★ Apple Alternative: If you must have Apple-branded buds, go for the AirPods Pro ($200), not the overpriced third-generation standard AirPods. I also wholeheartedly recommend Beats' previous, and now cheaper, Powerbeats workout buds they work reliably after years of heavy use. Most important, unlike many of our other picks, they come in a signature Beats-style eye-catching purple, (as well as gray, white, and black). The sound signature is remarkably sculptured, according to WIRED associate editor Parker Hall, meaning you can enjoy music in all genres, movies mixed in Dolby Atmos, and get great-sounding Zoom calls. The noise-canceling works extremely well, and you can click on a physical button on the buds to pause and let ambient noise in.
They have the Apple H1 chip and pair seamlessly with Apple products, but they also have a great app for Android that includes one-touch pairing, customized controls, and a fit test. They have squishy ear tips and elegant fins (that may be a little big for smaller ears, unfortunately). Not only are the Beats Fit Pro ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends) one of the best workout buds for Apple users, they're one of the best everyday buds, period.
Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day. com and our print magazine (if you'd like). Special offer for Gear readers: Get a 1-year subscription to WIRED for $5 ($25 off). Updated November 2021: We removed older picks and added new ones, like the Back Bay Tempo 30. Don't see anything you like? Check out our Best Wirefree Earbuds, Best Cheap Headphones, Best Bluetooth Speakers, or any of our other buying guides for more. If you like listening to music while scrambling up stony slopes or mowing your lawn, here are a bunch of WIRED's favorite pairs. I trail run, hike, work on my yard, lift weights, and watch mildly embarrassing barre and yoga videos on my laptop, all while testing the best wireless workout headphones around. Since I started testing them, their sound and comfort have improved dramatically. But for most everyday activities-working out, traveling, and wandering around my house pretending to put things away-I much prefer a pair of convenient, durable, wireless workout buds. Luxurious over-the-ear headphones are plush and comfortable, and they sound great.