Rating of the best sports headphones: wireless and wired

Expert: Evgeny Mikhailovich Obolensky

*Review of the best according to the editors of expertology.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

Many athletes cannot imagine training without their favorite music. Comfortable headsets that fit firmly in your ears allow you to enjoy the melody. Let's find out which sports headphones are considered the most popular, and what to look for before buying a particular model.

How to choose headphones for sports

The following parameters are considered the main selection criteria:

1. Comfort of use.
   The headphones should fit comfortably and securely in the auricle.
2. Autonomy
   . It is better if the headset operates for at least 8 hours.
3. Sound quality
   . It should be clean with dominant bass.
4. Protection from external influences
   . It is worth choosing waterproof models made of durable material.
5. the appearance of
   the headset according to his taste. The rating of the best headphones for sports, compiled based on consumer reviews, will help you choose the optimal model. For convenience, it is divided into several categories.

Huawei FreeBuds 4i

Wireless in-ear headphones for running.

Huawei FreeBuds 4i is a pair of mid-range wireless headphones that have an ANC function and a battery that lasts all day. And all this for relatively little money. The sound quality is very good, but there are better models in this price range. These TWS headphones are a great choice if you're looking for noise-cancelling headphones on a budget, but if you want premium sound, there are better options.

Huawei FreeBuds 4i

Main characteristics

• Design: wireless in-ear
• Moisture protection: IP54
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.2
• Range: 10 m
• Frequency range: 20 – 20000 Hz
• Noise Cancellation: Active (ANC)
• Talk through (transparent mode): yes
• Touch control: yes
• Charging connector: USB Type-C
• Operating time: 10 hours (with noise reduction 7.5 hours)
• Charging time: 1 hour
• Weight: 6 g

Set

• Huawei FreeBuds 4i headphones
• Three pairs of silicone tips
• Charging case
• USB-C charging cable
• Quick Guide and Instructions

Video review

• Compact design
• Tight and secure fit
• Good active noise cancellation
• Stylish design
• Price

• Touch controls may sometimes freeze
• Bass lacks power
• Difficult to remove from case

Rating of the best headphones for sports

Huawei FreeLace Pro

Running headphones with IP55 water protection.

One of the best Bluetooth headsets for running is the Huawei Freelace Pro. It has a dual high-sensitivity microphone with active noise reduction. Thus, no extraneous noise will disturb you when listening to music or talking. What's more, Freelace Pro has a sound transmitting mode that allows you to stay connected with the world.

The device has speakers with a diameter of 14.2 mm, which have an independent sound tube with low frequencies, allowing to achieve an excellent resonant effect. Bluetooth 5.0 technology is used to connect headphones to devices.

Huawei FreeLace Pro

Main characteristics

• Design: wireless in-ear, neck mount
• Moisture protection: IP55
• Microphone: in mount
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0
• Range: 10 m
• Speaker diameter: 14.2 mm
• Noise Cancellation: Active (ANC)
• Charging connector: USB Type-C
• Operating time: 22 hours (with noise reduction 15 hours)
• Charging time: 1 hour

Set

• Huawei FreeLace Pro sports headphones
• USB-A to USB-C adapter
• Ear pads in three sizes
• Instructions

Video review

• Clear good sound
• Capacious battery
• Ability to charge headphones from your phone
• Reliable build
• Neckband ideal for training
• Charging time 40-50 minutes

• There may be problems when connecting to the laptop for the first time
• Inconvenient controls near the neck

The best inexpensive headphones for sports

Headphones in this group are distinguished by their low price, optimal level of comfort and good sound. They are ideal for sports activities.

Samsung EO-BG950 U Flex

Rating: 4.7

The next participant in the ranking of the best headphones for sports embodies comfort and high sound quality. The flexible neckband allows you to use the headphones in any situation. With them, you can answer calls and listen to music while jogging or playing sports. Ideal sound is achieved through speakers with powerful bass. Unique technology optimizes Bluetooth connectivity for stable audio playback even in the presence of strong radio interference. The model features smart controls with voice assistant activation and an original design. Reviews about the headphones are mostly positive. Buyers are delighted with the long-lasting performance of the headset and the clearest sound.

