20 Best Earbuds and Headphones for Working Out in 2024
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20 Best Earbuds and Headphones for Working Out in 2024

|Dec 8, 2022
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When you hit the gym, you'll want the best gym headphones with a secure fit; ones that are secure enough in your ears that allow you to run, jump, squat, and crunch without working loosely. We've all heard about the motivational benefits of listening to music while exercising, and these headphones and earbuds meet all the design and function requirements, making them ideal for anyone who lives an active lifestyle. 

Every year, we evaluate hundreds of the best workout earbuds or computer accessories, and this list includes models that function well under these conditions despite not being specifically built for exercise. 

All the models on our list have been tested to determine how resistant they are to falling out while running and working out, as well as how water resistant they are and how well they manage sweating outbreaks during exercise.

20 Best Earbuds and Headphones for Working Out

1. TREBLAB Z7 PRO - Hybrid Active Noise Canceling Headphones

The TREBLAB headphones have a lot to offer, notably for a pair of headphones at this price. They have a sleek look, are lightweight and comfy, and sound decent despite the lack of highs. 

TREBLAB Wireless Headphones have extra-comfortable ear cups and earmuffs made of soft material, making them suitable for longer wear. The plastic headband has sliders that allow you to fine-tune the fit. 

You'll also get long battery life and active noise canceling for a great listening experience.

Are they, however, the best noise-canceling headphones in this price range? They are, indeed. There aren't many headphones & earbuds under $100 that are as well-rounded as these. 

Dimensions3.14” x 7.87” x 6.50”
ColorsGrey
PlaytimeUp to 20 hours with ANC
Battery900 mAh 3.7V
Item weight0.55 lbs
Bluetooth5.0
Signal range33 feet / 10 m
Warranty1 year

2. MEE Audio X20 Earphones – Best Workout Earbuds

NoiseShield ANC technology provides active noise cancellation on-demand for distraction.

Noise-free listening on flights and in other noisy locations gives you greater control over your listening experience. 

With the increased wireless range and independent left and right earpieces, the latest wireless technology gives unparalleled flexibility of movement. 

These IPX4 earbuds have a high enough water-resistance rating (IPX4) to keep them secure during most activities, and the flexible, stabilizing wings keep them in place. Our test panel found the design to be comfortable and we loved the added security they gave; therefore, they are considered to be one of the best earbuds for working out. 

Dimensions5.7”L x 5.7”W x 3.2”H
Product weight0.12 lbs
Frequency response20 Hz to 20 kHz
Bluetooth version

5.0

Carrying case charging connectorUSB-C
Water resistance ratingIPX4
Includes3 sets of eartips, charging case, USB-C charging cable
Warranty1 year

3. MEE Audio AirHooks Headphones

We tried these sophisticated open ear headphones with microphones, and we were very impressed. Its audio reproduction is pleasingly accurate, with excellent sound quality. The fit is lightweight and comfy for extended listening sessions. If you value being able to remain aware of your surroundings while wearing headphones and listening to music, the MEE Audio headphones are for you. These are one of the best headphones for working out.

Dimensions5”L x 2”W x 4”H
Product weight0.04 lbs
Frequency response20 Hz to 20 kHz
Bluetooth version

5.0

Water resistance ratingIPX4
IncludesCharging cable
Warranty1 year

4. Apple Airpods Pro 2

Are you still using the original AirPods for workouts? It's time to upgrade; the AirPods Pro 2 are far more comfier. The silicone tips gently adapt to the ear canal rather than forcing it to expand wider to fit the rigid plastic case. In practice, this means you can wear the earphones for much longer without having to remove them, allowing for all-day wear. 

However, they may not feel as comfortable in your ear during more strenuous athletic activity — we wouldn't wear them while playing sports, for example — but they are safe to wear to the gym and are among the best running earbuds and best workout headphones. 

5. Amazfit Powerbuds Pro

While the original PowerBuds are an excellent choice for budget-conscious exercisers looking for wireless earbuds with smart fitness features, the PowerBuds Pro is a more appealing upgrade that includes adaptive noise cancellation. There are four modes available: adaptive, travel, workout, and indoor, each of which is effective enough to reduce distractions at the gym or outside, making them one of the best earbuds for working out. 

