Westone UM1 Review | 93 Data compared

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  • 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

Westone UM1 review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

5.3

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the headphones' quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best headphones on the market.

Score components:

80.0%

4.7

Technical Score

20.0%

7.6

User score

Good
4.7

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the headphones' technical performance, covering key areas such as sound quality, noise cancelling, microphone performance, battery life, comfort, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

52.0%

5.0

Sound

20.0%

2.7

Features

10.0%

9.7

Design

8.0%

6.2

Connectivity

6.0%

1.0

Battery

4.0%

1.2

Calls & Controls

Poor
7.6

User score

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.

Score components:

70.0%

8.4

User reviews

30.0%

5.8

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
(109)
amazon
4.0
(41)
amazon
4.0
(25)
amazon
3.8
(9)
amazon
4.0
(6)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(109)
Amazon_logo.png
4.0
(41)
Amazon_logo.png
4.0
(25)
Amazon_logo.png
3.8
(9)
Amazon_logo.png
4.0
(6)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

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

  • 2.0
    Travel

    Score components:

    28.0%

    1.0

    Active noise cancellation (ANC)

    24.0%

    0.0

    Battery life

    18.0%

    9.7

    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

  • 6.8
    Workout

    Score components:

    28.0%

    9.7

    Weight

    24.0%

    9.0

    Water resistance

    20.0%

    9.0

    IP rating

    16.0%

    0.0

    Battery life

    12.0%

    1.0

    Can be used as a headset

  • westone-um1
westone-um1

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Westone UM1 is an entry-level, universal-fit in-ear monitor featuring a single balanced armature driver and a frequency response of 20Hz – 16kHz. Designed for durability and extreme comfort, these lightweight earphones utilize Westone's ergonomic 'True-Fit' technology and provide up to 25dB of passive noise attenuation with included Comply foam and Star silicone tips. Key characteristics include a sensitive 114dB SPL @ 1mW output and a low 19-ohm impedance that makes them easy to drive from any source, paired with a removable MMCX round cable. Main pros are its exceptionally small, fatigue-free fit and a warm, smooth sound signature ideal for onstage monitoring or relaxed long-term listening. However, users may find the sub-bass roll-off and recessed treble lacking for aggressive genres like EDM or metal, and the overall resolution can occasionally feel veiled or dull compared to multi-driver alternatives.

Technical Specifications of Westone UM1

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the headphones' technical performance, covering key areas such as sound quality, noise cancelling, microphone performance, battery life, comfort, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

52.0%

5.0

Sound

20.0%

2.7

Features

10.0%

9.7

Design

8.0%

6.2

Connectivity

6.0%

1.0

Battery

4.0%

1.2

Calls & Controls

4.7
Westone UM1 has a technical score of 4.72 points, which is lower than that of 59.3% of products in this category.
User score

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.

Score components:

70.0%

8.4

User reviews

30.0%

5.8

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
(109)
amazon
4.0
(41)
amazon
4.0
(25)
amazon
3.8
(9)
amazon
4.0
(6)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(109)
Amazon_logo.png
4.0
(41)
Amazon_logo.png
4.0
(25)
Amazon_logo.png
3.8
(9)
Amazon_logo.png
4.0
(6)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

7.6
Westone UM1 has a user score of 7.65 points, which is lower than that of 67.1% of products in this category.
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.
5.8
Westone UM1 has a popularity of 5.8 points, which is higher than 56.4% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the headphones' overall rating with their cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for headphones that offer a strong balance of performance, features, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

5.3

Overall score

40.0%

10

Price

6.7
Westone UM1 has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.7 points, which is higher than 45.2% of products in this category.
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

no
Westone UM1 does not support active noise cancellation. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
Driver type
What it is: Type of speaker driver technology used
When it matters: When the underlying sound character and driver technology matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

balanced armature
Driver size
What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit
When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
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

1
Westone UM1 uses 1 drivers, equal to 96% of headphones.
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

20 Hz
Westone UM1 reaches a lowest frequency of 20 Hz, higher lowest frequency than 50.6% of headphones and equal to 47.5% of headphones.
Show more
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

no
Westone UM1 is not headset-ready, while 15.3% is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.
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

N/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

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

N/A
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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

wired
Westone UM1 supports wired connectivity, equal to 52.6% of headphones.
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
Show more
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

no
Westone UM1 does not support EQ customization. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
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

no
Westone UM1 does not support voice assistants. 60.9% of headphones support voice assistants.
Show more
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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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

