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Etymotic MC3 Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£90
Avg. price in US: ~$100
Form factor: in-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Etymotic MC3 review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

5.2

Good

5.0

Good

6.0

Good

3.2
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
0.0
Audio latency
25.0%
0.0
Low-latency game mode
20.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
12.0%
10
Noise-canceling microphone
8.0%
0.0
Battery life
3.5
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%
10
Ambient sound mode
6.3
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
10
Noise-canceling microphone
24.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
18.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
14.0%
8.0
Companion app
5.0
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
10
Weight
24.0%
1.0
Water resistance
20.0%
4.0
IP rating
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
12.0%
10
Can be used as a headset

Best prices in UK

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Verdict

The Etymotic MC3 is a high-fidelity in-ear headset featuring 8mm high-output neodymium moving coil drivers that deliver a near-flat, accurate frequency response of 20 Hz – 15 kHz. With a low impedance of 16 Ohms and a sensitivity of 100 dB, these earphones are easy to drive and provide world-class passive noise isolation ranging from 35 dB to 42 dB depending on the eartip choice. Key characteristics include its 3-button in-line remote and microphone designed specifically for Apple devices, as well as a Kevlar-reinforced 4-foot cable for enhanced durability. Main advantages include exceptional sound clarity, studio-grade accuracy at an affordable price, and superior background noise reduction. However, some users may find the bass impact insufficient for electronic or rock music, and the placement of the cable controls can feel awkward.

Technical Specifications of Etymotic MC3

Overall score

5.2

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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

4.1

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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

dynamic

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

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

7.1

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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

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

?

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Connectivity

6.2

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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

6.1

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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

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

?

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

8.3

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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

Etymotic

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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Etymotic MC3 vs the average headphone

Why is Etymotic MC3 better than the average headphone?

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94.5% lower weight
Etymotic MC3 is lighter than the average headphone (12 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
Etymotic MC3 is lighter than the average headphone (12 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.12 g vs 218 g
Clear call microphone
Etymotic MC3 offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
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
Etymotic MC3 offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Etymotic MC3 includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones end in a built-in 3.5 mm male plug instead of relying on a separate detachable cable.
When it matters: When direct wired compatibility with older devices or adapters matters.
Importance: MEDIUM
Etymotic MC3 includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
In-line controls
Etymotic MC3 includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
What it is: Controls available on in-line remote of wired cable
When it matters: When your wired setup depends on cable-mounted buttons or call controls.
Importance: LOW
Etymotic MC3 includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
Quick mic mute
Etymotic MC3 includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.
What it is: Ability to mute microphone during calls
When it matters: When you need to silence the mic quickly during meetings or multiplayer games.
Importance: LOW
Etymotic MC3 includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.
94.5% lower weight
Etymotic MC3 is lighter than the average headphone (12 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Etymotic MC3 includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
Clear call microphone
Etymotic MC3 offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
In-line controls
Etymotic MC3 includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
Quick mic mute
Etymotic MC3 includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.

Calls & Controls

Why is Etymotic MC3 worse than the average headphone?