The sound is bass-heavy to fuel your workouts, but you can customize it via the companion app by choosing from 10 different presets. You'll want these buds for their extra features, many of which are useful for exercising, such as built-in heart rate monitoring, Cervical Protection for assessing and calibrating posture, and Motion Beat, which automatically raises bass for a livelier presence. 

Furthermore, you should be cautious of the activity tracking recorded by the buds because not all performance numbers are as reliable as those provided by the Apple Watch or Fitbit.

Amazfit Powerbuds Pro - best earbuds for working out

6.  Beats Powerbeats Pro

Essentially, for the time being, the Beats Powerbeats Pro is indeed the closest thing to sporty AirPods that Apple has to offer. 

Many series hallmarks remain intact, including the secure ear-hook design, energetic sound, which is more balanced this time around, and the signature B logo, which also functions as a multifunctional button. In terms of buttons, this was one of the first models in the category to include onboard volume controls in the form of rockers above each bud. 

You also get some of the same performance benefits as the AirPods Pro, owing to the H1 chip, which provides 50% longer talk time, audio sharing with other Apple/Beats headphones, "Hey Siri" wake-word activation, and much more. IPX4 water resistance certification is also included in the package. 

7.  Jaybird Tarah Pro

Many of today's best earbuds for working out offer true wireless connectivity with nothing connecting the earbuds together, but Jaybird's Tarah Pro buds are wired together, which helps them reach some amazing endurance numbers. Even better, Jaybird included an accelerometer in the Tarah Pro, so it will power off if you haven't moved in 15 minutes, extending battery life even further.

Jaybird Tarah Pro - best earbuds for working out

8.  Jabra Elite 4 Active

The recently released Elite 4 Actives are a superb mid-range model with effective ANC, excellent call quality, rich sound, powerful connectivity, and waterproof protection. Its ability to use the Sound+ app for audio customization sweetens the deal even more. 

Jabra's HearThrough technology is useful for runners who want to stay aware of their surroundings while running. The microphones pick up enough ambient sounds to keep listeners aware of approaching traffic. Hearing bicycle bells and garbage trucks from a block away, as well as police sirens and whistles, made many users feel comfortable while running. 

9.  Sennheiser Sport True Wireless

Sennheiser's Sport True Wireless is a major entry into the sports headphones area. They stand out as a wise selection for audiophiles who want to start their fitness journey on a high note, owing to their sturdy looks, long battery life, customizable fit, and diverse sound. These adaptive noise-canceling headphones are great for the gym or running outdoors.

Sennheiser Sport True Wireless

10.  JLab JBuds Air Pro

The JLab JBuds Air Pro includes a strong build, rapid auto-connect features, and a small charging case with an integrated USB connection. They also have handy features like ambient listening mode, a long battery life, and multipoint technology (pair to two devices at the same time), which makes them stand out at the price. 

As for those who like to tinker, there are three EQ modes (Balanced, Bass Boost, and JLab Signature) that may be directly activated on the buds. The JBuds Air Pros are a tempting choice for brand enthusiasts and budget-conscious exercisers everywhere, thanks to their bold sound, responsive controls, stable connectivity, and decent playtime in a water-resistant design. These can be considered one of the best gym headphones on the market.

11.  Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro

At least for Galaxy owners, Samsung now offers a serious AirPods Pro competitor. The sound alone makes the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro worthwhile, providing a high-quality audio experience, as well as intriguing 3D sound with precise head tracking. Samsung's ANC performs well in the category, blocking out nearly 90% of ambient noise. The new design also improves comfort and noise isolation. 

These buds work with any Bluetooth-enabled device, buy Galaxy smartphone owners receive nifty features like Easy Pairing and compatibility with Samsung's Scalable Codec.

 Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro

12.  Amazfit PowerBuds

It's amazing how much functionality these Amazfit PowerBuds offer, especially for under $100. They have a PPG heart rate sensor, which takes biometric data and saves it to the companion app. 

In that respect, the Zepp app has a multitude of activity tracking features (e.g., calories burnt, BMI, step count) and personalized settings, ranging from a customizable EQ with several presets to exercise modes. 

Then, there's the long runtime (eight hours) on a full charge, as well as the powerful bass response to keep your adrenaline pumping. Essentially, Amazfit can be considered one of the best earbuds for working out.

