How to Choose the Best Workout Headphones
Working out requires us to be focused both physically and mentally. Unfortunately, many things can distract us from getting a proper workout, such as noisy gyms and their annoyingly repetitive playlists, or lousy-fitting headphones. This is why it’s important to choose headphones designed specifically for working out. They not only fit well, but they also block out noise so you can stay motivated with the music you love. To be effective, they need to strike a good balance between comfort, durability, noise isolation, and sound quality. To make matters worse, many workout headphones have seemingly similar descriptions or designs to the untrained eye. And this can make narrowing down your choices even more challenging. To help with this, we’ve made a comprehensive list of buying factors you should prioritize when choosing headphones to improve your workout experience. We’ve also included our top 12 headphone picks for different workout needs, along with discussions on exactly what makes them the best for the job. So, let’s dive right in!
Jabra Elite Active 75t
Key features
Form Factor: True Wireless Battery Life: 5.5 hours (with ANC) IP Rating: IP57 Microphone: Yes Noise Cancellation: Active Other features: Secure active fit, Voice Assistant Integration, Multipoint Connectivity
Jabra is known for its amazing sound quality and durability – and the Jabra Elite Active 75t earbuds are no exception. Having this feature gives you more portability and freedom of movement because you aren’t tethered to another device. It also lessens the chances of your headphone wires getting snagged on things when exercising outdoors, potentially leading to horrific freak accidents. While most true wireless and wireless headphones use Bluetooth to connect to audio sources, both are technically different. Understanding these differences will help in finding a pair of headphones that will complement your lifestyle and the kind of activities you do.
True Wireless Headphones
<img class=“size-full wp-image-2596” src=“https://www.headphonesty.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/3.2-Jabra-Elite-Active-65t-True-Wireless-Sports-Earbuds.jpg" alt=”"" True wireless headphones are in-ear monitors (IEM) or earbuds that have no cord connecting them. The mic, battery, and controls are built into their housing. These types of earbuds are ideal for those who lead an active lifestyle because they’re:
Comfortable and lightweight. Sweat- and moisture-resistant. Non-restricting and offer total freedom of movement. More durable because there’s no wire damage to worry about. Very portable and easy to store, even in the smallest of bags.
These features make them a great accessory for indoor and outdoor activities. They’re also perfect for those who don’t like the feeling of wires draped over their necks or shoulders while working out. The downside, however, is that you can easily lose them if you aren’t careful.
Wireless Headphones
This type includes battery-powered over-ear or on-ear headphones, and wireless IEMs or earbuds that have cables that connect them in the form of a neckband. The cables usually contain the mic, volume rockers, playback button, and battery. Like truly wireless earbuds, wireless headphones come with similar advantages, such as:
Comfort and freedom of movement. Good durability and portability. Good moisture and sweat resistance. More security, thanks to an additional neckband.
Some wireless models, however, may be too cumbersome for vigorous workouts. Over-ear or on-ear wireless headphones, for instance, may feel too bulky or heavy. And as mentioned before, the way the neckbands of wireless IEMs hit your neck with every movement may be distracting during a workout. As such, these types are best used for less intense activities. Learning about the differences and advantages of each form will help you choose headphones that’ll fit seamlessly into your workout regimen.
Choose IEMs Over Earbuds
Wireless earbuds are a popular choice among fitness fanatics because of their portability and lightness. They come in two forms: IEMs and Earbuds. In-Ear Monitors (IEM) are headphones that come with driver units that are inserted right into the ear canals. They have foam or silicone ear tips in different sizes to provide a snug fit for different-sized ears. Earbuds, on the one hand, sit in your ears’ concha bowl, the lower cup of your ears right before the canal. Unlike IEMs and their replaceable ear tips, these are often one-size-fits-all. Thus, earbuds tend to fit less snugly and tend to fall out during workouts more often than IEMs.
Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
Wireless over-ear headphones have ear cups that completely cover the ears and a headband for additional support on the head. Over-ear headphones are more likely to stay snug during exercise, especially if they have a reasonably strong clamping force. However, over-ear headphones have their downsides. For instance, a too-strong clamping force can make the wearer feel fatigued after long periods of use. They’re also bulkier, and if the ear pads are not nano-coated, they will get damaged by sweat.