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Fixed cable
Etymotic MC3 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
32 mm smaller driver size
Etymotic MC3 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (8 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
2 Hz weaker bass extension
Etymotic MC3 has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
2 dB/mW lower sensitivity
Etymotic MC3 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (100 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
1.53 dB looser channel balance
Etymotic MC3 has a higher channel balance tolerance than the average headphone (2 dB vs 0.47 dB). The average headphones have channel balance tolerance of 0.47 dB.
7 years older release date
Etymotic MC3 was released earlier than the average headphone (2,010 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
July 2010
32 mm smaller driver size
Etymotic MC3 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (8 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
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
Etymotic MC3 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (8 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.8 mm vs 40 mm
Fixed cable
Etymotic MC3 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
What it is: Cable can be removed or replaced
When it matters: When you care about easier cable replacement, simpler storage, or the option to swap to shorter, longer, or upgraded leads.
Importance: MEDIUM
Etymotic MC3 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
2 Hz weaker bass extension
Etymotic MC3 has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 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
Etymotic MC3 has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.20 Hz vs 18 Hz
33.4% lower user score
Etymotic MC3 has a lower user score than the average headphone (6.00 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.
Etymotic MC3 has a lower user score than the average headphone (6.00 vs 8.000).6 vs 8
2 dB/mW lower sensitivity
Etymotic MC3 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (100 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
Etymotic MC3 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (100 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.100 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
1.53 dB looser channel balance
Etymotic MC3 has a higher channel balance tolerance than the average headphone (2 dB vs 0.47 dB). The average headphones have channel balance tolerance of 0.47 dB.
What it is: Tolerance between left and right channel volume balance
When it matters: When stereo precision and left-right consistency matter to you.
Importance: LOW
Good value: <=0.5 dB
Etymotic MC3 has a higher channel balance tolerance than the average headphone (2 dB vs 0.47 dB). The average headphones have channel balance tolerance of 0.47 dB.2 dB vs 0.47 dB
7 years older release date
Etymotic MC3 was released earlier than the average headphone (2,010 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
July 2010
What it is: Official release or launch date of the model
When it matters: When you want a newer model for fresher features, longer support life, or simply to avoid buying into an older generation.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=2020
Etymotic MC3 was released earlier than the average headphone (2,010 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.2010 vs 2017

Graphic comparison of Etymotic MC3 and

Attribute category

Attribute

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about Etymotic MC3?

Superb passive noise isolation that effectively blocks background chatter and engine noise
Highly accurate and detailed audio performance with a near-flat frequency response
Excellent value for the price, offering audiophile-grade clarity at a budget-friendly level
Includes integrated 3-button remote and microphone compatible with Apple devices
Comes with multiple ear tip options (silicone flanges and foam) and supports optional custom-fit molds

What customers dislike about Etymotic MC3?

Noticeable lack of deep or punchy bass, which may disappoint fans of electronic or rock music
Awkward placement of the inline controls, which can be hard to see and often rub against the face
Microphone quality is thin and susceptible to disruption from wind during outdoor calls
In-ear fit can be uncomfortable or difficult for users with small ear canals due to deep insertion requirements
Rubbery cable is prone to tangling and can produce audible 'cable thump' (microphonics) during movement

Expert reviews

technuovo.com

05/09/2015

Etymotic MC3 Headphones Review // TechNuovo.com Would you like to see comparison articles between the MC3 and its sister model, the MC5?

The Etymotic MC3 in-ear headphones are highlighted as a budget-friendly option priced under £100 that delivers excellent value for casual listening and smartphone integration. A major pro is their high-quality passive noise isolation, achieved via deep-insertion cone buds and expandable foam tips that effectively block out ambient sounds. Furthermore, they feature an incredibly...Read more

theheadphonelist.com

05/06/2013

Etymotic Research MC5 / MC2 / MC3 Review

The Etymotic Research MC5 is a lightweight, budget-friendly earphone featuring a unique moving-coil dynamic driver that largely adheres to the brand's signature neutral sound profile. Built with durable aluminum outer housings and a flexible, Kevlar-reinforced cable, it offers a high-quality feel and low microphonics, especially when worn over the ear. True to the Etymotic legacy,...Read more

slinkystudio.info

19/01/2012

Etymotic mc3 Earbuds Review - Slinky Studio

The Etymotic mc3 earbuds are characterized as a highly precise, budget-conscious option tailored for listeners who value audio accuracy over heavy bass. Designed with a rigid plastic enclosure and a slim profile, the earbuds feature a 3-button control headset optimized for Apple devices, facilitating flawless music control and calls. A standout design element is the inclusion of...Read more

aaii.com

22/10/2011

Etymotic mc3 Headset + Earphones - AAII

The AAII review characterizes the $99.99 Etymotic mc3 headset as a high-value option, praised for its near-flat frequency response, clean, balanced sound, and distortion-free, high-volume performance. Key advantages highlighted include effective, natural noise isolation and convenient, integrated iPhone controls. AAIIWhile offering superior sound for the price, the review notes the...Read more

