Music is the ideal accompaniment to workouts, but you shouldn't grab just any old headphones before you go to the gym. If you plan to work up a sweat or jog during a downpour, make sure whatever you choose is exercise-friendly. PCMag's audio experts have been testing headphones for more than two decades, so you can trust our top picks are worth your money. If you don't know where to start, check out our Editors' Choice winners, such as the earhook-style Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 and the budget-friendly TriBit FlyBuds 3. Be sure to read our full reviews of these models and our other favorites to determine which best fits your budget and needs.
Overview
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![Apple AirPods Pro 3]()
Best for iPhone UsersApple AirPods Pro 3
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![JBL Endurance Peak 3]()
Most Secure Fit for WorkoutsJBL Endurance Peak 3
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![Tribit FlyBuds 3]()
Lowest PriceTribit FlyBuds 3
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![Beats Powerbeats Pro 2]()
Best for WorkoutsBeats Powerbeats Pro 2
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![Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro]()
Best for Galaxy Phone UsersSamsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro
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![LG Tone Free Fit (TF8)]()
Best Charging CaseLG Tone Free Fit (TF8)
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![Anker Soundcore Sport X10]()
Best Budget Noise CancellationAnker Soundcore Sport X10
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![H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro]()
Best for SwimmingH2O Audio Tri 2 Pro
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
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Credit: Eric Zeman
![Apple AirPods Pro 3]()
Best for iPhone UsersApple AirPods Pro 3
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The third-generation AirPods Pro deliver top-quality noise cancellation, wiping out deep, low-frequency rumble and more complex, higher-frequency sounds. Beyond the improved ANC, Apple's Adaptive Audio mode gives you a more natural way to monitor your surroundings without letting loud noises harm your hearing. The re-tuned audio is still rich but more balanced than before, providing a first-class listening experience. In addition, they include advanced features like live language translation, heart rate monitoring, workout tracking, and a bevy of hearing health tools—all for the same price as the old model. And, they meet an IP67 rating for protection from water during workouts
Who It’s For
The AirPods Pro 3 are ideal if you're invested in the Apple ecosystem and use an iPhone, iPad, or Mac. They're also for those who want top-class noise cancellation, excellent sound, and long battery life paired with advanced features like heart rate monitoring and fitness tracking, while offering a water-tight build.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Battery Life Up to 8 hours for earbuds, and 24 hours with case Charging Support Lightning, MagSafe, Qi Wireless, USB-C Chip H3 headphone chip; U2 chip for case Connection Type Bluetooth Hands-Free Siri In-Canal Seal On-Ear Controls Volume swipes; press and press-and-hold gestures (ANC/Transparency selection, calls, playback, Siri, track navigation) Spatial Audio Personalized Spatial audio with Head tracking Transparency Mode Standard and Apdative Transparency True Wireless Type In-Canal Water Resistance IP57 Water/Sweat-Resistant Wireless Learn More Apple AirPods Pro 3 Review -
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![JBL Endurance Peak 3]()
Most Secure Fit for WorkoutsJBL Endurance Peak 3
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
JBL sells a full range of waterproof models and the Endurance Peak 3 earphones are one of the best values. Their class-leading IP68 rating means they are completely dustproof and waterproof and they have excellent battery life, too. Meanwhile, their ear hooks ensure a secure fit no matter the intensity of your workout.
Who It's For
This JBL model is an excellent value for under $100, especially if you enjoy an adjustable sound signature that emphasizes the lows by default.
Specs & Configurations
Connection Type Bluetooth True Wireless Type In-Canal Water/Sweat-Resistant Wireless Learn More JBL Endurance Peak 3 Review -
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![Tribit FlyBuds 3]()
Lowest PriceTribit FlyBuds 3
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The IPX8-rated Tribit FlyBuds 3 are the most affordable waterproof earphones we recommend. They're capable performers, too, with a powerful, bass-centric sound signature, long battery life, and a stable design. The earbuds don't ship with a companion app, but that's a reasonable compromise for the price.
Who It's For
Budget-minded fitness fans should consider these Tribit earphones because they are reliable and cost well under $50.
Specs & Configurations
Connection Type Bluetooth True Wireless Type In-Canal Water/Sweat-Resistant Wireless Learn More Tribit FlyBuds 3 Review -
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![Beats Powerbeats Pro 2]()
Best for WorkoutsBeats Powerbeats Pro 2
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 earphones are focused on fitness and offer well-rounded features, such as noise cancellation, wireless charging, and heart rate monitoring. They can withstand sweaty workouts and deliver punchy bass to keep you motivated. Moreover, their over-ear hooks keep them stable whether you're jogging or cycling. Other highlights include up to 10 hours of battery life and native integration with Apple's iPhone.
