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Sennheiser IE80 Review | 93 Data compared

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

Sennheiser IE80 review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

6.0

Good

5.9

Good

6.7

Good

2.1
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%
1.0
Noise-canceling microphone
8.0%
0.0
Battery life
1.5
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
0.0
Battery life
18.0%
7.0
Weight
16.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
0.0
Ambient sound mode
2.7
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
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%
0.0
Companion app
6.1
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
7.0
Weight
24.0%
9.0
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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Best rankings

Verdict

The Sennheiser IE80 is a premium in-ear monitor featuring dynamic drivers with neodymium magnets, delivering a wide frequency response of 10Hz to 20,000Hz, 16-ohm impedance, and a high sensitivity of 125dB. Its hallmark characteristic is a unique, manual bass-tuning screw on each earpiece that allows users to customize low-end response, complemented by a brushed-metal housing and a 1.2-meter detachable cable for durability. Key pros include an expansive soundstage—exceptional for an IEM—and effective passive noise attenuation of up to 26dB; however, common cons involve a potentially boomy mid-bass that can veil midrange clarity and a somewhat finicky fit due to its larger housing design.

Technical Specifications of Sennheiser IE80

Overall score

6.0

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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

5.3

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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

3.4

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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

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

7.0

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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

5.9

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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

7.8

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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

7.6

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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

Sennheiser

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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Sennheiser IE80 vs the average headphone

Why is Sennheiser IE80 better than the average headphone?

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EQ customization
Sennheiser IE80 supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
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
Sennheiser IE80 supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
23 dB/mW higher sensitivity
Sennheiser IE80 has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (125 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
Sennheiser IE80 has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (125 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.125 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Sennheiser IE80 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
Sennheiser IE80 includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
8 Hz lower bass extension
Sennheiser IE80 has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (10 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
Sennheiser IE80 has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (10 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.10 Hz vs 18 Hz
35% lower weight
Sennheiser IE80 is lighter than the average headphone (141.7 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
Sennheiser IE80 is lighter than the average headphone (141.7 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.141.7 g vs 218 g
0.2 % lower distortion
Sennheiser IE80 has a lower total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.1 % 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%
Sennheiser IE80 has a lower total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.0.1 % vs 0.3 %
USB-C charging
Sennheiser IE80 uses USB-C charging, the average headphone does not. 29.4% of headphones use USB Type-C.
What it is: Uses USB-C connector for charging or data
When it matters: When you want to charge with the same cable family used by your phone, tablet, laptop, or other daily devices.
Importance: LOW
Sennheiser IE80 uses USB-C charging, the average headphone does not. 29.4% of headphones use USB Type-C.
13 dB SPL higher sound pressure level
Sennheiser IE80 has a higher sound pressure level than the average headphone (116 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
What it is: Output loudness level of the headphones, usually measured in dB. It helps compare how loud a model can play under similar conditions.
When it matters: When you need a rough idea of how loud the headphones can get before you pair them with a weaker source.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=108 dB SPL
Sennheiser IE80 has a higher sound pressure level than the average headphone (116 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.116 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL
35% lower weight
Sennheiser IE80 is lighter than the average headphone (141.7 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
23 dB/mW higher sensitivity
Sennheiser IE80 has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (125 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
8 Hz lower bass extension
Sennheiser IE80 has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (10 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
0.2 % lower distortion
Sennheiser IE80 has a lower total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
13 dB SPL higher sound pressure level
Sennheiser IE80 has a higher sound pressure level than the average headphone (116 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
15 dB higher max SPL
Sennheiser IE80 has a higher max SPL than the average headphone (125 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
USB-C charging
Sennheiser IE80 uses USB-C charging, the average headphone does not. 29.4% of headphones use USB Type-C.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Sennheiser IE80 includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
EQ customization
Sennheiser IE80 supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.

Why is Sennheiser IE80 worse than the average headphone?

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Tangle-prone cable
Sennheiser IE80 uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
No voice assistant support
Sennheiser IE80 does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
6 years older release date
Sennheiser IE80 was released earlier than the average headphone (2,011 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
December 2011
No voice assistant support
Sennheiser IE80 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
Sennheiser IE80 does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
Tangle-prone cable
Sennheiser IE80 uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
What it is: Cable designed to resist tangling
When it matters: When you often carry wired headphones in a bag or pocket.
Importance: LOW
Sennheiser IE80 uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
2.89x more expensive
Sennheiser IE80 is more expensive than the average headphone (£260 vs £90).
Sennheiser IE80 is more expensive than the average headphone (£260 vs £90).£260 vs £90
19.8% lower user score
Sennheiser IE80 has a lower user score than the average headphone (6.68 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.
Sennheiser IE80 has a lower user score than the average headphone (6.68 vs 8.000).6.68 vs 8
6 years older release date
Sennheiser IE80 was released earlier than the average headphone (2,011 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
December 2011
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
Sennheiser IE80 was released earlier than the average headphone (2,011 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.2011 vs 2017

Graphic comparison of Sennheiser IE80 and

Attribute category

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about Sennheiser IE80?