cultofmac.com

21/10/2011

Etymotic mc3 Earphones: The Silencer

The Etymotic mc3 earphones ($100) received a critical review from Cult of Mac, earning a final rating of 60% due to significant issues with comfort and sound quality. On the positive side, the reviewer noted that the earphones feature a durable, solid construction capable of withstand heavy daily use. Furthermore, their highly praised, deep-seating eartips (including two flanged and...Read more

uk.pcmag.com

07/06/2011

Etymotic mc3 - Review 2011 - PCMag UK

The Etymotic mc3 is an affordable, high-fidelity in-canal earphone pair designed specifically for budget-conscious audiophiles who prefer a transparent, uncolored sound over booming bass. Priced at $99, it features a 48-inch Kevlar-reinforced cable, a two-year warranty, and replaceable filters to combat earwax build-up. Audio testing demonstrates that the mc3 excels at accuracy,...Read more

head-fi.org

02/11/2010

Etymotic mc3 Review - Head-Fi

The Etymotic mc3 review on Head-Fi describes the earphones as a durable, premium-looking entry into the consumer market with excellent isolation and a 3-button microphone, though the long, straight-barrel design forces a straight-down cable wear that causes significant microphonics. Sonically, the dynamic driver fails to deliver, described as having a flat, uninspiring, and...Read more

macworld.com

11/11/2010

Etymotic Research mc3 Headset + Earphones - Macworld

The Etymotic Research mc3 is a $99 budget-friendly canalphone headset designed to deliver audiophile-grade precision by mimicking the performance of the brand's higher-end models. To reduce costs, the company replaced its traditional balanced-armature drivers with moving-coil drivers. The clean, aluminum-tube design includes a diverse array of universal-fit eartips, a two-year...Read more

head-fi.org

09/09/2010

[My First Review] Etymotic MC3 (MC5) - Going In Deep

The Head-Fi review of the Etymotic mc3 and mc5 highlights exceptionally durable build quality, featuring robust cabling, alongside a comprehensive accessory package, though it notes that the extreme, deep-insertion design is physically painful and uncomfortable for many users. Sonically, the monitors deliver high clarity and a neutral, balanced sound for their price point, yet they...Read more

uk.pcmag.com

22/07/2010

Etymotic mc3 - PCMag UK

The Etymotic mc3 earphones are highly praised for delivering exceptional audio performance with a flat, transparent frequency response that appeals directly to audiophiles. Pros highlighted in the review include its near-flat sonic accuracy, a budget-friendly price point for the quality, a versatile array of in-ear fitting options, and built-in iPhone controls and microphone...Read more

letemsvetemapplem.eu

13/09/2015

Review of the Etymotic mc3: We tested headphones from the inventor of in-ear technology!

The Etymotic mc3 review highlights these budget-friendly in-ear headphones, priced under 100 Euros, as a premium-designed product from the pioneers of in-ear technology. Built with high-quality materials usually reserved for higher-end models, they feature a durable aluminum housing and a round, thin cable reinforced with Kevlar for enhanced stability. A major strength is their...Read more

journaldugeek.com

30/01/2012

Review of the Etymotic MC3 and HF3", "Etymotic mc3 review: an iPhone hands-free kit with record-breaking isolation", "Etymotic MC3 in-ear headphones r...

The Journal du Geek review evaluates the Etymotic MC3 (€95) and HF3 (€135) in-ear monitors over a two-month testing period using a Cowon J3 audio player. Pros include their generous packaging, which contains four pairs of ear tips, replacement filters, a cleaning tool, a shirt clip, and a carrying pouch. Both lightweight models deliver exceptional passive noise isolation and a...Read more

letemsvetemapplem.eu

13/09/2015

Etymotic mc3 Review: Testing Headphones From the Manufacturer That Started It All!

The Etymotic mc3 is reviewed as a budget-friendly, high-fidelity in-ear headset priced under €100 that stands out for its exceptional build quality and balanced acoustic performance. Pros highlighted in the review include its premium aluminum body construction and a highly durable, thin circular cable reinforced with Kevlar. It delivers a highly clear, well-balanced sound profile...Read more

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