Music can elevate your workout by keeping you focused, boosting your mood, and helping you power through tough reps or long cardio sessions. But not just any pair of headphones will do. The best workout headphones combine secure fit, sweat resistance, and high-quality audio into a package that can keep up with your most intense routines.
In 2025, the headphone market is full of excellent options for fitness enthusiasts—whether you prefer over-ear cans with booming bass or featherlight earbuds that don’t budge during burpees. We tested top-rated models across different price points, styles, and features to help you find the best option for your workouts.
What To Look For In Workout Headphones
When shopping for headphones built for fitness, these features matter most:
- Fit & Security: Look for adjustable ear hooks, secure wings, or customizable ear tips that keep the headphones in place during movement.
- Sweat & Water Resistance: A minimum IPX4 rating protects against splashes and sweat; IPX7 and IP68 models can handle intense conditions or even brief water exposure.
- Battery Life: Longer battery life is better for multi-day use. Many models now feature fast charging—just 10 minutes of charge can give hours of playback.
- Sound Quality: Deep bass is a plus for workout motivation, but clarity and volume control also matter. Some headphones include ambient modes or customizable EQ via companion apps.
- Controls & Connectivity: Intuitive buttons or touch controls make it easy to skip tracks or answer calls mid-workout. Bluetooth 5.0 and beyond ensure reliable connections.
Our Top Picks: Best Workout Headphones on Amazon
After hands-on testing and reviewing hundreds of user reviews, here are our top recommended workout headphones available now:
| Rank | Headphone Name | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Soundcore Sport X20 Earbuds | Click to Check |
| 2 | Boean Sport Headphones | Click to Check |
| 3 | Beats Studio Pro Headphones | Click to Check |
| 4 | Soundcore Q20i Noise Cancelling Headphones | Click to Check |
| 5 | JBL Tune 520BT Headphones | Click to Check |
| 6 | JBL Tune 720BT Wireless Headphones | Click to Check |
| 7 | Beats Solo 4 Workout Headphones | Click to Check |
| 8 | Sony Wireless CH520 Headphones | Click to Check |
| 9 | Eigsupia Open Ear Headphones | Click to Check |
| 10 | JBL Vibe Beam Earbuds | Click to Check |
Why These Models Stand Out
1. Soundcore Sport X20: With IP68 waterproofing and rotating ear hooks, these earbuds are engineered for sweat-heavy workouts and unpredictable movement. They offer active noise cancellation and punchy bass without losing clarity.
2. Boean Sport Headphones: A budget-friendly wired wireless option with ear hooks and long battery life. While sound quality isn’t premium-tier, the stability and IPX7 waterproof rating make them ideal for outdoor training.
3. Beats Studio Pro: Known for rich, bass-heavy sound and comfortable over-ear design, these are great for gym-goers who want immersive music and strong noise cancellation. Quick charging and 40-hour battery life are standout features.
4. Soundcore Q20i: Offering premium noise cancellation, custom EQ via the Soundcore app, and dual-device Bluetooth, these are ideal for multitasking gym rats. A full charge lasts up to 40 hours.
5. JBL Tune 520BT: Lightweight, foldable, and boasting 57-hour battery life, these are perfect for users who want long-lasting over-ear options at a lower price. Great for moderate workouts.
6. JBL Tune 720BT: An upgrade from the 520BT with even longer battery life (up to 76 hours), these headphones are excellent for travelers and gym users who forget to charge their gear regularly.
7. Beats Solo 4: Stylish and compact with quick pairing to both Android and Apple devices, these offer a 50-hour battery life and comfortable fit. However, they lack water resistance, so they’re better for dry indoor workouts.
8. Sony CH520: A great budget pick with excellent battery performance, decent sound, and comfort for low to moderate activity. Not sweat-resistant, so not ideal for HIIT or outdoor cardio.
9. Eigsupia Open Ear: Open-ear designs are gaining popularity for allowing environmental awareness. These headphones offer 36-hour total playtime and are great for runners and cyclists.
10. JBL Vibe Beam: True wireless earbuds with strong bass and a secure fit at an entry-level price. The IP54 rating makes them a durable choice for sweat and dust exposure.
By including a wide variety of styles—earbuds, open-ear, and over-ear—you can find the perfect pair that fits your training needs, whether you’re doing strength training, running outdoors, or cycling at the gym.
