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Campfire Audio IO Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£260
Avg. price in US: ~$300
Form factor: in-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Campfire Audio IO review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

4.9

Poor

4.4

Poor

6.9

Good

0.2
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
0.0
Audio latency
25.0%
0.0
Low-latency game mode
20.0%
1.0
Can be used as a headset
12.0%
0.0
Noise-canceling microphone
8.0%
0.0
Battery life
2.1
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
0.0
Battery life
18.0%
10
Weight
16.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
0.0
Ambient sound mode
0.2
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
0.0
Noise-canceling microphone
24.0%
1.0
Can be used as a headset
18.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
14.0%
0.0
Companion app
5.9
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
10
Weight
24.0%
9.0
Water resistance
20.0%
4.0
IP rating
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
12.0%
1.0
Can be used as a headset

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

#258 in Best In Ear Headphones
#575 in Best Wired Headphones

Verdict

The Campfire Audio Io is an entry-level in-ear monitor featuring a dual balanced-armature driver configuration, consisting of a large woofer and a smaller tweeter housed in a garnet-red machined aluminium shell. Technically, it boasts a frequency response of 5Hz–22kHz, an impedance of 26 ohms, and a sensitivity of 109 dB SPL/mW, making it easy to drive from mobile devices. Its main characteristics include a unique, W-shaped sound signature with a forward midrange, crisp treble sparkle enhanced by T.A.E.C. technology, and an expansive soundstage for its class. Key pros include its superlative build quality, excellent passive noise isolation, and a premium accessory kit featuring a Smoky Litz cable and a leather case. However, some users note cons such as a controversial midrange tuning that can sound thin or 'shouty' on certain tracks, and a relative lack of low-end physicality for bass-heavy genres.

Technical Specifications of Campfire Audio IO

Overall score

4.9

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.

Sound

4.8

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Active noise cancellation (ANC)

What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology

When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

Importance: HIGH

Driver type

What it is: Type of speaker driver technology used

When it matters: When the underlying sound character and driver technology matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

balanced armature

Driver size

What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit

When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Number of drivers

What it is: Total number of speaker drivers per earcup

When it matters: When multi-driver designs are part of your buying criteria.

Importance: LOW

Lowest frequency

What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce

When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=10 Hz

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Calls & Controls

1.4

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Noise-canceling microphone

What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls

When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Can be used as a headset

What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.

When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of microphones

What it is: Total number of built-in microphones

When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

Boom microphone

What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity

When it matters: When you need stronger voice clarity for gaming, streaming, or work calls.

Importance: LOW

Microphone SNR

What it is: Signal-to-noise ratio of the microphone

When it matters: When call clarity matters and you want your voice picked up more cleanly instead of buried in background hiss.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >80 dB

N/A

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Connectivity

2.9

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Connectivity

What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)

When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

Importance: HIGH

Bluetooth version

What it is: Version of Bluetooth technology supported

When it matters: When wireless stability, efficiency, and feature support matter more than treating Bluetooth as a box-check spec.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5.0

N/A

Maximum Bluetooth range

What it is: Maximum wireless operating distance from source device

When it matters: When you move around rooms and want fewer dropouts from your source device.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

N/A

Audio latency

What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode

When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <60 ms

N/A

Multipoint support

What it is: Supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices

When it matters: When you switch often between a phone and a laptop during the day.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

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Features

2.7

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Ambient sound mode

What it is: Allows external sounds to pass through for awareness

When it matters: When you need to stay aware of traffic, voices, or announcements.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

EQ support

What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer

When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

Importance: MEDIUM

Companion app

What it is: Dedicated mobile app for customization and updates

When it matters: When software customization, updates, and extra controls matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Adjustable ANC levels

What it is: Allows adjustment of noise cancellation intensity levels

When it matters: When you move between quiet rooms, offices, streets, and public transport and do not want one ANC setting for every situation.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=4

N/A

Voice assistant support

What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant

When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

Importance: LOW

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Battery

1.0

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Battery life

What it is: Playback time on a single charge

When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >45 hours

N/A

Battery life with ANC

What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled

When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >40 hours

N/A

Charging time

What it is: Time required for a full battery charge

When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=2 hours

N/A

Quick charge

What it is: Provides quick playback time with short charging period

When it matters: When a short top-up needs to deliver useful playback before you leave.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Battery capacity

What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery

When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=720 mAh

N/A

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Design

10

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Brand name

What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.

When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Campfire

Form factor

What it is: Overall design type of the headphones (over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, etc.)

When it matters: When comfort, portability, and isolation depend on the overall headphone style.

Importance: HIGH

in-ear

Weight

What it is: Total weight of the headphones

When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <150 g

Acoustic design

What it is: Type of acoustic design (open-back, closed-back, semi-open)

When it matters: When you need the right balance of isolation, leakage, and soundstage.

Importance: HIGH

closed-back

Clamp force

What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head

When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

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Campfire Audio IO vs the average headphone

Why is Campfire Audio IO better than the average headphone?

