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SoundMAGIC PL21 Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£20
Avg. price in US: ~$20
Form factor: in-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): yes

SoundMAGIC PL21 review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

6.1

Good

5.9

Good

7.0

Very 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
4.7
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
10
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
0.0
Battery life
18.0%
10
Weight
16.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
1.0
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
7.1
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
10
Weight
24.0%
10
Water resistance
20.0%
9.0
IP rating
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
12.0%
1.0
Can be used as a headset

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

#15 in Best Budget In Ear Headphones
#37 in Best In Ear Headphones
#68 in Best Wired Headphones
#431 in Best Noise Cancelling Headphones

Verdict

The SoundMAGIC PL21 is an entry-level in-ear monitor featuring 9mm neodymium dynamic drivers that deliver a wide frequency response of 15Hz to 22,000Hz. Designed for efficiency, these earphones have a low impedance of 12 Ohms and a sensitivity of 97dB, making them exceptionally easy to drive from standard smartphones via their 1.2m gold-plated 3.5mm cable. Main characteristics include a lightweight 8g build and a sound signature often described as lively and well-balanced with a slightly boosted mid-bass for extra punch. Pros include its excellent price-to-performance ratio, comfortable fit with multiple silicone tip sizes, and effective passive noise isolation reaching up to -20dB. However, some users have noted cons such as a slightly muddy bass response that lacks extreme sub-bass depth, a fragile cable prone to tangling, and a build quality that may not withstand heavy daily wear over long periods.

Technical Specifications of SoundMAGIC PL21

Overall score

6.1

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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

7.7

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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

2.1

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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

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

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

2.2

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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

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 PL21 vs the average headphone

Why is SoundMAGIC PL21 better than the average headphone?

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Active noise cancellation
SoundMAGIC PL21 supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology
When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.
Importance: HIGH
SoundMAGIC PL21 supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
96.3% lower weight
SoundMAGIC PL21 is lighter than the average headphone (8 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 PL21 is lighter than the average headphone (8 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.8 g vs 218 g
Direct 3.5 mm plug
SoundMAGIC PL21 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 PL21 includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
4.5x cheaper
SoundMAGIC PL21 is cheaper than the average headphone (£20 vs £90).
SoundMAGIC PL21 is cheaper than the average headphone (£20 vs £90).£20 vs £90
Water resistance
SoundMAGIC PL21 is water resistant, the average headphone is not. 20.2% of headphones are water resistant.
What it is: Protection level against water exposure
When it matters: When workouts, commuting, or outdoor use expose the headphones to moisture.
Importance: MEDIUM
SoundMAGIC PL21 is water resistant, the average headphone is not. 20.2% of headphones are water resistant.
Boom microphone included
SoundMAGIC PL21 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
SoundMAGIC PL21 includes a boom microphone, the average headphone does not. 15.6% of headphones have a boom microphone.
3 Hz lower bass extension
SoundMAGIC PL21 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 PL21 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
2,000 Hz higher treble extension
SoundMAGIC PL21 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 PL21 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
96.3% lower weight
SoundMAGIC PL21 is lighter than the average headphone (8 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
Water resistance
SoundMAGIC PL21 is water resistant, the average headphone is not. 20.2% of headphones are water resistant.
Active noise cancellation
SoundMAGIC PL21 supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
3 Hz lower bass extension
SoundMAGIC PL21 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 PL21 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 PL21 includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
Boom microphone included
SoundMAGIC PL21 includes a boom microphone, the average headphone does not. 15.6% of headphones have a boom microphone.

Calls & Controls

Why is SoundMAGIC PL21 worse than the average headphone?