Westone
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

34 g
Westone UM1 weighs 34 g, lighter than 82.1% of headphones and equal to 0.1% of headphones.
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
Show more

Westone UM1 vs the average headphone

  • 84.4% lower weight
    Westone UM1 is lighter than the average headphone (34 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

    Westone UM1 is lighter than the average headphone (34 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.34 g vs 218 g
  • 12 dB/mW higher sensitivity
    Westone UM1 has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (114 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

    Westone UM1 has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (114 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.114 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
  • Direct 3.5 mm plug
    Westone UM1 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

    Westone UM1 includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
  • 11 dB SPL higher sound pressure level
    Westone UM1 has a higher sound pressure level than the average headphone (114 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

    Westone UM1 has a higher sound pressure level than the average headphone (114 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.114 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL
  • 84.4% lower weight
    Westone UM1 is lighter than the average headphone (34 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
  • 12 dB/mW higher sensitivity
    Westone UM1 has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (114 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
  • 11 dB SPL higher sound pressure level
    Westone UM1 has a higher sound pressure level than the average headphone (114 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
  • Direct 3.5 mm plug
    Westone UM1 includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
  • 2 Hz weaker bass extension
    Westone UM1 has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
  • No neodymium magnet
    Westone UM1 does not use neodymium magnets, the average headphone does. 77.4% of headphones use neodymium magnets.
  • Not headset-ready
    Westone UM1 is not headset-ready, while the average headphone is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.
  • No voice assistant support
    Westone UM1 does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
  • No voice assistant support
    Westone UM1 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

    Westone UM1 does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
  • Not headset-ready
    Westone UM1 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

    Westone UM1 is not headset-ready, while the average headphone is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.
  • 2 Hz weaker bass extension
    Westone UM1 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

    Westone UM1 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
  • No neodymium magnet
    Westone UM1 does not use neodymium magnets, the average headphone does. 77.4% of headphones use neodymium magnets.
    What it is: Uses neodymium magnets for stronger, clearer sound
    When it matters: When driver construction details are part of how you compare sound hardware.

    Importance: LOW

    Westone UM1 does not use neodymium magnets, the average headphone does. 77.4% of headphones use neodymium magnets.
  • 4.6% lower user score
    Westone UM1 has a lower user score than the average headphone (7.65 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.
    Westone UM1 has a lower user score than the average headphone (7.65 vs 8.000).7.65 vs 8

Graphic comparison of Westone UM1 and

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Westone UM1?

  • Superb comfort and ergonomic, low-profile fit suitable for long periods or sleeping
  • Excellent noise isolation, especially when used with the included Comply foam tips
  • Lightweight and durable plastic construction that handles daily wear well
  • Balanced, smooth, and 'non-fatiguing' sound signature with a warm midrange
  • Includes a generous selection of high-quality ear tips (foam and silicone)
  • Non-microphonic cable design that minimizes rubbing noise during movement
  • Great value for entry-level monitoring and sensitive enough to be easily driven by smartphones

What customers dislike about Westone UM1?

  • Noticeable treble roll-off resulting in a lack of detail and 'sparkle' in high frequencies
  • Limited sub-bass extension and impact (not ideal for bass-heavy genres like EDM or Hip-Hop)
  • Small soundstage with an intimate, 'in-your-head' presentation rather than an airy one
  • Midrange can occasionally sound 'veiled' or 'clouded' due to the warm tuning
  • The 2017 revision's carrying pouch is often described as cheap and undersized
  • Over-the-ear cable orientation may not appeal to all users

Expert reviews

K
klauseulenbach.de
01/12/2017

The 2017 revision of the Westone UM-1 in-ear monitors (IEMs) offers a mild, homogenous frequency response that excels at providing individual instruments and vocals with enough distinct room to stand out. While they are not designed for a full hi-fi experience—lacking impressive extension on both the high and low ends, strong low-end rumble, and airy treble—they are highly...Read more

M
majorhifi.com
09/07/2017

The Major HiFi review compares the Westone UM1 and Shure SE215Go to product viewer dialog for this item., which are both detachable MMCX-connected in-ear monitors priced at $99. The Westone UM1 features a single balanced armature driver and is designed with a very lightweight, slender frame that offers a more comfortable, secure fit for smaller ears. Its main pros include an...Read more

