LINSOUL Linsoul KZ AS10 5BA HiFi Stereo in-Ear Earphone Review
The KZ AS10 proves you don't need to spend a fortune for incredible sound. This $60 wired IEM delivers stunning audio detail, but you'll have to live with a cable.
The 30-Second Version
For $60, the KZ AS10 delivers sound that shames earbuds twice its price. Just be ready to deal with a wire.
Overview
The KZ AS10 is a wired IEM that punches way above its $60 price tag. Forget the fancy wireless features for a second—this thing is about pure, unadulterated sound. The one thing you need to know? It delivers a level of audio detail and clarity that you'd normally have to spend three times as much to get. With five balanced armature drivers crammed into each shell, it's a technical powerhouse that makes most budget earbuds sound like tin cans.
Performance
What surprised us was just how good the microphone is. In our database, it lands in the 95th percentile, which is nuts for a $60 IEM. The sound quality is no slouch either, sitting in the 91st percentile. We expected good audio, but the mic performance is a legit bonus for gamers or anyone taking calls. Just don't expect any noise cancellation—it's not that kind of product.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Insane sound quality for the money. The detail retrieval is fantastic. 96th
- The built-in microphone is shockingly clear and usable. 87th
- Build quality feels solid and the detachable cable is a nice touch for future upgrades. 79th
- Comfortable for long listening sessions with the right ear tips. 74th
Cons
- It's wired. If you're addicted to wireless freedom, look elsewhere. 34th
- No active noise cancellation whatsoever. You're getting passive isolation only.
- The hook-style fit isn't for everyone and can be finicky to get just right.
- Bass, while detailed, might not have the sheer physical slam some listeners crave.
The Word on the Street
Specifications
Full Specifications
Design
| Form Factor | In-Ear |
| Wearing Style | Hook |
| Ear Tips | l |
| Weight | 0.1 kg / 0.2 lbs |
Audio
| Driver Type | Balanced Armature |
| Impedance | 14 |
| Sensitivity | 105 |
| Hi-Res Audio | Yes |
| Codecs | 5 Balanced Armatures |
Connectivity
| Wired Connector | 3.5mm |
Microphone
| Microphone | Yes |
| NC Mic | Yes |
Features
| Touch Controls | Yes |
| Water Resistance | Water-Resistant |
Value & Pricing
At $60, this is an absolute steal for sound purists. You're getting near-audiophile grade drivers in a well-built package. The value proposition is simple: sacrifice wireless convenience for exceptional audio fidelity.
vs Competition
This isn't competing with wireless all-rounders like the Sony WF-1000XM5. Those are for a different buyer who wants ANC and convenience. The real competition is in the wired IEM space. Compared to something like the classic Shure SE215, which it often gets compared to in reviews, the AS10 offers more driver technology and detail for less money. Against newer budget wireless options like the CMF Buds Pro 2, you're choosing between superior sound (AS10) and modern features like ANC and a case (CMF).
| Spec | LINSOUL Linsoul KZ AS10 5BA HiFi Stereo in-Ear Earphone | Sony Sony WF-1000XM5 Noise-Canceling True Wireless | Technics Technics EAH-AZ80 Noise-Canceling True Wireless | Bose Bose QuietComfort Ultra True Wireless | Apple Airpods Pro 3 Apple AirPods Pro with Wireless MagSafe Charging | Jabra Jabra Evolve2 Buds USB-C MS Earbuds with USB-C |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | In-Ear | In-Ear | In-Ear | In-Ear | In-Ear | In-Ear |
| Driver Type | Balanced Armature | Sony WF-1000XM5 Noise-Canceling True Wireless In-Ear Headphones (Black) | Dynamic | Dynamic | Dynamic | Dynamic |
| Wireless | — | true | true | true | true | true |
| Active Noise Cancellation | — | true | true | true | true | true |
| Bluetooth Version | — | 5.3 | 5.3 | 5.3 | 5.3 | 5.2 |
| Battery Life Hours | — | 6 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 8 |
| Case Battery Hours | — | 16 | 16 | 18 | 24 | 25 |
| Water Resistance | Water-Resistant | IPX4 | IPX4 | IPX4 | IP57 | IP57 |
| Multipoint | — | true | true | true | true | true |
Common Questions
Q: Is the cable detachable?
Yes, it uses a standard 0.75mm 2-pin connector. You can swap it out if it breaks or if you want to upgrade.
Q: Can I use these for gaming?
Absolutely. Our data scores it highly for gaming, and that fantastic mic is a big reason why. Just plug it into your controller or PC.
Q: Do I need a special amp to drive these?
Nope. With a 14Ω impedance, they're very easy to drive. Your phone or laptop's headphone jack will power them just fine.
Who Should Skip This
If you're looking for a true wireless experience with noise cancellation for your commute, this isn't it. Go get the Sony WF-1000XM5 instead and pay the premium. Also, skip it if you hate dealing with cables—tangling is still a thing.
Verdict
If you prioritize sound quality above all else and don't mind a cable, buy the KZ AS10 immediately. It's a no-brainer for musicians, audiophiles on a budget, or anyone who wants to hear their music with stunning clarity. For everyone else who needs wireless freedom or noise cancellation, there are better, albeit more expensive, options.