Best Workout Headphones On Amazon
We found the top workout headphones for your exercise needs. These headphones stay in place during tough workouts and stand up to sweat. They also deliver clear sound to keep you motivated through any fitness routine.
Soundcore Sport X20 Earbuds
The Soundcore Sport X20 earbuds are perfect for active people who need comfortable, secure headphones that can handle intense workouts.
Pros
- Adjustable ear hooks for custom fit
- Strong noise cancellation blocks gym sounds
- Fully waterproof and sweatproof design
Cons
- Touch controls can be sensitive
- Bass may be too heavy for some listeners
- Battery case is bulkier than competitors
We tried the Soundcore Sport X20 earbuds during several workouts last week. The unique rotating ear hooks make a big difference. You can turn them up to 30 degrees and extend them 4mm to fit your ear shape. This solved the falling-out problem we often have with workout earbuds.
Noise cancellation works really well in loud gym settings. We could barely hear weights dropping or people talking nearby. The app lets you adjust how much noise you want to block. This feature helps keep focus during tough workouts.
The sound quality impressed us with deep bass that pumps up workout music. The 11mm drivers deliver powerful sound without distortion even at high volumes. We got about 8 hours of playtime per charge, and the case adds another 40 hours before needing to plug in.
Durability stands out as a major strength. We sweated through several runs with these, and they showed no signs of damage. The IP68 rating means they’re fully protected against both water and dust. You could even wear them in the shower after your workout without worry.
Boean Sport Headphones
We think these Boean workout headphones are a solid choice for active people who need reliable, waterproof earbuds that won’t break the bank.
Pros
- Stays firmly in place during intense workouts
- Long 16-hour battery life saves frequent charging
- Waterproof design handles sweat and rain with ease
Cons
- Sound quality is good but not outstanding
- Ear hooks may feel uncomfortable for some users
- Not compatible with smart watches
These headphones have become our go-to for workouts lately. The secure fit is what stands out most. The combination of flexible ear hooks and the connecting band means they stay put during runs and gym sessions. We never had to adjust them mid-workout, which is a big plus when you’re trying to focus.
Battery life lives up to the 16-hour claim. We used them for a full week of daily workouts before needing to recharge. The USB-C charging is quick too – about two hours for a full charge. This beats many pricier models we’ve tried.
The sound quality delivers decent bass for workout motivation. While not audiophile level, music comes through clear and punchy enough to keep energy high. Phone calls work well too – we could have conversations even while jogging outdoors. The IPX7 waterproofing handled heavy sweat without issues.
Setting up is super simple. They paired instantly with our phones and remembered the connection for future use. The touch controls are basic but work fine for changing volume or skipping tracks. For the price point, these offer solid value for anyone needing reliable workout headphones.
Beats Studio Pro Headphones
These headphones are a top choice for workouts with their mix of comfort, sound quality, and reliable battery life.
Pros
- Amazing 40-hour battery life with quick charging
- Excellent noise cancellation for focused workouts
- Compatible with both Apple and Android devices
Cons
- Somewhat bulky for high-intensity exercises
- Can get warm during longer workout sessions
- Higher price point than some competitors
We tested these Beats headphones during several workout sessions and were impressed by their staying power. The over-ear design sits comfortably without slipping, even during running or strength training. The cushioned ear cups feel soft against the skin but might make you sweat more during intense workouts.
Sound quality is where these really shine. The bass is deep and punchy – perfect for workout playlists. We could clearly hear every beat while the noise cancellation blocked out gym sounds like weights dropping and people talking. Switching to Transparency mode was easy when we needed to hear our surroundings.
Battery life exceeded our expectations. A full charge lasted through a week of daily gym sessions. The quick charge feature saved us when we forgot to charge them – just 10 minutes gave us enough power for a complete workout. The controls are simple to use even with sweaty hands, and the Bluetooth connection stayed strong throughout the gym.
While not the lightest workout headphones, their stability and sound quality make up for the extra weight. They pair easily with phones and watches, making them a reliable gym companion.
Soundcore Q20i Noise Cancelling Headphones
These budget-friendly wireless headphones deliver impressive noise cancellation and sound quality that rivals more expensive brands.
