The 7 Best Waterproof Earbuds
This wiki has been updated 33 times since it was first published in March of 2016. Moisture is the bane of electronics, but it can be unavoidable when running, working out, and, especially, swimming. If you want to take your music library and phone calls to the beach, the pool, or the gym, make sure to grab a pair of these waterproof headphones first. These earbuds are sure to offer the right blend of features for any activity, and all of them boast a reliable water resistance. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Swimbuds Flip
2. H2O Audio Surge SX10
3. JBL Endurance Peak True Wireless
Editor's Notes
May 14, 2021:
We added a couple choice models to the Wiki today, the most important of which are the Swimbuds Flip. These are an updated version of the company's highly popular Swimbuds, and they're built to last whether used on water or on land. In fact, they even include an extension cord for times when you're not swimming. The Underwater Audio HydroActive are made by the same folks, and they're among the few neckband headphones that are fully waterproof. Whether you opt for the earbuds or the neckband, you can be certain you're getting a high-quality piece of equipment.
If you won't be spending much time underwater, the JBL Endurance Peak True Wireless are great for use in inclement weather, as are the affordable Senso Best Sport Stereo. Keep in mind, though, that Bluetooth is almost useless underwater, so wireless earbuds just won't work very well while swimming.
March 16, 2020:
To be clear, there isn't a pair of headphones on the planet that's fully waterproof. Even five-figure luxury diver's watches have limits to their water resistance, as time and pressure eventually have their way with whatever seals we try to create. To give you the best chance of taking any of the buds on our list for a dip, we held the models selected to stringent standards, with an IPX7 water-resistance rating as our baseline, which means any of the models on our current list should be able to be submerged in up to a meter of water for as long as 30 minutes. Of course, it's up to the manufacturers to perform their own testing, so we're all left taking them at their word to a point.
With regards to other features, a lot of the models on our previous list were a little out of date, often relying on older Bluetooth standards which are stronger and more far-reaching nowadays, so we sent them packing and found upgrades from within their companies or sought out new ones entirely.
One of the best options for serious aquatics that doesn't even rely on batteries for their performance are the Swimbuds Sport. Now, these may seem a little outdated when you realize that they don't support any wireless connection, but they're built to be plugged into a waterproof MP3 player that adheres to your goggles' band in the water.
If sound quality is the most important thing to you, and you only really plan to get them wet from working up a sweat at the gym, the JBL Endurance Peak True Wireless offer large 10mm drivers that deliver a nice bass response and a clear overall mix.
4. Underwater Audio HydroActive
5. H2O Audio Surge S+
6. JBL Reflect Flow Truly
7. Senso Best Sport Stereo
Where And How To Use Your Waterproof Earbuds
You won’t have to worry about sound quality or missing an important call.
Waterproof earbuds have become a popular item among swimmers and other athletes. Many of these headphones can be submerged in water up to one to two meters and are compatible with waterproof mp3 players and phones. Many waterproof earbuds are Bluetooth enabled and can be used with Bluetooth enabled devices so you can leave your device outside of the water and still use the headphones during your swim or other workout. Aside from convenience, there are several advantages to owning waterproof earbuds.
First, they are perfect for using while swimming. They are not just for workout music while swimming laps. They can enable you to listen to your favorite songs or even take important calls while relaxing in the pool.
Second, waterproof earbuds are completely resistant to sweat. You can use them on your next run or intense treadmill workout without worrying about sweat ruining the sound quality or causing the earbuds to slip out of your ears.
Third, you can listen to your music or take calls while in the shower. You won’t have to worry about sound quality or missing an important call. They are perfect in conjunction with your waterproof mp3 player, or you can go with the Bluetooth option so you can leave your device outside of the shower and still have high-quality sound.
Another obvious use for waterproof headphones is for listening to music in the rain. If you enjoy running or working out outdoors no matter the weather, waterproof earbuds are going to make your life so much easier. While your regular earbuds may fail in rainy weather, your waterproof earbuds will stand up to multiple uses and get you through your workout with ease.
Inside or out of the pool, waterproof earbuds have a better sound quality than average headphones. Because they are specially designed for underwater use, they naturally produce a clearer sound.
Finally, waterproof earbuds are made to be far more durable than the average set of earbuds. They will last longer simply because they are made to take more abuse and stand up to the elements. Whether you use them regularly underwater or on your runs in inclement weather, you will enjoy a much longer relationship with your waterproof earbuds.
How To Buy Waterproof Earbuds
Nearly any set of waterproof earbuds will serve their intended purpose as long as they are of good quality. However, there are a few simple factors that you should consider before making your final purchase.
However, there are a few simple factors that you should consider before making your final purchase.
First, take your comfort into consideration. Choose a set of earbuds that fit comfortably in your ears and that you can use frequently for long periods of time. This is especially important if you intend to participate in vigorous physical activity such as running in the rain or swimming laps. Waterproof earbuds are durable and will be worth the money you pay, so ensure that they aren’t something you dread wearing.
Second, ensure that the waterproof earbuds you choose are compatible with your devices. Perhaps you intend to purchase a waterproof iPod or other mp3 player in which case you might already have a specific set of earbuds in mind. If you plan to use a waterproof case for a device you already own and simply need the headphones to go with it, check to make sure that it is compatible with your smartphone or other music player.
A Brief History of Waterproof Earbuds
The first set of working headphones was created by Nathaniel Baldwin in 1910. They were handcrafted in his kitchen, and he later sold them to the United States Navy. In 1919, Brandes created headphones that were used in radio. Unfortunately, they were very uncomfortable, and the sound quality was low due to the high sensitivity.
However, as far as exercise and music, the most popular type is earbuds or earphones.
It wasn’t until 1958 that the first set of stereo headphones was invented by John C. Koss. He was a jazz musician who wanted to utilize headphones for music whereas they had only been previously used by radio and telephone operators.
There are a wide variety of headphones currently available on the market. However, as far as exercise and music, the most popular type is earbuds or earphones. They are small and sit just outside the ear canal. They are excellent for portability, but it has taken many types of earbuds in order to get the comfort and fit just right.
The necessity for waterproof earbuds arose once demand arose for waterproof music players. Waterproof CD and cassette players were the first to be manufactured, but their design prevented them from being able to be submerged. They were best used in the shower or poolside.
At long last, Oregon Scientific created and marketed the first waterproof mp3 player that could be submerged and used while swimming. This prompted the invention of waterproof earbuds to be used in conjunction with these mp3 players and other devices.
Building PCs, remodeling, and cooking since he was young, quasi-renowned trumpeter Christopher Thomas traveled the USA performing at and organizing shows from an early age. His work experiences led him to open a catering company, eventually becoming a sous chef in several fine LA restaurants. He enjoys all sorts of barely necessary gadgets, specialty computing, cutting-edge video games, and modern social policy. He has given talks on debunking pseudoscience, the Dunning-Kruger effect, culinary technique, and traveling. After two decades of product and market research, Chris has a keen sense of what people want to know and how to explain it clearly. He delights in parsing complex subjects for anyone who will listen -- because teaching is the best way to ensure that you understand things yourself.