Part of what I love about running is listening to music. My happy place is running to a great pump-up song. And no one wants to mess around with earbuds that fall out, malfunction, or have poor sound quality. Enter my list of the 15 best earbuds for running including the best earbuds for running under 50. My all-time favorite is the Apple AirPods Pro. The best budget earbuds are the JBL Endurance Race.

These earbuds provide great sound, ease of use, and maximum comfort.  They come in a vast price range 

How I Reviewed These Earbuds

I worked with a researcher to develop this list by consulting “best of” lists for running earbuds and collecting a larger list of top picks. Then I dove into online reviews and Amazon reviews. The earbuds with the best review averages are included on the list, including the best cheap earbuds. 

How to Pick a Good Pair of Earbuds

As technology advances, so do our options.

What was once a small selection of headphones (looking at you retro foam earpads) is now a treasure trove of brands, styles, versions, and features. Choosing the best earbud for you will depend on a variety of questions, some of which I’ve highlighted below. 

Do you need to be able to hear what’s around you?

From loud airplanes and metros to chaotic gyms and parks, many headphone companies will feature their products’ ability to cancel out any background noise wherever your life may take you. If you are in need of total relief from outside sound, opt for “active noise canceling” earbuds.

If you need to be able to hear everything around you, check out the three “open ear” headphone options listed at the end of this list. For an option that offers both, look for earbuds that offer a “transparency” mode (such as Apple’s ipods or Beat’s Fit Pro True). 

(By the way, I like to run with just one earbud in so I can hear around me.)

How much battery life do you need?

There is nothing worse than being locked into a run only for your headphones to die halfway through.

Pay close attention to the battery life of each earbud selection before buying. Do you need just 30 min at a time? Or are you looking at closer to 5 hours.

Also, bear in mind the charging time when you’re heading out the door and realize you forgot to charge your headphones. Shokz, for example, has a “quick charge” feature that will charge the headphones up to 1.5 hours in 10 minutes. 

What is your ear size?

As you peruse the many options available to you, consider the size of your ear canal and style of earbud.

For the smaller than average ear, you’ll want to find a smaller size earbud or earbud with an over the ear frame.

For a larger than average ear, you’ll want to find a larger size earbud with an over the ear frame.

Most earbud companies come with a trial period. Don’t hesitate to take those headphones on a run or two with you before committing. 

What is your budget?

With all tools and technology, the more you spend the higher the quality the product.

With earbuds, this quality often comes out in sound clarity. Is this important to you on the run or beyond the roads/treadmill? As with any investment in technology, you’ll also want to address a headphone’s warranty/ return policy. Many companies offer great incentives for spending a little extra. 

Related: 12 Best Must-Have Spring Gear

Ok! Now let’s get to the list of my top picks for the best earbuds for runners!

15 Best Running Earbuds (in order of price)

TOP PICK: Apple Airpods Pro (2nd Generation)

These Apple AirPods Pro are one of the best wireless earbuds money can buy. They are what I use for running featuring the most advanced wireless earbud technology, active noise cancellation for immersive sound in any environment, and the ability to change tracks and answer calls with a built-in microphone.  

With a customizable fit and adaptive EQ, they deliver a personalized listening experience tailored to each user’s personal preference. Additionally, these in-ear headphones boast water and sweat resistance, making them the ideal companion for workouts, commuting, or everyday use. Though they do come at a high price point. 

4.7 average review on Amazon

Price: $199

Key Features: Noise cancellation and transparency mode, dust/sweat/water resistant, personalized spatial audio, earbud control buttons, and more.

Battery Life: 6 hours outside of the case and 30 using the case.

Cons: Reviewers are mixed on sound quality and fit.

Beats Fit Pro True

These slick wireless earbuds are engineered for active lifestyles, featuring a secure and comfortable fit with customizable ear tips and an ergonomic design.

With advanced active noise cancellation and transparency modes, users can immerse themselves in their music or stay aware of their surroundings as needed. Containing powerful sound quality, water resistance, and a long battery life, the Beats Fit Pro True is a tiny but mighty device offering premium audio performance for not only rigorous workouts, but all-day wear.