Advantages

• high sound quality;
• no interruptions;
• presence of a voice assistant;
• ten hours of operation on one charge;
• fast charge (about half an hour).

Flaws

• uncomfortable to wear under a hat in winter.

Sony WI-SP500

An excellent gadget with NFC connection.

Sony WI-SP500 are wireless headphones for sports. They can sync with devices using Bluetooth and NFC. Semi-open speakers let you hear the sounds around you, while passive noise canceling eliminates clutter. The capacity of the built-in battery is 420 mAh. This is enough for training throughout the week (8 hours). A definite advantage is the availability of fast charging.

Sony WI-SP500

Main characteristics

• Design: wireless earbuds
• Moisture protection: IPX4
• Microphone: built-in
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.2
• Range: 10 m
• Frequency range: 20 – 20000 Hz
• Speaker diameter: 13.5 mm
• NFC chip: yes
• Working time: 8 hours
• Weight: 18 g

Set

• Running headphones Sony WI-SP500
• microUSB cable
• 3 pairs of ear pads
• Carrying case

Video review

• Good build and control
• Unusual design
• They look both sporty and businesslike
• No mess in the sound
• Ideal for sports

• Lack of bass
• Periodically disconnect from the smartphone
• The ear pads fall off

The best headphones for sports in terms of price-quality ratio

It is important to understand that well-known companies produce models whose prices are higher due to the popularity of the brand. We have chosen headphones for sports, the price of which ideally matches the quality.

AfterShokz Trekz Titanium

Rating: 4.9

AfterShokz Trekz Titanium headphones are ideal for sports. Moreover, both professionals and beginners can use them. The device does not cover the hearing organs and allows you to hear everything around you. The product is not afraid of moisture and sweat. The Chinese model is developed based on the bone conduction system. The headset has a natural design and minimal weight. Customers say the headphones motivate them to exercise and create a pleasant environment during exercise. They consider the model safe and comfortable due to the fact that it is adjusted to the shape of the head. The average operating time is six hours. Price – 7990 rubles.

Advantages

• optimal dimensions;
• ease;
• flexibility;
• high quality construction;
• exclusive design.

Flaws

• There are no serious disadvantages.

Xiaomi 1More iBFree Sport

Metal running headphones.

Xiaomi together with 1MORE have developed unique and high-quality iBFree wireless Bluetooth headphones. They do not fall out of the ears, as they have a special lock, and the cable can be adjusted depending on the size of the head. You don't have to worry about getting caught in the rain thanks to IPX4. Stylish design includes 4 colors: red, gray, green and turquoise.

Xiaomi 1More iBFree Sport

Main characteristics

• Design: wireless in-ear
• Moisture protection: IPX6
• Microphone: on cable
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.2
• Range: 10 m
• Impedance: 32 Ohm
• Frequency range: 20 – 20000 Hz
• Sensitivity: 100 dB
• Case material: metal
• Working time: 8 hours
• Charging time: 2 hours

Set

• Sports headphones 1More iBFree Sport
• 3 pairs of ear pads + 3 pairs for sports
• microUSB cable
• Documentation

Video review

• Great design
• Good noise insulation and fit in the ear
• Ideal for active sports
• Large margin in volume and autonomy
• Rich low frequencies
• Low price

• Mid and high frequencies sound unbalanced
• The control panel is not informative
• On the street you have to raise your voice so that the other person can hear you

The best headphones for sports in the premium segment

Premium sports headphones are multi-functional, stylish in design and durable. They do not restrict movement and allow you to enjoy your favorite music in any conditions.

Bose SoundSport wireless headphones

Rating: 4.9

These in-ear sports headphones give you complete freedom of movement thanks to special earbuds that provide a secure fit. Distinctive features of the model are protection from sweat and water, support for Bluetooth and NFC, and unsurpassed sound from Bose. The signal always remains stable thanks to detailed testing of the product under different conditions. Connections are managed by the free Bose Connect app, which also helps you update your headphones' software. Buyers liked the balanced frequency range, ease of fixation and simultaneous operation of two devices. They consider six hours of work very short for the money. The headphones cost more than 10 thousand rubles.

Advantages

• good sound detail;
• presence of a remote control;
• convenient use;
• easy connection through a proprietary application;
• reliable fastening.

