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The best wireless earbuds for running
All of the best workout and running earbuds, ranked based on our testing data.
November 8, 2025
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’re serious about running, your earbuds need to keep up. Whether you’re pounding the pavement or weaving through a wooded trail, you need something that fits securely, sounds great, and doesn’t conk out halfway through your playlist. In my testing, the best wireless earbuds for running aren’t just about waterproof ratings or staying in place — they also need to deliver consistent Bluetooth performance, intuitive controls, and solid battery life. You shouldn’t have to fiddle with your gear when you’re trying to beat a personal best.
This guide cuts through the noise and highlights only the wireless earbuds I’ve actually used while running. Some prioritize sound quality, others focus on staying put no matter how sweaty things get — and a few rare pairs manage to do it all. Whether you’re a casual jogger or a marathon prepper, these earbuds won’t let you down mid-stride. Below, you’ll find our rankings of the best wireless earbuds for running, based on objective testing data and real experience with the products.
Compare table
Filter
- Compare tableProductVotes
- 12 total votes12 total votes
$230
8.9
9.5
7.0
9.0
8.0
8.1
9.5
9.5
- 4 total votes4 total votes
$270
8.7
8.5
7.4
8.3
8.5
8.3
9.5
9.5
- 2 total votes2 total votes
$130
8.5
8.5
6.3
9.5
8.0
8.1
9.5
9.0
- 0 total votes0 total votes
$280
8.5
8.8
6.3
9.3
8.9
8.5
8.0
9.7
- 3 total votes3 total votes
$250
8.5
8.4
7.1
8.8
7.0
8.4
9.8
9.0
- 1 total votes1 total votes
$120
8.5
8.0
7.6
8.0
8.0
8.5
9.5
9.5
- 5 total votes5 total votes
$90
8.5
8.3
5.7
9.8
8.5
7.5
9.5
9.2
- 0 total votes0 total votes
$200
8.4
8.6
5.7
8.1
8.8
7.5
9.8
9.0
- 9 total votes9 total votes
$59
8.4
8.5
6.0
8.0
8.5
8.3
9.5
9.0
- 10 total votes10 total votes
$90
8.4
8.0
6.2
9.5
8.0
8.1
9.8
9.0
- 1 total votes1 total votes
$160
8.4
8.5
6.9
8.5
8.0
7.8
9.0
9.0
- 12 total votes12 total votes
$39
8.4
8.5
5.9
9.0
8.5
8.2
8.8
9.0
Product chart
In the chart above, you can see how the best wireless earbuds for running compare based on their price and the workout score we measured for each.
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.
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.
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
What’s most important to you in running earbuds?
Best overall pick: Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2
Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 are our top pick for wireless earbuds that blend rugged workout suitability with travel-ready features. The earbuds have IP68 durability and a ShakeGrip coating for secure wear, and the LE Audio smart case can transmit from any 3.5mm or USB-C source so you can listen without relying on Bluetooth. They deliver long battery life in our testing (9 hours and 3 minutes on a charge) and strong noise canceling — most environmental noise is reduced by about 80% with low frequencies attenuated roughly 30 dB. The Jabra Sound+ app adds extensive customization, including a five-band EQ and Dolby Spatial Sound, and our MDAQS mentions are included in the review to provide additional audio context. It also earned Best Call Quality and Bluetooth 5.0 and more recognition in the article.
Sourced from Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 review – SoundGuys.
Best for iPhone users pick: Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4
Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 4 are the pick for people who want a premium sound and app experience on phones, with hardware and software tuned for careful listening. They offer an IP54 rating, capacitive touch controls, and the Sennheiser Smart Control app with a fit test, 5-band EQ and self-tuning features to tailor sound and ANC to your ears. The buds support Bluetooth 5.4 and a wide range of codecs — including aptX Adaptive and aptX Lossless (and LC3/LE Audio after a firmware update) — which is why they’re singled out for both iPhone and Android users. Battery life in our standardized test was 7 hours and 45 minutes, and the review notes the fit and concha fins are important for getting the best seal. This model also earned recognition as Best for Android users alongside Best for iPhone users.
Sourced from Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 4 review – SoundGuys.
Best Value pick: Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro
Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro stand out as a value option by packing many premium features into an affordable package, including a distinctive charging case with a small display and a wide set of app-driven options. The Soundcore app is central to the experience, offering extensive EQ options (including an eight-band custom EQ and 22 presets), HearID sound tests, and spatial audio modes. They support Bluetooth 5.3 with LDAC for high-resolution streaming on compatible Android phones, and multipoint pairing for switching between devices. The review highlights an effective ANC that reduces low-frequency noise by about 30dB and notes convenient features like swipe-to-volume on the stems. For those reasons the Liberty 4 Pro earned the Best Value badge in the article.
Sourced from Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro review – SoundGuys.
Best ANC pick: JBL Tour Pro 3
JBL Tour Pro 3 are our pick when active noise cancellation is the priority, thanks to a very capable ANC system that the review measures as substantially reducing outside noise (roughly an 83–84% reduction in many cases). The Smart Charging Case doubles as a transmitter and a small user interface, letting you connect wired sources via 3.5mm or USB-C and control many settings without your phone. The earbuds use Bluetooth 5.4 with support for high-quality codecs like LDAC and LC3, and they include a full complement of app features such as a 10-band EQ and fit test. Battery runtime in our test was 8 hours and 17 minutes with ANC on, and the Tour Pro 3 also picked up the article’s Best Sound Quality recognition for strong scores across timbre and distortion metrics.
