Best Wireless Workout Headphones

When in gym, enjoy music in comfort with the best wireless workout headphones.

There is a huge amount of choice on the market today if you are looking for wireless headphones.

But only some are designed for workouts and sweat, with features and sound to match…

…and the right price.

In this buyer’s guide, we’ve collected the best wireless workout headphones (all Bluetooth) for use in the gym.

Also, we’ve set out to answer the questions you may have when looking for headphones for working out.

Related:

Best workout headphones

The best wired workout headphones

Best running headphones

Key Features of Wireless Workout Headphones

Certain features set aside the very top options for workout headphones.

Before you try and make your decision, it is helpful to understand all the options as well as the styles of wireless headphones for the workout.

What are the Best Kinds of Wireless Headphones to Wear for a Workout?

There are several different varieties of wireless headphones, and undeniably, some are better for workouts.

Earbuds or in-ear headphones are the best for working out.

Sports headphones tend to be in the form of earbuds rather than big, bulky on-ear or over-ear models.

Of course, this is down to personal preference, and some people prefer large designs. However, most find that smaller wireless earphones are the most comfortable.

Smaller buds:

• get less sweat build-up
• don’t get in the way when you are working out
• are lightweight
• keep in the ears well during movement

True wireless buds have also grown in popularity.

Standard wireless in-ear buds have some form of wires keeping the two earpieces together. True wireless buds don’t have this. They are two individual earpieces, usually kept in a case. The Apple Airpods design is an example of true wireless.

Most Important Features for the Gym

When buying a pair of headphones for a workout, there are features you should prioritize.

These are not the same features you would want for headphones for use around the house or on public transport, for instance.

Stability

First and foremost, when you are looking for workout headphones, you need to choose a stable option (lightweight).

Headphones continually falling out when you are trying to listen to music or a podcast is infuriating.

Ear hooks and ear wings can be an excellent way for headphones to stay put within your ear.

These mold around the outside or inside of the ear in order to stay in place. Both wireless and true wireless buds come with some form of extra hooks or wings to keep them stable.

Having multiple tips available in different sizes can help you get the correct fit for your ears.

Battery life

You should be on the lookout for battery life that suits your needs. The longer, the better.

If you go for long workouts, then you’ll hate a battery that dies halfway through. Distance runners or tour cyclists, for instance, should look for long battery life.

Right now (2020), wireless headphones for working out have from 6 to 10 hours of battery life per charge.

From 4 to 7 hours for true wireless buds (on average).

Other helpful features include fast-charging.

Some headphones let you charge for 10-20 minutes and run for an hour or two, which is enough for a good exercise.

Bluetooth

Wireless headphones work by using a Bluetooth signal from your music device (your smartphone).

There are different generations and types of Bluetooth. The key is that it needs to be reliable, and you can usually tell this from customer reviews.

Bluetooth versions 4.0 and higher are common today, Bluetooth 5.0 is the best (found in some newer headphones).

Bluetooth can experience interference or trouble with connecting to devices. Reliable and quality Bluetooth connection is vital for ensuring this doesn’t happen.

Plus, Bluetooth 5.0 is more energy-efficient and slightly improves the range and speed of data transmission.

Noise cancellation

Noise-cancelling capabilities, whether active or passive, can be very useful for listening in a loud gym.

If you need to have your wits about you, being able to hear some external noise is helpful.

Don’t know the difference between active cancellation and passive isolation?

Water Protection (durability)

Look for IPX or other mentions of water-protection.

What’s their IPX rating? (higher is better)

How well can the headphones survive through sweaty workouts or rain (if working out outside).

Look for IPX4 or higher (IPX4 equals sweatproof).

For fully waterproof headphones, get IPX7 headphones.

Check the best waterproof Bluetooth headphones.

Other features

If you’re reading this, you’ve probably already decided to get wireless headphones, which is the right choice.

But if you’re still on the fence, here’s some pros and cons about wireless vs. wired.

There are other features to consider, not least, the audio quality.

Sound quality should always be a consideration when buying headphones. You want something that sounds as good as possible, and true to your music source (or with boosted bass if that’s your preference).

Other features include comfort (nobody wants to wear uncomfortable headphones for long periods).

You need headphones which are built to last if you are going to be wearing them for long spells in the gym or outdoors. They should be able to take a bit of a beating.