Who It’s For
Runners and others who exercise should feel safe using these earbuds without worry. They also sound good enough that you won't mind using them for more casual listening.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Connection Type Bluetooth True Wireless Type In-Canal Water/Sweat-Resistant Wireless Learn More Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 Review -
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Credit: Christian de Looper
![Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro]()
Best for Galaxy Phone UsersSamsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Just like how AirPods (and Beats earphones) offer extra conveniences for iPhone users, the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro have some special tricks for Galaxy phone users, including support for 24-bit hi-res audio playback and compatibility with some Galaxy AI features. They also fit well, sport an IP57 rating, produce deep bass and clear highs via their dual drivers, and deliver decent noise cancellation. Like many Samsung products, however, they have a premium price.
Who It's For
Audiophiles with newer Samsung Galaxy devices should pick these up. Just make sure your phone is running at least Android 10.0 or One UI 6.0 and has 1.5GB of RAM.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Connection Type Bluetooth True Wireless Type In-Canal Water/Sweat-Resistant Wireless Learn More Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro Review -
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![LG Tone Free Fit (TF8)]()
Best Charging CaseLG Tone Free Fit (TF8)
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The LG Tone Free Fit earphones are a bit pricey given their average noise cancellation, but the charging case is the main appeal here. It functions as a Bluetooth transmitter (thus allowing you to use the earphones wirelessly with any device that has a 3.5mm headphone jack), and LG further claims that it sanitizes the earbuds with UV light when they are docked. An IP67 rating rating also means you don't need to be particularly careful with them.
Who It's For
The ability to listen wirelessly from any source with a headphone jack is what makes the LG Tone Free Fit earbuds most appealing. That's a nice convenience for everything from in-flight entertainment systems to smart gym equipment.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Connection Type Bluetooth True Wireless Type In-Canal Water/Sweat-Resistant Wireless Learn More LG Tone Free Fit (TF8) Review -
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![Anker Soundcore Sport X10]()
Best Budget Noise CancellationAnker Soundcore Sport X10
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Although top-notch noise-cancelling earphones are expensive, the IPX7-rated Anker Soundcore Sport X10 earbuds offer good-enough performance for much less. They also deliver a powerful, bass-forward audio signature that you can adjust via the in-app EQ.
Who It's For
If you want to block out distractions while you exercise at the gym, this Anker model is an excellent, low-cost option.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Connection Type Bluetooth True Wireless Type In-Canal Water/Sweat-Resistant Wireless Learn More Anker Soundcore Sport X10 Review -
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![H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro]()
Best for SwimmingH2O Audio Tri 2 Pro
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
If it wasn't clear from the brand name, H2O Audio specializes in headphones for swimmers, and that already means you can count on pretty much its entire portfolio to be waterproof. The Tri 2 Pro is the company's top-of-the-line model of bone conduction headphones, which produce sound by vibrating the bones of your skull instead of the air in your ears. It lets you hear everything around you while still enjoying whatever you're listening to, though the trade-off is weak bass. The Tri 2 Pro features onboard storage, so you can load it with your favorite music or podcasts and not have to rely on Bluetooth (which is inconsistent underwater).
Who It's For
The Tri Pro 2 headphones are swimmer-focused, especially because they can play music independently without a phone. They are a good pick for that specific purpose, though if you mostly work out above the water, you can find less expensive options.
Specs & Configurations
Connection Type Bluetooth Type Bone conduction Water/Sweat-Resistant Wireless Learn More H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Review -
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Rating |
5.0 Exemplary |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
3.5 Good |
5.0 Exemplary |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
Best For | Best for iPhone Users | Most Secure Fit for Workouts | Lowest Price | Best for Workouts | Best for Galaxy Phone Users | Best Charging Case | Best Budget Noise Cancellation | Best for Swimming | Best for iPhone Users | Most Secure Fit for Workouts | Lowest Price |
Type | In-Canal | In-Canal | In-Canal | In-Canal | In-Canal | In-Canal | In-Canal | Bone conduction | In-Canal | In-Canal | In-Canal |
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Connection Type | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Bluetooth |
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Active Noise Cancellation |
Buying Guide: The Best Waterproof Headphones for 2026
IP Ratings Explained: How Waterproof Are Your Headphones?
