Discover the Best Waterproof Earbuds in 2024 for Active Lifestyles: Buyer's Guide

When it comes to combining music and an active lifestyle, having a pair of good waterproof earbuds is essential. Whether you're hitting the gym, running in the great outdoors, or diving into the pool, the best waterproof earbuds offer the durability and water resistance you need to keep your tunes going strong through sweat, rain, and even underwater adventures.

This guide spotlights 6 best waterproof earbuds in 2024, each offering excellent sound quality, high waterproof rating, and comfort. We'll also share insights on how to choose the perfect pair for your needs, ensuring you never have to compromise your audio experience, no matter the environment.

 

6 Best Waterproof Earbuds

Choosing the right waterproof earbuds can be a daunting task, given the plethora of options available. To make your search easier, we've picked out 6 best waterproof earbuds on the market that cater to different preferences and budgets. Let's dive into each model:

soundcore C30i

The soundcore C30i earbuds redefine comfort and convenience with its innovative open-ear, clip-on design. These earbuds are crafted to deliver breathable comfort, making them an ideal companion for long listening sessions. These best waterproof Bluetooth earbuds feature a hard-shell construction that maintains its shape, providing a secure fit every time you wear them. Enhanced stability is achieved through attachable ear grips available in two sizes, ensuring they stay put even during the most vigorous activities.

Weighing only 5.7 grams each, these lightweight earbuds make you feel as if you're wearing nothing at all. Despite their open-ear design, the C30i doesn't compromise on audio quality, thanks to its 12mm × 17mm racetrack drivers and titanium-coated diaphragm.

With an IPX4 water resistance rating, these true wireless earbuds are ready for any outdoor challenge. The C30i offers impressive battery life, with 10 hours on a single charge and up to 30 hours with the charging case. A quick 10-minute charge gives you an additional 3 hours of playback, ensuring your music is always within reach.

JLab Go Air Sport

 

The JLab Go Air Sport earbuds boast an impressive battery life, offering over 8 hours of playtime per charge and an additional 24 hours from the charging case, totaling more than 32 hours of use. The integrated USB cable makes recharging the case hassle-free.

Designed to withstand intense physical activity, the Go Air Sport earbuds feature an IP55 sweat resistance rating, ensuring they hold up against sweat and dirt. The ergonomic ear hook design fits securely and comfortably, even for smaller ears, and the gel tips come in multiple sizes to ensure a perfect fit. With EQ3 sound technology, you can customize your listening experience with JLab Signature, Balanced, and Bass Boost modes via simple touch controls.

soundcore Sport X20 

For those who crave a reliable and comfortable listening experience during intense workouts, the soundcore Sport X20 is an excellent choice. The earbuds' everything-proof design, including an IP68 rating and soundcore's exclusive SweatGuard technology, ensures ultimate protection against water, sweat, and dust. You can easily wash them under running water after sweaty workout sessions.

These best waterproof earbuds for working out are designed with adjustable silicone ear hooks that can extend and rotate, ensuring a secure fit that stays in place no matter how vigorous your exercise. The flexibility of up to 30 degrees rotation and 4mm extension allows you to customize the position perfectly to your ears, enhancing comfort and stability. 

These best waterproof wireless earbuds also boast impressive noise-canceling capabilities, helping you focus on your fitness goals by blocking out distracting sounds in noisy environments like gyms. With soundcore's BassUp technology, driven by powerful 11mm dynamic drivers, you'll enjoy a deep, pulse-pounding bass that keeps your motivation high. Additionally, the Sport X20 offers a durable battery life of 12 hours on a single charge, extending to 48 hours with the charging case, and features a fast charge option to keep you moving without interruption.

Shokz OpenSwim

 

For swimmers and those who enjoy water-based activities, the Shokz OpenSwim offers a unique listening experience with its open-ear design powered by 7th-generation bone conduction technology. This bud-free design ensures comfortable listening all day, both in and out of the water. 

With an IP68 waterproof rating, the OpenSwim can be submerged in water up to 2 meters deep for up to 2 hours, making it one of the best waterproof earbuds for swimming. The earbuds provide up to 8 hours of battery life and feature easy-to-use commands for play, skip, pause, and track navigation.

Unlike traditional Bluetooth earbuds, the OpenSwim relies solely on internal storage as Bluetooth connectivity would be lost underwater. They feature 4 GB of internal music storage, capable of holding up to 1,200 songs, and support various audio formats including MP3, WAV, WMA, AAC, and FLAC, ensuring device-free listening.

soundcore Aerofit

The soundcore AeroFit earbuds are designed for those who need to stay connected to their surroundings while enjoying their favorite audio content. These ultra-lightweight earbuds feature an open-ear design that allows you to remain aware of your environment, enhancing safety during outdoor activities such as running or cycling.

Crafted from ultra-soft materials with a gentle finish, the AeroFit ensures a snug and secure fit with flexible ear hooks that adapt to the contours of your ears. The earbuds deliver well-balanced audio through titanium-coated domes, and they are equipped with four microphones and an AI algorithm for clear, crisp calls.