How to Choose Wireless Workout Headphones

Due to the fact, there are a number of different features to workout headphones. Choosing isn’t as simple as saying, “these are definitely the best.”

There is a choice to be made by every individual. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top options, along with nominations of what these headphones are best for.

Consider Where You’ll Be Working Out

An exercise can take place indoors or outdoors.

It can take place somewhere quiet and serene or extremely busy and loud.

The location of your exercise is vital. For instance, if you plan to work out in a gym, you might need to account for the ambient noise level. Noise isolation and noise-cancelling over-ear headphones become a more attractive option.

If you plan to head outdoors for your exercise, think about the climate.

It’s always helpful to have headphones with an IPX rating for water resistance as you will be sweating when working out. However, if you’re outdoors, you may need to consider rain and the elements too.

IP rating tells two things. The first number shows protection against dust. The second number tells protection against water.

Example: IP55 these are well protected against dust, mud, and water (but not fully waterproof).

Don’t Ignore Personal Preference

Never buy headphones just because they’re recommended for a purpose, without thinking about what you like.

For instance, many people know they don’t like the feel of over-ear headphones, and go for in-ear headphones instead.

You may prefer true wireless earphones, or you might like the feeling of earbuds hooking around your ears.

If you’ve got a preference with one particular style, make your headphone choice based on this.

Comfort is Paramount

You need to find headphones you’re going to be happy to wear for long workout sessions.

If they’re not comfy, your motivation to work out is going to tail off. Nobody wants to put themselves through unneeded pain.

If you have an unusual ear shape or size, you might find that comfort is not as easy to come by.

We’ve made a specific guide on the most comfortable earbuds which may help you find an appropriate option.

Most earbud designs have multiple ear tips. This can allow you to choose which size best suits your ear.

Always take the time to do this, as it can lead to far better comfort. If your buds allow it, get a pair of memory-foam eartips as these conform to the shape of an ear canal.

Do You Want Wireless Functionality?

Consider the devices that you’ll be using your headphones with.

If you plan to simply use the sound from your phone, and nothing else, then most Bluetooth connections will be okay with modern smartphones.

When working out, your needs may be more advanced. If you’re listening while working out at home, you may want to connect your television or other wireless devices.

Some headphones allow you to have multiple devices connected at once (Multipoint), whereas some others are restricted to one.

Best Wireless Workout Headphones

1. Jabra Elite Active 75t

See full review.

Why Buy These?

What makes these Jabras so great is their versatility.

You can use them in a loud gym with a high level of noise isolation. But if you want to wear them on a cycling trip, you can turn on HearThrough mode and get perfect awareness.

And in case a friend calls you, accept the call with built-in controls and hold a clear conversation thanks to the 4-microphone system.

On top of that, you enjoy many different activities. These sure can’t be suitable for all?

You’re wrong. With IP57, you can dip them in water or make them dirty of chalk during a climb. The Elite Active 75t don’t mind thanks to a durable design.

Furthermore, a 7-hour battery life with 20h more in the charging case ensures you don’t run out of music when you most need it. And if that happens, a 15-minute quick charge gives you 1 hour more of playtime.

The Bad

A bit pricier at around $200. Small soundstage.

The Sound

Great sound quality for all kinds of music, especially bassy, modern genres.

Bass emphasized sound works for a lot of active people, but if you want to equalize it, you can do it with the Sound+ app.

It’s a versatile audio design that satisfies most people. Read more about it in the review.

Jabra Elite Active 75t review.

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2. Beats PowerBeats Pro

See full review.

Why Buy These?

If you want true wireless, with a perfectly stable fit, great battery life, and powerful bass, then these are your best choice.

PowerBeats Pro are much better for working out than AirPods due to ear hooks, IPX4 sweat protection, and blazing quick-charging (5min = 1.5h of music).

They also come with auto on/off ability that makes pausing music effortless. You probably often get distracted in the gym, and pressing the pause button is unnecessary.

The true wireless design is perfect for all kinds of exercise. You can easily bench press as the wires aren’t in the way (like with many behind-the-neck buds).

And, to make phone calls and voice commands as easy as possible, there’s a built-in mic on each side. Plus, you can control volume and music selection with physical on-board buttons.

The Bad

More expensive compared to competition. Can be uncomfortable for smaller ears.