Let’s start here: Waterproof is a flexible term, and water-resistant is even more so. To qualify as either, a product ostensibly has to undergo standard testing to determine its level of protection against liquids. The resulting score is called an ingress protection (IP) rating. Our explainer on the IP rating system has more details and is a good read for those curious about the process.
The short version goes like this: Manufacturers thoroughly (we hope) test their products under a rigid system of guidelines and assign an appropriate rating based on the results. The IP system also indicates the level of protection against dust, which can make things a little confusing.
Let’s say you have two sets of headphones, one with an IP57 rating and another with an IPX7 rating. Which pair is more waterproof, and what’s with the X? First off, they are equally waterproof—only the second digit in an IP rating corresponds to water resistance. The first digit indicates the level of dust protection. So, where the IP57 model has a high level of dust resistance, an IPX7 rating either means that the manufacturer didn't sufficiently test the product to these standards or that the product didn't meet the minimum threshold to get a rating. The X is simply a placeholder for 0. Manufacturers tend to care more about protection against liquids than dust, for reference.
The truth is, most people probably don’t need the highest level of water resistance from their headphones. Something with a modest IP rating but lots of other useful features, such as active noise cancellation or an adjustable in-app EQ, might end up being a better pick.
Water-Resistant vs. Waterproof Headphones
Now that you understand what the numbers represent, what kind of IP ratings should you look for? To keep things simple, we’re just going to refer to everything as an IPX rating and ignore the dust resistance part here. It's rare for a manufacturer to even advertise a rating below IPX3, which corresponds to weak water resistance. Products with an IPX4 status can at least withstand water splashes from any direction.
An IPX5 rating means a product can handle water jetting from a 6.3mm nozzle, whereas an IPX6 rating means water jets from a 12.5mm nozzle should be fine. Both of these levels are likely good enough for a sweaty workout or exercise in light rain. However, you probably shouldn't expose headphones with this rating to heavy faucet pressure, let alone submerge them.
You can submerge IPX7 gear at depths of up to a meter for up to 30 minutes without issue. An IPX7 rating is where a product makes the leap from water resistant to waterproof; this is the minimum level for products on this list. IPX8 earphones are now increasingly common, too. They can survive at depths between one and three meters for longer periods.
The Best Waterproof Headphones for Swimming
Generally speaking, a Bluetooth signal doesn’t do well underwater. Although a wireless pair of IPX7 earphones might be enticing for swimming laps, the Bluetooth signal might not be steady.
That's why some companies, such as H2O Audio, specialize in Bluetooth products for swimmers. These earphones are subject to the same limitations of Bluetooth signals underwater. Still, their design keeps the headphones' reception circuitry above water, whereas traditional headphones might go underwater every time you turn your head to breathe.
Another possible issue with using headphones for swimming is range. Your Bluetooth audio source needs to be nearby to maintain a strong streaming signal.
How to Charge Waterproof Headphones
For a variety of reasons, waterproof earphones far outnumber over-ear or on-ear headphones with the same qualities. Within the in-ear world, you have true wireless earphones, as well as more traditional wireless models with cables that connect the earpieces but still stream wireless audio.
Note that the charging case for your true wireless earphones likely isn't water resistant at all. Some cases have waterproof exteriors, but very few have a waterproof interior (the case for the third-generation AirPods Pro is a notable exception). If you dock them while they’re wet, you run the risk of damaging the product. Wireless models with a cable don’t have this issue. However, their waterproof ratings typically apply only when the charging point is sealed.
This means that you must still use common sense. A simpler way to think of it is: When charging your headphones, treat them as if they aren't water-resistant. Dry the port before attaching a cable, and dry your earpieces before you place them in the case.
How Much Should You Spend on Waterproof Headphones?
A solid IP rating doesn’t seem to have a huge impact on price these days. That said, if water resistance is important to you, the best headphones we’ve tested generally start around $100. Often, more expensive waterproof earphones have higher price tags because they offer top-notch noise cancellation or other premium audio features.
If you're looking for something more affordable, you can head over to the best headphones we've tested for under $50. Just keep in mind that they might not be waterproof. Once you find the right pair, make sure to check out our additional coverage on five easy tips to extend the life of your headphones and the eight ways you're using your headphones wrong.
Tim Gideon and Ben Moore contributed to this article.