Best wireless earbuds 2021: Buying Guide
Workout headphones are one of those items many people take for granted. Yes they can be used at work, home or even when commuting or traveling. But being locked away indoors without anywhere to go while the UK is now in the 2nd lockdown and your old headphones maybe sitting in the same place you left them, while your remain the same place & binge watch your favourite film or drama series.
While many of us are feeling overweight and unfit, many brits have taken on the challenge and started looking after themselves by eating better and getting more active. Utilizing our limited outdoor time by going for a walk or a running down the local park has been a great foot in the door when it comes to exercising more.
But there will always come a time when you need to take the plunge and invested in a Home gym even if that’s a treadmill, multi gym or even peloton style cycling bike.
One big appeal of wireless earbuds is the freedom. With no wires running between headphones and phone, they won’t restrict your movement one bit. That’s handy for commuting and general day-to-day life and great if you’re into sports and exercise.
Some wireless earbuds have a cable or neckband connecting the buds together, but many of the options you’ll see on the list below don’t – they look just like earplugs. Other extras can include noise-cancelling tech, touch controls and carry cases that double as chargers. And now wireless earbuds also tend to offer hands-free access to personal assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Siri. Just speak your request, and they’ll do your bidding.
With so many models and styles and so much tech on offer, though, it can make finding the best wireless earbuds for you a bit of a minefield.
Thankfully help is at hand. We’ve rounded up the best wireless earbuds on the market, drawing on our extensive back catalogue of in-depth reviews of Bluetooth in-ears. So whether you want the comfiest pair on the planet, one with brilliant battery life or just want the wireless earbuds with the best sound on the market, we’re sure to have a pair of buds for you…
What do I need to know when buying Wireless Earbuds for my workout?
Not all wireless headphones are cut out for workouts. There are certain important qualities that come into play when choosing the right pair of wireless workout headphones.
Consider asking the following questions:
Does it fit comfortably and stay on well?
Is it sweat/water-resistant?
How long is the battery life?
Does it have built-in mic and controls?
How is the sound isolation?
So why are these questions important? We have explained them in detail below. Click on the title below to expand.
Form Factor
As mentioned above, there are different forms of wireless in-ear and over-ear headphones that you can wear for workout. Learning about them is extremely important. If the headphones are uncomfortable or don’t stay snug while you are exercising, it will be a burden for workouts. Imagine holding on to your loose headphones while jogging on the treadmill. That is really a pain in the ass.
Choose IEMs Over Earbuds
Wireless in-ear headphones are a popular choice among fitness fanatics because of their portability and lightness. They come in two forms – IEM and Earbuds.
In-Ear Monitors (IEM) are headphones that have the driver units inserted into your ear canals and stays snug there. IEMs come in with foam or silicone ear tips in different sizes to fit different ears.
Earbuds, on the one hand, sit inside your ears’ concha bowl, the lower cup of your ears right before the canal. Unlike IEM and their replaceable ear tips, they are often one-size-fits-all. Thus, earbuds might fit less snugly and could fall off during workouts more often than IEMs.
Neckband
IEM doesn’t guarantee that the driver units will not slip off. This is why most wireless workout headphones have neckband. If the driver units drop out of the ear, the neckband will make sure the driver unit stay intact around the wearer and he can easily place it back.
The “neckband look” has drawn many criticisms as a fashion faux pas but it served its primary function really well.
Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
Wireless over-ear headphones have ear cups that go over the ear and a headband that supports the headphones on the head. In terms of form factor, the over-ear headphones are more likely to stay snug while the wearer is exercising. This holds true as long as the clamping force is reasonable, else the wearer will experience fatigue.
However, over-ear headphones have their own downside. They are bulkier than in-ear headphones and if the ear pads are not nano-coated, they will get damaged by the sweat.
So Which Form is The Best?
We recommend going for a pair of wireless IEM as a daily driver for workout. IEM is lighter, easier to maintain and has options to upgrade their fit with different ear tips. If you are afraid of misplacing them, you can choose one that comes with a neckband.
Sweat is the kryptonite of wireless workout headphones, and it dictates their durability to a great extent; it’s the ultimate proof test, to say the least. It can debilitate or even completely put headphones out of action in the long run.
According to studies, the average person sweats 0.8 to 1.4 liters (around 27 to 47 oz.) per hour during exercise. That’s a lot of sweat!
IP Rating
This is why it’s ever so important to look at the degree of protection of headphones and understand whether you need water-resistant or waterproof headphones.
The industry uses Ingress Protection (IP) rating to indicate how sweat-proof or water-proof the device is.
Sweat-Proof VS Waterproof
As a rule of thumb, devices need a minimum of IPX4 to be sweat-proof. However, they are not water-proof.
Only devices that are rated IPX7 and IPX8 are water-proof. They are usually nano-coated with hydrophobic properties. If your workout routines involve immersing in the water, I suggest to go all-out and opt for IPX8-rated headphones which basically allows you to soak up to 3 meters (9.8 feet) deep in the water.
You can refer to DSMT’s IP Rating Reference Chart to wrap your head around this grading.