4.5 average review on Amazon

Price: $179

Key Features: Spatial audio, audio sharing with other AirPods or Beats, sweat and water resistant, and more.

Battery Life: 6 hours on their own, up to 24 hours with aid of a fully charged case.

Cons: Reviewers are mixed about the fit/comfort (some noting specifically they do not work well with small ears) as well as the quality/performance of the headphones and case.

Beats Powerbeats Pro

This sibling in the Beats family is premium wireless earbuds designed specifically for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. The Powerbeats Pro offers a secure and comfortable fit with adjustable ear hooks and multiple ear tip options.

With powerful, balanced sound and dynamic range, these are some of the best wireless bluetooth earbuds you can buy to provide an immersive audio experience. Featuring up to 9 hours of listening time and sweat and water resistance, the Powerbeats Pro ensures reliable performance and durability for all your active pursuits.

4.5 average review on Amazon

Price: $179

Key Features: Adjustable, secure-fit ear hooks, balanced sound with noise isolation, a quick charge option, and more.

Battery Life: 9 hours on their own, more than 24 hours with aid of a fully charged case.

Cons: Reviewers are mixed on performance, connectivity, and battery life.

Jabra Elite 8 Active

Boasting as “the world’s toughest earbuds,” the Jabra Elite 8 Active headphones deliver premium sound quality and active noise cancellation, enhancing both music and call experiences.

Designed for an active lifestyle, they are made of a sleek, lightweight design and durability, ensuring they can withstand sweat, water, and dust. With intuitive touch controls and long-lasting battery life, these headphones offer convenience and performance for users on the go.

4.3 average review on Amazon

Price: $159

Key Features: US Military grade for durability, spatial sound, transparency mode, hands free voice assistance and more.

Battery Life: 56 hours with Active Noise Cancellation turned off and 32 hours with it powered on.

Cons: Reviewers are mixed on sound quality, connectivity, and charging. 

Shokz Open Run

The Shokz Open Run budget wireless earbuds are designed for runners, providing an open-ear design that allows for ambient noise awareness while enjoying music or taking calls. Featuring bone conduction technology, they deliver premium sound quality without obstructing the ears, ensuring safety during outdoor activities.

With a lightweight and ergonomic build, along with a high sweat and water-resistant rating, the Shokz Open Run headphones are the perfect companion for runners seeking both performance and situational awareness.

4.6 average review on Amazon

Price: $130

Key Features: Open ear comfort, waterproof, quality sound, lightweight, and more.

Battery Life: 8 hours of battery life with a 10-min quick charge for up to 1.5 hours of battery life.

Cons: Reviewers are mixed on the quality, performance, and fit.

Jaybird Vista True Wireless Bluetooth Sport

The Jaybird Vista True Wireless Bluetooth Sport headphones are tailor-made for active individuals, providing a secure and comfortable fit during workouts or outdoor adventures.

With a water-resistant and sweat-proof design, they can withstand even the most intense exercise sessions or adverse weather conditions. Offering premium sound quality and long battery life, the Vista headphones ensure an immersive audio experience that keeps pace with an active lifestyle.

4.4 average review on Amazon

Price: $129

Key Features: Active noise cancellation, “surroundsense,” earthproof durability, premium sound, sport fit, and more.

Battery Life: 8 hours on a full charge, plus 16 more in the charging case.

Cons: Reviewers are mixed on connectivity, comfort, and value.

1MORE Fit SE S30 Open Ear Earbuds

The 1MORE Fit SE S30 Open Ear Earbuds offer a unique listening experience with their open-ear design, allowing users to stay aware of their surroundings while enjoying their favorite music or podcasts. Featuring Bluetooth connectivity and a lightweight build, these earbuds provide convenience and comfort for all-day wear during workouts or daily activities. With crisp audio quality and a secure fit, the Fit SE S30 earbuds cater to those seeking a blend of immersive sound and situational awareness.

4.1 average review on Amazon

Price: $60

Key Features: Dynamic sound, comfortable open-ear design, waterproof, customizable app features, and more.

Battery Life: 10 hours on their own, with an additional 20 hours using a fully charged case.

Cons: Reviewers are mixed on the quality.

 

5 Best Earbuds for Runner Under 50

Now let’s get to the best earbuds for running under 50. 

