Discover the best running headphones for 2024, based on expert reviews and latest advancements.
Learn more about 15 Best Running Earbuds for Android Users: Seamless Compatibility
Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or just starting your fitness journey, finding the right running headphones is crucial. They should provide excellent audio quality, a secure fit, and sweat-resistance for your runs. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect pair.
This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the world of running headphones and find the ideal pair for your needs. We’ve carefully curated a list of the 14 best running headphones in 2024, taking into account factors like sound quality, comfort, battery life, and water resistance.
From budget-friendly options to high-end audiophile-grade headphones, we have something for every runner and budget. We’ve also included a detailed breakdown of each headphone’s key features and pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.
Whether you prefer earbuds or over-ear headphones, wireless or wired, or prioritize sound quality or battery life, this guide has got you covered. Read on to discover your perfect running companions and elevate your workouts with the best sound possible.
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Jaybird Vista 3 | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Shokz OpenRun Pro | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Beats Fit Pro | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Bose SoundSport Wireless | 3.9 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Jabra Elite 7 Active | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Sony WF-1000XM4 | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Powerbeats Pro | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
AfterShokz Aeropex | 4.6 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Jaybird Vista 3
The Jaybird Vista 3 are a great choice for runners who want a secure fit and powerful sound. They're waterproof and sweatproof, so you can wear them in any weather conditions.
Specifications :
- Sound: Powerful, bass-heavy sound
- Battery Life: Up to 6 hours of playtime
- Water Resistance: IPX7 (waterproof)
- Features: Secure fit, customizable EQ, voice assistant support
Reasons to buy :
- Powerful and balanced sound
- Excellent fit for most ear shapes
- Very secure and comfortable for running
- Waterproof and sweatproof
- Good battery life
Reasons to avoid :
- The fit might not be ideal for everyone
- Can be a little pricey
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You are looking for a secure fit and powerful sound
- You need a waterproof and sweatproof headphone
- You are willing to pay a premium price for a quality product
Don't buy it if:
- You have sensitive ears
- You are on a tight budget
- You need headphones with a lot of features
Bottom Line:
The Jaybird Vista 3 are a great choice for runners who want a secure fit and powerful sound. They're waterproof and sweatproof, so you can wear them in any weather conditions. The sound quality is excellent, with plenty of bass and clarity. The fit is also very secure, so you don't have to worry about them falling out while you're running. The only downside is that they are a bit pricey. If you are looking for a quality pair of running headphones with a secure fit and powerful sound, the Jaybird Vista 3 are a great option.
Shokz OpenRun Pro
The Shokz OpenRun Pro are a great choice for runners who want to stay aware of their surroundings. They use bone conduction technology to transmit sound, so you can still hear what's going on around you while you're running.
Specifications :
- Sound: Bone conduction technology
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours of playtime
- Water Resistance: IP67 (waterproof and dustproof)
- Features: Open ear design, comfortable fit, voice assistant support
Reasons to buy :
- Open ear design allows you to stay aware of your surroundings
- Comfortable fit for most head shapes
- Excellent battery life
- Waterproof and dustproof
Reasons to avoid :
- Sound quality is not as good as traditional headphones
- Some users find them uncomfortable after prolonged use
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need to be aware of your surroundings while running
- You are looking for a comfortable and secure fit
- You want a long battery life
Don't buy it if:
- You need the best possible sound quality
- You have sensitive ears
- You are on a tight budget
Bottom Line:
The Shokz OpenRun Pro are a great choice for runners who want to stay aware of their surroundings. They use bone conduction technology to transmit sound, so you can still hear what's going on around you while you're running. They are also very comfortable to wear and have a long battery life. However, the sound quality is not as good as traditional headphones. If you are looking for a pair of headphones that allow you to stay aware of your surroundings while still enjoying music, the Shokz OpenRun Pro are a great option.
Beats Fit Pro
The Beats Fit Pro are a great choice for runners who want a secure fit and powerful sound. They have a wingtip design that helps to keep them in your ears, even when you're sweating.
