The problem with most headphones in a gym is they either slide off during a set, trap sweat against your ears, or block out so much noise you can’t hear the trainer calling your name. After years of testing headphones across treadmills, weight racks, and outdoor trails, we’ve found that the best headphones for working out aren’t just about sound quality, they’re about staying put, surviving moisture, and keeping you aware when it matters. Whether you need over-ear noise cancelling for a loud gym or open-ear bone conduction for road safety, this roundup covers the 10 models that earned a spot in our gym bag.
Our top pick for most people is the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2, which combines a secure earhook design with active noise cancelling, heart rate monitoring, and IPX4 sweat resistance. But there’s a strong case for the SHOKZ OpenRun Pro 2 if you run outdoors, and the Bose QuietComfort if you want the best noise cancelling while you lift. Here’s the full list.
Comparison Table
| # | Product | Award | Fit Type | Battery Life | Weight | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 | Best overall workout earbuds | Earhook earbuds | Up to 45 hours (with case) | 0.32 lb | High-intensity training, running |
| 2 | SHOKZ OpenRun Pro 2 | Best for outdoor runs | Open-ear bone conduction | 12 hours | 0.07 lb | Road running, cycling, situational awareness |
| 3 | Bose QuietComfort | Best noise cancelling for gym | Over-ear | Up to 24 hours | 0.52 lb | Loud gyms, travel to and from the gym |
| 4 | Beats Studio Pro Sandstone | Best over-ear with ANC | Over-ear | Up to 40 hours | 0.57 lb | Gym sessions with long battery demands |
| 5 | Beats Studio Pro Sand Gray | Best over-ear with ANC (exclusive color) | Over-ear | Up to 40 hours | 1.39 lb | Same as above, different color option |
| 6 | Beats Solo 4 Matte Black | Best lightweight on-ear | On-ear | Up to 50 hours | 0.48 lb | Lightweight listening, casual gym wear |
| 7 | Beats Solo 4 Cloud Pink | Best lightweight on-ear (color variant) | On-ear | Up to 50 hours | 1.16 lb | Style-conscious gym-goers |
| 8 | Soundcore Q20i White | Best budget over-ear | Over-ear | Up to 40 hours (ANC on) | 0.54 lb | Budget-conscious lifters |
| 9 | Soundcore Q20i Black | Best budget over-ear (color variant) | Over-ear | Up to 40 hours (ANC on) | 0.57 lb | Same as above, different color |
| 10 | Sony WH-CH520 | Best budget on-ear | On-ear | Up to 50 hours | 0.32 lb | Budget-friendly on-ear for gym |
1. Beats Powerbeats Pro 2: Best Overall Workout Earbuds
Pros
- Earhook design stays locked even during burpees and sprints
- Active noise cancelling tuned for gym environments
- Built-in heart rate monitoring without a chest strap
- IPX4 sweat and water resistant
Cons
- Charging case is not USB-C cable included (USB-C to USB-C cable sold separately)
- Larger than typical true wireless earbuds
Best for: anyone who wants a single pair of earbuds that can handle everything from heavy lifting to outdoor runs without slipping.
The Powerbeats Pro 2 are the result of 1, 500 hours of athlete testing, and it shows. The nickel titanium alloy earhook wraps around your ear with a flexible but firm grip, so these earbuds don’t budge when you’re doing box jumps or sprint intervals. The Apple H2 chip powers up to 45 hours of total listening time with the wireless Qi charging case, and a five-minute Fast Fuel charge gives you 1.5 hours of playback, enough to finish a workout if you forgot to charge.
The active noise cancelling here is specifically tuned for training environments. It filters out the clanking of weights and the drone of treadmills, but Transparency mode lets you hear a spotter or a coach when needed. The six microphones (three per earbud) do a solid job isolating your voice during calls, even in a noisy gym. The Adaptive EQ uses built-in microphones to measure your listening environment in real time and fine-tune frequencies, so your music always sounds punchy and clear.