M
majorhifi.com
26/06/2017

The Major HiFi review by Steven Newcastle highlights the Westone UM1 as a budget-friendly, professional-grade in-ear monitor (IEM) priced just under $100. The reviewer notes several key pros, starting with an impressive accessory package that includes five pairs of foam ear tips, five pairs of silicone ear tips, and a carrying case. Architecturally, its compact, ergonomic profile...Read more

G
glennong.com
24/02/2012

The Westone UM1 Musician’s Monitors are entry-level, single balanced armature in-ear monitors designed for a balanced and clear sound profile, rather than a mainstream, bass-heavy presentation. The ruggedly constructed earphones feature a durable, tightly twisted stereo "Y" cord and come with a comprehensive kit of accessories, including a sturdy carrying case, a cleaning brush with...Read more

H
head-fi.org
23/06/2010

The Westone UM1 stage monitors on Head-Fi are praised as an affordable, lightweight option offering excellent ergonomics, comfort, and a laid-back, smooth sound signature. They are noted for an intimate soundstage, good instrument separation for the price, and suitability for long, comfortable listening sessions. Conversely, user reviews highlight significant cons, including a...Read more

T
techpowerup.com
20/01/2008

The TechPowerUp review highlights the Westone UM1 as an exceptional, budget-friendly single-driver IEM, praising its comfortable fit, high-quality Comply foam tips, and durable, microphonic-resistant cable. Its warm, balanced sound signature and accurate midrange are highlighted as major pros, offering high value under $110. Conversely, the review notes limitations, including early...Read more

T
techpowerup.com
20/01/2008

The Westone UM1 earphones feature an exceptionally durable hard plastic construction with a reinforced, smooth, and edge-free design designed to withstand heavy daily use. Key design advantages include a robust casing bond and the inclusion of comfortable Comply foam tips that allow for extended wear without irritation, although the protruding sound tunnel remains vulnerable to...Read more

T
techpowerup.com
20/01/2008

The TechPowerUp review highlights the Westone UM1's smooth, warm sound signature, featuring highly accurate midrange reproduction that rivals more expensive alternatives. Key advantages include superior noise isolation, an exceptionally secure fit with premium Comply foam tips, minimal cable microphonics, and an strong price-to-performance ratio compared to the higher-end UM2 model....Read more

H
head-fi.org
22/11/2006

The Westone UM1 IEM review on Head-Fi highlights these entry-level earphones for their excellent build quality, comprehensive accessory package—including Comply foam tips—and a comfortable, low-profile design. Key pros include the lightweight fit, lack of microphonics from the braided cable, and a durable, punchy, and tightly controlled bass response. A noted con is the soft,...Read more

C
cnet.com
08/03/2006

This review evaluates the Westone UM1 Single Driver True Fit Earphones, a non-custom-fit in-ear headphone model priced at $109, designed by a company known for making musician earplugs and medical ear molds. The reviewer praises the earphones for delivering excellent sound clarity, an accurate flat response, and ample low-end delivery without distorting at high volumes or...Read more

A
audiophile-heaven.com
24/02/2018

The Westone UM1 is an entry-level, single balanced armature (BA) driver in-ear monitor (IEM) priced around $100 that provides a remarkably comfortable and highly portable listening experience. On the positive side, its diminutive plastic shells are exceptionally sturdy and offer an ergonomic, deep fit suitable for small ear canals, making them ideal for physical activities like...Read more

H
headfonics.com
01/12/2017

The Headfonics review of the $99 Westone UM1 Revised Edition highlights its exceptional comfort, low-profile ergonomics suitable for side-sleeping, and a new,, welcome replaceable cable system. However, the design is limited by a rubbery, memory-prone cable that lacks proper shaping and an inadequate protective carrying pouch. Sonically, the IEM features a warm, smooth, and...Read more

K
klauseulenbach.de
01/12/2017

The Westone UM-1 (2017) in-ear monitors (IEMs) deliver a mild and homogenous frequency response that excels at instrument separation, giving both vocals and instruments ample room to stand out. While they lack a full hi-fi audio profile—missing strong low-end rumble or an airy treble extension—they provide a cohesive and highly tweakable presentation. The reviewer ultimately notes...Read more

L
lesnumeriques.com
06/05/2009

Here is a two-paragraph summary of the Westone UM1 review: The Westone UM1 is a compact, single-armature, wired in-ear monitor designed specifically for on-stage musicians and singers rather than casual everyday listening. On the positive side, the earphones offer excellent comfort due to their curved, compact plastic shells, and they feature a high-quality, durable twisted cable...Read more

Video reviews

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