Bone conduction headphones
Bone conduction headphones sit over the cheekbones, leaving the ear canals completely open. They use transducers to convert audio into vibrations that travel through the cheek and jaw bones to your inner ear. They’re great for workouts because the unique design offers a very comfortable, snug fit. You can also benefit from better situational awareness, especially if you’re exercising outdoors. The downside, however, is that the sound quality isn’t the best. They also tend to run pricier than regular headphones. According to studies, the average person sweats 0.8 to 1.4 liters (around 27 to 47 oz.) per hour during exercise. This can wear or even completely put headphones out of action in the long run. To make sure that doesn’t happen, you’ll want to go for headphones with an IP rating indicative of good water resistance.
What is an IP rating?
An IP (International or Ingress Protection) rating is a pair of numbers that indicate how protected a device is against solids (dust) and liquids. The first number specifies the level of dust protection and goes as high as level 6. And the second number specifies moisture protection and goes up to level 9. To illustrate, if your device has an IP69 rating, this means it’s fully protected against harmful dust and can survive accidental water immersion of up to 1m and high-pressure jet sprays.
Sweat-proof vs waterproof headphones
When searching for workout headphones online, you’ll likely encounter listings that advertise waterproof builds. But, more often than not, the term “waterproof” is used loosely. As a rule of thumb, devices need at least an IPX4 rating to be sweat-proof. However, this doesn’t mean that they’re waterproof. Only devices that are rated IPX7 and IPX8 can be called “waterproof”, as they’re usually nano-coated with hydrophobic properties. So, if your workout routines involve going underwater, we suggest going all-out and opting for IPX8-rated headphones. This allows you to soak up to 3 meters (9.8 feet) deep in the water without needing to worry about water damage. Some of the best Bluetooth headphones can last at least 8 hours, enough for a full day at the gym. And the best true wireless headphones can last at least 4 hours. Many consider 4-6 hours of battery life in true wireless headphones a stumbling block. But the small portable size of wireless in-ear headphones can’t accommodate audio drivers and more powerful batteries at the same time. Keep in mind that battery power depends on the facility of the battery itself. On-ear headphones have the advantage of longer battery life because larger ear cups can accommodate bigger, more powerful types of batteries versus wireless in-ears. So, it’s good to keep this trade-off in mind when you’re looking at true wireless headphones. Besides, this is what the nifty charging cases are made for — to offset the limited battery life. Another thing to remember is that diminishing battery affects the overall performance of most wireless headphones. So if you tend to spend long hours working out, on-ear wireless headphones may be more suited to your needs. Passive noise cancellation (or noise isolation) uses the material aspects of the headphones (ear cups, ear cushions, etc.) to block out noise. It’s akin to covering our ears with our hands when we hear loud sounds. On the other hand, active noise cancellation (ANC) uses an electronic system made up of tiny mics built into the headphones. This system listens for ambient noise and creates an opposing signal to cancel it out. For a good bass response in workout headphones, look at their sound signature. Some headphones already have great-sounding bass right out of the box, and that’s because they were tuned that way. So, opting for “Dark” or “Warm” sound signatures is one way to get a deeper, more powerful bass response. You can also go for workout headphones specifically designed with bass-boosting features. These come with a dedicated Bass Boost button or a Companion app that lets you adjust your equalizer settings.
Companion apps
Companion apps provide many services, in addition to letting you adjust your sound EQ. They let you customize your button controls and voice assistant commands. And more importantly, they help keep your headphones’ firmware updated.
Heart rate monitoring
Biometric headphones keep tabs on your heart rate without needing an external device. This not only lets you know if you’re pushing yourself too hard or too little but also keeps you free from having to carry around additional things while working out.
Voice Assistants
If supported, they can help you check your phone’s messages, accept/end a call, search the web, or pull up an app, among other functions, without letting go of any gym equipment.