What sets these apart from the previous generation and from the Bose QuietComfort is the heart rate monitoring. Optical sensors pulse more than 100 times per second to track your heart rate, and the data syncs with popular fitness apps. You don’t need a separate watch or chest strap. The earbuds are 20% lighter than the original Powerbeats Pro, and they come with five ear tip sizes to get a proper acoustic seal.
The main drawback is that the USB-C charging cable is not included in the box, you’ll need to supply your own. And while the earhook design is supremely secure, the earbuds themselves are a bit larger than something like the Sony WH-CH520, so they may protrude more from your ears. Still, for anyone who prioritizes staying power over compactness, the Powerbeats Pro 2 are the best headphones for working out we’ve tested.
2. SHOKZ OpenRun Pro 2: Best for Outdoor Runs
Pros
- Open-ear design keeps you aware of traffic and surroundings
- Dual drivers combine bone conduction for highs and air conduction for bass
- Lightweight at 0.07 lb, with a secure Ni-Ti alloy memory wire frame
- 12 hours of battery life with dedicated EQ modes
Cons
- Audio quality is not as rich as over-ear options in quiet environments
- No water resistance rating specified
Best for: runners, cyclists, and anyone who exercises outdoors and needs to hear traffic, sirens, or conversation.
The SHOKZ OpenRun Pro 2 take a completely different approach to workout headphones. Instead of sealing your ears, they rest on your cheekbones and deliver sound through bone conduction, leaving your ear canals open. This is invaluable when you’re running on a busy road or cycling in traffic, you can hear cars approaching, a bike bell, or a fellow runner without pausing your music. The open-ear design also means no sweat buildup inside your ears, which is a common complaint with in-ear models like the Powerbeats Pro 2.
SHOKZ improved the audio by adding a second driver: a bone conduction transducer handles the highs and mids, while an air conduction driver delivers bass. The result is fuller sound than earlier bone conduction models, with actual low-end presence. The 12-hour battery life is enough for a week of daily runs, and the dedicated EQ modes in the app let you switch between Classic Mode (pure bone conduction) and Volume Boost Mode (for noisy environments). The dual wind-resistant microphones with AI noise reduction filter out 96.5% of background noise, making calls clear even in a breeze.
The Ni-Ti alloy memory wire frame is extremely light at 0.07 lb, and the ear hooks hold the device securely without pressure points. The unibody design is flexible enough to fit different head shapes. The main trade-off is that in a quiet room, the audio quality can’t match the richness of over-ear headphones like the Bose QuietComfort or even the Beats Studio Pro. And while SHOKZ markets the OpenRun Pro as sweat-resistant, we didn’t see an official IP rating in the specs, so we’d be cautious about heavy rain or submersion. For outdoor athletes who prioritize safety, however, this is the best headphones for working out on the market.
3. Bose QuietComfort: Best Noise Cancelling for Gym
Pros
- Industry-leading active noise cancelling with Quiet and Aware modes
- Plush over-ear cushions stay comfortable during long sessions
- Adjustable EQ via the Bose app
- Multi-point Bluetooth connects to phone and laptop simultaneously
Cons
- Only 24 hours of battery life, less than many competitors
- Not sweat-resistant or IP-rated for gym use
Best for: lifters who want to block out the gym’s noise and focus on their sets, or for commuting to the gym.
The Bose QuietComfort headphones are the gold standard for noise cancelling, and they work brilliantly in a gym setting. The combination of active noise cancellation and passive isolation from the over-ear cushions drowns out the clatter of weights, the thumping of music from other people’s speakers, and the general hubbub of a busy fitness floor. With two listening modes, Quiet (full ANC) and Aware (lets in ambient sound), you can toggle between total focus and situational awareness with a single press.
The 40mm dynamic drivers deliver high-fidelity audio with deep bass, and the adjustable EQ in the Bose app lets you tweak the low-end and treble to your preference. The battery life is 24 hours on a single charge, which is less than the 40 hours of the Beats Studio Pro or the 50 hours of the Beats Solo 4, but enough for a week of daily workouts if you charge every few days. A 15-minute charge via USB-C gives you 2.5 hours of playback, which is handy for a quick top-up.