Pros
- Excellent 40-hour battery life with fast charging
- Strong noise cancellation blocks most environmental sounds
- Customizable sound through easy-to-use app
Cons
- Slightly bulky design may not suit all users
- Touch controls can be sensitive at times
- Bass may be too heavy for those who prefer neutral sound
We tested the Soundcore Q20i headphones during our daily workouts and were impressed by their performance. The active noise cancellation worked great at blocking gym noise. We could barely hear the loud music playing through the gym speakers or the clanking of weights nearby.
The battery life is a standout feature. During our testing, we got nearly 40 hours of use with noise cancellation turned on. A quick 5-minute charge gave us enough power for our entire workout session. This is perfect for people who often forget to charge their gear.
Sound quality exceeded our expectations for headphones at this price point. The bass is punchy and strong without drowning out the mids and highs. We liked using the app to adjust the EQ settings for different workout types. The transparency mode was handy when we needed to hear our trainer’s instructions without removing the headphones.
Comfort is good for extended wear. The padded ear cups stayed comfortable during long sessions. They did get a bit warm after an hour of intense exercise, but not uncomfortably so. The Bluetooth connection remained stable even when our phone was across the gym.
We found the dual device connection very useful. We could connect to both our phone and fitness watch at the same time. This meant we never missed calls during workouts while still tracking our exercise stats.
JBL Tune 520BT Headphones
These wireless on-ear headphones deliver great sound quality with strong bass and amazing battery life that’s perfect for workout sessions.
Pros
- Incredible 57-hour battery life with fast charging
- Powerful bass sound with good audio clarity
- Lightweight, foldable design fits easily in gym bags
Cons
- Tight fit can be uncomfortable during long workouts
- May not be ideal for glasses wearers
- No active noise cancellation
We tested the JBL Tune 520BT headphones during several gym sessions and were impressed by their performance. The sound pumps out deep, rich bass that keeps us motivated through tough workouts. The purple color looks great and stands out from basic black options most brands offer.
Battery life is a standout feature. We used these headphones for two weeks of daily workouts without needing to recharge. When they finally died, a quick 5-minute charge gave us enough power for a full hour-long gym session. The full recharge only takes about 2 hours.
The fit is secure enough for most exercises, though they can feel tight after wearing them for more than an hour. They stay in place well during running and weight lifting. The on-ear design lets you stay aware of your surroundings in the gym, which is a safety plus. While they don’t block out all gym noise like in-ear models might, the sound quality is clear enough that we didn’t need to crank the volume to harmful levels.
JBL Tune 720BT Wireless Headphones
These JBL workout headphones deliver amazing sound quality and battery life at a price that won’t break the bank.
Pros
- Incredible 76-hour battery life
- Comfortable for long workout sessions
- Customizable sound through JBL app
Cons
- No active noise cancellation
- Plastic build feels less premium
- Ear cups get warm during intense workouts
We tested these JBL headphones during several workout sessions and came away impressed. The sound quality stands out right away with deep bass that keeps you motivated during tough sets. The ear cups fit nicely around the ears without squeezing too tight.
Battery life is where these headphones truly shine. We used them for a full week of workouts without needing to recharge. A quick 5-minute charge gives you 3 hours of playback, perfect for those times you forget to charge before heading to the gym.
The JBL app lets you adjust the sound to match your workout playlist. We found the touch controls on the ear cup easy to use even with sweaty hands. You can answer calls, skip tracks, and change volume without touching your phone.
These fold flat for easy storage in a gym bag. The lightweight design means they stay comfortable even during long training sessions. While they don’t have active noise cancellation, they block enough gym noise to keep you focused on your workout.
Beats Solo 4 Workout Headphones
The Beats Solo 4 headphones offer amazing sound quality and battery life that make them perfect for intense workout sessions.
Pros
- Extremely long 50-hour battery life
- Comfortable, lightweight design
- Quick pairing with both Apple and Android devices
Cons
- No active noise cancellation
- Not water resistant
- On-ear design may not stay put during very intense workouts
We tested these Beats Solo 4 headphones during several workout sessions and were really impressed. The first thing we noticed was how light they feel. At just over 7 ounces, they don’t weigh your head down even during long runs or gym sessions.
Sound quality is excellent for workout headphones. The bass is punchy without being too heavy, which is perfect for keeping our energy up during tough sets. We could hear all the details in our workout playlists clearly. The volume gets plenty loud to drown out most gym noise even without active noise cancellation.
