Best Workout Headphones for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need
Published: July 30th, 2024

🎧As we head into 2024, having the best workout headphones can be almost as important as having the right pair of sneakers. Whether you're hitting the pavement with your favorite playlist or pumping iron to some motivational podcasts, the right headphones can make all the difference.

Our guide looks at key aspects like water resistance, secure fit, sound quality, durability, and battery life to help you find the perfect headphones for your fitness routine.

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Overall Best: Beats PowerBeats 3 Wireless

The Beats PowerBeats 3 Wireless stands out as our overall best pick for workout headphones in 2024. With a robust 12-hour battery life, you won't have to worry about running out of power during your sessions. These headphones are powered by Apple’s W1 chip, ensuring seamless connectivity with iPhones and other Apple devices, and they work flawlessly with standard Bluetooth as well. Their over-ear hook design provides a secure fit, making them perfect for even the most intense workouts. The sound profile is rich with booming bass and clear mids and highs, delivering the motivational sound you need to power through. Additionally, the IPX4 rating guarantees sweat and water resistance, enhancing their durability.

While the design may be slightly bulky for some users, the PowerBeats 3’s performance and reliability make it a top choice for fitness enthusiasts.

Available at Amazon
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Runner-up: Bose SoundSport Pulse

Bose SoundSport Pulse Wireless Headphones, Power Red (With Heart Rate Monitor)

For those who prioritize premium sound and unique features, the Bose SoundSport Pulse is our runner-up. These earbuds are incredibly comfortable, featuring a soft, rubberized finish and winged tips for a secure fit. They also come with a built-in heart rate monitor, making them ideal for fitness enthusiasts who want to track their vitals without extra gadgets. These work seamlessly with popular fitness apps like MapMyRun and Runtastic. The audio quality is what you'd expect from Bose—clear, balanced, and refined. While the 6-hour battery life might be shorter than some competitors, it's still sufficient for most workout sessions.

Though priced on the higher end, the unique features and superior audio quality justify the investment for serious fitness aficionados.

Available at Amazon
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More Answers

Still curious about the Bose SoundSport Pulse Headphones? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Are the Bose SoundSport Pulse Wireless Headphones comfortable for long workouts?
If you're thinking about using the Bose SoundSport Pulse Wireless Headphones for long workouts, comfort's definitely a big deal. They come with a built-in heart rate monitor, which could be handy if you want to keep an eye on your fitness levels through the Bose Connect app. Plus, they sync up with fitness apps like [RunKeeper](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Drunkeeper%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and [MapMyRun](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dmapmyrun%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). That said, our research indicates that the heart rate monitoring feature can be a bit unreliable, especially during intense workouts. Some folks have found that the headphones struggle to keep a steady connection when their heart rates get high, leading to inconsistent readings. You might experience some hiccups, like having to restart the app or adjust the headphones, which can be pretty annoying in the middle of a workout. From what we've gathered, many suggest looking into the non-Pulse version if heart rate monitoring isn't crucial for you. It'll save you some headaches and a bit of cash, since the heart rate sensor seems to have mixed reviews regarding its accuracy. While the Pulse version offers the heart rate feature, you might want to think about its necessity if accurate readings are essential for your high-intensity training. When it comes to comfort, the SoundSport headphones generally get a thumbs up. Bose is known for their sound quality, and these headphones deliver solid highs and deep bass, making them enjoyable for listening over long periods. The earbuds are designed to fit snugly but not too tightly, which helps with comfort and sound quality during workouts. Of course, everyone's ears are different, so your comfort level might vary depending on your ear shape or personal taste. So, if your main focus is on comfort and sound quality, the Bose SoundSport Pulse could work well. Just remember to weigh the importance of heart rate monitoring for your workouts, as our research suggests it's not always spot-on during heavy activities. The decision between the Pulse and non-Pulse versions might come down to whether the extra feature is worth it for you, considering its reliability can be hit-or-miss during demanding sessions.
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How long does the battery last on the Bose SoundSport Pulse Wireless Headphones?
The Bose SoundSport Pulse Wireless Headphones have a battery life of about five hours on a single charge. From our research, that's typically enough to get you through most workout sessions or outdoor activities. These headphones have an open-fit design, so they let in some ambient noise. This can be handy when you're jogging or biking outside since it'll help you stay aware of your surroundings, which adds a bit of safety to your routine. Our research found that a lot of folks appreciate this aspect when they're exercising outdoors. They come with Bose's StayHear+ tips that keep them in place comfortably during your workouts. They might not block as much outside noise compared to the in-ear types that seal your ear canal, but they still deliver solid sound quality, giving you a nice mix of clarity and awareness of your environment. According to our research, most people find them comfy and enjoy their audio quality. But if you want headphones that cancel noise, you might want to check out [Bose's QuietComfort series](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DBose%2BQuietComfort%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). Those have active noise-cancelling features if you're looking for complete silence. So, if you want to stay aware while keeping the tunes going during outdoor activities, these could suit you well. But if longer battery life or noise cancellation is key, exploring other options might be worth it.
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How accurate is the heart rate monitor on the Bose SoundSport Pulse Wireless Headphones?
The heart rate monitor on the Bose SoundSport Pulse Wireless Headphones is a pretty handy feature, especially if you're into tracking your fitness during workouts. From what we've found, the monitor is generally accurate and folks seem to like it. It gives you real-time heart rate updates through an integrated sensor, and you can easily check them out using fitness apps that sync with your headphones. This makes it convenient to keep track of your fitness stats without needing another device. The manufacturer highlights how seamlessly the heart rate monitor is integrated into the headphones, making it super easy to use while you're exercising. It's designed to give you continuous feedback, which can really up your fitness tracking game. For those using apps like the [Bose Connect app](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dbose%2Bconnect%2Bapp%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), it gives you a more complete picture of your workout metrics, thanks to consistent heart rate data. Our research shows that the accuracy can depend a bit on how snug they fit. The best readings happen when the earbuds are comfortably and securely in place. Some people have noticed the readings can be off if the earbuds move around a lot during intense workouts. So, getting the right fit is really important—the headphones come with different ear tip sizes to help you get a good seal. People have also mentioned that the heart rate monitor works well both indoors and outside, adapting easily to different workout settings. The manufacturer's instructions suggest making adjustments now and then during your workouts to keep the sensor properly aligned with your skin. Overall, while it's not perfect, the heart rate monitor on the Bose SoundSport Pulse does a solid job for most casual users and fitness enthusiasts. When you add in features like sweat and water resistance, these headphones are a good choice for anyone looking to enhance their workouts without lugging around extra gear.