Specifications :
- Sound: Powerful, bass-heavy sound
- Battery Life: Up to 6 hours of playtime
- Water Resistance: IPX4 (splashproof)
- Features: Active noise cancellation, transparency mode, spatial audio
Reasons to buy :
- Powerful and balanced sound
- Excellent fit for most ear shapes
- Secure and comfortable for running
- Active noise cancellation and transparency mode
- Good battery life
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be a little pricey
- Active noise cancellation can be distracting for some users
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You are looking for a secure fit and powerful sound
- You need a headphone with active noise cancellation and transparency mode
- You are willing to pay a premium price for a quality product
Don't buy it if:
- You have sensitive ears
- You are on a tight budget
- You need a headphone with the best possible sound quality
Bottom Line:
The Beats Fit Pro are a great choice for runners who want a secure fit and powerful sound. They have a wingtip design that helps to keep them in your ears, even when you're sweating. The sound quality is excellent, with plenty of bass and clarity. The active noise cancellation is also very effective. The only downside is that they are a bit pricey. If you are looking for a quality pair of running headphones with a secure fit and powerful sound, the Beats Fit Pro are a great option.
Bose SoundSport Wireless
The Bose SoundSport Wireless are a great choice for runners who want a comfortable fit and good sound quality. They have a secure fit and are sweatproof, so you can wear them in any weather conditions.
Specifications :
- Sound: Balanced sound
- Battery Life: Up to 6 hours of playtime
- Water Resistance: IPX4 (splashproof)
- Features: Comfortable fit, secure fit, voice assistant support
Reasons to buy :
- Good sound quality with a balanced sound profile
- Secure and comfortable fit
- Sweatproof
- Good battery life
- Affordable price
Reasons to avoid :
- Sound quality isn't as good as some other headphones on this list
- No active noise cancellation
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You are looking for a comfortable fit and good sound quality
- You need a sweatproof headphone
- You are on a tight budget
Don't buy it if:
- You need the best possible sound quality
- You need active noise cancellation
- You want a long battery life
Bottom Line:
The Bose SoundSport Wireless are a great choice for runners who want a comfortable fit and good sound quality. They are sweatproof and have a secure fit, so you can wear them in any weather conditions. The sound quality is good, with a balanced sound profile. The only downside is that they don't have active noise cancellation. If you are looking for a comfortable and affordable pair of running headphones with good sound quality, the Bose SoundSport Wireless are a great option.
Jabra Elite 7 Active
The Jabra Elite 7 Active are a great choice for runners who want a secure fit and a long battery life. They have a secure fit and are sweatproof, so you can wear them in any weather conditions.
Specifications :
- Sound: Balanced sound
- Battery Life: Up to 8 hours of playtime
- Water Resistance: IP67 (waterproof and dustproof)
- Features: Active noise cancellation, transparency mode, voice assistant support
Reasons to buy :
- Good sound quality with a balanced sound profile
- Secure and comfortable fit
- Sweatproof
- Long battery life
- Active noise cancellation and transparency mode
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be a little pricey
- No spatial audio
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You are looking for a secure fit and long battery life
- You need a sweatproof and dustproof headphone
- You want a headphone with active noise cancellation and transparency mode
Don't buy it if:
- You need the best possible sound quality
- You want a headphone with spatial audio
- You are on a tight budget
Bottom Line:
The Jabra Elite 7 Active are a great choice for runners who want a secure fit and a long battery life. They have a secure fit and are sweatproof, so you can wear them in any weather conditions. The sound quality is good, with a balanced sound profile. The active noise cancellation is also very effective. The only downside is that they are a bit pricey. If you are looking for a quality pair of running headphones with a secure fit and long battery life, the Jabra Elite 7 Active are a great option.
Sony WF-1000XM4
The Sony WF-1000XM4 are a great choice for runners who want the best possible sound quality and noise cancellation. They have a secure fit and are sweatproof, so you can wear them in any weather conditions.
