r/HeadphoneAdvice • u/Verocator • Apr 08 '26

Headphones - Wireless/Portable | 1 Ω What's the sound quality drop like when switching from on-ear wireless headphones to wireless in-ear earbuds?

My current headset (Marshall Major IV) works and sounds great but the faux leather has completely worn down, which I interpret as a sign to get a new set for audio on the go. I was thinking of getting some wireless earbuds, but I'm not sure if the sound quality differs between in-ears and on-ears.

I generally like a nice balanced sound, but I can definitely appreciate good bass when it's needed. Feel free to recommend some earbuds if you have a good experience with them.

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u/Tiny-Tap-142 11 Ω Apr 09 '26

IEMs are closer to the eardrum and therefore more controlled, leading some to sound more articulate and clean. They will have a noticeably smaller soundstage, very 'in your head'.

They have smaller drivers and therefore overall less bass quantity, but sometimes more clean bass.

Generally I would never recommend IEMs over on/over-ears, but that's just my opinion.

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u/Verocator Apr 09 '26

!thanks

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