Search results for

All search results
Best daily deals

All products featured are independently chosen by us. However, SoundGuys may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links. See our ethics statement.

The best workout headphones

If you are looking for headphones for running and working out in a variety of environments, we’ve tested all the best options.

October 8, 2025

Expert
Chase Bernath
Chase Bernath

Chase is the Managing Editor at SoundGuys, where he oversees content related to headphones, earbuds, speakers, and all things audio. As a founder of the non profit organization Music For Mental Health, Chase is also passionate in uncovering the ways music creation and listening can serve individuals and the community. You can find music he produces by searching his name on Spotify, Apple Music, and all other streaming platforms. Chase studied Commerce and Applied Music Technology at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada.

If you’ve ever tried running with your favorite over-ear headphones, you’ve probably learned the hard way that not all audio gear is made for movement. Workout headphones need to do more than just sound good — they have to stay in place through burpees, survive buckets of sweat, and deliver enough punch to keep you pushing through that last set. In our testing, the best options combine secure fit, reliable wireless performance, and durability with sound profiles that keep your energy high without sacrificing clarity. Whether you prefer bass-heavy beats or a more balanced sound for your morning jog, the right pair can make a huge difference in your motivation and focus.

We’ve put dozens of headphones through our lab tests and sweaty workout sessions to find the ones that actually perform where it counts. That means checking real-world comfort over long training sessions, measuring battery life against manufacturer claims, and pushing water resistance ratings to their limits. So lace up your sneakers, grab your playlist, and let’s find the headphones that can keep up with you.

If you are looking for a more portable listening experience, make sure to check out our list of the best workout earbuds.

Compare table

Filter

Sound Quality

  • Compare tableProductVotes
  • 7 total votes
    7 total votes

    $269

    8.1

    7.0

    7.6

    7.0

    8.0

    8.3

    9.8

  • 3 total votes
    3 total votes

    $130

    8.1

    7.5

    6.1

    8.4

    8.3

    7.3

    9.5

  • 6 total votes
    6 total votes

    $429

    8.1

    6.9

    6.5

    7.9

    9.0

    8.5

    9.5

  • 9 total votes
    9 total votes

    $300

    8.0

    8.0

    7.6

    9.0

    8.0

    8.5

    7.8

  • 13 total votes
    13 total votes

    $448

    8.0

    7.0

    7.6

    6.5

    8.0

    8.7

    9.5

  • 7 total votes
    7 total votes

    $499

    8.0

    7.8

    6.8

    6.0

    8.5

    8.8

    8.8

  • 18 total votes
    18 total votes

    $80

    8.0

    6.7

    7.2

    9.5

    8.5

    8.1

    8.8

  • 3 total votes
    3 total votes

    $387

    8.0

    6.7

    9.8

    8.4

    8.8

    8.4

    8.0

  • 5 total votes
    5 total votes

    $450

    7.7

    8.0

    6.8

    8.0

    8.0

    8.7

    7.3

  • 6 total votes
    6 total votes

    $218

    7.7

    6.9

    7.0

    8.5

    9.0

    8.0

    7.8

  • 20 total votes
    20 total votes

    $200

    7.6

    6.9

    7.6

    7.7

    9.0

    8.4

    7.5

  • 3 total votes
    3 total votes

    $70

    7.5

    6.0

    6.9

    9.0

    8.0

    7.9

    8.5

Product chart

In the chart above, you can see how each of the headphones compares in terms of price and performance.

To gather information about how well each of the earbuds and headphones work, we subject each product to a number of objective tests. We use a Bruel & Kjaer 5128 acoustic measurement system to test headphones and earbuds in our SoundGuys lab. The ear canal of the artificial head was created by averaging and smoothing 3D models of individual ear canal features from the MRI scans of 40 different people.

SG testing room

We perform the following testing to determine the best headphones and best earbuds:

  • We run sequences to determine the best fit of the headphones, and if there are any manufacturing issues with the product.
  • We measure the headphones’ performance and compare the frequency response to our industry-validated SoundGuys Headphone Preference Curve to give context to readers.
  • To rate sound quality, we use the Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Scores (MDAQS) algorithm from HEAD acoustics. These are virtual mean opinion scores as calculated by a powerful machine learning model based on the input of real listeners.
  • We play several samples of shaped noise over loudspeakers to test noise canceling and record with our artificial head. We take samples with ANC on, ANC off, and with the headphones off the head. After subtracting the appropriate curves from each other, we can see how well the headphones block out noise.
  • To evaluate microphone quality, we play pre-recorded spoken Harvard sentences from a calibrated artificial mouth in our test chamber, either with or without simulated background noises, simulated reverberant spaces, or artificial wind.
  • To measure battery life, we play back music through the headphones or earbuds peaking at 75dB(SPL), a safe and realistic listening level.

