Our Verdict
Average for mixed usage. The Etymotic HF5 have a simple in-ear design that isolates very well in noisy environments and is portable enough to make them a good option for commute and travel. They also have a decent build quality although they won't be as durable as some of the other in-ears we've tested with detachable and replaceable audio cables. They also do not have the best-balanced sound which makes them a mediocre-at-best choice for more critical listening.
- Great noise isolation.
- Portable and stable in-ear fit.
- Practically no leakage.
- Sub-par audio reproduction.
- In-ear fit may not be as comfortable for everyone.
Mediocre-at-best for neutral listening. The Etymotic Research HF5 have an overemphasized mid-range that pushes vocals and lead instruments to the front of the mix but could sound overly harsh and somewhat fatiguing to listen to for long sessions. They also do not have the most comfortable fit, and since they are very isolating in-ears, they do not have the most open sounding soundstage and won't be the ideal choice for more neutral listeners.
Decent for commuting. The Etymotic HF5 have one of the best passive isolations that we've measured. They block noise better than some active noise-canceling headphones and would be a good choice to use in the loud, noisy environments involved in commuting. They're also very portable but unfortunately have no control scheme, and their fit may not be the most comfortable to wear for the entire duration of a long flight or bus ride.
Above-average for sports use. They have a stable in-ear fit and many tip options to help you find the right fit. They're also very easy to carry on your person at all times. Unfortunately, they do not come with a cable that has an in-line remote so you will have to change songs directly on your phone or audio device. Also since they are wired headphones, they may get yanked out of your ears if the cable gets hooked on something.
Average for office use. They prevent a lot of noise from seeping into your audio and do not leak so you won't distract your colleagues even at higher volumes. Unfortunately, they have a sub-par sound and their unique in-ear fit may not be as comfortable for everyone during long listening sessions.
Sub-par for gaming. The Etymotic HF5 have a wired connection with no latency and will provide audio when connected to your console controllers. Unfortunately, they have no mic, no customization options, and they're not the most comfortable headphones to use for long gaming sessions. On the upside, they block a lot of noise and don't leak so you can be fully immersed in your game.
Changelog
- Updated Nov 21, 2019: Converted to Test Bench 1.3.1.
- Updated Nov 21, 2019: Converted to Test Bench 1.3.
- Updated Oct 03, 2018: Review published.
- Updated Oct 01, 2018: Our testers have started testing this product.
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Popular Headphones Comparisons
The Etymotics HF5 are average in-ears for most use cases but a mediocre option for critical listening. They have unique in-ear tips that enter the ear canal more deeply than typical in-ears. This makes them a slightly better choice than some of the in-ears compared below for commuting in loud, noisy environments. It also makes them a decently stable option for sports, but unfortunately, they do not have in-line controls or a replaceable audio cable like some of the other in-ears we've tested. They also have a below-average audio reproduction that may sound a bit fatiguing during longer listening sessions.
The Shure SE215 and Etymotic Research HF5 are both wired in-ears. The Shure have a more comfortable design with angled earbuds that better fit the contour of your ears. The Shure also have a warmer sound with a punchier bass. They also have a thicker, more durable, and detachable audio cable. On the other hand, the Etymotic isolate passively slightly better than the Shure. They also have a more lightweight and straightforward in-ear design that some may prefer over the thicker cables of the Shure.
The Etymotic ER4XR are better critical listening headphones than the Etymotic Research HF5. The ER4XR have a better more premium build quality with dense durable earbuds and a detachable, braided audio cable that you can replace if it ever gets damaged. They also have a slightly better sound than the HF5 with more bass. However, the HF5 are a better value for your money since they cost much less for a similar sound. They also isolate as much as the ER4XR in noisy conditions which makes them a great choice for loud noisy environments and for commuting.
The KZ ZS10 are slightly better critical listening than the Etymotic Research HF5. They have a more comfortable fit despite their larger than average earbuds. The KZ also have a better-balanced sound quality with a stronger bass, a better mid-range, and a more balanced treble. They also have a more durable and eye-catching design with a detachable audio cable. On the other hand, the Etymotic isolate passively a lot better than the KZ. They're also more portable and come with a case and more accessories than the KZ.
The 1More Triple Driver are better critical listening headphones than the Etymotic Research HF5. The 1More are more comfortable and have a better-balanced sound quality that does not sound as forward and harsh with instruments and vocals. The 1More have better bass than the Etymotics. and have a slightly more durable look and feel with braided audio cables and denser metal buds. On the other hand, the Etymotic isolate much better passively than the 1More, so they're a better choice for loud, noisy environments. The Etymotic also have a lighter design that some may prefer, although the lack of inline controls makes them slightly less practical on the go.
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