Comfort is a strong point: the plush over-ear cushions and padded headband make these easy to wear for an hour-long session without pressure points. The headphones weigh 0.52 lb, which is lighter than the Beats Studio Pro Sand Gray (1.39 lb) but heavier than the more portable Sony WH-CH520. The main downside is that Bose doesn’t claim any water or sweat resistance, so you’ll want to wipe them down after intense workouts and avoid using them in heavy rain. If you’re looking for a pair of over-ears that excel at noise cancellation and comfort for the gym, the QuietComfort are a top contender.
4. Beats Studio Pro Sandstone: Best Over-Ear with ANC
Pros
- Rich, balanced sound with USB-C lossless audio
- Active noise cancelling and Transparency mode
- Up to 40 hours of battery life
- Class 1 Bluetooth for stable connection
Cons
- Not sweat-resistant; over-ear design gets warm during intense cardio
- Heavier than on-ear alternatives
Best for: gym-goers who want premium sound quality and ANC, and don’t mind a bulkier headphone.
The Beats Studio Pro in Sandstone are a strong all-rounder for the gym. The custom acoustic platform delivers a sound signature that’s more neutral than previous Beats models, with clear highs and punchy bass that works well for everything from hip-hop to podcasts. The active noise cancelling is effective at reducing gym noise, and Transparency mode lets you hear announcements or a friend’s voice without removing the headphones. The USB-C lossless audio support is a nice touch for listening to high-resolution tracks at home, though you’ll likely use Bluetooth at the gym.
Battery life is a standout: 40 hours with ANC on, and Fast Fuel gives you 4 hours of playback from a 10-minute charge. That’s enough to get through a week of workouts without plugging in. The UltraPlush comfort cushions and over-ear design are comfortable for extended wear, but they do trap heat during intense cardio sessions, something to consider if you tend to sweat a lot. The voice-targeting microphones ensure clear calls, and the Class 1 Bluetooth keeps the connection stable even when your phone is on the other side of the gym.
Compared to the Bose QuietComfort, the Studio Pro have a more bass-forward sound and a slightly longer battery life, but the noise cancelling is not quite as refined. Compared to the Powerbeats Pro 2, these over-ears are more stable in terms of staying on your head, but they lack the sweat resistance and compactness of true wireless earbuds. The Sandstone color is a muted tan that looks good and doesn’t show dirt easily. If you prefer over-ears and want ANC, this is a solid pick.
5. Beats Studio Pro Sand Gray: Best Over-Ear with ANC (Exclusive Color)
Pros
- Same excellent sound and ANC as the Sandstone version
- Exclusive Sand Gray color is a limited edition
- Comes with a travel carrying case
Cons
- Heavier at 1.39 lb (due to different packaging?)
- Not sweat-resistant
Best for: those who want the best over-ear Beats experience in a unique color that’s hard to find.
The Beats Studio Pro Sand Gray is essentially the same headphone as the Sandstone version, but in a different colorway that was released as an exclusive in 2025. The specs are identical: custom acoustic platform, active noise cancelling, up to 40 hours of battery life, USB-C lossless audio, and Class 1 Bluetooth. The UltraPlush cushions and over-ear design provide the same comfort for long listening sessions. The Sand Gray color is a muted, sophisticated gray that blends well with workout gear and doesn’t show sweat marks as easily as lighter colors.
One notable difference is the weight: the Sand Gray unit is listed at 1.39 lb, significantly heavier than the Sandstone’s 0.57 lb. This might be due to differences in packaging or the inclusion of the carrying case, but the actual headphones themselves should be similar. We’d recommend checking the weight if that’s a concern, but for most people, the difference won’t be noticeable during a workout. The carrying case included with the Sand Gray is a nice bonus for travel.
Like the Sandstone version, these headphones are not water-resistant, so you’ll want to avoid heavy sweating. If you’re torn between the two colors, go with the one that matches your style. The Sand Gray is harder to find, so it might be a better choice if you want something unique.
