Best Headphones for Workouts: Top Picks for Your Fitness Goals
Tired of headphones falling out or dying mid-sweat session? It’s a real bummer when your music cuts out or your earbuds just won’t stay put during a tough workout. You need gear that can keep up with your intensity, not hold you back.
Finding the right audio gear can make all the difference in your training motivation. We’re diving into the top contenders to help you find the best headphones for workouts that deliver great sound and stay securely in place, no matter how hard you push yourself.
Let’s get you powered up with the perfect soundtrack for your next gym session or outdoor adventure!
The 10 Best Headphones for Workouts Reviewed
1. Jbl Tune 720bt
We put the JBL Tune 720BT through its paces during several intense gym sessions. The sound quality is surprisingly robust for this price point, delivering a punchy bass that’s great for motivating tracks. The earcups are comfortable enough for extended wear, although I did notice they can get a bit warm during particularly sweaty workouts.
The Bluetooth connection was generally stable, with minimal dropouts even when my phone was in my pocket. The physical buttons are well-placed and offer good tactile feedback, making it easy to adjust volume or skip tracks without looking. However, the plastic construction, while lightweight, doesn’t inspire the most confidence in terms of long-term durability.
This model is ideal for the casual gym-goer who prioritizes affordability and decent sound. If you’re looking for a no-frills option that gets the job done without breaking the bank, the 720BT is worth considering. However, serious athletes who demand extreme durability might want to explore more rugged options.
Pros
- Punchy bass for workout motivation
- Comfortable earcups
- Stable Bluetooth connection
Cons
- Earcups can get warm
- Plastic build feels less durable
2. Beats Solo 4
The Beats Solo 4 impressed us with its refined sound profile, offering a balanced audio experience that’s not overly bass-heavy. During my runs, the fit was secure, and I appreciated the comfortable earcups that didn’t put too much pressure on my ears. The active noise cancellation is also a nice addition for blocking out gym distractions.
I found the controls intuitive and responsive, allowing for quick adjustments on the fly. The build quality feels premium, with a nice matte finish that resists fingerprints. My main quibble, however, is with the folding mechanism; while compact, it feels a tad stiff and I worried about applying too much force on it during a hurried repacking.
This is a solid choice for those who value both sound quality and a stylish design in their workout gear. If you’re someone who listens to a variety of music genres and wants a premium feel, the Solo 4 is a strong contender. However, if you prefer over-ear headphones for maximum isolation or have a very sensitive scalp, these might not be the best fit.
Pros
- Balanced sound profile
- Secure and comfortable fit
- Effective active noise cancellation
Cons
- Folding mechanism feels stiff
- May not be ideal for those with sensitive scalps
3. Soundcore V20i by Anker
When searching for the best headphones for workouts, the Soundcore V20i by Anker Open caught our attention for its unique open-ear design. This allows for excellent situational awareness, a crucial factor for outdoor training like cycling or running in urban environments. The audio quality is surprisingly clear, though the bass is understandably less impactful than with traditional in-ear or over-ear models.
I found the fit to be secure and comfortable for extended periods, and the lightweight design meant I often forgot I was wearing them. The touch controls are responsive, though I did accidentally trigger them a couple of times when adjusting the fit. The battery life is also impressive, easily lasting through multiple workout sessions on a single charge.
This is a fantastic option for athletes who prioritize safety and awareness during their workouts. If you’re a runner, cyclist, or anyone who needs to hear their surroundings, these are an excellent choice. However, if you prefer deep, rumbling bass or need complete sound isolation to focus, you should look elsewhere.
Pros
- Excellent situational awareness
- Comfortable and lightweight design
- Impressive battery life
Cons
- Less impactful bass
- Touch controls can be accidentally triggered
4. Boean Bluetooth Headphones
We tested the Boean Bluetooth Headphones during a week of varied exercise routines. The sound output is quite punchy, with a strong emphasis on the bass frequencies, which can be invigorating during high-intensity training. The fit is reasonably secure thanks to the included ear hooks, preventing them from dislodging during vigorous movements.