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97.2% lower weight
Campfire Audio IO is lighter than the average headphone (6 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
What it is: Total weight of the headphones
When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <150 g
Campfire Audio IO is lighter than the average headphone (6 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.6 g vs 218 g
13 Hz lower bass extension
Campfire Audio IO has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (5 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <=10 Hz
Campfire Audio IO has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (5 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.5 Hz vs 18 Hz
7 dB/mW higher sensitivity
Campfire Audio IO has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (109 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
What it is: Sound pressure output level per unit of input power
When it matters: When you plan to use weaker sources like phones, handhelds, or entry-level dongles and still want enough volume.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=106 dB/mW
Campfire Audio IO has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (109 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.109 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
Boom microphone included
Campfire Audio IO includes a boom microphone, the average headphone does not. 15.6% of headphones have a boom microphone.
What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity
When it matters: When you need stronger voice clarity for gaming, streaming, or work calls.
Importance: LOW
Campfire Audio IO includes a boom microphone, the average headphone does not. 15.6% of headphones have a boom microphone.
19 dB higher max SPL
Campfire Audio IO has a higher max SPL than the average headphone (129 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
What it is: Maximum safe sound pressure level
When it matters: When high-volume headroom is part of your use case.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=116 dB
Campfire Audio IO has a higher max SPL than the average headphone (129 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.129 dB vs 110 dB
2,000 Hz higher treble extension
Campfire Audio IO has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (22,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
What it is: Highest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When treble extension and overall frequency reach matter to you.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=24000 Hz
Campfire Audio IO has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (22,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.22000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
97.2% lower weight
Campfire Audio IO is lighter than the average headphone (6 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
13 Hz lower bass extension
Campfire Audio IO has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (5 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
7 dB/mW higher sensitivity
Campfire Audio IO has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (109 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
2,000 Hz higher treble extension
Campfire Audio IO has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (22,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
19 dB higher max SPL
Campfire Audio IO has a higher max SPL than the average headphone (129 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
Boom microphone included
Campfire Audio IO includes a boom microphone, the average headphone does not. 15.6% of headphones have a boom microphone.

Calls & Controls

Why is Campfire Audio IO worse than the average headphone?

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1.7 % higher distortion
Campfire Audio IO has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (2 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
No neodymium magnet
Campfire Audio IO does not use neodymium magnets, the average headphone does. 77.4% of headphones use neodymium magnets.
1 fewer drivers
Campfire Audio IO has fewer drivers than the average headphone (2 vs 1). The average headphones use 1 drivers.
Not headset-ready
Campfire Audio IO is not headset-ready, while the average headphone is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.
1 fewer microphones
Campfire Audio IO has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
No voice assistant support
Campfire Audio IO does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
1.7 % higher distortion
Campfire Audio IO has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (2 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
What it is: Percentage of harmonic distortion in audio output
When it matters: When cleaner sound reproduction matters at louder volumes.
Importance: LOW
Good value: <=1%
Campfire Audio IO has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (2 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.2 % vs 0.3 %
No voice assistant support
Campfire Audio IO does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant
When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.
Importance: LOW
Campfire Audio IO does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
Not headset-ready
Campfire Audio IO is not headset-ready, while the average headphone is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.
When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.
Importance: MEDIUM
Campfire Audio IO is not headset-ready, while the average headphone is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.
1 fewer microphones
Campfire Audio IO has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
What it is: Total number of built-in microphones
When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=2
Campfire Audio IO has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.0 vs 1
2.89x more expensive
Campfire Audio IO is more expensive than the average headphone (£260 vs £90).
Campfire Audio IO is more expensive than the average headphone (£260 vs £90).£260 vs £90
No neodymium magnet
Campfire Audio IO does not use neodymium magnets, the average headphone does. 77.4% of headphones use neodymium magnets.
What it is: Uses neodymium magnets for stronger, clearer sound
When it matters: When driver construction details are part of how you compare sound hardware.
Importance: LOW
Campfire Audio IO does not use neodymium magnets, the average headphone does. 77.4% of headphones use neodymium magnets.
16.3% lower user score
Campfire Audio IO has a lower user score than the average headphone (6.88 vs 8.000).
What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.
When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.
Campfire Audio IO has a lower user score than the average headphone (6.88 vs 8.000).6.88 vs 8
9.5% worse value for money
Campfire Audio IO has worse value for money than the average headphone (6.15 vs 6.736).
What it is: An indicator that combines the headphones' overall rating with their cost.
When it matters: When you are looking for headphones that offer a strong balance of performance, features, and price.
Campfire Audio IO has worse value for money than the average headphone (6.15 vs 6.736).6.15 vs 6.74

Calls & Controls

Graphic comparison of Campfire Audio IO and

Attribute category

Attribute

No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about Campfire Audio IO?

Superlative build quality with machine-milled metal housings
Comprehensive accessory package including a premium leather case and numerous ear tips
High-quality 'Smoky Litz' silver-plated copper cable that is soft and tangle-resistant
Comfortable, lightweight ergonomic design with longer nozzles for a better deep fit
Spacious and open soundstage with good air and separation for its price point
Excellent treble extension and clarity with a sparkly, detailed presentation
Source agnostic; easy to drive directly from smartphones or computers

What customers dislike about Campfire Audio IO?