Flaws

• short work.

Denon AH-C160W

Rating: 4.8

The price of the next model indicates that in addition to comfort and their intended purpose, the headphones have excellent sound quality. Their belonging to the category of sports accessories is determined by their reliable fixation and waterproof housing. They are not suitable for swimming in the pool, however, you can safely go to the shower with them after training. A stable connection with the gadget is ensured by the Bluetooth module. The battery life from charging is only four hours. The first 20 minutes provide energy for a whole hour. The headset transmits information about the charge to the iPhone or iPad. The kit includes four types of silicone tips. They guarantee a tight and comfortable connection with the ear canal. The sound of the device is quite clear due to the well-formed frequency response.

Advantages

• bright design;
• rhythmic sound with powerful bass;
• stable connection;
• comfortable fit.

Flaws

• small battery life.

Sony WF-XB700

Running headphones with a run time of 9 hours.

This lightweight and compact model is suitable for both everyday use and sports activities. The implemented Extra Bass technology improves the sound quality of low frequencies, and the bass is reproduced with driving force. Moreover, the headphones work for about 18 hours (together with the case). The case itself has IPX4 water resistance. That is why the gadget is not afraid of either rain or sweat when working out in the gym.

Sony WF-XB700

Main characteristics

• Design: wireless in-ear
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0
• Moisture protection: IPX4
• Range: 10 m
• Frequency range: 20 – 20000 Hz
• Volume control: yes
• Noise reduction: yes
• Charging connector: USB Type-C
• Working time: 9 hours
• Charging time: 2.5 hours

Set

• Wireless headphones Sony WF-XB700
• Charging case
• USB Type-C charging cable
• 3 pairs of ear pads
• Documentation

Video review

• Clear sound
• Secure fit
• Battery life up to 9 hours
• High-quality assembly and design
• Push Button Control
• Waterproof IPX4
• Price

• No app support
• No aptX, multipointing or noise reduction
• Only the left earphone works separately

The best headphones for running

The following headphones are ideal for those who cannot imagine their life without running. A sports headset should not interfere with physical exercise. Let's find out which jogging models deserve to be in the ranking of the best.

Apple AirPods

Rating: 4.9

Apple AirPods running headphones are configured with one touch and automatically connect to the device. The headphones are very easy to use. When they are removed, playback stops. The product interacts with gadgets of various operating systems. If you double-tap the body, the personal assistant Siri is activated. The W1 processor is designed by Apple and delivers superior wireless connectivity. You can listen to music for five hours. The compact charging case provides an additional 24 hours of battery life. For three hours of operation, 15 minutes of recharging is enough. AAC audio and background noise reduction ensure superior sound. The model costs about 11 thousand rubles.

Advantages

• noise reduction chip;
• unique design;
• ease of use;
• easy setup;
• high brand reputation;
• strong fixation;
• Automatic switching on when put on.

Flaws

• Ears get tired after prolonged use.

Apple Airpods Pro

Apple headphones with fast charging function.

Apple Airpods Pro are perhaps the best vacuum headphones for running. Another plus is that they are wireless. In this model, the company introduced an in-channel form factor (less than a year has passed). From here we can safely say that the headphones are comfortable and stay firmly in the ears when jogging. Well, the classic elements of the Apple style: white color, minimalist design and other brand features.

This is not to say that Airpods Pro are worth the money. But it’s still $240! However, unlike other Apple developments, these wireless headphones seem to be designed for running. However, you can find the best analogues of AirPods.

Apple Airpods Pro

Main characteristics

• Design: wireless in-ear
• Moisture protection: IPX4
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0
• Noise reduction: yes
• Touch control: yes
• Charging connector: Lightning
• Operating time: 5 hours (with noise reduction 4.5)
• Battery life in case: 24 hours
• Fast charging: 5 minutes - 1 hour of operation

Set

• AirPods Pro headphones
• Wireless charging case
• Silicone earbuds in three sizes
• Lightning cable
• Documentation