Sourced from JBL Tour Pro 3 review – SoundGuys.
Best Battery Life pick: Skullcandy Method 360 ANC
Skullcandy Method 360 ANC are recognized for long battery life and a comfortable fit derived from Bose’s hardware and tuning. In our testing the earbuds delivered 7 hours and 43 minutes with ANC on and about 11 hours with ANC off, with the charging case extending total runtime to roughly 32 hours (40 hours without ANC). The review highlights Bose-supplied drivers and ear-tip design for secure comfort, intuitive tap controls, and recent firmware updates that reduced overly loud voice prompts. Connectivity is simple with Bluetooth 5.3 (SBC and AAC) and multipoint support, and the article also flags the Method 360 for its comfort — it earned the Best for Comfort recognition in addition to battery honors.
Sourced from Skullcandy Method 360 ANC review: Bose sound on a budget? – SoundGuys.
Our verdict
For wireless earbuds in the workout and everyday category, the Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 balance durability, long battery life, strong ANC and a versatile LE Audio smart case that makes them a clear overall choice for active users and travelers. The Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 4 are the go-to for listeners who want broad codec support, app-based tuning and a strong fit/testing workflow, which is why they’re singled out for both iPhone and Android use. The Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro deliver the most features for the money, with LDAC, a deep app feature set and a useful if quirky case, making them the best value pick. The JBL Tour Pro 3 are ideal if ANC performance and sound quality top your list, thanks to robust noise canceling, a transmitter-capable case and high marks in audio metrics, while the Skullcandy Method 360 ANC pair long runtime with a comfortable, Bose-influenced fit.
For the remaining products, the JBL Live Beam 3 offers solid battery life (about 8 hours and 14 minutes), IP55 protection, LDAC/LC3 support and respectable ANC that handles much of the low end but may require the right tips for a secure fit. The SoundPEATS Capsule3 Pro+ emphasize sound-first features — xMEMS drivers and LDAC support — with strong MDAQS-derived sounding characteristics, but their ANC battery life is limited (about 3 hours and 53 minutes with ANC enabled), so they’ll suit listeners prioritizing sound quality over long ANC runtime.
FAQ
The Sony WF-1000XM5 are an excellent choice for runners, hikers, and gym-goers. It features an IPX4 water resistance rating, meaning the earbuds shouldn't be damaged by sweat.
A good pair of running headphones should have an over-ear shape with ear pads that completely encompass your ears without any gaps. With a fit like this, there should be less opportunity for outside noise to make its way through the headphones. Most running headphones also have a greater clamping force than general-purpose headsets because you’re bopping up and down while you jog. This could be uncomfortable after an hour of wear, but most of us don’t exercise for longer than one or two hours anyway.
If you’re getting in-ear, a proper fit is especially important and requires the ear tips to create a solid seal with the entrances of your ear canal. Make sure the buds don’t shake out as you shake your head. A standard in-ear design is the most traditional fit and will likely cast the widest net in terms of preference when running. Why? Running earbuds are unobtrusive and increasingly more durable, particularly the wireless options. If the provided ear tips don’t fit well, take a few minutes to test out any alternatives.
To keep your earbuds from falling out during your runs, here's what the experts suggest:
- Ear Tips and Wings: Opt for earbuds like the Jabra Elite 8 Active or the Beats Fit Pro, which have designs that fit deep into the ear canal or integrate ear wings. These features ensure stability during movement, making them less likely to fall out.
- Bone Conduction Headphones: If traditional earbuds aren't your thing, consider the Shokz OpenRun. They sit directly on your cheekbones, sending vibrations through your skull. This unique design means they don't cover your ears at all, ensuring they stay put during your runs.
- Hooked Design: Earbuds like the Beats Powerbeats Pro come with hooks that wrap around the back of your ear, providing an extra layer of security.
- Customizable Ear Tips: Some earbuds, like the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation), come with multiple sets of silicone ear tips. This allows you to choose the size that fits your ear best, ensuring a snug fit.
- Awareness Mode: If you're concerned about safety, earbuds like the Jabra Elite 8 Active allow you to adjust how much environmental noise can permeate the earbuds. This means you can be aware of your surroundings without compromising the fit.
Remember, no ear is the same. It's essential to find earbuds that cater to your unique ear shape and running style. Whether you're sprinting or enjoying a leisurely jog, the right earbuds can make all the difference. So, lace up, tune in, and enjoy your run!
Not fully waterproof, but you do need sweat and splash resistance. An IPX4 rating handles sweat and light rain. If you often run in heavy rain, consider higher ratings (IPX7) for extra protection.
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With ear hooks or wings: More secure fit, especially for intense runs or trail running.
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Without hooks: Smaller and lighter, but may loosen if the fit isn’t perfect.
Choose based on how vigorous your runs are and how stable you want the fit.
- Sweat and water resistance (IPX4+)
- Secure fit (hooks, wings, or snug tips)
- Lightweight comfort
- Good battery life + quick charge
- Stable Bluetooth connection
- Ambient/transparency mode for outdoor safety
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