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The Best Ear Plug

Last updated on August 1, 2022

We looked at the top 11 Ear Plugs and dug through the reviews from 231 of the most popular review sites including and more. The result is a ranking of the best Ear Plugs.

Our Review Process

Don't Waste Your Money is focused on helping you make the best purchasing decision. Our team of experts spends hundreds of hours analyzing, testing, and researching products so you don't have to. Learn more.

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While attending loud concerts and participating in motorsports are fun, the noises produced at those events is often greater than 85 decibels, and as a result, capable of causing noise-induced hearing loss. People are also at greater risk for hearing loss when they are in close proximity to loud noises, like at a shooting range or when using power tools. You don’t need to give up all of these fun activities, however. Instead, you simply need a good pair of earplugs that will reduce the noise.

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Earplugs are mainly sold in two different types of materials. The first is a urethane foam that is not only soft up against the skin, but also form-fitting. Look for earplugs that are easy to compress and insert into the ear. Once inserted, the foam within this style of earplugs will slowly begin to expand to fit the ear canal. The second material used in making the majority of earplugs is silicone. This type is non-toxic and free of any allergens. It’s also moldable to your ear and able to keep water out.

While shopping for a quality set of earplugs, decide whether you’d like the plugs to have a central pull tab, a side pull tab or no tab at all. The benefit of having a tab is the ease in removing the earplugs when you’re ready to take them out. However, if you don’t have one, the earplugs become virtually invisible, drawing less attention to your ears.

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Review your needs, and check that the earplugs are designed to meet those needs. Some models are great for kids with sensory processing disorders or adults who suffer from tinnitus. Ergonomically-designed plugs are better for users who need to wear them for an extended period of time, such as overnight to drown out the snores of a spouse. You also want to make sure the earplugs are capable of reducing sound without muffling the noise. Earplugs with attenuation filters are best for this.   

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Before making your final decision, look to see if the earplugs offer any extras. For example, the Eargasm High Fidelity Ear Plugs come with an aluminum case that doubles as a keychain. The Vibes High Fidelity Concert Ear Plugs also come with a hard storage case that protects your earplugs from coming in contact with dust or dirt.

Our Picks For The Top Ear Plugs

View All Recommendations
Product Overview
Our Take
Pros
Cons
 Top Pick

ANBOW Multi-Purpose Adjustable Ear Plugs, 3-Pair

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ANBOW

Multi-Purpose Adjustable Ear Plugs, 3-Pair

Versatile is the best word to describe this set of ear plugs. They can be used for everything from canceling out noise for a peaceful night's sleep or protecting ears from water when swimming in the community pool. Each set comes with three reusable pairs of ear plugs and a handy storage pouch.

Overall Take

Most EconomicalThese budget-friendly ear plugs offer the protection you need without the hefty price tag.

 Runner Up

Vibes Reusable Clear Ear Plugs

Vibes

Reusable Clear Ear Plugs

Many individuals don't want their ear plugs to be visible, and these ear plugs cater to that group of people. These discreet plugs come with three different size tips, allowing you to find a perfect fit. There's also a small portable case to take a set of ear plugs with you when you travel. We found these to be light and easy to wear.

Overall Take

Discreet and ClassyIf you need to wear ear plugs to reduce noise, but don't want everyone around you knowing it, these ear plugs are for you.

Pros
" The most noticeable change in tonal balance is that the highs end up being rolled off and lose a lot of resolution. Mids are great, which helps vocals shine, but bass is a bit overwhelming at times."
Cons
"Potential for discomfort due to sound tube design."
 We Also Like

Mack’s Noise Reducing Foam Ear Plugs, 50-Pair

Mack's

Noise Reducing Foam Ear Plugs, 50-Pair

These ear plugs give you a great bang for your buck, but they also provide wearers with the most comfortable fit. The plugs release slowly when placed in the ears and keep pressure levels low. The Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 32 decibels means you can attend a concert or motorsports event without worry. Mack's is also the #1 doctor recommended f...

Overall Take

No. 1 Doctor RecommendedThese ear plugs are soft and slow releasing, so you get a comfortable fit every time.

Pros
" They are made of urethane foam. Designed with comfortable foam, the earplugs can block out wind noise and other noises too."
Cons
"The NRR value of 32 dB may be insufficient for some users"
 Strong Contender

Eargasm High Fidelity Silicone Ear Plugs

Eargasm

High Fidelity Silicone Ear Plugs

If you're searching for a durable set of ear plugs with a little something extra, consider these ear plugs. We love that this reusable set comes with a handy storage case connected to a keychain. The plugs consist of non-toxic, hypoallergenic silicone that won't cause itching. Thanks to the attenuation filters, this set of ear plugs also reduces no...