In addition to objective testing, our team of audio experts uses each of the headphones and earbuds to evaluate the experience of using the product. By wearing the headphones in day-to-day use, we evaluate the comfort, noting any pain points. We also make sure to try out each of the features that the headphones have to offer, such as using the equalizer in the companion app.

Using a combination of subjective and objective testing, we score each product. To learn more about how we evaluate headphones and earbuds, check out our in-depth explainer on how we test.

As with any kind of headphones, there are a few things you should keep in mind when perusing your next pair of workout headphones. We’ve broken down the key points for you; think of it as a cheat sheet of sorts.

The bulk of the cost goes to durability

A photo of the UA True Wireless FLASH X by JBL with the wing and ear tips on display in front of cycling glasses on a white table.
The wing sleeves keep the earbuds in place.

Workout headsets withstand a lot of wear and tear, and that’s okay. You may be wondering why you should pay for something you’re just going to destroy, and well, if you buy the right set of workout headphones for you, you won’t break it (at least not immediately).

Most workout headsets include durability features like flexible, robust headbands, replaceable ear pads, and even the occasional modular design. You pay a premium for this thoughtfulness, and it extends the life of your product.

Comfort, fit, and isolation are all important

The Sennheiser HD 450BT noise canceling headphones worn by a woman as she adjusts the volume via the onboard controls on the right ear cup.
A pair of over-ear headphones should fully encompass your ears, leaving no room for gaps.

As is the case with almost every pair of headphones, a good fit is essential for keeping the bad sounds out and the good sounds in. Outside noise can really get in the way of a good listening experience because of auditory masking, which is the natural way that your brain perceives sound. That’s especially true when it comes to on-ear headphones since they don’t completely surround your ears. This kind of design leaves a lot of room (literally) for outside noise to make its way down your ear canals.

But isolation aside, what’s arguably more important is how well the headphones fit. Who cares how good they sound if they keep falling off your head? You’ll want a pair of headphones that find a nice balance between clamping force and comfort, so they won’t fall off during a workout, and they also won’t hurt your ears while you wear them.

What is an IP rating?

If you’re going to be working out, chances are you’re going to be sweating; as we all know, water and electronics don’t mix. The best workout headphones feature some kind of water-resistant certification, denoted by an IP rating.

How much does battery life matter?

If you’re going for a wireless pair of workout headphones, one thing to keep in mind is battery life. The last thing you want is to show up at the gym all hyped up and ready to exercise, only to find you forgot to charge your headphones, and you’re going to be without music. Sure, most people don’t exercise for more than 90 minutes at a time (which most true wireless earbuds can easily handle), but a bigger capacity means you can go a few days without charging.

Noise-induced hearing loss is a real problem

Speedometer-style noise level depiction and how different volumes correspond to everyday noise sources.
World Health Organization Unsafe noise levels start at 85dB if exposure exceeds the safe listening time.

It’s hard to argue that the louder your music is, the easier it is to get pumped up. A higher volume usually helps you feel the bass more. Plus, you probably want to block out the sounds of weights being dropped and the pop music they play at the gym anyway by blasting your headphones. That’s not a good idea.

Noise-induced hearing loss is a real thing, and it sucks. If you consistently play your music too loudly, you can damage the cochlea cells in your inner ear over time. As a general rule of thumb, you probably shouldn’t play your music any louder than 85 dB. If you’re at or around 85dB and still can’t hear your music properly, you might have a bad fit. Definitely adjust the headphones and pads before you go putting your phone on maximum volume.

Here at SoundGuys, we’ve been testing audio products for over a decade. Our team comprises audio product experts who have tested hundreds of different headphones, earbuds, and speakers. Moreover, our team comes from diverse backgrounds and a wealth of expertise, including audio engineering, film production, journalism, podcasting, music production, and even touring musicians.

Everything we recommend results from our objective measurements and great subjective experiences. Ultimately, we want you to enjoy your purchase or, at the very least, leave our site with a little more knowledge about the inner workings of audio. To see why you can trust us with your purchase decision, make sure to check out our ethics policy.