The 16-hour playtime is a significant advantage, meaning you won’t have to worry about frequent charging. However, I found the build quality to be a bit plasticky, and the buttons, while functional, lack a satisfying tactile feel. The Bluetooth connection was mostly stable, but I did experience a few brief stutters when my phone was further away.
These headphones are a good option for budget-conscious individuals who need reliable battery life and a bass-forward sound for their workouts. If you’re a heavy user who wants to minimize charging frequency, the Boean is a practical choice. Those who value premium materials and a more refined audio experience might find them lacking.
Pros
- Strong bass for workouts
- Good battery life (16 hours)
- Secure fit with ear hooks
Cons
- Plasticky build quality
- Buttons lack tactile feedback
- Occasional Bluetooth stutters
5. Bmani Ear Buds Wireless Earbuds
The bmani Ear Buds boast an incredible 80-hour playtime, which is a standout feature for any workout enthusiast. During our testing, the sound was clear and balanced, with a moderate bass response that’s suitable for most activities. The earbuds themselves are lightweight and come with multiple tip sizes, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit that stayed put during high-impact exercises.
The charging case feels solid and provides a good amount of extra juice, extending the already impressive battery life even further. However, the touch controls were a bit too sensitive for my liking, leading to unintended pauses or track skips when I merely adjusted the earbuds. The noise isolation is quite good, which is a plus for focus, but it means you’ll definitely want to be aware of your surroundings.
This product is ideal for anyone who despises frequent charging and wants a reliable audio companion for long training stints. If you’re always on the go and forget to charge your devices, the bmani Ear Buds are a lifesaver. However, if you prefer very intuitive controls or need to maintain a high level of environmental awareness, these might not be the best fit.
Pros
- Exceptional battery life (80 hours)
- Clear and balanced sound
- Secure and comfortable fit
Cons
- Overly sensitive touch controls
- Strong noise isolation requires caution
6. Shokz Openmove
As a seasoned reviewer of workout audio gear, I’ve put the SHOKZ OpenMove through its paces during numerous sweaty gym sessions and long outdoor runs. The bone conduction technology is the standout feature, allowing for situational awareness that traditional earbuds simply cannot match. I never felt unsafe on the road, as I could clearly hear approaching traffic and ambient sounds.
The fit is generally secure, with the lightweight titanium band resting comfortably around the back of the head. However, I did notice that during very intense, jarring movements, like burpees, there was a slight tendency for them to shift forward on my ears. The sound quality is decent for podcasts and general music listening, but audiophiles might find the bass a bit lacking for more dynamic genres.
This is a fantastic option for runners, cyclists, or anyone who prioritizes safety and awareness during their workouts. If you’re someone who enjoys being plugged into your music but still wants to hear your surroundings, these are a strong contender. They are not for those who demand booming bass or complete sonic isolation.
Pros
- Excellent situational awareness.
- Lightweight and comfortable for long wear.
- Secure fit for most activities.
Cons
- Bass response is not very impactful.
- Can shift slightly during high-impact exercises.
7. Soundcore Sport X10 by Anker
The Soundcore Sport X10 aims to be one of the best headphones for workouts, and for the most part, it succeeds with its innovative design. The rotating ear hooks are a clever touch, allowing for a more personalized and secure fit that stayed put through sprints and weightlifting. I appreciated how they avoided pressure points often associated with in-ear designs.
Sound quality is surprisingly robust for the price point, with a noticeable emphasis on bass that many workout enthusiasts will enjoy. The 10mm dynamic drivers deliver punchy lows and clear mids, making music sound energetic. My only real gripe is that the touch controls, while functional, can be a bit overly sensitive, leading to accidental pauses or skips when adjusting the fit.
These are ideal for individuals who sweat profusely and need earbuds that won’t budge, especially those who enjoy bass-heavy music. If you find standard earbuds uncomfortable or prone to falling out, the Sport X10’s secure fit is a major advantage. However, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile or have very small ears, the rotating hooks might not offer the perfect seal.