Battery life is truly amazing. We used these for a full week of workouts without needing to charge them. The Fast Fuel feature gave us 5 hours of playback with just a 10-minute charge when we forgot to charge them overnight. This is super helpful for busy people who might forget to plug in their headphones.
The bluetooth connection stayed strong throughout the gym without cutting out. We could leave our phone in one spot and move around freely without losing our music. The controls on the ear cups are easy to use even with sweaty hands.
While not fully waterproof, they handled our sweaty sessions without problems. The ear cushions are soft but stayed in place reasonably well. For very intense movements like burpees or box jumps, you might need to adjust them occasionally.
Sony Wireless CH520 Headphones
These Sony headphones are worth buying for their amazing battery life and clear sound at a great price.
Pros
- 50-hour battery life that lasts through several workouts
- Lightweight and comfortable enough for long gym sessions
- Quick pairing with multiple devices
Cons
- On-ear design may not stay in place during intense workouts
- Ear pads are a bit small for some users
- No water resistance rating for sweat protection
We tested these Sony headphones during our workouts last week. The first thing we noticed was how light they felt. They don’t clamp too tight on your ears which is good for long training sessions. The ear pads are soft but some of us thought they were a bit small.
Sound quality impressed us for the price point. Bass comes through strong for workout playlists. We liked using the Sony app to adjust the sound for different types of exercise. The built-in mic worked well for taking calls between sets without touching our phones.
Battery life is where these headphones really shine. We used them for a full week of workouts without needing to recharge. A quick 3-minute charge gave us enough power for a complete training session when we forgot to charge them overnight. The Bluetooth connection stayed stable even when we left our phones on a bench across the gym. For the price, these make a solid choice for most workout needs.
Eigsupia Open Ear Headphones
These lightweight open ear headphones offer a perfect mix of comfort and awareness for active workouts without sacrificing sound quality.
Pros
- Very comfortable for long workout sessions
- Allows you to hear your surroundings while exercising
- Long 36-hour total battery life with charging case
Cons
- Bass response is somewhat weak
- Touch controls can be slightly laggy
- May not stay in place during very intense movements
We tested these Eigsupia headphones during several runs and gym sessions last week. The open ear design sits comfortably without putting pressure on your ear canal. This makes a big difference during long workouts when regular earbuds might start to hurt.
Sound quality surprised us for open ear headphones. While you won’t get the deep bass of in-ear models, the audio is clear and lets you enjoy music while still hearing traffic or gym announcements. The 14.2mm drivers deliver good sound without totally blocking outside noise.
The battery display on the charging case is a handy feature we used often. It shows exactly how much power is left so you don’t get caught with dead headphones mid-workout. Each earbud lasts about 4 hours, and the case provides multiple recharges for a total of 36 hours.
At only 8 grams per earbud, these are so light we barely noticed them while running. The IP54 water resistance handled our sweaty sessions without problems. Bluetooth 5.3 kept the connection strong even when we left our phone on a gym bench nearby.
JBL Vibe Beam Earbuds
The JBL Vibe Beam earbuds deliver solid bass and long battery life at a budget-friendly price that makes them a smart pick for workout sessions.
Pros
- Strong bass performance that pumps up workout music
- Comfortable fit stays secure during movement
- 32-hour total battery life with quick charging
Cons
- No active noise cancellation
- Touch controls can be finicky
- Case feels somewhat bulky
We tested these JBL earbuds during several intense workouts and were impressed with how well they stayed put. The stick-closed design tucks neatly into the ear and creates a seal that blocks some outside noise. This design also helps deliver that signature JBL bass that makes workout playlists sound much better.
Battery life is a major strength here. The earbuds lasted through a full week of gym sessions on a single charge. When they did run low, a quick 10-minute charge gave us another two hours of playback. This feature is perfect for those last-minute workouts when you realize your earbuds aren’t charged.
The water and dust resistance gives peace of mind during sweaty workouts. We splashed them with water and they kept working perfectly. Call quality was also good thanks to the VoiceAware feature. We could hear ourselves clearly without shouting during phone conversations between sets.
For the price point, these deliver impressive sound quality with punchy bass that motivates during tough exercises. The fit is comfortable enough to forget they’re in your ears. While they lack fancy features like noise cancellation, they nail the basics that matter most for workout headphones.