Multipoint connectivity
Multipoint connectivity supports multiple connections for Bluetooth devices. This means that your headphones can be connected to at least two different audio sources at the same time. It’s especially helpful when working out because you can switch easily between different devices to access your music or take calls, without having to mess around with your settings. Equipped with Bluetooth 5.0 and multipoint connectivity, you can pair the Jabra Elite Active 75t to multiple devices simultaneously. This lets you use your workout headphones for work or other leisure purposes without having to switch between devices. They have a quick charge feature, which gives you 1 hour of playback on a 15-minute charge. On a full charge, the battery life can last for up to 7.5 hours when used without the ANC function. These wireless workout headphones have an advanced digital ANC technology that mimics a Hybrid ANC system. Using the Jabra Sound+ App, you can also adjust the noise cancellation levels using a simple slider, offering great flexibility. You can also activate the HearThrough function. This feeds ambient sound to your ears so you’re more aware of what’s going on around you. Additionally, the noise-canceling microphones help drown out background noises and improve the quality of your calls. Aside from a smaller and lighter build, the Jabra Elite Active 75t earbuds have a special grip coating that helps keep them in place during vigorous workouts. It is also IP57-rated so you can run, hike, or cycle for hours without worrying about damaging your earbuds. There are, however, a few drawbacks you should take note of. The touch controls on these earbuds are pretty sensitive, so you may end up pressing them more than needed if you aren’t careful. You may also notice a slight hissing sound caused by the audio transmission between the left and right earbuds, as a result of how they’re optimized for sound quality and low power consumption. It’s not noticeable while listening to music, but is more obvious in the silence between songs. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Sony WF-SP800N
Key features
Form Factor: True Wireless Battery Life: 13 hours (ANC off), 9 hours (ANC on) IP Rating: IP55 Microphone: Yes Noise Cancellation: Active Other Features: Sony’s EXTRA BASS, Sony 360° Reality Audio, Google Fast Pair, Wearing Detection
For superior sound clarity and detail while working out, the Sony WF-SO800N earbuds may very well be one of your best bets. With Sony’s EXTRA BASS and 360° Reality Audio features, you’ll feel as though your favorite band is right beside you, playing your jams as you work out. The Sony | Headphones Connect app offers various features to personalize your listening experience. Some of the best ones are:
Set alternative functions on the headphones’ touch controls Access Sony’s 360° Reality Audio for a more realistic and wider soundstage. Adjust noise cancellation levels Customize sound EQ
Lastly, the Sony WF-SO800N also supports Google’s Fast Pair feature. This means you won’t have to worry about losing this pair. You can easily find these through Google’s Find My Device app on your smartphone. With the Sony WF-SO800N, you can completely block out the generic music from your gym’s speakers. All thanks to its advanced Adaptive Noise Cancellation. This enables it to automatically adjust the noise cancellation levels depending on your surroundings. Plus, it also has an Ambient Mode or a Quick Attention Mode that automatically turns down the volume and stops the noise cancellation with just a push of a button. On a full charge, the Sony WF-SO800N will give you more or less 9 hours of juice. That’s enough for you to finish all your exercises, and then some. If you need an extra boost, this also has a quick charge feature. A 10-minute charge will give 1 hour of playback. This pair also has IP55 dust and water resistance. So you’re sure it can last through intense training and workouts. The earbuds are also a bit bulky compared to competitors. Depending on your ear size and shape, it juts out a bit from the ears, which can also make these fall out easier. If you still wish to buy these, though, be sure to check out our guide on how to keep your earbuds from falling out. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Anker Soundcore Life P2
Key features
Form Factor: True Wireless Battery Life: 8 hours IP Rating: IPX5 Microphone: Yes Noise Cancellation: Passive Other Features: Voice Assistant Integration, EQ Sound Modes, One-Step Pairing