Poll

How much are you willing to spend on good headphones?

3317 votes

Best overall pick: Heavys H1H

Heavys H1H
Heavys H1H
SG recommended
Heavys H1H
Sound quality rocks • Noise canceling • Wired and wireless connection • Interchangeable shells • Foldable design
MSRP: $299.00
If you are a fan of heavy music, you need to check out the Heavys H1H.
The Heavys H1H are the ideal companion for anyone who likes heavy music. The eight drivers bring rocking sound quality plus you get noise canceling, wired or wireless connectivity, and interchangeable shells.

We choose Heavys H1H as our best overall pick among wireless headphones that lean into heavy music, thanks to an eight-driver design and Hellblocker active noise cancelation that keep distorted guitars and punchy drums defined. The H1H offers flexible connectivity — Bluetooth 5.1 with SBC, AAC, and aptX adaptive plus USB-C and a 3.5mm wired option — and a physical volume knob that makes on-head adjustments simple. The roomy earpads and cushy headband make extended listening comfortable, and swappable earcup shells add a touch of personalization. On our MDAQS scale the H1H scores 4.9, with especially high marks for timber and immersiveness, which aligns with how well it handles complex metal arrangements. The H1H also earned recognition for Best Sound Quality and Best Over-Ear Headphones.
Sourced from Heavys H1H review: The best headphones for heavy metal?.

Best for Android users pick: Bose QuietComfort Ultra

Bose QuietComfort Ultra
Bose QuietComfort Ultra
SoundGuys Editor's Choice
Bose QuietComfort Ultra
Great battery life • Advanced audio experience
MSRP: $429.00
Quality and comfort noise canceling headphones
Going ultra with their ANC headphone experience, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra noise cancelling headphones offer up to 24 hours of battery life, a comfortable fit, Spatial Audio support, and powerful ANC.

We picked Bose QuietComfort Ultra as the best choice for Android users because it supports Bluetooth 5.3 and platforms like Snapdragon Sound and aptX Lossless, giving compatible Android phones access to higher-bitrate wireless streaming. The headphones are designed for comfort with wide ear cups, angled dynamic drivers, and a lightweight 253g build that makes them easy to wear for long periods. Battery life in our testing was substantial, and the Bose Music app adds options like an equalizer and immersive audio settings if you want them. Bose’s noise cancelation performs very well in measurements, reducing many real-world noises by roughly 87%, which helps when traveling or commuting. The QuietComfort Ultra also earned recognition for Best Comfort thanks to its roomy fit and padding.
Sourced from Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones review – SoundGuys.

Best ANC pick: Apple AirPods Max

Apple AirPods Max
Apple AirPods Max
SoundGuys Editor's Choice
Apple AirPods Max
One of the best ANC • 20-hour battery life • Well-built pads
MSRP: $549.00
A spectacular pair of headphones with best-in-class ANC
The AirPods Max wireless headphones offer best-in-class noise canceling with twenty hours of battery life. They provide excellent frequency response and great audio features.
See price at Amazon
Save $70.99
Refurbished

We name the Apple AirPods Max our Best ANC pick because they deliver top-tier active noise canceling alongside a transparency mode for quick situational awareness. The AirPods Max pair a digital crown for precise volume and playback control with deep, plush ear cups and a headband that distributes the weight across the head, which many find comfortable despite the headset’s substantial 385g mass. The H1 chip and AAC codec provide a reliable Bluetooth experience for iOS users, while spatial audio and adaptive EQ enhance listening on Apple devices. The AirPods Max also earned recognition for Best for iPhone users given their tight integration with iOS features and automatic switching between Apple devices.
Sourced from Apple AirPods Max review – SoundGuys.

Best Value pick: JLab JBuds Lux ANC

JLab JBuds Lux ANC
JLab JBuds Lux ANC
SG recommended
JLab JBuds Lux ANC
USB-C audio • Sound quality • Comfort
MSRP: $79.99
For under $100, these are crazy good value.
As far as inexpensive ANC headphones go, the JLab JBuds Lux ANC are one of the best of 2024. They focus on the fundamentals, and not fighting the spec wars.