Specifications :
- Sound: Excellent sound quality with a rich bass
- Battery Life: Up to 8 hours of playtime
- Water Resistance: IPX4 (splashproof)
- Features: Active noise cancellation, transparency mode, voice assistant support
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent sound quality with a rich bass
- Secure and comfortable fit
- Sweatproof
- Long battery life
- Active noise cancellation and transparency mode
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be a little pricey
- No spatial audio
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You are looking for the best possible sound quality and noise cancellation
- You need a sweatproof headphone
- You are willing to pay a premium price for a quality product
Don't buy it if:
- You are on a tight budget
- You need a headphone with spatial audio
Bottom Line:
The Sony WF-1000XM4 are a great choice for runners who want the best possible sound quality and noise cancellation. They have a secure fit and are sweatproof, so you can wear them in any weather conditions. The sound quality is excellent, with a rich bass and clear highs. The active noise cancellation is also very effective. The only downside is that they are a bit pricey. If you are looking for a quality pair of running headphones with excellent sound quality and noise cancellation, the Sony WF-1000XM4 are a great option.
Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation
The Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation are a great choice for runners who want a secure fit and a long battery life. They are sweatproof and have active noise cancellation, so you can focus on your run without being distracted.
Specifications :
- Sound: Balanced sound with good bass
- Battery Life: Up to 6 hours of playtime
- Water Resistance: IPX4 (splashproof)
- Features: Active noise cancellation, transparency mode, spatial audio
Reasons to buy :
- Good sound quality with a balanced sound profile
- Secure and comfortable fit
- Sweatproof
- Long battery life
- Active noise cancellation and transparency mode
- Spatial audio for a more immersive listening experience
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be a little pricey
- No customization options for EQ
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You are looking for a secure fit and long battery life
- You need a sweatproof headphone with active noise cancellation and transparency mode
- You are looking for a headphone with spatial audio
Don't buy it if:
- You are on a tight budget
- You need a headphone with the best possible sound quality
Bottom Line:
The Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation are a great choice for runners who want a secure fit and a long battery life. They are sweatproof and have active noise cancellation, so you can focus on your run without being distracted. They also have spatial audio, which creates a more immersive listening experience. The sound quality is good, with a balanced sound profile and good bass. The only downside is that they are a bit pricey. If you are looking for a quality pair of running headphones with a secure fit, long battery life, and active noise cancellation, the Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation are a great option.
Powerbeats Pro
The Powerbeats Pro are a great choice for runners who want a secure fit and powerful sound. They have a hook design that helps to keep them in your ears, even when you're sweating.
Specifications :
- Sound: Powerful, bass-heavy sound
- Battery Life: Up to 9 hours of playtime
- Water Resistance: IPX4 (splashproof)
- Features: Secure fit, comfortable fit, voice assistant support
Reasons to buy :
- Powerful and balanced sound
- Excellent fit for most ear shapes
- Secure and comfortable for running
- Good battery life
- Affordable price
Reasons to avoid :
- No active noise cancellation
- No transparency mode
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You are looking for a secure fit and powerful sound
- You need a sweatproof headphone
- You are on a tight budget
Don't buy it if:
- You need active noise cancellation
- You need transparency mode
Bottom Line:
The Powerbeats Pro are a great choice for runners who want a secure fit and powerful sound. They have a hook design that helps to keep them in your ears, even when you're sweating. The sound quality is excellent, with plenty of bass and clarity. The only downside is that they don't have active noise cancellation or transparency mode. If you are looking for a quality pair of running headphones with a secure fit and powerful sound, the Powerbeats Pro are a great option.
Dive deeper into 22 Best Running Earbuds Under $100: Affordable Quality Options
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Learn more about 20 Best Running Earbuds Under $50: Budget-Friendly Choices
AfterShokz Aeropex
The AfterShokz Aeropex are a great choice for runners who want to stay aware of their surroundings. They use bone conduction technology to transmit sound, so you can still hear what's going on around you while you're running.