The AeroFit is built to withstand the elements with an IPX7 waterproof rating and SweatGuard technology, making them resistant to water and sweat. Environmentally conscious users will appreciate the TCO certification for better sustainability. With 11 hours of continuous audio playback and up to 42 hours in total with the charging case, plus a 10-minute fast charge that provides up to 4 hours of listening, the AeroFit offers convenience and longevity in one sleek package.

JBL Reflect Aero

 

The JBL Reflect Aero earbuds are designed for those who seek superior noise-canceling technology and durability in all environments. Featuring True Adaptive Noise Cancelling with Smart Ambient technology, these best noise cancelling waterproof earbuds automatically adjust to eliminate audio distractions while keeping you aware of your surroundings.

With an IP68 rating, the Reflect Aero earbuds are both dustproof and waterproof, capable of functioning at depths of up to 1.5 meters (5 feet) for 30 minutes, including in saltwater—just remember to rinse them off afterward.

The comfortable and secure fit, achieved through Oval TubesTM and POWERFINS design, ensures the earbuds stay in place during all-day adventures. Powered by dynamic 6.8mm drivers, these earbuds deliver the signature JBL sound with bold, rich bass, making them perfect for any activity, from meditation to intense workouts.

How to Choose the Best Waterproof Earbuds?

Choosing the best waterproof earbuds involves considering several key factors to ensure you select the right pair for your needs. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision:

• Waterproof Rating: The waterproof rating, indicated by an IP (Ingress Protection) code, is crucial when selecting waterproof earbuds. The first digit represents protection against solids like dust, while the second digit indicates protection against liquids.

For instance, an IPX7 rating means the earbuds can be submerged in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes. If you're looking for the best waterproof earbuds for shower or swimming, a waterproof rating of IPX8 or higher is a must. Ensure the rating aligns with your intended use, whether it's for running in the rain, swimming, or intense gym sessions.

• Fit and Comfort: A secure and comfortable fit is essential for enjoying your earbuds, especially during physical activities. Look for earbuds with adjustable ear hooks, multiple sizes of ear tips, or ergonomic designs that cater to different ear shapes and sizes. Comfortable earbuds prevent discomfort and irritation during prolonged use and ensure they stay in place during vigorous activities.

• Sound Quality: Sound quality is another essential aspect to consider. Look for earbuds with high-quality drivers that deliver clear and balanced audio. Features like noise-canceling or ambient sound modes can enhance your listening experience by reducing external noise or allowing you to stay aware of your surroundings.

• Battery Life: Battery life is a critical factor, particularly if you plan to use the earbuds for long workouts or outdoor adventures. Look for earbuds that offer at least 8-10 hours of playtime on a single charge, with additional hours provided by the charging case. Fast-charging capabilities can also be a handy feature, allowing you to quickly top up the battery when needed.

• Connectivity and Controls: Ease of use is enhanced by seamless connectivity and intuitive controls. Opt for earbuds with stable Bluetooth connections (Bluetooth 5.0 or higher) and user-friendly controls for managing music playback, volume, and calls.

However, if you plan to use the earbuds for swimming, it's important to note that Bluetooth signals do not transmit well through water. In such cases, consider earbuds with built-in internal storage for music playback without needing a connected device.

• In-Ear vs. Open-Ear: When choosing waterproof earbuds, consider whether you prefer in-ear or open-ear designs. In-ear earbuds fit snugly inside your ear canal, offering better noise isolation and often superior sound quality, particularly bass. On the other hand, open-ear earbuds feature unique open-ear designs or use bone conduction technology to transmit sound through your cheekbones, allowing you to remain aware of your surroundings. These are excellent for outdoor activities where situational awareness is crucial for safety.

• Price and Value: Finally, consider the price and value for money. While higher-priced models often offer better features and performance, there are also many affordable options that provide excellent value. Look for the best budget waterproof earbuds that offer the ideal combination of features and quality within your range.

FAQs

Can I swim with IPX7 earbuds?

Yes, you can swim with IPX7 earbuds, but they are better suited for brief immersions in water. IPX7 earbuds can withstand being submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, making them suitable for swimming but not for prolonged use underwater.

What earbuds can be used in the shower?

Earbuds with an IPX7 or higher rating can be used in the shower. These earbuds are designed to withstand water exposure, making them ideal for showering or other activities involving water.

What is the difference between water resistant and waterproof earbuds?

Water-resistant earbuds can handle light splashes and sweat, but they aren't meant to be submerged in water. Waterproof earbuds, on the other hand, have higher IP ratings (like IPX7 or IPX8) and can be submerged in water without damage. Waterproof earbuds are suitable for activities like swimming and showering.

Conclusion

Choosing the best waterproof earbuds can significantly enhance your workouts and outdoor activities. Whether you need them for swimming, running, or showering, there are excellent options available to suit your needs. Consider factors like waterproof rating, sound quality, and battery life to make the right choice. With the best waterproof earbuds, you can enjoy your favorite audio content without any interruptions, no matter the environment.