Overall Take

Effectively Reduces NoiseThese ear plugs reduce noise to protect your hearing, plus they come with a keychain.

Pros
" Did lower the volume without affecting sound fidelity!"
Cons
"They don’t offer quite as versatile a fit (they only send two sizes, instead three, like others."
Don't just take for granted what one reviewer says. Along with our own experts, DWYM analyzes the top expert reviews of the leading products and generates a score you can actually trust.
18

Products Considered

We identified the majority of the ear plugs available to purchase.
11

Products Analyzed

We then selected the leading and most popular products for our team to review.

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231

Expert Reviews Included

In addition to our expert reviews, we also incorporate feedback and analysis of some of the most respected sources including: Sleepline, Best Mattress Reviews, The Pick, Sleep Help Institute, The Taggy.

81,200

User Opinions Analyzed

We also incorporate user reviews from the leading retailers including

Our experts reviewed the top 11 Ear Plugs and also dug through the reviews from 231 of the most popular review sites including and more. The result is a ranking of the best of the best Ear Plugs.

DWYM is your trusted roduct review source. Our team reviews thousands of product reviews from the trusted top experts and combines them into one easy-to-understand score. Learn more.

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What to Look For

  • Check to see if the brand of earplugs you’re considering has been recommended by a doctor. You don’t want to risk sticking anything in your ear that may potentially cause harm.
  • Always wash your hands with soap and water before handling and inserting the earplugs.
  • If you keep the earplugs in overnight, be aware that the plugs may push ear wax back further in your canal.
  • Disposable earplugs should never be worn a second time. Earplugs that are designed for multiple uses must be cleaned regularly to prevent bacteria from entering the ear. This is accomplished by brushing the earplugs with a mixture of soap, water and hydrogen peroxide. You can use a toothbrush with soft bristles, just make sure you rinse the earplugs afterward and allow them to air dry before you use them again.
  • Look for a safety seal on the container of the disposable earplugs if you have small children or pets at home. The earplugs can be a choking hazard.
  • Read the product listing to determine whether there is a satisfaction guarantee. This way you aren’t wasting your money if the earplugs are unsuccessful at toning down external noises to acceptable levels.
  • As you begin comparing the prices of earplugs, you’ll need to look at whether the earplugs are reusable and how many earplugs you get in each pack. On the lower end, you’ll find disposable options. The Eargasm High Fidelity Ear Plugs and the Vibes High Fidelity Concert Ear Plugs command a higher price for several reasons. Not only can they be worn multiple times, but they also come with a carrying case.

Ear Plug Rankings

1. ANBOW Multi-Purpose Adjustable Ear Plugs, 3-Pair

Overall Score: 9.5
Reviews Included: 1

2. Vibes Reusable Clear Ear Plugs

Overall Score: 9.4
Reviews Included: 22

3. Mack’s Noise Reducing Foam Ear Plugs, 50-Pair

Overall Score: 9.3
Reviews Included: 45

4. Eargasm High Fidelity Silicone Ear Plugs

Overall Score: 9.2
Reviews Included: 44

5. Honeywell Contoured Smooth Ear Plugs, 200-Pair

Overall Score: 9.1
Reviews Included: 29

6. Flents Quiet Time Ear Plugs, 50-Pair

Overall Score: 9.0
Reviews Included: 13

7. Flents Quiet Please Ear Plugs, 100-Pair

Overall Score: 9.0
Reviews Included: 21

8. The Ear Buddy Latex Free Bell-Shaped Ear Plugs, 50-Pair

Overall Score: 8.9
Reviews Included: 29

9. Mack’s Airtight Hypoallergenic Ear Plugs, 6-Pair

Overall Score: 8.9
Reviews Included: 36

10. Flents Quiet Contour Ear Plugs, 10-Pair

Overall Score: 8.8
Reviews Included: 11

11. Mpow Multi-Purpose Ultra Soft Ear Plugs, 60-Pair

Overall Score: 8.7
Reviews Included: 16

More to Explore

Although earplugs weren’t officially invented yet, Homer mentioned a form of them in his poem “The Odyssey” back in 850 BC. These earplugs were made of softened beeswax and used to shut out the noise of the Sirens (mythical creatures), who would tempt sailors to crash their ships.

Fast forward to 1907, and you’ll come to the first time that earplugs were manufactured and available for sale to the public. Max Newgar, inventor and owner of Ohropax, found a market among hospitals and soldiers heading to war. Newgar used paraffin wax, which remained the norm until the ’60s when silicone models became a better option. Silicone earplugs are still used today.

More to explore