Best earbuds for working out: fit, sweat rating and battery

Sweat ratings get too much credit. Fit decides whether earbuds survive a workout, and an IP number says nothing about that.

SoundGuys' workout guide, published Oct 16, 2026, recommends at least IPX4, and the outlet says fit comes from its reviewers' own gym, running and cycling sessions. I haven't used any of these, so the picks below lean on SoundGuys and my opinion.

Powerbeats Pro 2: the one I'd pick

SoundGuys' best overall. The ear hook wraps behind the ear and stayed secure during workouts. The same review says it applies pressure behind the ears after a few hours. They're IPX4 and cost $249.99 (checked November 1, 2026).

They also have built-in heart-rate sensors that work only during workouts. SoundGuys says you can't play iPhone music while sending heart-rate data to a fitness machine. SoundGuys cites up to 10 hours without ANC, and the 8 h in the spec box is with ANC on.

AirPods Pro 3: great, if they stay in

They're IP57, tied for the highest rating here with the Galaxy Buds4 Pro, and SoundGuys measured 8 hours 42 minutes with ANC. Heart-rate tracking worked on a brisk walk or light jog, per the reviewer. But the same reviewer said they "slip out of my ear during intense strength training and long-distance runs." That decides it for me. For heavy lifting I'd go with ear hooks. They cost $249. See also best earbuds for iPhone.

Galaxy Buds4 Pro: only with a Galaxy

SoundGuys' workout guide lists IP57 and 6 hours 1 minute measured. SoundGuys' first-impressions piece from Feb 25, 2026 says the Pro fits more snugly than the Buds3 Pro and that most newer features need a Samsung phone. It also notes there's no LDAC or aptX. Price: $249.99. Samsung owners can read my Galaxy Buds4 Pro review.

The JBL and the Soundcore

The JBL Tour Pro 3 is IP55 and weighs 5.6 g per bud. SoundGuys measured 8 hours 17 minutes with ANC on, but its reviewer called the housings "huge, somewhat heavy, and oddly-shaped" and said foam tips can be uncomfortable. It's price unconfirmed, and I can't recommend a big housing for running.

The Soundcore Liberty 5 is the cheap pick. Each bud weighs 4.6 g and it's IP55. SoundGuys scored it 7.9, listed ANC as mediocre, and shows six ear tip sizes. List price is price unconfirmed.

What to check before buying

Return window first. Then the tip size you actually need. Android phones? My best earbuds for Android covers the codec side. Full lists are in the headphone catalog.