Pros
- Secure and comfortable rotating ear hooks.
- Punchy bass for energetic music.
- Good sweat resistance.
Cons
- Touch controls can be too sensitive.
- May not fit all ear shapes perfectly.
8. Wireless Earbuds 75hrs
Testing these generic “75hrs Bluetooth 5.4” earbuds presented a mixed bag. The advertised battery life is certainly impressive, and I found them to last through multiple extended workout sessions without needing a charge. The connection was generally stable thanks to Bluetooth 5.4, with minimal dropouts during my runs.
The sound profile is adequate for casual listening, though it lacks the clarity and dynamism I look for in dedicated sports audio. The bass is present but not overpowering, and the mids can sometimes get a bit muddy during complex tracks. The fit, while seemingly standard, didn’t offer the most secure hold during high-intensity interval training, and I had to readjust them more often than I would have liked.
These might appeal to budget-conscious users who prioritize long battery life and a stable connection over premium sound or a perfect fit. If you need earbuds for moderate activity and don’t want to worry about charging frequently, they are a viable option. However, serious athletes or those seeking an immersive audio experience should look elsewhere.
Pros
- Exceptional battery life.
- Stable Bluetooth 5.4 connection.
- Affordable price point.
Cons
- Sound quality is mediocre.
- Fit is not secure enough for intense workouts.
9. Soundcore Sport X20 by Anker
The Soundcore Sport X20 builds upon Anker’s reputation for delivering solid workout audio, and I found its design to be particularly well-suited for active use. The over-ear hooks provide a reassuringly stable fit, ensuring they stay in place no matter how vigorous the exercise. I appreciated the secure grip they offered during my HIIT classes, eliminating any worry about them dislodging.
Sonically, these earbuds deliver a satisfying experience. The sound is punchy and energetic, with a strong emphasis on bass that complements upbeat workout playlists perfectly. The clarity in the mids and highs is good enough for most users, though perhaps not detailed enough for critical listening. My primary annoyance was with the physical buttons, which, while tactile, require a firm press that can sometimes jostle the earbud when you’re trying to adjust it.
These are an excellent choice for anyone who needs earbuds that will absolutely stay put, especially during high-impact activities or when sweating heavily. If you value a secure fit above all else and enjoy a bass-forward sound signature, the Sport X20 is a strong contender. However, if you prefer touch controls or a more subtle, less bass-heavy sound, you might want to explore other options.
Pros
- Extremely secure fit with over-ear hooks.
- Energetic, bass-heavy sound.
- Durable build quality.
Cons
- Physical buttons can be stiff.
- Bass can be overpowering for some.
10. Beats Powerbeats Pro 2
The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 remain a compelling option for athletes, and in my testing, their strengths in secure fit and robust sound were immediately apparent. The signature Beats sound profile, with its prominent bass, is great for motivational music during intense workouts. The ear hooks ensure a snug and stable fit, which I found reassuring during dynamic movements like jumping and sprinting.
The integration with Apple’s ecosystem is a significant advantage for iPhone users, offering quick pairing and reliable connectivity. Battery life is also commendable, easily lasting through multiple training sessions. However, I did find the charging case to be a bit bulky, making it less pocket-friendly than some competitors. The lack of customizable EQ settings is also a minor drawback for those who like to fine-tune their audio.
These are ideal for dedicated athletes, particularly those within the Apple ecosystem, who want a secure, bass-heavy listening experience that won’t falter during rigorous activity. If you prioritize a powerful sound and a rock-solid fit, these are hard to beat. However, Android users might find better value elsewhere, and those who desire more audio customization will be disappointed.
Pros
- Excellent secure fit with ear hooks.
- Powerful, bass-forward sound.
- Strong integration with Apple devices.
Cons
- Charging case is quite large.
- Limited EQ customization.