Specifications :
- Sound: Bone conduction technology
- Battery Life: Up to 8 hours of playtime
- Water Resistance: IP67 (waterproof and dustproof)
- Features: Open ear design, comfortable fit, voice assistant support
Reasons to buy :
- Open ear design allows you to stay aware of your surroundings
- Comfortable fit for most head shapes
- Excellent battery life
- Waterproof and dustproof
- Affordable price
Reasons to avoid :
- Sound quality is not as good as traditional headphones
- Some users find them uncomfortable after prolonged use
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need to be aware of your surroundings while running
- You are looking for a comfortable and secure fit
- You want a long battery life
Don't buy it if:
- You need the best possible sound quality
- You have sensitive ears
- You are on a tight budget
Bottom Line:
The AfterShokz Aeropex are a great choice for runners who want to stay aware of their surroundings. They use bone conduction technology to transmit sound, so you can still hear what's going on around you while you're running. They are also very comfortable to wear and have a long battery life. However, the sound quality is not as good as traditional headphones. If you are looking for a pair of headphones that allow you to stay aware of your surroundings while still enjoying music, the AfterShokz Aeropex are a great option.
Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3
The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 are a great choice for runners who want the best possible sound quality and a secure fit. They have a secure fit and are sweatproof, so you can wear them in any weather conditions.
Specifications :
- Sound: Excellent sound quality with a balanced sound profile
- Battery Life: Up to 7 hours of playtime
- Water Resistance: IPX4 (splashproof)
- Features: Active noise cancellation, transparency mode, voice assistant support
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent sound quality with a balanced sound profile
- Secure and comfortable fit
- Sweatproof
- Long battery life
- Active noise cancellation and transparency mode
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be a little pricey
- No spatial audio
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You are looking for the best possible sound quality
- You need a sweatproof headphone
- You are willing to pay a premium price for a quality product
Don't buy it if:
- You are on a tight budget
- You need a headphone with spatial audio
Bottom Line:
The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 are a great choice for runners who want the best possible sound quality and a secure fit. They have a secure fit and are sweatproof, so you can wear them in any weather conditions. The sound quality is excellent, with a balanced sound profile and clear highs. The active noise cancellation is also very effective. The only downside is that they are a bit pricey. If you are looking for a quality pair of running headphones with excellent sound quality and a secure fit, the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 are a great option.
Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro
A solid, well-rounded pair of earbuds that deliver good sound quality and active noise cancellation.
Specifications :
- Active noise cancellation: Yes
- Water resistance: IPX7
- Battery life: Up to 5 hours (with ANC), 18 hours (with charging case)
- Features: Ambient sound mode, touch controls
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent sound quality with good bass response
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Effective active noise cancellation
- Long battery life
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be expensive compared to some competitors
- No wireless charging case
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You're looking for earbuds with a good balance of sound quality, features, and battery life.
- You value active noise cancellation.
- You're willing to spend a bit more for a premium product.
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget.
- You're looking for the absolute best sound quality possible.
- You need a wireless charging case.
Bottom Line:
The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro offer a well-rounded package of sound quality, features, and comfort that make them a great choice for runners. Their active noise cancellation is effective at blocking out distractions, and their secure fit ensures they won't fall out during your workout. However, they are on the expensive side, and they don't have a wireless charging case. If you're looking for a premium pair of earbuds that won't break the bank, the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro are a good option. But if you're looking for the absolute best sound quality or you need wireless charging, you may want to consider other options.
JBL Tune 130NC TWS
Read more about this on 18 Best Running Headphones with Ear Hooks: Secure and Reliable
A budget-friendly pair of earbuds that offer good sound quality and active noise cancellation.
Specifications :
- Active noise cancellation: Yes
- Water resistance: IPX4
- Battery life: Up to 6 hours (with ANC), 20 hours (with charging case)
- Features: Ambient sound mode, touch controls
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable price
- Good sound quality for the price
- Effective active noise cancellation
- Long battery life
Reasons to avoid :
- Not the most comfortable fit for everyone
- Sound quality isn't as good as some more expensive options
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You're looking for a budget-friendly pair of earbuds with active noise cancellation.
- You need good sound quality without breaking the bank.
- You're looking for earbuds with a long battery life.
Don't buy it if:
- You're looking for the most comfortable fit.
- You're willing to spend a bit more for a better sound quality.