The Sound

A typical bass-boosted sound that we’re used from Beats. But this time it’s more refined and detailed but equally powerful. The overall sound quality is slightly V-shaped, but more on that in the review.

Check the full Beats PowerBeats Pro review.

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3. Jaybird Vista

See full review.

Why Buy These?

If you consider yourself a bit clumsy, these buds are a perfect choice for you. Apart from the IPX7 standard of water resistance, meaning you can fully submerge them, they also come with MIL-STD-810G. The latter is a military standard, ensuring they can survive multiple drops on a hard surface.

Their battery life might not be stellar, but 6 hours of playtime is more than enough for a day or two at the gym. If you ever run low on juice, there is an additional 10 hours inside the charging case.

Despite the motto “no pain, no gain”, you don’t want your buds to cause discomfort during exercises. Thankfully, you can wear Vista’s for hours, with a secure fit provided by ear fin design.

The Bad

Considering the price, the microphone quality is disappointing.

The Sound

You can tweak the sound of these just the way you like. They can be bassy, balanced, or bright. But they always stay punchy and fun to listen to.

If you want great build and sound quality, go with the Jaybird Vista.

Check the full Jaybird Vista Review.

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4. TaoTronics SoundLiberty 77

See full review.

Why Buy These?

These earbuds are very comfortable, while also providing a secure fit, despite their bulkiness.

The earbud’s housing is made from strong plastic (that can even survive being attacked by a pet). Apart from that, you can also rest assure water can’t harm them, since they sport IPX7 water protection.

Their pairing process is very straightforward. Bluetooth 5.0 connection is reliable and has good coverage. Battery life is also pretty good, providing you with 6 hours of playtime, with the charging case hiding another 15 hours.

The Bad

Finding the perfect seal can be a frustrating task since the ear tips are very shallow.

The Sound

These are a bit midrange forward, with lots of details in the instruments and vocals. However, on some tracks, they can become a bit harsh. Bass is nice and punchy, while the treble provides just enough energy to add some air and sparkle.

If you want to save some money and still get excellent workout buds, then look no further.

Check the full TaoTronics SoundLiberty 77 review.

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5. Aukey EP-N5

See the full review.

Why Buy These?

You can take these on your runs, or intense workout at the gym: IPX5 water resistance is making sure the sweat and water can’t damage the buds’ internals.

If your gym is crowded, having active noise-cancellation might be a great idea. You can drown out other people and only enjoy your tunes.

Battery life varies in combination with ANC. If you leave it off, you can expect around 7.5 hours of playtime. On the other hand, with ANC on your getting 4.5 hours on a single charge. Altogether, there are 35 hours of juice inside the charging case.

The Bad

Call quality is horrible, with lots of distortion.

The Sound

These are quite bassy but in a good way. Their low-end doesn’t bleed into the midrange. However, it does make it warm. Instruments and vocals sound natural, with treble being smooth and rolled-off. The result is a laid-back sound that can satisfy most users.

For under $60, these are a steal. Apart from microphone quality, these are a great choice for casual users and sportspeople.

Check the full Aukey EP-N5 review.

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6. Adidas RPT-01

Why Buy These?

The same way you change your clothes after every workout, you can also wash these headphones. They’re dressed in a washable fabric that you can take off. That is how you keep your headphones smelling fresh every time you hit the gym.

These headphones are very durable. You can twist them in every direction, and nothing will break. You can also drench them sweat since they sport IPX4 water protection.

For a headphone that small (on-ear), the battery life is excellent. You’re getting somewhere around 40 hours of continuous playback, depending on how loud you like your music.

The Bad

Adidas made them very unique looking, which might not appeal to everyone.

The Sound

For sports, the bass is essential. It gives you the boost necessary for keeping your energy up, improving your results. That is why RPT-01 have a powerful low-end, suitable for most popular genres. The only downside is the treble, which lacks detail.

If you want to look unique and the bass is what you want from your headphones, Adidas RPT-01 should be your top choice.

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7. AfterShokz Aeropex

Read the full review.

Why Buy These?

AfterShokz Aeropex are suitable for working out when you need to hear your surroundings.

Runners or cyclists need to hear traffic, and these headphones offer perfect awareness.

Bone conduction isn’t just a novelty, as it exists for a while now with many happy users.

Up to 8 hours of battery life is good even for long workouts. Also, they’re waterproof, meaning rain and sweat won’t affect them.

