Review – Sony INZONE E9 In-Ear Gaming Monitors

Product provided by Sony for Review

INZONE E9 Cost – $149.99

Sony has revealed its brand new INZONE gaming line, and they are sending a clear message to the industry that they’re all in on PC Gaming. Not only PC Gaming, but competitive gaming. The E9 Gaming Headphones are just one small part of the line they introduced, and I am happy to provide my thoughts.

What’s In The Box

The INZONE E9 Headphones come with a USB-C Audio box, hybrid silicone rubber earbud tips, and noise isolation earbud tips. It also comes with a carry case providing organized storage.

There are two connection types – a 3.5mm plug to use on your DualSense controller on PlayStation or the Type-C plug, which can plug right into your PC or other device. The 3.5mm jack would go right into the block that’s on the USB-C cable. 

We also shared an unboxing video showcasing the E9 Gaming Headphones along with the other items part of this line. 

Inzone Hub

Sony went all in with its own software, INZONE Hub, which allows you to customize your devices to your liking. With the E9 In-Ear Monitor for Gaming, you can set it to a pre-set function such as FPS, Music, Bass only, or you can customize it to your liking.

The INZONE Hub is very simple to understand for anyone. One of the neat features of Sony’s latest gaming headphones and headsets is that they utilize the Sony 360 Spatial Audio technology that will map your ear out, creating a unique experience for you. You just need to take a picture of your ear using the app recommended on your phone.

Comfortable Gaming

Using Inzone E9 at private Sony event

At first, I was skeptical about the INZONE E9s, but after using them for several hours of gaming on Fortnite, Marvel Rivals, Brawlhalla, and listening to music. Once these go into your ears, they block out the noise around you and allow you to focus on your next match.

These are very comfortable in my ears, and Sony provides other options for the tips to make sure they get the right fit for you. Compared to the new H9 II, these are a good start, but personally, these are the one new INZONE item that you could wait on, as there are more essential options to invest in. 

I was worried about long gaming sessions as they might get uncomfortable. Even in a 3-hour session, they didn’t bother me. I think the way it has to wrap around your ear helps mount it perfectly in your ear, and the long cable to connect to your PC is perfect, so it’s not trying to force its way out of your ear.

When talking about the performance of these in-ear gaming monitors, hearing footsteps has never been better. When I was playing Fortnite, the best game for me to test its features, I was able to hear anyone who might be sneaking up on me. I feel like I have an advantage against my opponents.

On another note, listening to music with these on is also great if you want to play casually while listening to some tunes. 

Verdict

The Sony INZONE E9 In-Ear Gaming Monitors are specifically designed for competitive gamers. They were developed in partnership with FNATIC, making them ideal for tournament settings and major gaming events. Priced at $150, these monitors offer great value, particularly with the INZONE Hub for personalization and performance enhancements. Also, the way it’s built is of extreme quality, so let’s not forget the value there. 

I would recommend it for the gamer who views themselves as competitive or who aspires to become competitive. This isn’t for the casual player, and Sony knows that coming in. 

The INZONE E9 In-Ear Gaming Monitors deliver exceptional comfort, durable design, and impressive sound quality.