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Budget Pick: JLab Go Air Sport

For those on a budget, the JLab Go Air Sport is an incredible option. These wireless earbuds deliver features commonly found in more expensive models, such as an ear-hook design for secure fit, IP55 water and sweat resistance, and an impressive 8-hour battery life on a single charge. Their charging case extends this to a total of 32 hours. They also offer three EQ sound settings for a customizable audio experience. Priced under $30, these earbuds are perfect for casual joggers or gym-goers seeking a reliable and durable audio solution.

The JLab Go Air Sport proves that you don’t need to break the bank to get high-quality workout headphones.

Available at Amazon
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Best for Total Fitness Tracking: Jabra Elite Sport

Jabra Elite Sport Earbuds – Waterproof Fitness & Running Earbuds with Heart Rate and Activity Tracker, True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds with Superior Sound, Advanced Connectivity and Charging Case

The Jabra Elite Sport is the ultimate choice for fitness enthusiasts who want comprehensive tracking and high-performance audio. These true wireless earbuds are equipped with an integrated heart rate monitor and can be paired with the Jabra Sport Life app for detailed fitness tracking. This includes features like runs, heart rate monitoring, and post-workout recovery analytics. With a secure fit ensured by various ear fins and tips, these earbuds are designed to stay in place during intense workouts. The sound quality is robust and balanced, suitable for any media type. Despite the 3-hour battery life per charge, the included case extends total usage to 9 hours, which is sufficient for most workouts.

For those who want both high-quality audio and extensive fitness tracking, the Jabra Elite Sport is an excellent choice.

Available at Amazon
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Best for Noise Cancellation: Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2

Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 Wireless Earbuds with Dolby Atmos Spatial Sound - Advanced Noise Cancelling, All Day Comfort for Work and Fitness, in-Ear Bluetooth Headphones with Smart Case - Gloss Black Elite 10 Gen 2 Gloss Black

If noise cancellation is your top priority, the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 should be on your radar. These earbuds deliver exceptional noise cancellation that can compete with the best from Apple and Sony. They also offer robust audio quality with rich bass and pristine highs, elevating your workout experience. The Jabra companion app provides extensive customization options, including Dolby-based spatial sound modes, allowing for a tailored audio experience. The IP57 rating ensures durability against dust and water, making them suitable for a variety of workouts.

For those looking for top-notch noise cancellation and customizable audio settings, the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 is a stellar choice.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$452.09 at Amazon
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