The AfterShokz Aeropex are extremely comfortable and stay stable in the ears. Plus, the wireless is extremely reliable, making them great workout companions.

The Bad

Some people struggle with bone conduction headphones, there’s definitely a different feel as they vibrate on your head.

Bass is a bit weak with bone conduction headphones.

The Sound

The Aeropex have upgraded sound compared to the previous Air model.

There’s a noticeable bass boost, and the sound is the best we’ve heard from bone conduction headphones.

Though to get strong lows, you have to use the included earplugs.

To stay fully alert during your workouts, consider the AfterShokz Aeropex.

AfterShokz Aeropex review

Find similar options among the best bone conduction headphones.

8. Treblab Z2

Check our Treblab Z2 review.

Why Buy These?

These headphones are built quite well, with a soft finish to make them feel more premium. They come with a decently padded headband and earpads that are dressed in a pleather.

Treblab made these IPX4 water-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about ruining them with sweat. Despite fitting gently on your head, they don’t come off that quickly during exercises.

You can enable active noise-cancellation with a simple toggle on the side of the cup. It helps you to drown out gym noise. Don’t expect wonders, but it does its job reasonably well.

The Bad

Micro-USB port for charging.

Earpads don’t breathe, so your ears can get quite sweaty.

The Sound

If you mostly listen to popular genres like hip hop, EDM, or rap, try to leave the noise-canceling disabled. That way, you get the punchiest bass out of these. However, if you want the best sound quality, turn the noise-canceling on. Everything sounds clearer but at the cost of low-end slam.

These wireless headphones might have their quirks, but they’re still a great choice for workout cans.

Check our Treblab Z2 review.

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Best Affordable Wireless Workout Headphones

9. Jlab Audio Jbuds Air

See the Jbuds Air review.

Why Buy These?

Not everybody needs $100+ headphones, and you can get a decent pair for half that.

The Jbuds Air offer everything more expensive true wireless headphones do but to a lower degree.

Still, the battery life is solid at 5.5 hours per charge with 15 hours more in the charging case.

They’re waterproof with IPX5, stay in the ears really well thanks to rubber sleeves, and you barely feel in them during an exercise.

You can control the music with built-in buttons, call up a voice assistant, or call your friend via the included microphone. They can do almost everything premium buds can do.

The Bad

Due to a wider design, they might be uncomfortable for small ears. Random connection hiccups.

The Sound

You get to choose from 3 EQ presets. Jlab signature is V-shaped, balanced tries to be neutral, and bass boost, which amps up the lows.

The overall sound isn’t spectacular but makes for an enjoyable audio experience in the gym. Considering the price, you can’t expect much more though it would be nice.

Read the Jlab Audio Jbuds Air review.

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10. iTeknic IK-BH001

See full review.

Why Buy These?

For such a cheap set of headphones to trump all the competition when it comes to battery life is very impressive (we tested it in the review).

These don’t have unbelievable sound, but they stay reliably in your ears.

The earbud casing is bigger but doesn’t affect the fit too much. Though they’re more likely to fall out during exercise, it’s not a constant problem.

Moreover, they have IPX7 water resistance and block water, perfect for sweaty sessions.

The Bluetooth compatibility is reliable, and they stay connected during most workouts.

Also, tight ear tips do a good job of blocking out external noise, perfect for a noisy gym.

The Bad

There’s not much to fault at this price. Obviously, ultra Hi-Fi sound isn’t available for such a cheap price, but these exceed expectations. The only thing that’s worth mentioning is that they’re a bit heavier and bigger, which makes them easier to lose the airtight fit.

The Sound

It can’t be compared to higher-end headphones, but it’s close enough. Sound quality can easily compare to other under $30 Bluetooth in-ears.

For reliable, long-lasting and cheap wirelesses headphones for the gym, get the iTeknic BH001.

Check the full iTeknic BH001 review to find out more.

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Honorable Mentions

Some headphones which we like, but don’t quite make the list, include:

• BlueAnt Pump Zone – Great over-ear headphones, but on the expensive side and a little hard to get hold of.
• Bose SoundLink II – These are popular wireless over-ear headphones, but aren’t really suitable for heavy sport use (no sweat resistance).
• Bose SoundSport Pulse – Older model but with heart-rate monitor and Bose sound.

Also, if you are happy to go with wired workout headphones, and don’t need wireless capabilities, here are some further options.