The Best IEMs & Earbuds for Gaming 2025
Downsize Your Headphones Without Downsizing Your Sound
What makes a good IEM or earbud for gaming? It's interesting really, because the criteria aren't that much different than a full-size headphone. It has to be comfortable and it has to sound good, right? People ask all the time what the best headphones for gaming are - but what about IEMs? Where do IEMs fit into the picture? And the answer is: the same place headphones do. IEMs in many ways are much more convenient than full-size headphones - smaller, easier to drive, easier to travel with, and the kicker: they can sound just as good, if not better, than your full-size headphones (depending on what you're comparing them to, of course).
It actually makes a lot of sense when you think about how IEMs are compatible with various gaming setups. Most of the time IEMs aren't even a consideration because of the sheer quantity of headphones and cheap earbuds out there. That being said, I think gamers need to start seriously considering the benefits that IEMs have over full-size headphones. Just because they're smaller doesn't mean the sound quality is equally small. When it comes to portable gaming (and gaming in general), there's no comparison. If you can get awesome sound from your IEMs - why would you travel with full-size headphones when you can literally have something that sounds just as good and fits in the palm of your hand?
Portable and home gaming is everywhere, and chances are that you have a PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, Xbox, Steamdeck, and/or a phone and tablet that you play games on. Likewise, you probably own a gaming headset or gaming earbuds too. But the question remains: are you getting the most out of your gaming-branded headset or earbuds? Sometimes you need to look outside of the gaming spectrum to find some of the best-sounding gear for your games. Here are just a few...
Best Budget-friendly Earbuds
We'll start off with the most affordable and likely, the most familiar with gamers out there. The Wireless Earbud. The Sony WF-1000XM5 and the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 earbuds are great options if you are looking for wireless capability and even some noise cancellation. These are the only wireless options on the list, so automatically they're going to be best for mobile gaming, Steamdeck, laptops, and MACs that can run the proprietary software for further sound control. Bluetooth is not recommended for console gaming from the get-go (due to severe latency issues). You're better off using cabled or wireless USB dongle headphones specifically for your console. The XM5 and Momentums are small, and work effortlessly with your phone (just pop them in and they auto-connect), making them great for media consumption and casual gaming on the fly. Sony gets extra points here for their top-of-class noise canceling and software. The Momentums have a bit more clarity and detail, but I would say the Sony XM5 will get you better immersed in the game with the ANC. Both are great options here.
Sony WF-1000XM5 Wireless Earbuds
Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 Earphones
The Momentum True Wireless 4 Earbuds from Sennheiser are a great alternative to the larger ANC over-ear headphones. Compared to the XM4 earbuds from Sony, the Momentums still have more defined, clearer high frequencies, and an overall more audiophile-friendly tuning. The bass response is great, considering the form factor and the proximity to your eardrum. The earbud-style does well to accentuate those frequencies that often get lost or overpowered in full-size headphones.
The adaptive NC is a nice feature, allowing the earbud to automatically adjust the level of noise-canceling based on your environment. 30 total hours of battery life (with the charging case) and 7.5 hours on a single charge ensures you have music whenever you want during the day or night. The case also has Qi wireless charging which is a nice feature. The Momentum is IXP4 water resistant and has three advanced noise-canceling microphones on each earbud for clear and quiet calls. If you're wanting a more analytical listening experience than the Sony XM4 earbuds, then the Momentum True Wireless 4 Earphones from Sennheiser will do the trick.
30hr Battery Life, Adaptive Noise Canceling
Best Mid-Tiered IEMs
Campfire Audio Cascara IEMs
Experience acoustic intricacies, micro-details, and full immersion with the Campfire Audio Cascara IEMs. The custom-crafted dynamic driver pinpoints accurate positional audio cues and crystal-clear footstep detection. Whether you're tracking enemy movements or coordinating with teammates, the expertly tuned soundstage provides exceptional spatial awareness with minimal audio latency. The durable housing ensures comfort during marathon gaming sessions, while the superior isolation keeps you focused on crucial in-game audio. Bass response is carefully calibrated to deliver impactful explosions without overwhelming tactical sound cues, while the clear midrange ensures team communications come through with perfect clarity. Each unit is hand-crafted in Portland, Oregon, and includes a premium carrying case and multiple ear tip options for a secure, customized fit during intense gaming sessions.
Clear sound with Micro Detail retrieval
Comfortable and Secure Fit
Sennheiser IE 600 Earphones
Best Flagship IEMs
Sennheiser IE 900 Earphones IEM
64 Audio U6t In-Ear Monitors
The 64 Audio U12t delivers exceptional gaming performance through its precise 12-driver configuration and apex™ pressure relief system. Its lightning-fast driver response captures crucial audio cues like footsteps and weapon reloads with extraordinary detail, while the expansive soundstage enables accurate positional awareness in competitive gameplay. The U12t's tia™ high driver produces crystal-clear treble that highlights tactical sounds like distant gunfire and enemy movement, complemented by controlled bass that adds impact to explosions without masking important audio cues. The pressure-relieving apex™ technology reduces fatigue during extended gaming sessions, while the ergonomic shell design ensures stable fit during intense moments. Made in Vancouver, USA, the U12t includes premium accessories for optimal gaming comfort and performance.
Natural, Balanced Sound
Small, Lightweight & Comfortable
64 Audio Fourte In-Ear Monitors
Experience the pinnacle of in-ear monitor performance with 64 Audio's Fourté Universal-fit IEMs. The Fourté stands at the forefront of IEM innovation as the first 64 Audio In-Ear Monitor to feature internally integrated patented Apex and Tia technology. These along with its ergonomic shell, machined out of solid aluminum, have dictated 64 Audio's entire universal in-ear monitor design language since its development in 2016. The Fourté’s unique drivers, acoustic chambers, integrated apex technology, and passive radiator all unite delivering an unrivaled sonic experience. The Fourté is the ultimate universal IEM for audiophiles and music lovers looking for an expansive, natural sound with ultra-deep lows, luscious mids, and naturally smooth highs, for the ultimate gaming experience.
Versatile, Articulate Sound
Exceptional Fit and Comfort
Dragon Cables
Here are two important things to remember when picking your new earbuds or IEMs:
Custom vs Universal
Fit and Seal
Final Thoughts
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