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Apple EarPods (Lightning Connector) vs Sennheiser IE 800 S: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Sennheiser IE 800 S comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 78. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Sennheiser IE 800 S - Great overall at around $38.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

Apple EarPods (Lightning Connector)
Sound5.0
Calls6.0
Value6.0
Sennheiser IE 800 S
Sound8.5
Value6.0

Specifications

Specification comparison of Apple EarPods (Lightning Connector) vs Sennheiser IE 800 S
SpecApple EarPods (Lightning Connector)Sennheiser IE 800 S
TypeWired IEMsWired IEMs
Price (USD)$19$38
HearWiki score58 / 100 · Average78 / 100 · Great
Released20162017
Audio
DriverdynamicExtra Wide Band (XWB) drivers
Driver size14.2 mm7 mm
Drivers per side21
Frequency response20Hz-20kHz5Hz-46.5kHz
Impedance42 Ω16 Ω
Wireless
Multipoint pairingNoNo
Features
Active noise cancellingNoNo
Controlsbuttons-
Design
Weight-8 g
Detachable cableNoYes
USB-CNoNo
Calls
Microphones1-

What reviewers said

Apple EarPods (Lightning Connector)

These wired Apple earbuds connect via Lightning and offer a straightforward, hassle-free listening experience. While they avoid harshness and have a clean mid-range, their sound is somewhat flat and bass-heavy, lacking the detail and dynamics that audiophiles might seek. They are a functional, basic option for casual listeners, but not a standout choice for those prioritizing audio quality.

  • Pro:Comfortable, open design fits most ears
  • Pro:No harshness in treble, easy to listen to
  • Pro:Simple, plug-and-play connection for Lightning devices
  • Con:Bass is heavy-handed and can overpower other frequencies
  • Con:Lack of detail, dynamics, and overall insight
  • Con:Sounds flatter than older models with less separation

Sennheiser IE 800 S

The Sennheiser IE 800 S is a compact, high-end wired in-ear that impresses with its detailed, spacious sound and refined tuning, thanks to its single 7mm XWB driver. While it offers strong build quality and comfort, its premium price tag, noticeable cable noise, and some design quirks may give potential buyers pause.

  • Pro:Excellent detail retrieval and expansive soundstage
  • Pro:Natural, cohesive tuning with strong sub-bass
  • Pro:Very small and lightweight for comfortable extended wear
  • Con:High price that may not fully match performance
  • Con:Noticeable cable microphonics
  • Con:Not a neutral or linear frequency response

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

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New comparisonApple EarPods (Lightning Connector)Sennheiser IE 800 S