Having great audio codec support is important for wireless headphones. Audio codecs can make and break stable wireless connection and quality audio transmission. Look out for codecs such as AAC, aptX HD, LDAC, etc. These codecs promise higher bitrate transfer and support audio files with higher compression quality.
Battery Life
Like any other wireless electronic devices, the battery life of wireless headphones must be the overriding consideration. It’s the deal-breaker among other factors.
The best Bluetooth headphones can last at least 8 hours, just enough to survive a full day at the gym. The best true wireless headphones can last at least 4 hours.
Many consider 4-6 hours of battery life in true wireless headphones a stumbling block. But it’s actually a pretty decent length of time.
Tiny objects like wireless in-ear headphones can’t accommodate audio drivers and more powerful batteries at the same time. It’s a no-brainer.
In a nutshell, battery power depends on the facility of the battery itself. In the case of on-ear wireless headphones, they have the advantage of a longer battery life because their ear cups can accommodate bigger, more powerful types of a battery as compared to tiny in-ear wireless headphones.
If you’re looking at true wireless headphones, it’s a tradeoff that you have to go along with. Besides, it’s what the nifty charging cases are made for — to offset the limited battery life.
Know that diminishing battery affects the overall performance of most wireless headphones. So if you tend to spend a few hours on your training, 4 hours might weigh on you.
Sound Isolation
Wireless in-ear and on-ear headphones have noise isolation capabilities by design. They can dial ambient noise back a little in some way.
There are wireless headphones that have active noise-canceling to electronically block out the background or ambient noise completely. Gyms are inherently rowdy, so a good pair of noise-canceling wireless headphones would give fitness buffs a head start to be in the zone.
Mic And Controls
The controls of true wireless and on-ear headphones are conveniently placed right on the driver housing or ear cups. The controls of wireless headphones that have wires that connect them are usually placed along the cable.
On-ear and inline controls of wireless headphones allow you to…
- Answer or reject calls
- Adjust volume levels
- Skip, play, and pause music playback
- Trigger voice assistant, if supported
It only makes sense for OEMs to manufacture wireless headphones with on-ear or inline controls to make them user-friendly.
Surprisingly, there are some OEMs of cheap wireless headphones out there that don’t give a damn about what an ergonomic design means. When hunting for wireless workout headphones, do yourself a favor and look for on-ear controls or inline remote control.
Meanwhile, the microphone is discreetly tucked away inside of the driver housing or ear cups or tethers of wireless headphones. But more often than not, the call quality they make is crappy, though everything that relates to sound transmission is a work in progress.
Special Features
Those who are looking for features-packed wireless workout headphones might want to check out these bells and whistles:
Biometric
Biometric headphones keep tabs on your heart rate without needing an external device. All you need is an app to track your progress.
Bone Conduction
Bone-conduction technology, or sound conduction to the ear through the bones of the skull, is slowly gaining traction with consumers. Wireless headphones using bone conduction are mainly used underwater and are essentially practical to steer clear of outside noises. It’s great for doing outdoor activities like running and jogging.
Voice Assistants
Voice assistants such as Apple’s Siri, Alphabet’s Google Assistant, Amazon’s Alexa, and Microsoft’s Cortana are on its way to become a necessity in wireless headphones. If supported, they can help you check your phone’s messages, accept/end a call, search the web, or pull up an app, among other functionalities.
Volume Limiting
It’s so easy for our music to drown out every bit of noise around us. Yet, it can be detrimental and dangerous at worst. Volume-limiting headphones make sure you’re aware of your surrounding by keeping the volume at 85 dB or less.
AfterShokz Aeropex Wireless Headphones
AfterShokz is not resting their laurels after their successful Trekz Air. They know exactly what the consumers want- something lighter and with longer battery life. To accomplish that is no simple feat and the AfterShokz Aeropex did just that.
Key features for workout:
Bone Conduction Technology
8hrs continuous playtime
Weighs for only 26g
IP67 dust and waterproof rating
Bluetooth 5.0
Pros:
- 8 hrs battery life
- Comfortable and lightweight
- IP67 – Sweatproof and water-resistant
- Snug fit on the head
- Ideal for outdoor workouts like running and cycling
Cons:
- Strong vibration might cause slight irritation
- Not ideal for noisy environment
- Sound leakage is expected
Jabra Elite Active 75t Wireless Earbuds
Jabra is known for its amazing sound quality and durability. And Jabra Elite Active 75t is no exception. The Jabra Elite Active 75t is a solid follow up to its powerful predecessor, the Jabra Elite Active 65t. It comes with enhancements that address the issues some users had with the 65t.
Key features for workout:
Secure active fit
IP57 Water, sweat, and dust resistant
Active noise cancellation
Voice Assistant integration
Multipoint Connectivity
Pros:
- Small, compact, and overall more ergonomic design
- Tight and secure fit even during intense workouts
- Multipoint connectivity
- Quick charge feature
- Customizable experience using the Jabra Sound+ App
- Works with Siri, Google, and Alexa
- Active noise cancellation and HearThrough technology
Cons:
- Too much bass
- Touch controls may need some getting used to
Sony WF-SP800N Wireless Earbuds
For superior sound clarity and detail while working out, the Sony WF-SO800N may very well be one of your best bets. With the Sony 360° Reality Audio, you can feel like your favorite band is beside you, playing your jam as you work out.