If you want bigger bass for a fraction of the cost, the Anker Soundcore Life P2 earbuds are another great budget option. The earbuds have oversized triple-layer 10mm graphene drivers equipped with BassUp technology. You can choose from three EQ modes – Soundcore Signature, Bass Booster, and Podcast. The Bass Booster mode enhances bass by 43% to help you power through your workouts. Switching between modes is also as simple as a press of a button. Each earbud has two built-in microphones with cVc 8.0 Noise Reduction. They’re enhanced with an AI algorithm that improves voice pick up and suppresses background noise, making sure you come across clearer during calls even in noisy environments. Moreover, the Anker Soundcore Life P2 earbuds are 10% lighter than most earbuds at only 4.4 grams. This makes them super comfortable to wear while working out. And with an IP rating of IPX7, they’re also fully protected from water exposure so you can use them in wet conditions. The battery delivers up to 8 hours of listening on a single charge. And with the charging case, you can get up to 40 hours of playback. You also don’t need to worry about running out of juice because these earbuds can charge up fast. Ten minutes gets you 1 hour of playback, which is just enough time to get in a quick workout. Last but not least, the earbuds use Bluetooth 5.2 technology to connect to your audio device. This gives you a stable, skip-free connection, even in high-traffic places. Pairing to other devices is a piece of cake, thanks to Anker’s PUSH AND GO technology. All you need to do is remove the earbuds from the charging case and they’ll instantly connect with the last paired device. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Also Good: JLab Go Air Sport
The JLab Go Air Sport earbuds are another great budget option. Like the Anker Soundcore Life P2 earbuds, the Go Air Sports have a truly wireless build, 8-hour playtime, a built-in mic for calls and voice assistant activation, and a decent IP55 rating. They also feature a sporty, earhook design that keeps the buds in place during workouts. Although the Go Air Sports have a shorter battery life, no quick charge function, and a lower Bluetooth version than Life P2, they make up for it with larger drivers and multi-point connectivity, making it easy to pair them with multiple devices. The Dual Connect function also lets you use the earbuds independently or together. The JLab Audio App also comes with a Bass Boost mode and a bonus Burn-In Tool that helps break in new earbuds.
Master & Dynamic MW08 Sport
Key features
Form Factor: True Wireless Battery Life: 10 hours (with ANC) IP Rating: IPX7 Microphone: Yes Noise Cancellation: Active Other features: USB-A adapter, Voice Assistant Integration
Those who have extra funds to spend and are looking for something more premium should check out the Master & Dynamic MW08 Sport earbuds. They may look bulky at first glance, but close inspection reveals a sleek, lightweight design that’s masterfully crafted. The earbuds are made with shatter-resistant sapphire glass coupled with IPX5 water resistance, making them safe from accidental drops and water exposure. Even the charging case is made with Kevlar fiber and is IPX4 water-resistant. Each earbud weighs only 8.6 grams and houses an 11mm Beryllium driver designed to deliver a warm, rich soundstage to complement your workouts. Further enhancing the sound quality is a hybrid ANC function with 2 modes – All Day ANC and ANC Max. The earbuds also have 2 ambient modes – Awareness Mode and Voice Mode – that lets you quickly tune into your surroundings at any moment. This allows you to stay aware when exercising outdoors or have quick conversations without removing the earbuds. The MW08 Sport earbuds have a 12-hour battery life without ANC, but with the charging case, you can get up to 42 hours of playback. A quick wireless charge function also provides 1 hour of playback on a 15-minute charge. The MW08 Sport earbuds feature Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, supported by aluminum antennas for fewer disconnections. Lastly, with the M&D Connect app, you can easily tweak your sound equalizer, change your default settings, and download firmware updates. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Plantronics BackBeat FIT 500
Key features
Form Factor: Wireless On-ear Battery Life: 18 hours IP Rating: IP67 Microphone: Yes Noise Cancellation: Passive Other Features: Voice Assistant Integration, Multipoint Connectivity
If you’re looking for an upgrade from BackBeat Fit, the BackBeat Fit 500 is a fitting choice with a robust design and an excellent sound profile valued at just under $100. Thanks to 40mm audio drivers and a closed-back on-ear design, the BackBeat Fit 500 is ideal for those who want noise isolation on top of a deep, rich sound experience during workouts. The headphones have a memory foam headband and comfortable ear cups, the latter being responsible for muffling ambient noise very well. The BackBeat Fit 500 is IP67-certified which means they can survive water immersion of up to 1 meter (3.9 feet) for 30 minutes. And with P2i military-grade nano-coating, both ear cups are protected too. This means they’re waterproof and ready to endure even the toughest of weather conditions. These headphones can last up to 18 hours on a single charge. Using Class 1 Bluetooth, you can go as far as 33 feet (10 meters) from the source without a hitch. The playback controls are discreetly located on the right ear cup, along with the volume rockers. The mic on the left ear cup allows you to accept/reject calls and access Siri, Cortana, or Google Now. The headphones come with a 3.5mm backup jack which plugs into the bottom of the right cup. It’s handy because you can use the wire to listen to music even if you run out of battery. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Sony NW-WS413
