isolation can significantly improve the listening experience by reducing external noise. You may also want to consider wired headphones with active noise reduction (ANR) technology, such as the TaoTronics TT-EP01, for even better noise isolation.
Microphone and controls
Having a microphone on your wired headphones is crucial if you want to make phone calls or record voice messages. However, it’s worth noting that the microphone quality on these headphones is often not exceptional. Nonetheless, having a microphone can be very practical, especially if you need to communicate in a noisy environment.
Brand and price
Ultimately, both the brand and price of headphones can play a significant role in your purchasing decision. In general, more renowned brands are likely to provide better sound quality, but this often comes at a higher cost. However, some brands such as Sony or JBL are able to offer wired headphones with impressive sound quality at more affordable prices. It’s important to carefully balance your budget and your desired level of sound quality before making a final decision.
Conclusion
We trust that our list of the top wired headphones of 2023 has been helpful in your search. Aside from the brands we’ve highlighted, you might also consider checking out other brands such as JBL, Marshall, KLIM, and Avantree. The latter in particular provides reasonably-priced wired headphones with excellent sound quality. If you have any recommendations for your preferred models, we’d love to hear from you! Please feel free to share them in the comment section below this article.😉.