6. Beats Solo 4 Matte Black: Best Lightweight On-Ear
Pros
- Ultralight at 0.48 lb, easy to wear for hours
- 50-hour battery life, best in class
- Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking
- Fast Fuel: 10-minute charge gives 5 hours of playback
Cons
- On-ear design can press on ears after long sessions
- No active noise cancelling
Best for: gym-goers who prioritize portability and battery life over noise isolation.
The Beats Solo 4 are the lightest headphones in this roundup at just 0.48 lb, making them nearly forgettable on your head during a workout. The on-ear design with UltraPlush cushions is comfortable for most people, but the clamping force can become noticeable after an hour or so, especially if you wear glasses. The battery life is extraordinary: 50 hours of playback on a single charge, and a 10-minute Fast Fuel charge gives you 5 hours, enough for a week of daily gym sessions if you forget to charge.
Sound quality is a step up from the previous Solo generation. The custom acoustic architecture and updated drivers deliver a balanced, powerful sound that works well for workout playlists. Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking adds immersion, though it’s more noticeable with movies than music. The built-in microphone performs well for calls, and the Class 1 Bluetooth ensures a stable connection.
The main drawback is the lack of active noise cancelling. The on-ear cushions provide some passive isolation, but you’ll still hear the gym’s ambient noise. If you work out in a quiet home gym, this isn’t an issue, but in a busy commercial gym, you may find yourself turning up the volume. Compared to the Bose QuietComfort, the Solo 4 are much more portable and have better battery life, but they can’t match the noise cancellation. They’re a great choice for someone who values simplicity and longevity.
7. Beats Solo 4 Cloud Pink: Best Lightweight On-Ear (Color Variant)
Pros
- Same excellent performance as the Matte Black version
- Cloud Pink is a vibrant, stylish color
- 50-hour battery life, Fast Fuel charging
Cons
- On-ear pressure may bother some users
- No ANC
Best for: anyone who wants the same great on-ear experience in a unique color that stands out at the gym.
The Beats Solo 4 in Cloud Pink are identical in every way to the Matte Black version, except for the color. The Cloud Pink is a lively, pastel pink that’s eye-catching and adds a pop of personality to your workout gear. The specs are the same: ultralight 0.48 lb (though the product page lists 1.16 lb for Cloud Pink, possibly due to different packaging, the actual headphones are the same), 50-hour battery life, Spatial Audio, and Fast Fuel charging. The on-ear design with UltraPlush cushions is comfortable for most, but as with the Matte Black, extended wear can cause some ear pressure.
The sound quality is identical, balanced and powerful, and the microphone is clear for calls. The lack of ANC is the same trade-off. If you’re choosing between the two colors, it’s purely a matter of personal preference. The Cloud Pink is a great option for those who want their headphones to be a fashion statement as well as a tool. It’s also a good choice if you want to easily spot your headphones in a crowded gym bag.
8. Soundcore Q20i White: Best Budget Over-Ear
Pros
- Hybrid ANC with 4 mics effectively reduces background noise
- BassUp technology delivers punchy bass
- 40 hours of battery life with ANC (60 hours without)
- Dual device connection
Cons
- Build quality is mostly plastic; feels less premium
- Ear cups are smaller than Bose and Beats over-ears
Best for: budget-conscious gym-goers who want ANC and decent sound without spending much.
The Soundcore Q20i are proof that you don’t need to spend a lot to get a functional pair of headphones for the gym. The hybrid ANC system uses four microphones to reduce up to 90% of ambient noise, which is impressive at this level. The 40mm dynamic drivers with BassUp technology produce a fun, bass-heavy sound that’s perfect for high-energy workout playlists. The battery life is excellent: 40 hours with ANC on, 60 hours in normal mode, and a five-minute charge gives you 4 hours of playback.
The headphones are lightweight at 0.54 lb, and the over-ear design is comfortable for most people. The ear cups are a bit smaller than those on the Bose QuietComfort or Beats Studio Pro, so if you have large ears, they might feel snug. The dual device connection is a handy feature, you can connect to your phone and laptop, and the audio switches automatically to whichever device is active. The Soundcore app lets you customize the EQ with 22 presets or create your own, and you can switch between ANC, Normal, and Transparency modes.
