Etymotic Research ER3SE
Etymotic Research
28 Overall Score
vs
Samsung SM-R640NZWFXAR
Samsung
72 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
Samsung SM-R640NZWFXAR
No customer feedback yet
Scores
Budget
Fitness
Gaming
Commute
Music
Calls
Travel
Specifications
| Etymotic Research ER3SE | Samsung SM-R640NZWFXAR | |
|---|---|---|
| Design | ||
| Form Factor | in-ear | in-ear |
| Wearing Style | in-ear | true wireless |
| Ear Tips | Assorted | — |
| Weight | — | 0.06 kg★ |
| Audio | ||
| Driver Type | balanced armature | dynamic |
| Driver Size | — | 11 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 | Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro (2026) AI True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds, White |
| Noise Control | ||
| ANC | ✗ | ✓★ |
| ANC Type | — | Adaptive |
| Transparency | — | ✓★ |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wireless | — | ✓★ |
| Earbud Battery | ||
| Battery Life | — | 6 hrs★ |
| Case Battery | ||
| Case Battery | — | 26 hrs★ |
| Wireless Charging | — | ✓★ |
| Microphone | ||
| Microphone | — | ✓★ |
| Mic Count | — | 3★ |
| NC Mic | — | ✓★ |
| Features | ||
| Voice Assistant | — | Siri, Google Assistant |
| Touch Controls | — | ✓★ |
| App | — | Samsung Wear |
| Bone Conduction | ✗ | ✗ |
| Water Resistance | — | IP57 |
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)
Samsung SM-R640NZWFXAR
- Strong build (99th percentile)99th %ile
- Strong anc (97th percentile)97th %ile
- Strong social proof (90th percentile)90th %ile
- Strong mic (87th percentile)87th %ile
- Below average battery (16th percentile)16th %ile
Pricing
Etymotic Research ER3SE0.007score per dollar
vs
Samsung SM-R640NZWFXAR0.013score per dollar
Samsung SM-R640NZWFXAR offers 1.9x better value for money
Verdict
Winner: Samsung SM-R640NZWFXAR
Scores 72 overall, wins 7 of 7 usage categories and 14 of 27 specs.