Key features
Form Factor: Wireless In-Ear Battery Life: 12 hours IP Rating: IP68 Microphone: No Noise Cancellation: Passive Other Features: Drag-and-Drop Music Transfer, 4GB of Memory, Ambient Sound Mode
If you’re a pro-swimmer who likes to listen to music while training, the Sony NW-WS413 earbuds may be the audio companion you need. They’re built to handle up to 2 meters of water, and provide high-quality audio you wouldn’t expect to hear underwater. The Sony NW-WS413 earbuds have the highest IP rating on the list. With a rating of IP68, they can endure even the harshest of environmental conditions. They’re also sealed against dust and sand, and can handle temperatures of up to -5 °C. The ergonomic build of these earbuds ensures long-lasting comfort and security. And the around-the-ear design prevents them from falling out, providing stability even in rough workouts. The Sony NW-WS413 earbuds also boast a 12-hour battery life, so you can use them throughout your workout and then some. They also have an Ambient Mode feature for when you need to remain alert to your surroundings. With these earbuds, Sony decided to go for a built-in MP3 player instead of wireless connectivity. That’s because although Bluetooth is a standard connection, it may not be as reliable when it comes to swimming or other water sports. Lastly, the earbuds have 4GB of memory which is large enough to store your entire workout playlist. You can leave your phone at home or in your bag and still listen to your tunes while working out. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Beats Fit Pro
Key features
Form Factor: True Wireless Battery Life: 6 hours (with ANC) IP Rating: IPX4 Microphone: Yes Noise Cancellation: Active Other features: Secure-fit wingtips, Voice Assistant Integration, Spatial Audio
If you’re more of an Apple user, the Beats Fit Pro earbuds are a great option to consider. They come with Apple’s H1 chip, giving you flawless access to features like Spatial Audio, dynamic head tracking, auto iCloud syncing, and Siri voice commands. They also have a premium, comfortable design and immersive sound quality that’ll get you pumped up for every workout. The power behind the Beats Fit Pro sound is due to their double-chamber housing, dual-element diaphragms, and advanced digital processor. Combined with Spatial Audio, you get louder, clearer, and more dynamic audio quality fit for intense workouts. The built-in adaptive ANC calibrates in real-time to eliminate all unwanted sounds even when you’re on the move. You can also toggle between full ANC and Transparency Mode whenever you need to focus or tune back into your surroundings. Each earbud comes with a silicone secure-fit wingtip that molds to fit the unique shape of your ears. They’re secure without feeling like they’re digging into your skin. They’re also IPX4-rated and can withstand sweat exposure and light rain. Battery life is great with up to 7 hours of playback (w/o ANC) on a full charge. And you get an additional 18 hours with the charging case. Downtime isn’t a problem either because Apple’s Fast Fuel provides 1 hour of playback on a 5-minute charge. Their Apple H1 chip lets you switch seamlessly between Apple devices or share audio with another pair of Beats headphones. But the earbuds work just as well with Android devices. And with Class 1 Bluetooth connectivity, you get longer range and fewer disconnections. The Beats app also provides additional features such as one-touch pairing, controls customization, and firmware updates. The downside, however, is that the surface of both earbuds serves as the main control button. So, if your fingers aren’t particularly nimble, you may end up accidentally pausing your music or pushing them into your ear while adjusting them. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Also Good: Apple AirPods Pro
If for any reason you can’t get your hands on the Beats Fit Pro, the Airpods Pro earbuds are a great alternative. Like the Beats Fit Pro, these earbuds come with 2 ANC modes, Spatial Audio, IPX4 water resistance, and the Apple H1 chip that provides real-time ANC, Apple Automatic Switching, and Audio Sharing features. Though the design of the Airpods Pro isn’t as conducive to working out as the Beats Fit Pro, they’re still engineered to give you an impressive listening experience with excellent noise isolation and Adaptive EQ that automatically tunes your music to suit the shape of your ears. Additionally, the force sensor provides an easy way to control music and switch between ANC modes by simply squeezing the stem of the earbud.
