Nearly every device in the world is becoming capable of wirelessly “talking” to one another, and it’s no different with your headphones.
The most common form of this technology is Bluetooth.
Below you will find the best Bluetooth workout headphones followed by a guide to help you make the best decision.
Top 10 Bluetooth Workout Headphones
(Note: We know the title says “Top 3,” but we couldn’t help ourselves.)
| Our Rank | Picture | Name | Type | Play Time | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  | Jabra Sport Coach | Earbuds | 5.5 hrs | $$$$ | 4.9 |
| 2 |  | Beats Solo 2.0 Wireless | Vertical On-Ear | 12 hrs | $$$$$ | 4.5 |
| 3 |  | Plantronics BackBeat Fit | Ear Hook | 8 hrs | $$$ | 4.3 |
| 4 |  | SMS Audio Sync By 50 Wireless Sport Headphones | Vertical On-Ear | 10 hrs | $$$$ | 4.2 |
| 5 |  | Mpow Swift | Earbuds | 5 hrs | $ | 4.0 |
| 6 |  | Monster iSport Freedom Wireless Headphones | Vertical On-Ear | 14 hrs | $$$$ | 4.0 |
| 7 |  | Beats Powerbeats 2 | Ear Hook | 8 hrs | $$$$ | 3.9 |
| 8 |  | Soundpeqts Qy7 V4.1 | Earbuds | 5 hrs | $ | 3.8 |
| 9 |  | BlueAnt Pump | Ear Hook | 8 hrs | $ | 3.8 |
| 10 |  | Jaybird BlueBuds X | Earbuds | 8 hrs | $$$$ | 3.8 |
3 Benefits of Using Bluetooth Headphones for Workouts
1. No more cords. Whether you have to adjust your headphone cord every few minutes or whether you’re tired of nearly ripping your headphones off your head every time you make a big stride, or perform your next rep, cordless headphones are the way to go.
Stop spending more time fixing your headphone cord than working out.
2. Everyday use. Two features I absolutely love are 1) the ability to sync my headphones to my laptop, and 2) the ability to talk on the phone hands free. This is actually a must if you happen to live in one of the states that don’t allow handheld cell phone use while driving.
3. Stay up to date with the times. I honestly don’t believe wired products are going to be hanging around much longer, at least not in the mainstream. Literally everything from your air conditioning to your toaster can be controlled wirelessly these days. Getting accustomed to the technology now will put you ahead in the game later.
3 Additional Features to Consider
Sweat Resistance. This is one of the critical factors when choosing headphones for exercise. Be aware that regardless what any manufacturer says, none of the headphones on this list are completely sweat proof, but most of them are sweat resistant. (Here’s the difference.)
Play Time. In our table above we listed the continuous play time for each pair of headphones. Technology has come a long way, but you’ll still have to charge these headphones (typically weekly if you workout everyday).
Secure Fit. In the above table we listed the type of headphone. You’ll notice 3 basic types:
- Earbuds. This is the most popular style, mainly because they can maintain a secure fit just using in-the-ear-canal tips for a good fit, while also being the most lightweight. You’ll notice a thin neckband that connects the earbuds. I actually prefer a super short cord so it doesn’t rub against my neck, which is something to consider. (Note: some have mini cord clips that will pinch the cord tight so it’s not “dragging”)
- Earhook. Most of the earhook style also utilize earbuds, but we listed them separately so you could see the difference. Sometimes this is a comfort issue for people who aren’t accustomed to any part of the headphone resting/touching the top/back of your ear. Our experience is that it takes about 5-10 days to get used to this style, but after that you barely notice anything.
- Vertical On-Ear. These type of earphones sit on top of the ear. They were popularized way back when Sony blew up with the Walkman, Discman, etc. They fell off the map a little in terms of active use until Beats starting using athletes like LeBron James, Colin Kaepernick, and Neymar. SMS Audio, Monster, and Soul Electronics all followed suit to create sport specific premium headphones. There is still a small concern with regards to secure fit for super active users, but the trade-off is they sound far superior.
Final Thoughts
Here’s a few final words if you’re still struggling between which type is perfect for you.
For better sound quality. Audiophiles or anyone concerned primarily with sound will want to go with one of the vertical on-ear choices: Beats Solo 2, SMS Audio Sync By 50, or Monster iSport Freedom. The big difference is going to be the bass.
The safe bet. Anything by Jabra, Plantronics, or Jaybird is going to be of high quality. They’ve been around a while and have made several versions of wireless sports headphones over the years.
Won’t break the bank. Soundpeats, Mpow, and BlueAnt all have incredibly affordable options, but these guys are also a little newer on the scene.
Hope you end up with a sweet pair, and be sure to come back and let us know about them!
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