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SoundMAGIC E11 Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£35
Avg. price in US: ~$40
Form factor: in-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

SoundMAGIC E11 review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

5.1

Good

4.3

Poor

8.6

Excellent

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
4.0
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%
1.0
Can be used as a headset

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

Verdict

The Soundmagic E11 is a high-performance in-ear headphone featuring 10mm neodymium dynamic drivers, a frequency response of 15Hz – 22kHz, and a sensitivity of 112dB, all encased in a lightweight 12g aluminum housing. Its main characteristics include a balanced and energetic sound signature with warm bass, a silver-plated copper cable for enhanced signal clarity, and an ergonomic angled design for superior noise isolation. Key pros are its premium build quality, wide soundstage, and non-fatiguing high-end detail; however, some users find the cable connection points somewhat flimsy and the sound profile potentially too light for those seeking heavy, 'meaty' bass.

Technical Specifications of SoundMAGIC E11

Overall score

5.1

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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

4.3

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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

1.7

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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

N/A

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

6.9

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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

?

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

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

SoundMAGIC

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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SoundMAGIC E11 vs the average headphone

Why is SoundMAGIC E11 better than the average headphone?

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94.5% lower weight
SoundMAGIC E11 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
SoundMAGIC E11 is lighter than the average headphone (12 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.12 g vs 218 g
10 dB/mW higher sensitivity
SoundMAGIC E11 has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (112 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
SoundMAGIC E11 has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (112 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.112 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
Direct 3.5 mm plug
SoundMAGIC E11 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
SoundMAGIC E11 includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
3 Hz lower bass extension
SoundMAGIC E11 has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (15 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
SoundMAGIC E11 has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (15 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.15 Hz vs 18 Hz
2.57x cheaper
SoundMAGIC E11 is cheaper than the average headphone (£35 vs £90).
SoundMAGIC E11 is cheaper than the average headphone (£35 vs £90).£35 vs £90
2,000 Hz higher treble extension
SoundMAGIC E11 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
SoundMAGIC E11 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
2.15x more popular
SoundMAGIC E11 is more popular than the average headphone (10.00 vs 4.646).
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.
SoundMAGIC E11 is more popular than the average headphone (10.00 vs 4.646).10 vs 4.65
94.5% lower weight
SoundMAGIC E11 is lighter than the average headphone (12 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
10 dB/mW higher sensitivity
SoundMAGIC E11 has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (112 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
3 Hz lower bass extension
SoundMAGIC E11 has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (15 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
2,000 Hz higher treble extension
SoundMAGIC E11 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.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
SoundMAGIC E11 includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.

Why is SoundMAGIC E11 worse than the average headphone?

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Fixed cable
SoundMAGIC E11 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
30 mm smaller driver size
SoundMAGIC E11 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (10 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
1.8 % higher distortion
SoundMAGIC E11 has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (2.1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
Not headset-ready
SoundMAGIC E11 is not headset-ready, while the average headphone is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.
1 fewer microphones
SoundMAGIC E11 has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
No voice assistant support
SoundMAGIC E11 does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
30 mm smaller driver size
SoundMAGIC E11 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (10 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
SoundMAGIC E11 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (10 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.10 mm vs 40 mm
1.8 % higher distortion
SoundMAGIC E11 has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (2.1 % 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%
SoundMAGIC E11 has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (2.1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.2.1 % vs 0.3 %
No voice assistant support
SoundMAGIC E11 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
SoundMAGIC E11 does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
Fixed cable
SoundMAGIC E11 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
SoundMAGIC E11 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
Not headset-ready
SoundMAGIC E11 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
SoundMAGIC E11 is not headset-ready, while the average headphone is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.
1 fewer microphones
SoundMAGIC E11 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
SoundMAGIC E11 has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.0 vs 1

Calls & Controls

Graphic comparison of SoundMAGIC E11 and

Attribute category

Attribute

No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about SoundMAGIC E11?

Excellent value for money with high-end sound quality at a budget price point.
Balanced and refined sound signature with clear details and smooth treble.
Lightweight and comfortable aluminum housing for long listening sessions.
Silver-plated copper cable reduces signal loss and is resistant to tangling.
Strong performance for vocal-centric, acoustic, and pop music genres.
High sensitivity (112dB) makes them very easy to drive even with low-power mobile devices.

What customers dislike about SoundMAGIC E11?

Frequent user complaints regarding long-term durability and cable reliability.
Sub-bass performance may feel insufficient for fans of hip-hop or heavy electronic music.
Limited selection of accessories; only includes three sizes of silicone ear tips.
Microphonics (cable noise) can be audible when the wire rubs against clothing.
Lacks color-coded side indicators (Blue/Red), making it harder to distinguish Left and Right channels.
Average sound isolation that may not fully block out loud external environments.

Expert reviews

techradar.com

22/06/2024

SoundMagic E11D review: impressive hi-res USB-C wired earbuds Are you looking for buying options for the standard jack version or the USB-C version?