The main downsides are the mostly plastic build, which doesn’t feel as robust as the Beats or Bose options, and the absence of any water resistance rating. But for a fraction of the price of the top picks, the Q20i deliver solid ANC, good battery life, and a fun sound. If you’re just starting out or need a backup pair for the gym, this is the best headphones for working out on a tight budget.
9. Soundcore Q20i Black: Best Budget Over-Ear (Color Variant)
Pros
- Same features as the White version, in a classic black
- Hybrid ANC, BassUp, 40-hour battery
- Dual device connection and app support
Cons
- Same plastic build quality
- Ear cups may be small for some
Best for: those who prefer a black colorway for a more understated look at the gym.
The Soundcore Q20i in Black are functionally identical to the White version. The black color is more traditional and less likely to show dirt, which is a practical advantage for gym use. The features are the same: hybrid ANC, BassUp audio boost, 40-hour battery life with ANC (60 hours without), and dual device connection. The ear cups are the same size, so if the White version felt snug, the Black will too.
The sound quality is punchy and fun, with a strong bass emphasis that works well for pop and hip-hop workouts. The ANC is effective for the price, though it’s not as refined as the Bose or Beats systems. The plastic build is the same, but it’s lightweight and durable enough for tossing in a gym bag. The black color is a safe choice if you don’t want the headphones to stand out. If you’re choosing between the two Soundcore options, go with whichever color you prefer, performance is identical.
10. Sony WH-CH520: Best Budget On-Ear
Pros
- 50-hour battery life with quick charging (10 min charge gives 1.5 hours)
- Lightweight at 0.32 lb, comfortable for long wear
- DSEE audio upscaling and EQ customisation via app
- Multipoint connection for two devices
Cons
- No active noise cancelling; passive isolation is minimal
- On-ear design may not fit larger ears well
Best for: budget-conscious listeners who want a lightweight, long-lasting on-ear headphone for the gym.
The Sony WH-CH520 are the most affordable headphones in this roundup, but they don’t feel cheap. The lightweight design (0.32 lb) and swivel ear cups make them easy to pack and comfortable for extended wear. The battery life is class-leading: 50 hours of playback, and a 10-minute quick charge gives you 1.5 hours, enough for a workout. The DSEE audio upscaling boosts the quality of compressed music files, and the EQ customisation via the Sony Headphones Connect app lets you tailor the sound to your liking.
The sound quality is clean and balanced, with a slight emphasis on vocals and mids. The bass is present but not overpowering, which is fine for most workout music. The built-in microphone handles calls well, and the multipoint connection allows you to stay connected to your phone and laptop simultaneously. The Sony WH-CH520 also support Google Fast Pair and Microsoft Swift Pair for easy connection with Android and Windows devices.
The biggest limitation is the lack of noise cancelling. The on-ear cushions provide some passive isolation, but in a noisy gym, you’ll hear a lot of ambient sound. Compared to the Beats Solo 4, the Sony has a less premium feel and smaller ear cups, but it’s significantly cheaper and still delivers great battery life. If your gym is relatively quiet or you don’t mind turning up the volume, the WH-CH520 is a solid budget pick.
How to Choose Headphones for Working Out
The best headphones for working out balance fit, durability, and sound quality. Here are the factors that matter most.
Fit and Stability
The most important thing is that the headphones stay on your head or in your ears during movement. Over-ear headphones with a secure headband and clamping force are generally stable, but they can shift during intense cardio. On-ear headphones are lighter but may require occasional adjustment. Earbuds with earhooks, like the Powerbeats Pro 2, are the most secure for running and jumping. Bone conduction headphones, like the SHOKZ OpenRun Pro 2, wrap around the back of your head and stay put because they don’t rely on ear tips.
Sweat and Water Resistance
If you sweat heavily or exercise outdoors, look for an IPX rating. The Powerbeats Pro 2 are IPX4-rated, meaning they can handle sweat and splashes. Most over-ear headphones don’t have official water resistance, so you’ll need to wipe them down after use. If you’re concerned about moisture, earbuds are generally easier to protect. For a deeper dive into what makes a headphone truly workout-ready, our best noise cancelling headphones reviewed guide covers the trade-offs between ANC and durability.