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Fixed cable
SoundMAGIC PL21 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
31 mm smaller driver size
SoundMAGIC PL21 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (9 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
5 dB/mW lower sensitivity
SoundMAGIC PL21 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (97 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
6 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
SoundMAGIC PL21 has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (97 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
Not headset-ready
SoundMAGIC PL21 is not headset-ready, while the average headphone is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.
1 fewer microphones
SoundMAGIC PL21 has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
No voice assistant support
SoundMAGIC PL21 does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
8 older release date
SoundMAGIC PL21 was released earlier than the average headphone (2,009 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
September 2009
31 mm smaller driver size
SoundMAGIC PL21 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (9 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 PL21 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (9 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.9 mm vs 40 mm
No voice assistant support
SoundMAGIC PL21 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 PL21 does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
Fixed cable
SoundMAGIC PL21 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 PL21 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
5 dB/mW lower sensitivity
SoundMAGIC PL21 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (97 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 PL21 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (97 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.97 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
Not headset-ready
SoundMAGIC PL21 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 PL21 is not headset-ready, while the average headphone is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.
1 fewer microphones
SoundMAGIC PL21 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 PL21 has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.0 vs 1
8 older release date
SoundMAGIC PL21 was released earlier than the average headphone (2,009 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
September 2009
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
SoundMAGIC PL21 was released earlier than the average headphone (2,009 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.2009 vs 2017
13.7% lower user score
SoundMAGIC PL21 has a lower user score than the average headphone (7.04 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.
SoundMAGIC PL21 has a lower user score than the average headphone (7.04 vs 8.000).7.04 vs 8

Calls & Controls

Graphic comparison of SoundMAGIC PL21 and

Attribute category

Attribute

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

What customers like about SoundMAGIC PL21?

Exceptional value for money in the budget price range
Balanced and clear sound quality with good instrument separation
Deep and punchy bass that does not overwhelm mids or treble
Highly comfortable for long-term wear with a lightweight design
Effective passive noise isolation from included silicone and foam tips
Comes with a good variety of accessories, including a soft carrying case and shirt clip

What customers dislike about SoundMAGIC PL21?

Poor long-term durability, specifically reports of the left earbud failing
Build quality feels average or 'shabby' due to lightweight plastic construction
Thin and fragile cable that may be prone to breaking or tangling
Recessed mid-range and lack of high-frequency 'sparkle' for detailed listening
Stock silicone tips are very thin and may slip out during physical activity
Microphonics (cable noise) is present when worn in a standard straight-down style

Expert reviews

techenclave.com

31/05/2010

SoundMagic PL21 Review

The TechEnclave review of the SoundMagic PL 21 highlights the in-ear monitors as an excellent budget-friendly upgrade over standard bundled stock earbuds. Pros identified by the reviewer include a crisp, clear, and loud audio signature with sufficient bass response that remains perfectly balanced without overwhelming the midrange or treble frequencies. The package provides great...Read more

firstpost.com

16/04/2010

SoundMagic PL21 and PL30 Earphones

SoundMAGIC PL21 and PL30 Review Summary The SoundMAGIC PL21 and PL30 in-ear headphones are highly praised as well-priced, excellent-sounding alternatives to stock earplugs. The PL21 features a simple black body with a slim metallic rim, offering a balanced and crisp audio signature. On the positive side, it delivers a solid but non-dominant bass response, crisp mids, crystal-clear...Read more

techenclave.com

04/04/2010

Review: SoundMagic PL-21/MP-21 headphones product information

The SoundMagic PL-21 and MP-21 are budget-friendly in-ear monitors (IEMs) designed to deliver impressive sound quality at an affordable price point. They feature identical 9mm dynamic drivers and lightweight plastic housings, with the MP-21 adding a thin microphone for call and music controls on mobile devices like the iPhone. Sonically, these IEMs offer an engaging, fun listening...Read more

theheadphonelist.com

05/06/2013

Soundmagic PL21 / MP21 review and product dialogue viewer

The Soundmagic PL21 is a budget-friendly earphone that costs around $21. It is extremely light, very comfortable, and fits either straight down or over the ear. The earphones feature well-machined aluminum shells and functional rubberized cables. Unlike its more accurate sister models, the PL21 focuses on a fun, dark, and aggressive sound signature. The midrange is recessed, and the...Read more

tweakers.net

N/A

Soundmagic Product Overview and User Experiences

The provided text is a product listing and price comparison page from the Dutch tech website Tweakers, rather than a standalone, detailed review. It compiles user ratings and pricing data for 16 different Soundmagic in-ear headphone models available on the market. The summary metrics indicate varying degrees of consumer satisfaction across the catalog. For instance, the Soundmagic...Read more

Video reviews

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