AfterShokz Aeropex
Key features
Form Factor: Bone Conduction Battery Life: 8 hours IP Rating: IP67 Microphone: Yes Noise Cancellation: No Other Features: Voice Assistant Integration, Moisture Detection Alert
The AfterShokz Aeropex headphones are the follow-up to the successful Trekz Air, but with noteworthy improvements such as a lighter build and longer battery life. The open-ear design of these headphones make them particularly suited for outdoor running because they allow for better spatial awareness. With nothing covering your ears, you can stay alert to vehicles, cyclists, or other runners coming up around or behind you. With 8 hours of battery life, these bone conduction headphones have an additional 2 hours of playback time than the Air. They weigh only 26g, making them comfortable even when worn for extended periods. The light clamping force gives no pressure to the temporal bone but still fits snugly during exercises. The Aeropex headphones have an IP67 rating, meaning they can handle up to 1 meter of water depth for up to 30 mins or less. They also have a Moisture Detection feature, which alerts you if the charging port is wet so you can charge them safely and avoid destroying them. But, like most bone conduction headphones, the open-ear design poses a few drawbacks. In addition to zero noise isolation, you can expect some sound leakage as well. Sound quality is also somewhat lacking compared to many headphones in this list. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Also Good: Shokz OpenRun Pro
The Shokz OpenRun Pro headphones are an upgraded version of the Aeropex and thus draw a pretty close comparison. Like the above-mentioned headphones, the OpenRun Pros feature magnetic charging and a super lightweight build (26g). They also come with key improvements, such as longer battery life (10 hours), a quick charge function, Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity, and the latest Shokz TurboPitch™️ bone conduction technology. They are, however, more expensive than the Aeropex headphones and are only IP55 water-resistant. But other than that, they’re still a pretty good alternative.
Amazfit PowerBuds Pro
Key features
Form Factor: True Wireless Battery Life: 9 hours IP Rating: IPX5 Microphone: Yes Noise Cancellation: Active Other Features: Multipoint Connectivity, Voice Assistant Integration, Sports Data Tracking, Smart Recognition of Running, Motion Beat Mode, Auto-connection, In-ear Detection, 4 ANC Modes, 10 Music Modes
Those who want to get serious about working out and are looking for a pair of heavy-duty earbuds to keep up with them will benefit from the Amazfit PowerBuds Pro. They come with a robust battery life of 30 hours, and a host of smart features like Sports Data Tracking and Movement Recognition, making them true fitness headphones. Built-in Sports Data Tracking lets you monitor your time, speed, distance, calories burned, and heart rate, while giving you real-time progress notifications through the Zepp app. By activating Smart Recognition of Running in the Zepp app, the earbuds can detect changes in movement. So when you start running, they immediately start recording data. The Motion Beat Mode further compliments this by enhancing your music when it detects that you’re working out. It also boosts your bass to help you get pumped for exercise. The drivers come with LCP liquid crystal diaphragms that deliver clear high-resolution audio with richer and deeper bass. You can also adjust your sound preferences with as many as 10 different music modes. For more focused workouts, just choose from any of the 4 active noise cancellation modes, such as Indoor, Travel, Workout, and Adaptive. With these earbuds, convenience is the name of the game. When opening the charging case, your earbuds will quickly pair with your last device, thanks to the auto-connection function. And with in-ear detection, your music automatically pauses or resumes when you remove or put in your earbuds. With an IP rating of 55, you can take these earbuds virtually anywhere (except in the pool). Each earbud is super lightweight at only 6.7 grams. They also come with 4 extra pairs of ear tips, so that you’re sure to get a perfect fit. The Amazfit PowerBuds Pro earbuds are the successor to the older Amazfit PowerBuds and have been upgraded with longer battery life and quick charge capability. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Shure AONIC 215 TW2
Key features
Form Factor: True Wireless Battery Life: 8 hours IP Rating: IPX4 Microphone: Yes Noise Cancellation: Passive Other features: Secure over-ear fit, Sound Isolating™ technology, Voice Assistant Integration, Detachable earbuds connection