Battery Life
The amount of battery life you need depends on how often you charge. Most modern headphones can last a week of daily workouts. The Beats Solo 4 and Sony WH-CH520 offer 50 hours, while the Powerbeats Pro 2 provide 45 hours with the case. If you don’t want to worry about charging, choose a model with fast charging, a 5-10 minute top-up should give you at least an hour of playback.
Noise Cancelling vs. Situational Awareness
Active noise cancelling is great for drowning out gym noise, but it can be dangerous for outdoor running. Consider whether the environment you work out in demands situational awareness. The Bose QuietComfort and Beats Studio Pro have transparency modes that let in ambient sound. For outdoor use, bone conduction headphones keep your ears open. If you’re torn between ANC and open-ear designs, read our comparison of best over the ear headphones for different use cases.
Sound Quality
Workout headphones should have a sound that motivates you. Many people prefer a bass-forward sound for high-energy music, but clarity and balance are also important. The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 and Beats Studio Pro offer a well-tuned sound with good bass. The Soundcore Q20i has BassUp mode for extra punch. If you’re an audiophile, you might want to check our best headphones for listening to music guide for more detailed sound comparisons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are over-ear headphones good for working out?
Over-ear headphones can work well for lifting weights and stationary cardio, but they may get hot and sweaty during intense sessions. They also tend to shift during dynamic movements. For high-intensity interval training or running, earbuds or on-ear headphones are usually more practical.
Can I use noise cancelling headphones while running?
You can, but it’s unsafe if you’re running on roads or trails with traffic. Many noise cancelling headphones have a transparency mode that lets in ambient sound, which is safer. For running, bone conduction headphones like the SHOKZ OpenRun Pro 2 are a better choice because they leave your ears open.
How do I clean workout headphones after sweating?
Wipe down the ear cushions and headband with a damp cloth after each use. For earbuds, remove the ear tips and rinse them with water (if they’re detachable and water-resistant). Avoid submerging non-waterproof headphones. You can also use disinfectant wipes, but check the manufacturer’s guidelines first.
What is the difference between on-ear and over-ear headphones for the gym?
On-ear headphones are lighter and more portable, but they press against your ears, which can become uncomfortable over time. Over-ear headphones enclose your ears, providing better passive noise isolation and comfort for longer sessions, but they are heavier and can trap heat.
Do I need a specific Bluetooth codec for workout headphones?
Not really. Most workout headphones use standard Bluetooth (Class 1 or 2) and support AAC or SBC codecs. The Beats Studio Pro support lossless audio via USB-C, but that’s not relevant for gym use. The connection stability is more important than the codec for workouts.
Are bone conduction headphones good for working out?
Yes, especially for outdoor activities. They keep your ears open so you can hear traffic and conversations. However, the sound quality is not as rich as traditional headphones, and they don’t block out bass noise. They’re best for running, cycling, and hiking.
What is the best type of headphone for weightlifting?
For weightlifting, stable over-ear headphones with good clamping force are great because they don’t move when you’re lying on a bench or doing squats. Earbuds with earhooks are also excellent. The Powerbeats Pro 2 are a top choice because they stay secure and have ANC to block out gym noise.
The Bottom Line
The best headphones for working out depend on your specific activity and environment. For most people, the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 are the top choice because they combine a secure fit, effective noise cancelling, heart rate monitoring, and sweat resistance in a single package. If you run outdoors, the SHOKZ OpenRun Pro 2 offer unmatched safety and comfort. For those who prefer over-ears, the Bose QuietComfort provide the best noise cancelling for a loud gym, while the Beats Studio Pro deliver excellent sound and battery life. If you’re on a budget, the Soundcore Q20i and Sony WH-CH520 are capable performers that don’t sacrifice essential features.
No matter which pair you choose, make sure they fit securely and can handle the sweat. The best headphones for working out in 2026 are the ones that stay on, sound good, and keep you in the zone.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.