We selected the JLab JBuds Lux ANC as our Best Value pick because it packs useful features into a budget package, including a foldable design and an app with a 10-band EQ to tune the sound. The JBuds Lux ANC impressed with long battery life in our testing — over 44 hours of continuous playback — and a fast-charge feature that yields several hours of listening from a quick boost. Controls are straightforward physical buttons, and the headset folds compactly for travel. While the ANC is not class-leading, it provides meaningful reduction of commuting noise, and the ear cup seal helps block higher-frequency sounds. The JBuds Lux ANC also earned recognition for Best Battery Life due to that extended runtime.
Sourced from JLab JBuds Lux ANC review – SoundGuys.

Best Call Quality pick: Sony WH-1000XM5

Sony WH-1000XM5
Sony WH-1000XM5
SoundGuys Editor's Choice
Sony WH-1000XM5
ANC performance • Outstanding microphone • Useful app features
MSRP: $399.00
The king of the ANC pack extends its reign

We chose the Sony WH-1000XM5 as our Best Call Quality pick based on its focus on delivering reliable performance for everyday use. The WH-1000XM5 continues Sony’s attention to detail with comfortable padding, dependable controls, and features accessible through the Sony Sound Connect app that tune ANC and spatial audio. The headset’s design choices aim to minimize common annoyances from prior models, and the ear sensor and ambient passthrough options make taking calls and switching contexts simple. Those qualities combine to make the WH-1000XM5 a strong contender for users who need a versatile wireless headphone for calls, travel, and daily commuting.
Sourced from Sony WH-1000XM5 review – SoundGuys.

Our verdict

Across wireless headphones, our picks reflect different priorities: the Heavys H1H is our best overall choice for heavy music lovers who want multi-driver detail and strong MDAQS results; the Bose QuietComfort Ultra is best for Android users and comfort; the AirPods Max lead in ANC and tight iPhone integration; the JLab JBuds Lux ANC is the best value with standout battery life; and the Sony WH-1000XM5 is the pick for dependable call performance and refined ergonomics. We chose these winners based on the features and measurements called out in each review and with wireless headphones in mind.
For shoppers still considering other options, the Nothing Headphone (1) stands out for striking design, IP52 ingress protection, an 8-band EQ and other robust app features that appeal to tinkerers, though its unique rectangular shape raises some cosmetic-wear concerns. The Sony WH-1000XM6, while not a badge winner here, targets commuters and travelers by addressing prior model gripes and offering familiar Sony features and comfort that suit daily use.

FAQ

Not usually. They’re heavier and can trap heat during intense activity. Wireless earbuds or bone-conduction headphones are generally better suited for workouts.

Was this helpful

The “IP” in IP ratings stands for ingress protection. You’ll see this rating formatted as IPXX; a common rating is IPX4. The “X” in IPX4 is a placeholder for dust resistance, and the “4” denotes a certain degree of water resistance. All workout earbuds need to be water-resistant. You can’t submerge a headset unless it has an IPX7 rating or higher.

Here’s a quick rundown of ingress protection (IP) ratings. The X is just a placeholder for a dust resistance rating.

Was this helpful

There are a few factors to consider when looking for headphones to bring to the gym. The first thing to consider is what kind of headset you actually want. Do you want wired or wireless? Over-ear headphones or wireless earbuds? Everyone has their own preferences, but in this list, we’re going to be going over the best over-ear and on-ear headphones for working out. If you prefer earbuds, don’t worry; we have you covered there too.

Now that we’ve narrowed that down, some other important factors you should keep in mind are cost, sweat resistance, comfort and fit, durability, and battery life.

Was this helpful

Over-ear headphones are generally better for working out at the gym. The over-ear design allows for better noise isolation to block out ambient gym noise. Over-ear models also tend to have better battery life than on-ear styles. The bigger earcups and headband design provide a more secure and stable fit during exercise.

Was this helpful

For most workout situations, earbuds are better than headphones. Earbuds are more compact, lightweight, and portable for carrying to the gym. Their secure fit doesn't get jostled as much during intense exercise. Earbuds also allow you to hear some ambient sounds for awareness of your surroundings. However, over-ear headphones provide better sound quality and noise isolation if those are priorities. See our list of the best workout earbuds.

Was this helpful

Yes. Many workout headphones have built-in mics for calls and voice assistants. If call quality matters, look for models with dual-mic noise reduction so background noise doesn’t overwhelm your voice.

Was this helpful
Follow

Thank you for being part of our community. Read our Comment Policy before posting.

Compare Products
vs
vs
vs