JBL Endurance Race

These JBL Endurance Race budget buds are specifically engineered for athletes with premium features–earning them the top spot in this the best earbuds for running under 50 list.

These budget earbuds offer a lightweight and ergonomic design that stays secure during intense workouts or runs. With their branded technologies, these headphones provide a comfortable and stable fit, while the sweatproof rating ensures durability against moisture.

Featuring powerful sound and easy-access controls, the Endurance Race headphones deliver an immersive audio experience without compromising on performance during vigorous physical activity.

4.2 average review on Amazon

Price: $50

Key Features: Pure bass sound, waterproof and comfortable design, microphone and voice assistant, ambient awareness, and more.

Battery Life: 10 hours without the case and up to 20 hours more with case assistance.

Cons: Reviewers are mixed on fit, performance, and sound quality.

Black Bay Runner 40

The Black Bay Runner 40 headphones are budget-friendly and feature a sleek and durable option designed for active individuals seeking high-quality audio on the go. Featuring a lightweight yet robust construction, they offer comfort and stability during workouts or outdoor adventures.

With advanced sound technology and long-lasting battery life, the Black Bay Runner 40 headphones have solidly earned their spot on the best earbuds for running under 50 list. 

4.3 average review on Amazon

Price: $40

Key Features: Secure fit, waterproof, immersive audio, and more. 

Battery Life: 6 hours on their own with an additional 24 hours aided by a charging case.

Cons: Reviewers are mixed on durability and quality.

Psier Open Ear Headphones

 

The Psier Open Ear Headphones are the cheapest on the best earbuds for runners under 50 list. They offer a unique listening experience with their open-ear design, allowing users to stay aware of their surroundings while enjoying music or making calls. Designed for comfort and durability, these headphones feature a lightweight build and secure fit for a comfortable listening experience.

With Bluetooth connectivity and a long-lasting battery, the Psier Open Ear Headphones provide convenience and versatility for users on the go. This earns them a spot on my best earbuds for running under 50.

4.3 average review on Amazon

Price: $40

Key Features: Open ear fit, directional acoustic and dynamic EQ gain, automatic bluetooth connectivity, and more.

Battery Life: 10 hours of use on a single charge; up to 40 hours of playing time with a fully charged case.

Cons: Reviewers are extremely generous towards the Psier Open Ear Headphones. Amazon does not note any highly common concerns.

PocBuds Bluetooth Headphones

The PocBuds Bluetooth Headphone offers users a versatile wireless listening experience with its compact and ergonomic design. With advanced Bluetooth connectivity, these headphones seamlessly pair with various devices for convenient audio playback on the go.

Boasting clear sound quality and long-lasting battery life, the PocBuds headphones are ideal for everyday use, whether you’re commuting, exercising, or simply enjoying your favorite tunes.

4.5 average review on Amazon

Price: $38

Key Features: Hi-Fi sound quality, one button control, LED display that shows real-time battery status, easy connectivity, sweat resistant, and more.

Battery Life: 8 hours on a single charge, up to 80 hours with help from a fully charged case.

Cons: Reviewers are extremely generous towards the PocBuds. Amazon does not note any highly common concerns.

Jlab Go Air Sport

The Jlab Go Air Sport is a compact and lightweight pair of true wireless earbuds, tailored for fitness enthusiasts and athletes. With a high sweat and water resistance rating, these budget-friendly earbuds can withstand rigorous workouts and outdoor activities–securing their spot on my best earbuds for running under 50.

Offering up to 32 hours of total playtime with the charging case and customizable built-in EQ settings, the Go Air Sport ensures a seamless and personalized audio experience throughout your active day.

4.1 average review on Amazon

Price: $25

Key Features: Dual connect, EQ3 sound, touch controls, sweatproof sport fit, fun and bright color choices and more.

Battery Life: 8 hours of playtime plus 24 extra hours with help from the charging case.

Cons: Reviewers are mixed on sound quality and performance.

Related: Safety Tips for Runners & Best Personal Safety Devices

I hope this list of the best earbuds for runners under 50 and under 200 helps you find an amazing for you on the run!

If you want guidance with your running goals including your running goals, check out my run coaching services. Also, be sure to check out my free training plans:

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