Wide soundstage that offers an open, speaker-like listening experience
Adjustable bass dial allows users to customize low-end response
Excellent build quality with durable materials and a detachable cable
Extensive selection of included ear tips for a personalized fit
Warm, smooth sound signature that is non-fatiguing for long listening sessions
Efficient and easy to drive from standard smartphones or portable players

What customers dislike about Sennheiser IE80?

Upper-bass can sometimes feel bloated and veil the mid-range frequencies
Stock ear hooks are often described as fiddly and prone to falling off
High price point compared to some modern competitors
Shallow fit may lead to below-average isolation without aftermarket foam tips
Treble extension is rolled off, which may lack the detail sought by some audiophiles
Sensitive enough to pick up background hiss from some powerful audio sources

Expert reviews

head-fi.org

23/12/2011

Sennheiser IE 80 | Headphone Reviews and Discussion

The Sennheiser IE80 in-ear monitors are characterized as a specialized, niche audio product offering a wide, spacious soundstage and a warm, effortless sonic profile suitable for acoustic and classical music. Key advantages include durable aluminum construction and a, adjustable bass dial for customized low-frequency response. Conversely, the IEMs face technical limitations with...Read more

trustedreviews.com

02/02/2012

Sennheiser IE 80 Review - Trusted Reviews

The Sennheiser IE 80 in-ear headphones refine their predecessors' design by blending powerful, adjustable bass with improved sonic clarity and detailed instrument separation. They offer a durable, high-quality build and a unique, user-adjustable mechanical bass-dial system. However, the bass, even when adjusted, can become overpowered or overly thick, making the headphones less...Read more

t3.com

05/07/2012

Sennheiser IE 80 review - T3

The Sennheiser IE 80 in-ear headphones deliver premium build quality, exceptional comfort, and a powerful, well-balanced sound profile that appeals directly to audiophiles. A standout innovative feature is the customizable bass response, which can be mechanically adjusted on each earpiece using a supplied mini screwdriver to find the user's sonic sweet spot. The rugged design...Read more

whathifi.com

06/02/2012

Sennheiser iE80 review - What Hi-Fi?

The Sennheiser iE80 in-ear headphones stand out for their robust, premium build quality, which features eye-catching brushed-metal housings and an exceptionally detailed, open sound presentation. A key highlight of these premium earbuds is the unique mechanical bass adjustment feature: using a small screwdriver, users can turn a physical screw on each housing clockwise to enhance...Read more

avguide.ch

16/03/2012

Megabass in Micro-Format – Sennheiser IE80 and IE8i Review

This avguide.ch review evaluates the premium Sennheiser IE80 and IE8i in-ear monitors, noting that both models deliver identical, high-end audio performance despite their different price categories. A primary highlight of the review is the built-in manual hardware bass adjustment dial, which works flawlessly to supply a deep, punchy, and clear low-end frequency without causing any...Read more

inearkopfhoerer-tests.de

09/11/2017

Sennheiser IE 80 Review - In-Ear Headphone Test and Comparison

The inearkopfhoerer-tests.de review praises the Sennheiser IE 80 as a high-end, dynamic-driver in-ear headphone designed for music lovers who prefer an engaging, bass-oriented sound rather than a flat studio reference profile. A standout positive feature is its exceptionally large soundstage, which makes orchestral music feel open and multi-directional, alongside crystal-clear high...Read more

lifestyle.oblikon.net

31/05/2017

Sennheiser IE 80: Full Review

The Sennheiser IE 80 in-ear monitors offer an ultra-lightweight design, weighing a mere 5 grams, which ensures exceptional ergonomic comfort and allows them to disappear during long listening sessions. A major highlight is their customizable sonic signature, featuring a mechanical bass tuning screw on each earpiece that allows users to adjust low frequencies dynamically using an...Read more

afdigitale.it

17/05/2018

Sennheiser IE 80 S: expensive, but not impressive (Compared to IE 80)

The Sennheiser IE 80 S in-ear monitors are described as a high-quality, solid build that offers a comfortable, non-fatiguing listening experience. They feature a unique bass adjustment tool on each earbud, allowing users to customise the low-end response to their preference. However, the review highlights that while they provide a detailed and smooth sound, they lack the dynamic...Read more

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