13.  Bose Sport Earbuds

The Bose Sport Earbuds are a more workout-friendly version of the popular QuietComfort Earbuds, lacking the listening modes and huge design of the QuietComfort Earbuds. 

It's lighter and smaller, with IPX4 water resistance, and comes with a variety of ear tips to fit various ear shapes. 

The low end has been reduced from the SoundSport Free, which can be a good or bad thing depending on your sound preferences. Music fans, on the other hand, will appreciate the strong bass and superb detail these buds provide.

Rose Sport Earbuds - best earbuds for working out

14.  Beats Powerbeats 4

Powerbeats 4 is similar to the more expensive Powerbeats Pro, with the exception of one or two features; different colors, and a genuine wireless design. Is that what makes it inferior? Absolutely not. It still, for instance, makes use of the H1 processor to provide iPhone users with outstanding wireless performances across the board. 

Connectivity with all main Apple products is immediate, and the Beats app makes it simple to link the best workout headphones with Android devices as well. 

The sturdier appearance and improved sound and call quality make the Powerbeats 4 a superior upgrade over the Powerbeats 3. 

15.  Jabra Elite Active 65t

Jabra Elite Active 65t combines advanced functionality and exceptional sound in a small, water-resistant package. Even though it is an older model, it still performs well in all major categories as one of the best earbuds for working out. 

We discovered that the buds stayed in place even during the most vigorous exercises and resisted sweat without slipping out. Also, we like how Jabra stuffed an accelerometer within the buds for running track, allowing the Elite Active 65t to double as an activity tracker.

Jabra Elite Active 65t

16.  JLab Epic Air Sport ANC

The JLab Epic Air Sport ANC wireless buds have the best sound quality of any JLab wireless buds and very long battery life. Even without the charging cover, we got 9.5 hours out of a single charge, which is enough for a full week of workouts.

As the name implies, this low-cost pair of sports headphones also feature active noise cancellation. You should exercise caution when wearing this while running because it can mask the sound of oncoming cars and people, but for the most part, ANC is excellent for blocking out adjacent noise and allowing you to focus on your workout. 

If you do need to hear what's going on outside, you can always activate the pass-through transparency mode. 

17.  Soundcore by Anker Sport

The new Soundcore Sport X10s have an unusual design with rotating swiveling ear hooks that flip up when you use them and down when you want to put them in their charging case. 

They sound good as long as you get a clean seal, with powerful, snappy bass and decent detail. The Soundcore also offers active noise cancellation, which is effective but not as good as Sony or Bose's. They're also completely waterproof, having an IPX7 rating that allows them to be submerged in up to 3 feet of water for 30 minutes.

Soundcore by Anker Sport

18.  Bose Sport Earbuds

Because of the StayHear Max tips and secure fit, both Bose's QuietComfort Earbuds and Sport Earbuds make superb workout headphones, but the Sport Earbuds are more compact and lighter, as well as more affordable (However, the QuietComfort Earbuds do have excellent active noise cancellation). 

They have the same IPX4 splash-resistant classification as the QuietComfort Earbuds, Bluetooth 5.1, and a similar design style, with three color variations. However, these earbuds lack active noise cancellation, have a reduced battery life (five hours instead of six), and do not support wireless charging. While they do protrude from your ears, they are substantially smaller and lighter than the QuietComfort Earbuds, and their casing is approximately 30% smaller. 

19.  Skullcandy Push Active

This is one of the best smartphone accessories. With so many new wireless earbuds and headphones being produced on a weekly basis, it's difficult for businesses to differentiate their products in the market. Skullcandy is hoping that its new voice-driven platform, Skull-iQ Smart Feature Technology, will accomplish exactly that, and be one of the best earbuds for working out.

Skullcandy Push Active

20.  JBL Live Pro

JBL has released some respectable true-wireless earphones over the years, but nothing that really piqued our interest. With the release of the Samsung-owned brand's new Live Pro 2 and Live Free 2 buds, that has finally changed. 

Conclusion

Our recommendations above are what we believe are the best headphones for working out. We consider the price (cheaper headphones prevail over pricier ones if the difference isn't worth it), visitor feedback, and availability.

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