Key features for workout:
IP55 rated (sweat and splash-proof)
Extra bass
With Google’s Fast Pair
Advanced noise cancellation features
9 hours battery with quick charge
Wearing detection
Pros:
- Excellent battery life
- Sweat and water-resistant
- With adaptive noise canceling and Ambient mode
- Great sound quality
- Customizable with the Sony Headphones Connect App
- Voice-assistant integration
- Secure fit
- Punchy bass is perfect for workouts
Cons:
- Earbuds may fall out easily
- The free arc support may be uncomfortable to some
Anker Soundcore Spirt X2 Wireless Earbuds
If you’re tapped out or you’re simply not willing to shell out over a hundred pounds for a set of wireless workout headphones, Anker Soundcore Spirt X2 is the best budget option. The headphones got you covered with everything you need in wireless workout headphones.
Key features for workout:
In-ear with ear hooks
12.5hrs continuous playback
IPX4 Sweat-proof
Pros:
- Up to 12 hours of battery life
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Sweat-resistant
- Punchy bass is perfect for workouts
- Best budget option
Cons:
- Heavier than others
- The free arc support may be uncomfortable to some
PLANTRONICS BACKBEAT FIT 500 ON-EAR HEADPHONES
Even though we are solely focusing on Wireless earbuds, we understand these are not for everyone. They can occasionally fall out, cause inner ear pain after a long period of time, which is why we have included one over-ear wireless headphones which we found too good not to include
Key features for workout
On-ear headphones
18hrs playtime
IP67 dust and water-proof
Class 1 Bluetooth
Pros:
- Great deal and budget friendly
- Up to 18 hours battery life
- Great sound Quality
- Sweat & Waterproof
- Great Noise Isolation
- 3.5mm jack backup
- Supports Siri, Cortana, Google Now
Cons:
- Slightly loose fit for smaller heads
AfterShokz Aeropex Wireless Headphones
For freedom of movement, the Plantronics BackBeat FIT 3200 is a great option. It’s one of the most stable pairs on the list. Forget about the problem of earbuds falling out! Whether you prefer to hit the gym or go for intense outdoor activities, these earbuds will keep playing your music without budging.
Key features:
IP57 rated waterproof
8 hours of playback
Noise isolating
Super secure ear hoops
Sound Mix technology
Pros:
- Has a reliable companion app
- Sound can be customized
- Stable fit
- Flexible and comfortable even when worn for long hours
- Waterproof and dustproof
Cons:
- Inconvenient when switching to different devices
- Still uses micro-USB
Sony NW-WS623 Wireless Headphones
If you’re a runner or gym goer who likes to listen to music while training in the blistering heat and concerned the sweat maybe of concern. Then these are ideal for you! Ideally these are created for swimmers and being ip68 waterproof you have no worries about sweat ruining your new investment.
Key features for workout:
Sweat-resistant and drop-proof
IP68 Waterproof
Ergonomic design
Ambient noise function
12 hours of playback
4GB of memory
Easy drag and drop music transfer
Pros:
- Great deal and budget friendly
- Up to 18 hours battery life
- Great sound Quality
- Sweat & Waterproof
- Great Noise Isolation
- 3.5mm jack backup
- Supports Siri, Cortana, Google Now
Cons:
- Slightly loose fit for smaller heads
Bose Sport Earbuds Wireless Headphones
The Bose Sport Earbuds have everything you can expect from Bose – premium build quality and solid sound. They are arguably a more affordable alternative to Bose QuietComfort earbuds. However, these are lighter and smaller than their more expensive counterpart.
Key features:
Latest Bluetooth version 5.1
Comes with 3 pairs of StayHear Max tips
IPX4 waterproof rating
Simple touch controls
15-minute quick charge
Pros:
- Quick charge
- Great call quality
- Snug and comfortable fit
- Easy to use touch controls
- Amazing lifelike audio quality
- Smaller form-factor compared to other Bose TWS earbuds
Cons:
- Only has IPX4 rating
AfterShokz OpenMove Wireless Bone conducting Headphones
As a Running having Bone Conducting headphones are a a must! As a Safety aspect, hearing your surrounding when, running the paths and crossing roads are a must!
Key features:
Lightweight 29grams
Water Resistant
Open Ear Listening
- Simple touch controls
- Quick charge
Pros:
- HUGE Safety Aspect
- Quick charge
- Great call quality
- Snug and comfortable fit
- Easy to use touch controls
- Amazing lifelike audio quality
- Smaller form-factor compared to other Bose TWS earbuds
Cons:
- Only has IPX4 rating
Conclusion
Scoping the best wireless workout headphones out for your needs isn’t a walk in the park. But hopefully, this guide has taken some burden off your shoulders. And with the items on this list, we hope we’d narrowed down your choices.
Personally we love the AfterShokz range, not only are they lightweight but their bone conductors are a must if your running around in your local town.