10 Best Waterproof Earbuds 2026 in the United States

The Apple AirPods 4 are a solid choice for those seeking waterproof earbuds with a strong emphasis on comfort and functionality. With an IP54 rating, they offer decent protection against dust, sweat, and water, making them suitable for light rain and sweaty workouts, although they might not be ideal for heavy water exposure. The battery life is commendable, giving up to 5 hours of listening time on a single charge and up to 30 hours with the charging case, which should be ample for daily use and extended periods without access to charging.

Sound quality is enhanced with Personalized Spatial Audio and dynamic head tracking, providing an immersive listening experience. Voice Isolation and Adaptive EQ further improve call clarity and sound performance. The redesigned fit is aimed at all-day comfort and stability, which is beneficial for long-term wear. Connectivity is seamless with Bluetooth 5.3 and effortless setup with Apple devices, making it user-friendly, especially for iPhone users.

Controls are also straightforward, with various tap and voice commands, including advanced Siri interactions. However, the lack of a USB-C charge cable in the box might be an inconvenience for some users. Additionally, while the IP54 rating is good, it may not be sufficient for those who need earbuds for more extreme waterproof requirements. In summary, these earbuds are best suited for Apple users looking for comfortable, feature-rich earbuds for everyday use, workouts, and moderate outdoor activities.

The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds are designed with active users in mind, especially those who need a secure and comfortable fit during workouts. Their earhooks, reinforced with a nickel titanium alloy, offer a flexible and stable grip that stays put even during intense exercise. The earbuds come with five ear tip sizes, which helps in finding a personalized fit. They feature an IPX4 rating, meaning they can handle sweat and light rain but aren’t fully waterproof, so they’re best for gym sessions and outdoor workouts rather than heavy water exposure.

Battery life is impressive, with up to 45 hours when using the charging case, and about 10 hours for continuous play on a single charge. The Fast Fuel feature also gives a quick 1.5-hour playback from just five minutes of charging. This is convenient for users who need quick top-ups between sessions. Sound quality is strong, powered by Apple's H2 chip, offering clear highs, rich mids, and punchy bass. Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency modes enhance listening by either blocking or allowing outside noise, useful for focusing or staying aware of surroundings. The earbuds also include Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking for a more immersive experience.

Connectivity is top-notch with Class 1 Bluetooth, ensuring stable connections and compatibility with both Apple and Android devices. Apple's ecosystem benefits like one-touch pairing, automatic switching, and hands-free Siri work seamlessly, while Android users can access features like heart rate monitoring and customizable controls through the Beats app. Controls are user-friendly, including on-ear buttons, volume rockers, and voice-activated commands, allowing users to adjust settings without interrupting their workout flow. The built-in heart rate monitor is an added bonus for fitness enthusiasts. The IPX4 rating means they aren’t suited for swimming or heavy water exposure. The charging case is smaller and supports wireless charging, but it doesn’t include the USB-C charging cable, so you need to provide your own. These earbuds are heavier than some competitors but still comfortable thanks to their design. The Powerbeats Pro 2 are a solid choice for fitness lovers wanting durable, high-quality sound earbuds with excellent battery life and smart features, as long as you’re okay with moderate water resistance and a slightly higher price point.

The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Earbuds are a solid choice for those seeking high-quality audio and effective noise cancellation. These earbuds come with an IPX4 rating, making them resistant to sweat and light rain, which is suitable for most fitness activities but might not be enough for heavy rain or water immersion. With up to 8.5 hours of battery life on a full charge and an additional 2 hours from a quick 20-minute charge, they offer good endurance for daily use or longer listening sessions.

The sound quality is impressive, featuring deep bass and clear audio, which Bose is known for, making them ideal for music lovers who want a rich listening experience. The active noise cancellation adds to the immersive experience, effectively reducing background noise. Fit and comfort are well-addressed with multiple eartip and stability band sizes included, ensuring a secure fit for most users. Connectivity is robust with Bluetooth 5.3, allowing stable connections within 30 feet and the ability to connect to multiple devices simultaneously.

The customizable touch controls and the Bose QCE app provide convenient ways to manage playback, adjust EQ settings, and check battery life. However, some users might find the touch controls a bit sensitive or challenging to use at first. Additionally, the IPX4 rating means they are not fully waterproof, which could be a limitation for certain users. The included components, like the charging case and USB-C cable, add to the convenience and usability. Weighing 70 grams, they are lightweight and portable. These earbuds are great for everyday use, business, entertainment, and fitness, offering a blend of comfort, high-quality sound, and practical features, though they might not be the best option for users needing higher water resistance.