For sound quality that knocks your socks off, the Shure AONIC 215 TW2 earbuds are worth a try. Using decades’ worth of experience in providing quality gear for musicians, these earbuds are crafted for an excellent listening experience with a bass-heavy sound, noise isolation, and EQ customization. Built-in premium amplifiers deliver top-notch clarity and deep bass that’s enough to energize you through tough workouts. If that isn’t enough, you can customize your sound further on the ShurePlus™ PLAY App. It offers 7 audio presets, including Bass Boost and Loudness. The passive Sound Isolating™ technology enhances your audio by blocking up to 37dB of ambient noise so that your music sounds even punchier. And though it doesn’t have ANC, it does come with an Environment Mode that lets you hear your surroundings clearly, without needing to take the earbuds out. These earbuds are IPX4 moisture-resistant, so they’re safe from sweat or wet weather. Just be sure not to completely immerse them in water. They’re also lightweight and have an over-ear hook design that keeps them in place during intense workouts. Battery life is solid as these earbuds pack 8 hours of playback on one charge. The carrying case also provides 3 additional full charges, totaling 32 hours. Lastly, the AONIC 215 TW2 earbuds come with built-in beamforming microphones and button controls that let you manage music playback, take or make calls, and access your voice assistant. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
DuoTen F9
Key features
Form Factor: True Wireless Battery Life: 10-12 hours IP Rating: IPX7 Microphone: Yes Noise Cancellation: Passive Other Features: Multipoint Connectivity, Smart LCD Screen
If your priority is getting a pair of earbuds that’ll always be juiced up and ready to go, the DuoTen F9 earbuds are the best choice for you. They come with a built-in 85mAh battery that gives you up to 12 hours of playtime, which is enough to last an entire day and then some. In addition to a long-lasting battery, the earbuds also come with a 2200mAh-capacity charging case. This gives you up to 156 hours of playtime and can fully recharge your earbuds up to 13 times! You can even use it as a powerbank to charge your phone or other portable devices. Additionally, the charging case is also equipped with a Smart LCD Screen that allows you to easily check the battery status of both earbuds, without needing to open an app on your phone. Opening the charging case also initiates the pairing mode with your last used device, so you won’t need to fiddle around with settings. The DuoTen F9 earbuds use Bluetooth 5.0 to give you a stable wireless connection up to 66ft, which means you don’t always need to have your phone on you while working out. And with the Smart Touch Control button, you can take or reject calls, access your voice assistant, and control your music with a single button. Sound-wise, these earbuds deliver decent Hi-Fi stereo sound with a balanced bass response that’s good enough to keep your energy up during intense workouts. Lastly, they’re IPX7 waterproof and lightweight, making them convenient for outdoor use in wet conditions. They also come with three extra pairs of ear tips for a more customized and comfortable fit. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Jaybird Tarah
Key features
Form Factor: Wireless In-Ear Battery Life: 6 hours IP Rating: IPX7 Microphone: Yes Noise Cancellation: Passive Other features: Secure active fit, Voice Assistant Integration, Multipoint Connectivity, Find My Buds feature
If you prefer a more minimalist design and a super-lightweight fit, alongside great sound, then the Jaybird Tarah earbuds are a good choice for you. These earbuds’ secure sports fit is engineered using “tens of thousands of high-tech ear scans”. By factoring in these unique characteristics, Jaybird has created ultra-soft eargel tips designed to stay put and feel comfortable no matter how much you move or sweat. And with an IPX7 waterproof rating, they’re safe in wet weather and can be immersed in up to 1 meter of water. Both earbuds have 6mm drivers that deliver decent sound quality. But if you want a bit more oomph, you can tweak your sound on the Jaybird App. On the app, you can create and save custom EQ settings and create playlists by linking your Spotify account. The Jaybird Tarah earbuds have in-line button controls that let you access your voice assistant and manage calls or music playback. No need to worry about the wire getting in the way either, because the earbuds have a speed cinch and shirt clip to help keep it safely tucked out of harm’s way. Battery-wise, these earbuds can give you up to 6 hours of use on a single charge. And though it takes 2 hours to fully charge these buds up, the quick charge function will have you ready to go with an hour of playback after just 10 minutes. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Notable Mentions
