Etymotic Research ER3SE
Etymotic Research
28 Overall Score
vs
Creative Aurvana Ace EF1150
Creative
61 Overall Score
What Buyers Say
Etymotic Research ER3SE
88 out of 100 low confidence 7 reviews
The Etymotic ER3 SE is widely praised for its neutral, uncolored sound and exceptional passive noise isolation, often described as god-tier for the price. Users highlight the need for proper deep insertion and aftermarket ear tips to achieve comfort and optimal sound, while the cable microphonics are a common frustration. The XR variant receives mixed feedback, with some finding it muddier than the SE. Overall, these IEMs are a top choice for audiophiles seeking clarity and isolation without active noise cancellation.
Pros
- Neutral, uncolored sound
- Exceptional passive noise isolation
- Great value for money
- Replaceable cable
- Comfortable with proper tips
Cons
- Pronounced cable microphonics
- Uncomfortable stock ear tips
- Requires deep insertion
- No inline mic or controls
- Not suitable for side sleeping
Sound quality 7
Noise isolation 5
Cable quality 5
Comfort and fit 6
Value for money 4
Build quality 3
Creative Aurvana Ace EF1150
No customer feedback yet
Scores
Gaming
Music
Budget
Fitness
Commute
Travel
Calls
Specifications
| Etymotic Research ER3SE | Creative Aurvana Ace EF1150 | |
|---|---|---|
| Design | ||
| Form Factor | in-ear | in-ear |
| Wearing Style | in-ear | true wireless |
| Ear Tips | Assorted | — |
| Audio | ||
| Driver Type | balanced armature | MEMS |
| Driver Size | — | 10 mm★ |
| Drivers | 1 | 2★ |
| Freq Min | 20 Hz★ | — |
| Freq Max | 16 kHz★ | — |
| Impedance | 22 Ω | — |
| Hi-Res Audio | — | ✓★ |
| Codecs | Etymotic ER3SE Studio Edition Earphone,Black | aptX Adaptive, AAC |
| Noise Control | ||
| ANC | ✗ | ✓★ |
| ANC Type | — | hybrid |
| Transparency | — | ✓★ |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wireless | — | ✓★ |
| Bluetooth | — | 5.3★ |
| Earbud Battery | ||
| Battery Life | — | 6 hrs★ |
| Fast Charging | — | 5 minutes charging delivers a full hour of use |
| Charging | — | USB-C★ |
| Case Battery | ||
| Case Battery | — | 24 hrs★ |
| Case Charging | — | USB-C★ |
| Microphone | ||
| Microphone | — | ✓★ |
| Mic Count | — | 6★ |
| NC Mic | — | ✓★ |
| Features | ||
| Voice Assistant | — | Siri, Google Assistant |
| Touch Controls | — | ✓★ |
| Bone Conduction | ✗ | — |
| Water Resistance | — | IPX5 |
Pros & Cons
Etymotic Research ER3SE
- Strong user sentiment (92nd percentile)92nd %ile
- Strong social proof (66th percentile)
- Below average mic (12th percentile)12th %ile
- Below average connectivity (13th percentile)13th %ile
- Below average sound (29th percentile)
- Below average comfort (29th percentile)
Creative Aurvana Ace EF1150
- Strong sound (98th percentile)98th %ile
- Strong mic (98th percentile)98th %ile
- Strong anc (93rd percentile)93rd %ile
- Strong build (91st percentile)91st %ile
- Below average comfort (29th percentile)
Pricing
Etymotic Research ER3SE0.001score per dollar
vs
Creative Aurvana Ace EF11500.004score per dollar
Creative Aurvana Ace EF1150 offers 4.0x better value for money
Verdict
Winner: Creative Aurvana Ace EF1150
Scores 61 overall, wins 7 of 7 usage categories and 15 of 28 specs.