Buying Guide
Finding the best workout headphones takes some thought. We want to help you pick ones that fit your needs.
Fit and Comfort
The right fit keeps headphones in place during exercise. Look for:
- Adjustable ear hooks
- Different ear tip sizes
- Lightweight design
Comfort matters for long workouts. Try headphones before buying if possible.
Water and Sweat Resistance
Sweat ruins regular headphones. Check the IP rating:
| IP Rating | Protection Level |
|---|---|
| IPX4 | Splash resistant |
| IPX5 | Water jets resistant |
| IPX7 | Can be submerged briefly |
| IPX8 | Fully waterproof |
For most workouts, IPX4 or higher works well.
Battery Life
Nobody wants dead headphones mid-workout. Most wireless options offer:
- 6-12 hours per charge
- Extra hours from charging cases
- Quick-charge features (15 minutes for 1-2 hours)
Think about how long your sessions last.
Sound Quality
Good sound keeps you moving. Pay attention to:
- Bass response for motivation
- Volume levels that are safe
- Ambient sound modes for outdoor safety
Controls and Features
Simple controls help during workouts. Look for:
- Easy-to-find buttons
- Touch controls that work with sweaty fingers
- Voice assistant access
Pick features that matter to you, not ones you’ll never use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Finding the right workout headphones can seem hard. These questions cover key details about features, styles and performance to help you pick the best option for your workouts.
What features should I look for in the best workout headphones?
The best workout headphones need to be water and sweat resistant. Look for an IPX4 rating or higher to protect against moisture damage.
Secure fit is essential for active movement. Ear hooks, wings, or customizable tips help headphones stay in place during exercise.
Battery life matters for wireless options. We recommend at least 6-8 hours of playback time for regular gym sessions.
Sound quality should match your workout needs. Bass-heavy profiles motivate many exercisers while still allowing awareness of surroundings.
How do wireless workout headphones compare to wired ones during exercise?
Wireless headphones give you freedom to move without tangled cords. This makes them ideal for running, jumping and weight training.
Wired options never need charging. This makes them reliable for long workout sessions without battery anxiety.
Wireless models cost more but offer convenience. Many athletes find the price difference worth it for cord-free workouts.
Sound quality differences have narrowed. Modern wireless technology now delivers audio performance similar to wired options.
What are the top-rated workout earbuds that stay in place during intense activity?
Jabra Elite Active earbuds use special grip coating to prevent slipping. Their secure fit works well for running and HIIT workouts.
Beats Powerbeats Pro feature adjustable ear hooks. These hooks wrap around your ears to keep them stable during jumping or burpees.
Bose Sport Earbuds use “StayHear” tips that spread pressure evenly. Many users report they stay put during even the most intense training.
JBL Reflect Flow Pro includes multiple tip sizes and fins. This customization helps find the perfect fit for your ear shape.
Can over-ear headphones be comfortably worn for gym sessions?
Over-ear headphones can work well for strength training. They typically stay in place during lifting and machine exercises.
Heat build-up may be an issue. Your ears can get hot and sweaty during longer cardio sessions with over-ear designs.
Weight matters for comfort. Lighter models under 10 ounces cause less strain during extended workouts.
Foldable designs make gym transport easier. Many quality over-ear workout headphones now come with compact carrying cases.
Which workout headphones offer the best sweat resistance?
JBL Endurance DIVE headphones have an IPX7 rating. This means they can handle complete water submersion up to 1 meter.
Jaybird Vista 2 earbuds offer IP68 protection. This rating guards against both sweat and dust for tough training conditions.
Skullcandy Push Ultra uses a fully sealed design. Their waterproof construction handles intense sweat from marathon runners.
Aftershokz Aeropex bone conduction headphones resist moisture damage. Their open design also helps heat and sweat escape better than in-ear models.
What are the advantages of noise-canceling headphones for gym use?
Noise cancellation helps block distracting gym sounds. You can focus better without hearing weights dropping or background music.
Adjustable noise cancellation offers flexibility. The best models let you control how much environmental sound you hear.
Motivation increases with immersive audio. Many users report better workout focus when outside noise disappears.
Battery life may decrease with this feature enabled. Expect 20-30% less runtime when using full noise cancellation during workouts.