Although the following earbuds don’t quite meet the standards of our top 12 picks, we’re including them here due to some features that we feel are worth considering. Despite their small size, these earbuds deliver heart-thumping bass that’ll put the groove back into your workouts. But unlike some headphones with bass-enhancing features, these buds deliver a balanced sound to preserve clarity. It uses Active EQ to automatically adjust sound frequencies depending on the volume. This lets you hear vocals and instruments clearly, no matter how loud you turn up your music. Every bit of the Bose Sport Earbuds is made of soft silicone, which helps distribute pressure and lessens discomfort after prolonged wear. The different-sized StayHear Max tips ensure an airtight seal for all ears, effectively blocking out ambient noise so you can focus on your routines. And because of the umbrella-shaped tip and flexible wings, the Bose Sport Earbuds stay snugly in place even during a rigorous workout. By double-tapping the earbuds, users can answer calls without pausing their workouts. Thanks to an array of beamforming microphones, you can hear and be heard clearly, regardless of how loud the gym gets. And if these buds ever die on you during a workout, you can simply charge them for 15 minutes for another 2 hours of playback time. For the price, one would expect a top-quality build that can last through intense workouts. But this pair only has an IPX4 rating, which is much lower than other models listed here. This means that while they can sustain a normal amount of sweat exposure, they’re not recommended for outdoor use. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Key features
Form Factor: True Wireless Battery Life: 5 hours IP Rating: IP56 Microphone: Yes Noise Cancellation: Passive Other features: HearThrough™ technology, Built-in Accelerometer, 4-mic technology, Multipoint Connectivity
The Jabra Elite Active 65t true wireless sports earbuds are a common sight around the gym. They offer many of the things you would want in true wireless workout headphones — great style, good sound quality, fine sound isolation, exceptional fit, and a decent battery life of up to 15 hours with the aid of the charging case. These earbuds have an IP56 waterproof rating, making them quite durable. This means you can sweat your heart out or even go for a jog in the rain while wearing them. Unlike most sports headphones that focus on bass, Elite Active 65t has well-balanced levels of highs and lows. Users can also customize their sound via the Jabra Sound+ app. When it comes to Bluetooth connectivity, the headphones have fewer dropouts as promised, but pairing can be hit-or-miss at times. Nevertheless, you can still expect the best call quality, thanks to its 4-microphone technology. The built-in motion sensor also comes in handy if you are hard on your workout goals. It conveniently lets you track your activity progress straight from the mobile app. And if you want to maximize hands-free functionality, you can task your preferred voice assistant to play music, do a web search, or launch an app with a single touch. Apart from the $190 price tag, the only common complaints about this pair are the inconsistent pairing and the uncomfortably tight fit for some ears. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Key features
Form Factor: True Wireless Battery Life: 5 hours IP Rating: IPX4 Microphone: Yes Noise Cancellation: Passive Other features: StayHear+ Sport tips
True wireless headphones often face three big issues: sound quality, fit, and battery. Yet Bose has managed to surpass this with the impressive SoundSport Free. In fact, it’s one of the best high-end options in the category of workout headphones. The SoundSport Free earbuds deliver on its promise of high-end sound quality with Bose’s signature soft bass delivery that’s perfect for a wide range of music genres. In terms of wireless connectivity, the SoundSport Free earbuds use Bluetooth 4.1, which guarantees a stable, close-to-perfect connection. You may, however, experience some latency issues when using them for video streaming. While the SoundSport Free’s 5-hour battery life is shorter than its counterparts, the charging case makes up for this by providing an extra 10 hours. The downside is that the SoundSport Free earbuds tend to stick out of the ears when worn, making them look bulky and counterintuitive to their cable-free design. Noise isolation is also a bit of a letdown. And while you have various ear fins to choose from, they don’t entirely seal off your ear canal. You’ll notice its significance when you’re running or cycling, as the wind noise will just swoosh right beneath your ears. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