Video review

• Sound. It has good bass, everything is balanced and smooth, and the highs are pronounced. I think this is the best model of the entire line
• Convenience. Airpods Pro have a pressure compensator and universal ear pads. After just a couple of minutes of running you begin to forget about them.
• Battery performance. The charge lasts up to 5 hours, and in active call mode about 4. And with five minutes of fast charging, wireless running headphones can play for about a whole hour
• Design. The new model is made more compact than previous Airpods. There’s no need to talk about style and image - these are the best wireless headphones for running and they are 100% deservedly in the TOP rating
• Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). Noise suppression is excellent, almost complete isolation. It is possible to listen to the world through a microphone, and other features can be configured in your smartphone

• Volume control. You can only control it from your iPhone - it’s not very convenient when running
• Price. $240 is expensive when there are decent running models at a lower price

Adidas RPT-01

Signature workout headphones with impressive sound

7.3

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Size and weight: 71 x 142 x 191 mm, 215 g Battery life: 40 hours Bluetooth range: 9 meters Waterproof: Yes

pros

• Flexible and eco-friendly design
• Up to 40 hours of playback
• Customizable sound

Minuses

• No carrying case
• After some time, discomfort is felt

Adidas isn't the brand you think of when you're discussing sports headphones, but the RPT-01 has a design and features that might pique your interest. This pair of overlay cans features the same eco-friendly aesthetic as the company's sneakers, wrapped in stylish, durable mesh fabric and IPX4 waterproof protection. You can even remove and wash the ear pads and inner headband.

Sound quality is where the RPT-01 shows its dexterity, and Adidas launches a companion app with multiple equalizer settings that are finely tuned to select music genres and sound great. The controls are varied and the pads feel soft on the ears. However, the headband is made quite tight for reliable fixation.

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Conclusion

At the moment, in terms of price and quality ratio, everyone chooses headphones from Apple, Huawei and Koss. Because they are the best representatives from the manufacturer. They take into account all the wishes of customers.

In this article, we have analyzed the most popular headphone models among our groups, so that everyone can find a headset that is convenient in price and quality. At the same time, do not forget that wearing headphones for a long time can disrupt your hearing function and, in the worst case, seriously damage it. Therefore, you need to treat everything with caution and use the time allotted by specialists. In this case, doctors advise spending no more than 3 hours continuously in headphones.

Beats Powerbeats 4

The best Bluetooth headphones for running 2022!

This year, the 1st place in the ranking of running headphones is occupied by Beats Powerbeats 4. The model received the design, H1 chip and sound quality from the previous Powerbeats Professional gadget, but at a more favorable price. The headphones received IPX4 waterproofing and an Apple H1 wireless chip, thanks to which you can call the Siri voice assistant by voice. If you're a fan of the brand's design, then you'll love the new Beats Powerbeats headphones. The appearance of the gadget is similar to the previous ones and has the same curved design with small ear pads as the previous models. Therefore, we can be sure that the gadget is perfect for jogging and working out in the gym.

Beats Powerbeats 4

Main characteristics

• Design: in-ear, behind-the-ear
• Moisture protection: IPX4
• Microphone: built-in
• Range: 10 m
• Noise reduction: yes
• Charging connector: Lightning
• Working hours: 15 hours
• Weight: 26 g

Set

• Powerbeats Wireless In-Ear Headphones
• Case
• 4 different sized nozzles
• Lightning USB-A charging cable
• Instructions

Jabra Elite Active 65t

Wireless workout headphones with amazing performance

7.1

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Size and weight: 30 x 28 x 23 mm, 6 g (each bud) Battery life: 5 hours, 15 hours (with charging case) Bluetooth range: 10 meters Waterproof: Yes

pros

• Superb sound
• 15 hours of battery life
• Accelerometer for mileage tracking

Minuses

• Charging case is difficult to open

Jabra Elite Active 65t combines advanced features and superior sound in a compact, waterproof design. It's an older model, but it still performs well in every way. We found that the buds stayed in place even during the toughest exercises and resisted sweat well to prevent slipping. We also appreciate how Jabra managed to fit an accelerometer inside the earbuds for running tracking, meaning the Elite Active 65t can double as an activity tracker.

The fact that they sound as good as their successor, the Elite 75t Active, speaks volumes about their quality. You get access to the Jabra Sound+ app to customize your sound and enable different modes like HearThrough for ambient sound. With excellent compatibility and 15-hour battery life, you get superior performance at a great price.

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