The SoundMagic E11D wired USB-C earbuds provide strong audio quality, impressive passive noise isolation, and excellent value for their budget price of $44 / £39.99 / AU$65. A key highlight is the built-in digital-to-analogue converter (DAC) supporting up to 24bit/96kHz audio, which delivers clear, full-sounding audio that outperforms many cheap rivals. The earbuds excel in comfort,...Read more

head-fi.org

20/08/2019

Soundmagic E11 - my first review

The SoundMAGIC E11Go to product viewer dialog for this item. is described as a budget-friendly, all-around in-ear monitor (IEM) with an impressive price-to-sound quality ratio that handles various music genres well. The review highlights a mature design, durable construction, and a comfortable, lightweight fit suitable for long listening sessions. However, the E11 is criticized for...Read more

techadvisor.com

22/01/2019

SoundMagic E11C Review

The SoundMagic E11C in-ear headphones cost $49.99 and offer a highly upgraded, grown-up alternative to the older E10 model. They feature 10mm Neodymium drivers that deliver a balanced, accurate sound with tight bass, bright treble, and clear vocals. Key benefits include a useful anti-tangle copper cable and a lightweight aluminum build that stays comfortable for long periods....Read more

whathifi.com

16/10/2025

SoundMagic E11C review

The What Hi-Fi? SoundMagic E11C review praises these budget wired in-ear headphones as an excellent and highly entertaining option for their £50 price point. The review highlights several notable pros, including a well-balanced, energetic sound signature that delivers impactful sub-bass, clear midrange vocals, and a crisp treble. Built with a lightweight, cylindrical aluminium...Read more

majorhifi.com

04/10/2018

SoundMAGIC E11 In-Ear Headphone Review

The SoundMAGIC E11 In-Ear Headphone Review on Major HiFi praises the earbuds as an exceptionally well-balanced, versatile, and lightweight budget option under $50. The reviewer highlights several prominent pros, starting with a minimalist design featuring aluminum buds and a silver-plated cable that reduces tangling. Acoustically, the E11 excels with impressive transparency,...Read more

expertreviews.co.uk

04/01/2019

SoundMagic E11 (E11C & E11D) review: The king of budget earphones

The Expert Reviews review of the SoundMagic E11 series crowns these budget wired earphones as an exceptional upgrade over the older E10 model, earning them a "Best Buy" award. Priced between £40 and £60 depending on the version—the standard E11 (£40), the E11C with an in-line microphone (£50), and the USB-C compatible E11D (£60)—they feature a sleek silver aluminium shell and a...Read more

hifitest.de

14/12/2018

SoundMAGIC E11 – In-Ear Headphones Review – hifitest.de

Review Summary The SoundMAGIC E11 and E11C are wired, closed-back in-ear headphones designed as an affordable, high-performing alternative to complex Bluetooth audio gear. Priced around €45 for the standard E11 and €50 for the E11C variant—which includes a 3-button inline cable remote and microphone—these lightweight 15-gram earbuds operate at an impedance of 42 Ohms with a high...Read more

kopfhoerer.de

12/10/2018

SoundMAGIC E11 review on kopfhoerer.de

The SoundMAGIC E11 is a wired, closed-back in-ear headphone that serves as the successor to the popular E10 series, offering a strong price-to-performance ratio for everyday mobile use. Priced at an MSRP of around 45 Euros (and found online for about 39.99 Euros), it features a tinted aluminum housing, a new dynamic 10mm neodymium driver, and a silver-plated copper Y-cable with an...Read more

miniklangwunder.de

03/12/2018

Soundmagic E11 Review: Relaxed and Affordable In-Ear Headphones

The Soundmagic E11C is an affordable, entry-level in-ear headphone priced between €45 and €49 that delivers impressive audio performance well above its price tier. Built with cylindrical aluminum driver housings and a robust, tangle-resistant twisted-pair cable, the design is highly durable, visually understated, and universally appealing. In terms of practical use, it offers...Read more

fairaudio.de

13/12/2018

Soundmagic E11C - In-Ear Headphones - fairaudio Review

The fairaudio review by Benjamin Baum praises the Soundmagic E11C as a highly capable, "dangerously surprising" budget in-ear headphone priced at 49.99 Euro. The reviewer notes that despite its low price, the earphone boasts premium design elements like lightweight aluminum housings (11 grams) and a high-quality silver-plated copper cable paired with a universal three-button remote....Read more

afdigitale.it

18/10/2018

SoundMagic E11C: what more could you ask for at this price?

The AF Digitale review awards the SoundMagic E11CGo to product viewer dialog for this item. a five-star rating, cementing them as a top choice for budget wired in-ear headphones under €60. Priced at €56, this 2018 model succeeds the E10C by introducing an updated driver and a premium silver-plated copper cable wrapped in a lightweight, non-obtrusive build. On the pros side, the...Read more

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