Etymotic ER3SE
SoundPEATS H3
What Buyers Say
Etymotic ER3SE
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
SoundPEATS H3
The Soundpeats H3 earbuds are widely praised for delivering exceptional sound quality that rivals far more expensive models, with tight bass, clear mids, and sparkling highs. Users highlight the secure IEM-style fit, effective active noise cancellation, and reliable connectivity, though some note the EQ in the companion app could be more impactful. Battery life varies with codec and ANC usage, and the charging case is a bit bulky, but overall these are seen as an outstanding value for audiophiles on a budget.
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality for the price
- Secure and comfortable IEM-style fit
- Effective active noise cancellation
- Reliable Bluetooth connectivity
- Good codec support (LDAC, AptX Adaptive)
Cons
- EQ in app could be more impactful
- Battery life varies with codec/ANC
- Charging case is somewhat bulky
- No auto-pause when removing earbuds
- Slightly metallic treble on some tracks
Scores
Specifications
| Etymotic ER3SE | SoundPEATS H3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Design | ||
| Form Factor | in-ear | in-ear |
| Wearing Style | detachable MMCX cable | true wireless |
| Ear Tips | Assorted eartips | — |
| Weight | — | 0.05 kg★ |
| Audio | ||
| Driver Type | balanced armature | hybrid |
| Driver Size | — | 12 mm★ |
| Drivers | 1 | 3★ |
| Freq Min | 20 Hz★ | — |
| Freq Max | 16 kHz★ | — |
| Impedance | 22 Ω | 28 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 120 dB★ | — |
| Hi-Res Audio | — | ✓★ |
| Codecs | Etymotic ER3SE Studio Edition Earphone,Black | LDAC, aptX Lossless |
| Noise Control | ||
| ANC | ✗ | ✓★ |
| ANC Type | — | adaptive hybrid |
| Transparency | — | ✓★ |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wireless | — | ✓★ |
| Bluetooth | — | 5.4★ |
| Multipoint | — | ✓★ |
| Earbud Battery | ||
| Battery Life | — | 7 hrs★ |
| Fast Charging | — | 10 minutes for 2 hours of playtime |
| Case Battery | ||
| Case Battery | — | 37 hrs★ |
| Microphone | ||
| Microphone | ✗ | ✓★ |
| Mic Count | — | 6★ |
| NC Mic | — | ✓★ |
| Features | ||
| Touch Controls | — | ✓★ |
| App | — | PeatsAudio App |
| Bone Conduction | ✗ | ✗ |
| Water Resistance | — | IPX5 |
Pros & Cons
Etymotic ER3SE
- Strong user sentiment (92nd percentile)92nd %ile
- Strong sound (68th percentile)
- Strong social proof (67th percentile)
- Below average mic (12th percentile)12th %ile
- Below average connectivity (12th percentile)12th %ile
- Below average comfort (29th percentile)
- Below average anc (31st percentile)
SoundPEATS H3
- Strong sound (100th percentile)100th %ile
- Strong mic (98th percentile)98th %ile
- Strong anc (97th percentile)97th %ile
- Strong social proof (96th percentile)96th %ile
Pricing
SoundPEATS H3 offers 4.4x better value for money
Verdict
Scores 85 overall, wins 7 of 7 usage categories and 15 of 29 specs.
