The best workout headphones disappear when you start moving, according to WIRED. In a review published August 9, 2026, Boutayna Chokrane of the WIRED Reviews team reported testing hundreds of headphones and earbuds to narrow down models that balance sound quality, comfort, and durability. The evaluation programme covered weightlifting, indoor swimming, trail runs, hikes, and cycling, with the goal of identifying which devices enhanced the workout and which ones got in the way. The roundup spans the top pick, the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 at $250, to the bone-conduction Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 at $180.
How WIRED Tested the Headphones
According to the review, Chokrane narrowed down the picks after extensive testing. The best workout headphones stay locked in without readjustments and feel comfortable enough that the music seems to come from inside the listener's head. The reviewer considered both wired and wireless models, as well as over-ear and in-ear designs.
Top Pick: Beats Powerbeats Pro 2
WIRED named the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 the best wireless earbuds for working out. Beats were the first sport earbuds to tap into Apple's ecosystem, and the Powerbeats Pro 2 work nearly as well with Android. The redesigned nickel-titanium ear hooks stayed in place through hours of testing. Former WIRED reviewer Ryan Waniata said they are the most comfortable hooked earbuds he has worn.
The noise canceling is a major upgrade, outperforming the Beats Studio Buds+ and holding its own against premium rivals such as Sony's WF-1000XM5 and Technics' AZ80. The earbuds also add a natural-sounding transparency mode, punchy sound, up to 10 hours of battery life (eight with ANC enabled), and push-button controls. Apple users get iCloud device switching, Find My functionality, and hands-free Siri; Android users benefit from the Beats app, heart rate monitoring, and one-touch pairing. The author wrote she wished for a higher IP rating than IPX4, but the earbuds are built to handle sweat and light rain.
Former WIRED reviewer Ryan Waniata said they are the most comfortable hooked earbuds he has worn.
Over-Ear Option: Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2
For over-ear headphones, WIRED reported the Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2 are hard to beat. The plush fit is comfortable for long listening sessions, the noise canceling blocks distractions at the gym, and the sound is clear and engaging with a natural transparency mode. Upgrades include USB-C lossless audio, improved ambient controls, and longer battery life. The ear cups do trap heat and sweat, but the reviewer noted she has yet to find an over-ear pair that doesn't encourage sweat during intense workouts. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2 has no IP rating, yet WIRED called them a premium pick for anyone who wants workout headphones to double as everyday headphones. They offer up to 30 hours of battery life.
Budget Pick: JLab Go Air Sport
The JLab Go Air Sport is the sport version of the Go Air, with a slight markup for over-ear hooks and a case with a cover. The case includes a built-in USB charger. According to WIRED, the build quality is solid and the touch controls are not too sensitive; the reviewer did not accidentally adjust music when fixing her hair or hat. Total battery life reaches 30 hours when recharging in the case. She wore them for two weeks for a few hours each day while running and walking her dog, and did not recharge once. The Bluetooth connection is stronger than most affordable earbuds she has tried.
Side-by-Side Specs
| Model | Price | Battery Life | Durability | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 | $250 | Up to 10 hours (8 with ANC; case holds 35 more) | IPX4 | iOS and Android |
| Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2 | Not stated | Up to 30 hours | No IP rating | iOS and Android |
| JLab Go Air Sport | Not stated | 30 hours with case | Not stated | Not stated |
Interoperability Notes
The comparison covers both Apple and Android users. The Powerbeats Pro 2 provide Apple-specific extras, while Android users still get the Beats app, heart rate monitoring, and one-touch pairing. WIRED also referenced additional guides, including Best Wireless Earbuds, Best Open Earbuds, and Best Bone Conduction Headphones. The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2, priced at $180, is the bone-conduction model in the roundup.
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