KZ ZS10 Pro Review: Budget In-Ear Monitors That Sound Expensive
Part of The Remote Work Travel Guide: Set Up an Office Anywhere
What we liked
- Five-driver hybrid sound with strong bass
- Detachable cable
- Excellent isolation for travel
What we didn't
- Bright treble for some ears
- Shell is large
- Stock tips are average
Quick take
The KZ ZS10 Pro is a wired in-ear monitor with one dynamic driver and four balanced armatures per side, sold through Linsoul. It’s one of the best-known budget IEMs because it sounds far more expensive than it is.
Where to buy: KZ ZS10 Pro (Linsoul) on Amazon (typically about $40 to $55).
My take
I bought these for DJing on my FLX4 and FLX2, and for flights. I like that they hook over the ear, they have a nice style, the sound is great and they feel good. Some people want to step away from Bluetooth, and wired earphones are an easy way to do that. On a plane you can plug straight in, though you’ll want an audio adapter. They’re low cost, so you’re not overpaying. I still have Bluetooth earbuds, but for DJing when I just want to hear something without a full DJ headphone setup, these are perfect for travel, flights and as backups.
What it is
Metal faceplates, resin shells, a detachable two-pin cable, and a V-shaped tuning: strong bass, clear treble and slightly recessed mids. Isolation is high once the tips seal, which makes them useful on planes and in noisy cafes.
Where it fits on the road
Noise-cancelling headphones are bulky in a backpack. A pair of IEMs fits in a pocket, blocks engine noise when they seal well, and doubles as cueing headphones for a DJ controller or monitors for a stream. For long-haul travel they’re one of the cheapest comfort upgrades there is.
“Wired earphones that sound great, look great and plug straight into the plane seat. Cheap enough to keep as backups.”
Reggie R.
How it compares
- Moondrop Chu II. Single dynamic driver, more neutral and cheaper; less bass slam.
- Apple AirPods Pro. Wireless with ANC and convenience; less detail and no wired DJ use.
- Shure SE215. Pro stage classic; more durable, less detailed at a higher price.
Wired audio in a wireless world
Phones without headphone jacks need a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter, and DJ gear often wants a 1/8 to 1/4-inch adapter. If cables don’t reach, a TRRS extension fixes it. On flights, IEMs plus a sleep mask make a long-haul seat feel far quieter.
Price and value
Expect to pay about $40 to $55, though prices on Amazon move often, so check the current listing before buying. Excellent value for what it does: a tiny price for a big sound upgrade. Spend five minutes on fit and they deliver.
How I scored it
The 4.5-out-of-5 score is led by my own recorded thoughts, checked against what buyers report across retailers, weighed on value, build quality and how well it fits a travel and remote-work life. Read the full method on the editorial policy page.
3 tips to get the most out of it
- Swap to foam or wide-bore tips if the treble feels sharp. Tips change the sound more than any EQ.
- Get the version without a mic for DJ use. Inline mics add bulk and nothing else.
- Coil the cable loosely, never wrapped tight around the phone. It’s the cable that fails first.
FAQ
Do they need an amp?
No, phones and controllers drive them easily.
Mic or no mic version?
Mic for calls on a phone; no-mic for DJ and music.
Are they good for sleeping?
The shells are large; slim earplugs are better for sleep.
Who it’s for (and who should skip it)
Good for travelers, DJs and music fans on a budget. Skip them if you need wireless or have small ears that dislike large shells. Planning more than this one purchase? Start with the Remote Work Travel Guide for the full portable office setup.
Bottom line
A tiny price for a big sound upgrade. Spend five minutes on fit and they deliver.
Our experience, in combination with what others say.