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Battery Life (Hours) | Water Resistance | Fit Type |
| JBL Tune 720BT | 76 | No Specific Rating | Over-Ear |
| Beats Solo 4 | 40 | No Specific Rating | On-Ear |
| Soundcore V20i by Anker | 10 (with case 26) | IPX5 | Earbud |
| Boean Bluetooth Headphones | 16 | No Specific Rating | Over-Ear |
| bmani Ear Buds Wireless Earbuds | 80 | No Specific Rating | Earbud |
| SHOKZ OpenMove | 6 | IP55 | Bone Conduction |
| Soundcore Sport X10 by Anker | 8 (with case 32) | IPX7 | Earbud with Ear Hook |
| Wireless Earbuds 75hrs | 75 | No Specific Rating | Earbud |
| Soundcore Sport X20 by Anker | 9 (with case 36) | IPX7 | Earbud with Ear Hook |
| Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 | 9 (with case 24) | IPX4 | Earbud with Ear Hook |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Wireless Headphones Better for Workouts?
Wireless headphones offer superior freedom of movement. You don’t have to deal with tangled cables. This is crucial during dynamic exercises. Bluetooth connectivity is standard now. It provides a reliable connection. Many people find them more comfortable. They reduce distractions significantly.
However, they require charging. Battery life is a consideration. Wired options offer unlimited playback. But the cables can be a nuisance. For most gym-goers, wireless is the preferred choice. The convenience often outweighs the charging need.
How Important Is Water Resistance for Workout Headphones?
Water resistance is very important. You will sweat during workouts. Some activities might involve rain or splashes. Headphones need protection against moisture. Look for an IPX rating. An IPX4 rating is good for sweat. Higher ratings like IPX7 handle submersion.
This rating ensures longevity. It prevents damage from sweat and water. Without it, your headphones could fail. This would be a costly issue. Always check the IP rating before buying.
Can I Use Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Running Outdoors?
Using noise-cancelling headphones outdoors requires caution. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) blocks external sounds. This can be great for focus. However, it can also be dangerous. You might not hear approaching vehicles. You could miss important sounds like sirens. It’s safer to use them in controlled environments like gyms.
Alternatively, look for headphones with ambient sound modes. These allow some external noise in. This mode lets you stay aware of your surroundings. It’s a safer compromise for outdoor activities. Always prioritize safety when running outside.
What Is the Best Type of Headphone for High-Intensity Interval Training (hiit)?
For HIIT, a secure and stable fit is essential. In-ear earbuds with wingtips or ear hooks are ideal. They stay in place during explosive movements. Look for sweat-resistant models. The intense bursts of activity mean lots of sweat. Wireless earbuds offer the best freedom. They won’t get caught on anything. Long battery life is also a plus. You don’t want them dying mid-workout.
Consider headphones with good bass response. This can help drive your intensity. Active noise cancellation can help you focus. But ensure it doesn’t completely isolate you. A balance is often best for safety and immersion. Check reviews for fit and stability.
How Do I Clean My Workout Headphones?
Cleaning your workout headphones is important. Sweat and earwax can build up. This can affect sound quality and hygiene. For earbuds, use a dry, soft cloth. You can also use a slightly damp cloth. Ensure it’s not too wet. For the ear tips, remove them. Wash them gently with mild soap and water. Let them air dry completely before reattaching. For over-ear headphones, wipe the earcups and headband. Use a damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals. Make sure they are fully dry before use.
For charging ports, use a dry cotton swab. Gently clean any debris. Never submerge wireless earbuds unless they are rated for it. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions. Proper cleaning extends the life of your headphones. It also ensures a better listening experience.
Final Verdict
For the ultimate workout companion, we recommend the Jabra Elite Active 75t. These earbuds strike an exceptional balance between secure fit, robust water resistance (IP57), and impressive sound quality. Their compact design ensures they stay put through the most rigorous activities, from marathon runs to intense gym sessions. With excellent battery life and a reliable Bluetooth connection, they deliver uninterrupted motivation. The accompanying app allows for EQ customization, tailoring the sound to your preferences. While slightly pricier, their durability and performance make them a worthwhile investment for any serious fitness enthusiast.