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Apple EarPods (USB-C) 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 (USB-C)
Sound5.5
Calls7.0
Value6.5
Sennheiser IE 800 S
Sound8.5
Value6.0

Specifications

Specification comparison of Apple EarPods (USB-C) vs Sennheiser IE 800 S
SpecApple EarPods (USB-C)Sennheiser IE 800 S
TypeWired IEMsWired IEMs
Price (USD)$19$38
HearWiki score62 / 100 · Average78 / 100 · Great
Released20232017
Audio
DriverDynamicExtra Wide Band (XWB) drivers
Driver size14.2 mm7 mm
Drivers per side-1
Frequency response20Hz-20kHz5Hz-46.5kHz
Impedance-16 Ω
Wireless
Multipoint pairingNoNo
Features
Active noise cancellingNoNo
Controlsbuttons-
Design
Weight30 g8 g
Water resistanceNone-
Detachable cable-Yes
USB-CYesNo
Calls
Microphones1-

What reviewers said

Apple EarPods (USB-C)

These are a budget-friendly wired earbud option that connects via USB-C, designed for straightforward calls and casual listening. They offer a comfortable open fit and handy inline controls, though their sound quality is merely average and they provide no noise isolation or water resistance. They're a practical, no-frills pick for everyday use rather than an audiophile or feature-packed choice.

  • Pro:Clear call quality with a useful inline volume button
  • Pro:Comfortable open design that avoids ear canal pressure
  • Pro:Simple plug-and-play USB-C connectivity with easy controls
  • Con:Sound is average with bloated bass and slightly muddled treble
  • Con:No noise isolation or cancellation due to open design
  • Con:No water resistance or advanced features like multipoint

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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