Polarising and 'quirky' sound signature that is not balanced or linear
Significant midrange issues, specifically a sharp 1.5–2kHz peak followed by a recessed upper midrange
Vocals can sound distant, 'hazy', or unnatural (the 'hollow' or 'veiled' effect)
Light bass response lacks the physical slam or rumble required for EDM and Hip-Hop
Unconventional tuning makes it highly genre-dependent, performing better with Jazz than modern Pop
Some users find the treble can become brittle or thin depending on the recording
Heavy competition in the $300 price bracket from more technically accurate IEMs

Expert reviews

avforums.com

06/05/2020

Campfire Audio Io In Ear Earphone Review

The AVForums review characterizes the Campfire Audio IO as a high-value, entry-level, high-end earphone featuring exceptional build quality with a durable, uniform paint finish and tight, precise shutlines. The package is praised for including a high-quality, pocket-friendly leather case and a detachable Smoky Litz cable. Sonic performance is noted for its open, expansive, and...Read more

theheadphonelist.com

04/12/2019

Campfire Audio IO Review – Amusement & Marvel

The Campfire Audio IO is a controversial yet daring value-oriented in-ear monitor (IEM) evaluated by reviewer Ryan Soo. Shifting away from the reference sound signature of its predecessor, the Orion, the IO uses an oversized balanced armature (BA) woofer paired with a tweeter in a TAEC housing to create an exciting, high-definition listening experience charged with unique character....Read more

majorhifi.com

06/05/2019

Campfire Io Review

The Campfire Audio Io is an entry-level, dual balanced-armature in-ear monitor (IEM) priced at $299 that aims to provide a cheaper, neutral alternative to the company's flagship Solaris profile. Visually striking, the earpieces feature a garnet-red anodized finish contrasted by stainless steel nozzles and 24-karat gold exterior screws. It is highly source-agnostic with a nominal...Read more

headfonics.com

09/10/2019

Campfire Audio IO Review

The Headfonics review of the Campfire Audio IO characterizes this dual-driver IEM as a specialized, entry-level unit boasting exceptional garnet-red aluminum build quality, a comfortable design with long nozzles, and a high-quality, tangle-resistant Smoky Litz cable. Sonic performance is described as clean, fast, and technically impressive in the treble, though it is marked by a...Read more

head-fi.org

25/04/2019

Campfire Audio IO - Reviews Would you like a comparison of the sound signature between the Io and its predecessor, the OrionGo to product viewer dialo...

Campfire Audio IO reviews on Head-Fi depict a visually striking, dual balanced-armature IEM featuring premium "Garnet Red" aluminum housing and a high-quality silver-plated cable, delivering a polarizing audio experience with exceptional detail and wide soundstage. Key pros include remarkable instrument separation and energetic treble, while cons involve a lean, low-end bass lacking...Read more

porta.fi

22/08/2019

Campfire Audio IO — unusual experience

The Campfire Audio IO is a dual balanced armature driver in-ear monitor (IEM) priced around $300 that offers a distinct and highly polarizing sound profile. Built with the brand's classic Marvel-esque red and gold aesthetic, it features a redesigned, longer silver nozzle that drastically improves fit and day-long wearing comfort compared to its predecessors. It provides a generous,...Read more

earphonia.com

08/08/2019

Campfire Audio IO earphone review – Dynamic Clear Value

The Campfire Audio IO is an in-ear monitor (IEM) priced at $299 that features dual balanced armature drivers housed inside a distinct garnet red anodised aluminium shell with 24K gold plated screws. The build quality scores highly at 9.2/10, utilizing a stainless steel spout alongside a smoky Litz cable with beryllium copper MMCX connectors and a 3.5mm stereo plug. Design...Read more

aboutaudio.org

25/02/2020

Campfire Audio IO Review: Little Andromeda

The Campfire Audio IO is a sub-$300 In-Ear Monitor (IEM) featuring a 2 BA driver setup per side (woofer and tweeter) built into a machined aluminum casing with a longer stainless-steel nozzle for a deeper fit. Described as a "Little Andromeda," it delivers a mildly W-shaped sound signature with clean, quick-striking bass, an airy and flat midrange, and highly detailed, crisp treble...Read more

trustedreviews.com

28/08/2020

Campfire IO Review

The Trusted Reviews evaluation of the Campfire Audio IO highlights the in-ear monitors (IEMs) as a sonically impressive, durable, and well-designed option featuring a distinctive crimson-machined aluminum housing. The IO is praised for its detailed, spacious soundstage, offering a clean, articulate performance with a smooth lower register. However, the review notes a lack of...Read more

zococity.es

n/a

Campfire Audio IO, equal parts expression and emotion.

The Campfire Audio IO is highlighted as a uniquely crafted, entry-level premium in-ear monitor (IEM) designed in Portland with a "less is more" philosophy. It features a dual balanced-armature driver structure and proprietary TAEC technology that aims to deliver an open, natural frequency extension. The presentation is exceptionally elegant, boasting an anodized garnet-red aluminum...Read more

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