Shure SE420 Headphones Review - Intro

The SE420s are a set of in-ear headphones from Shure, available for $200. Like other Shure headphones, the SE420s have angled nozzles, which make them look a bit different than other in-ears. If you like to wear your headphones' cord looped around the back of your ear, the SE420s were built for you. Otherwise the fit might be a bit awkward. These headphones are very short without their extension cord, which is great for joggers or anyone else who might wear a media player in an arm band.

While the SE420s weren't the most comfortable in-ears we've tried on, they do come with an impressive set of sleeves. There are foam, soft plastic, and triple-flange options in multiple sizes. You might notice the sleeves are a bit thicker than usual, which means they might get a bit uncomfortable during extended wear sessions.

The SE420s had average audio quality, but far, far above average isolation and leakage control. If you frequently listen to music in loud environments, the SE420s could save your ears.