[AudioCats]

I am in the market for some inexpensive IEM or earbuds to keep around at work.
-- Budge is $20.
-- Either with or without a mic is ok.
-- I don't plan to wear them a lot so the build quality is not terribly important (as long as the sound is good)
 
I did a on-line search and it brought up some older models, like JVC FX40, FX101 and UE200, are there other good options from the newer offerings? Please recommend....
 
Thanks!

 

[DeLuX]

I would suggest going to the Chinese/Asian brand info thread and asking there. I've just ordered some LZ Z03A (they're 30$ though) haven't received them yet so I can't vouch for their price to performance ratio. Check them out

Easy New Original LZ Z03A Hifi Stereo Dynamic In-ear Earbuds Heave Bass Noise Cancelling Earphones Headphones with Microphone
http://s.aliexpress.com/UZRrqeMr
(from AliExpress Android)

 

[Raketen]

If you can get up to $30 I'd rec Zero Audio Carbo Tenore
Panasonic HJE125 are only like $7, decent, you can get the upper tier models like HJE 355 and  450 for $15 they are supposed to be improved.
 
 
Stuff I haven't heard but see mentioned a lot:
 
I haven't heard that particular JVC model but I've had a few of their sub-$100 models and they're usually decent to good.
 
VE Monk $5 earbuds are getting a lot of love herebouts, I have a diff VE model and it's quite good

1. http://www.head-fi.org/products/venture-electronics-ve-monk
2. http://www.head-fi.org/t/783669/venture-electronics-ve-monk-a-5-earbud-that-seriously-deserves-a-place-here

 
I have read on the Earbuds Round-Up thread that some of the Edifier models are supposed to be quite good. People there can maybe make some suggestions too http://www.head-fi.org/t/441400/earbuds-round-up-update-april-25th-2015/2805#post_12417312
 
Other ones I see mentioned - Mrice/Baldoor E100, KZ ATE, KZ ED9, Xiaomi Piston or 1More Piston, the brand MEE, the brand Brainwavz
 
See also, Joker's lists ( of Multi-IEM Review Thread fame http://www.head-fi.org/t/478568/multi-iem-review-350-iems-compared-rha-t20-added-1-31-16-p-1098 )

1. http://theheadphonelist.com/2015-holiday-buyers-guide-the-most-gift-worthy-earphones-for-audiophiles-and-music-lovers/
2. http://theheadphonelist.com/earphone-buyers-guide/

 

[AudioCats]

Thanks for the thoughts guys.
The piston 3 seems to be getting quite some hype in the reviews, and it is only $15, might as well.....just ordered a pair from geekbuying.
 
cheers