- You need more advanced features, like wireless charging.
Bottom Line:
The JBL Tune 130NC TWS are a great value for the price. They offer good sound quality, effective noise cancellation, and long battery life. However, they aren't the most comfortable fit for everyone, and their sound quality isn't as good as some more expensive options. If you're looking for a budget-friendly pair of earbuds with active noise cancellation, the JBL Tune 130NC TWS are a great option. But if you're looking for the best possible sound quality or you need a more comfortable fit, you may want to consider other options.
Anker Soundcore Liberty 4
A feature-rich pair of earbuds that deliver excellent sound quality and advanced features.
Specifications :
- Active noise cancellation: Yes
- Water resistance: IPX4
- Battery life: Up to 9 hours (with ANC), 34 hours (with charging case)
- Features: HearID 2.0 for personalized sound, customizable EQ, wireless charging
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent sound quality with deep bass response
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Effective active noise cancellation
- Long battery life
- Wireless charging case
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be expensive
- No ambient sound mode
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You're looking for earbuds with the best possible sound quality.
- You need advanced features like HearID 2.0 and customizable EQ.
- You want a long battery life and a wireless charging case.
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget.
- You need an ambient sound mode.
- You're not interested in the advanced features.
Bottom Line:
The Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 are a great choice for runners who are looking for the best possible sound quality. They have a comfortable fit, effective active noise cancellation, and a long battery life. They also offer advanced features like HearID 2.0 and customizable EQ, which make them great for listeners who are looking for a truly personalized listening experience. However, they are on the expensive side, and they don't have an ambient sound mode. If you're looking for the best possible sound quality and you're willing to spend a bit more, the Soundcore Liberty 4 are a great option. But if you're on a tight budget or you need an ambient sound mode, you may want to consider other options.
Skullcandy Indy Evo
A solid pair of earbuds that deliver good sound quality and a secure fit at an affordable price.
Specifications :
- Active noise cancellation: No
- Water resistance: IP67
- Battery life: Up to 30 hours (with charging case)
- Features: Secure fit, sweat and water resistant, touch controls
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable price
- Good sound quality
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Long battery life
- Sweat and water resistant
Reasons to avoid :
- No active noise cancellation
- No ambient sound mode
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You're looking for a budget-friendly pair of earbuds with a secure fit.
- You need good sound quality and long battery life.
- You want earbuds that are sweat and water resistant.
Don't buy it if:
- You need active noise cancellation.
- You need an ambient sound mode.
- You're looking for the best possible sound quality.
Bottom Line:
The Skullcandy Indy Evo are a great option for runners who are looking for a budget-friendly pair of earbuds with a secure fit and long battery life. They offer good sound quality and are sweat and water resistant. However, they don't have active noise cancellation or an ambient sound mode. If you're looking for a budget-friendly pair of earbuds with a secure fit and long battery life, the Skullcandy Indy Evo are a great option. But if you need active noise cancellation or you're looking for the best possible sound quality, you may want to consider other options.
Finding the perfect running headphones can be a game-changer for your workouts. Whether you prioritize sound quality, comfort, or a secure fit, the options on our list cater to every runner's needs. We've carefully chosen headphones that deliver exceptional audio experiences, stay put during intense runs, and boast features like sweat resistance and long battery life. Ultimately, the best headphones for you will depend on your personal preferences and running style.
Take advantage of the detailed reviews and comparisons we've provided to make an informed decision. Consider factors like budget, desired features, and how you plan to use your headphones. Remember, the right pair will elevate your runs, motivating you to push your limits and enjoy every stride.
Don't let the search for the perfect running headphones be a barrier to your fitness goals. Dive into our recommendations, find your perfect match, and get ready to experience the joy of running with high-quality sound by your side. With a plethora of options available, you're sure to find the ideal pair that enhances your runs and elevates your workout experience.
Finally, as technology evolves rapidly in the world of audio, we encourage you to stay updated and explore the latest offerings. New and innovative models are released regularly, so don't hesitate to revisit our list or research other reputable sources for the most up-to-date information on running headphones.