Get Ready to Dive into the World of Waterproof Earbuds: Check out the 5 Best Options

Waterproof earbuds have become increasingly popular in recent years as more people seek headphones that can withstand sweat, rain, and even being submerged in water. For athletes, waterproof earbuds are essential to listen to music and take calls while training without worrying about damage from sweat or weather. As wireless and true wireless earbuds gain popularity for their convenience and portability, waterproof models allow users to take them anywhere without concern.

Advancements in waterproofing technology like IPX ratings allow headphones to be fully submerged, with some models rated for depths of over 6 feet for up to 30 minutes. This allows for use while swimming laps, surfing, water skiing, and more intense water sports. Models focused on sweat resistance can stand up to the most strenuous workouts and hours of exposure to moisture.

In 2024, waterproof earbuds are better than ever, with longer battery life, better sound quality, and more comfort for extended wear. Major audio brands like JBL, Jabra, and others have robust waterproof earbud options tailored for various activities. With so many choices available, it can be challenging to find the right balance of features, comfort, and value.

Understanding IPX Ratings

When shopping for waterproof earbuds, one of the most important specifications to understand is the IPX rating. This refers to the waterproof and sweatproof rating designated by the letters “IP” (Ingress Protection) followed by a number between 0-9.

The first digit after the letters refers to protection against solid objects like dust and dirt. The second digit rates water resistance, with higher numbers indicating better water protection:

• IPX0: No protection
• IPX1: Dripping water protection
• IPX2: Dripping water when tilted up to 15 degrees
• IPX3: Spraying water
• IPX4: Splashing water from all directions
• IPX5: Low pressure water jets from all directions
• IPX6: Strong water jets
• IPX7: Immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes
• IPX8: Continuous immersion in water deeper than 1 meter

For most exercise uses, IPX4 and above is recommended. For swimming and water sports, IPX7 or IPX8 ensures the earbuds can be fully submerged without damage.

Top 7 Waterproof Earbuds for 2024

JBL Reflect Aero

The JBL Reflect Aero tops many lists as the best waterproof earbuds currently available. With an IPX7 rating, they can handle full water submersion up to 1 meter deep. The unique and secure ear hook design ensures they stay put through any workout while delivering JBL’s powerful signature sound.

These wireless earbuds last over 8 hours on a charge, with 24 extra hours from the charging case. Touch controls on each earbud allow for play/pause, volume, switching tracks, and phone calls. The JBL Headphones app unlocks customizable EQ settings and ambient aware modes to let in sound from your surroundings when needed.

Reviewers praise the Reflect Aero’s bass-forward sound quality, comfort, waterproofing, and battery life. Available in black, blue, and white, they make an excellent investment for athletes seeking durable, fully waterproof earbuds.

Jabra Elite 4 Active

As a more affordable option, the Jabra Elite 4 Active packs impressive features into a value-focused waterproof package. With IP57 dust and water protection, they can withstand fresh water immersion for 30 minutes up to 1 meter deep.

Designed for workouts and active lifestyles, these compact earbuds deliver punchy, customizable sound and 7 hours of battery life from the buds themselves. The charging case provides a further 21 hours. The Jabra Sound+ app allows you to tweak the EQ, set preferred audio language, locate lost earbuds, and more.

For the price, reviewers love Jabra’s excellent comfort and fit, durability, sound quality, and sweat/water protection. Backed by a 2-year warranty against damage from dust and water, the Elite 4 Active earbuds make a fantastic choice.

H2O Audio Sonar PRO

Specifically designed for swimming and intense water sports, the H2O Audio Sonar PRO earbuds boast an incredible IPX8 rating. This means they can be continuously submerged in water well beyond 1 meter deep without issues.

The unique design includes short nozzles that sit comfortably in the ear canal while a soft rubber ring seals out water. Buttons allow control of volume, tracks, phone calls, and voice assistants. Battery life reaches 8 hours per charge, with 24 extra hours from the charging case.

Reviewers say audio quality is excellent, with punchy bass that works well for motivational workout music. The Sonar PRO earbuds are a top choice for their secure fit, impressive waterproof rating, great sound, and reasonable price.

Jabra Elite 8 Active

As a premium option focused on active lifestyles, the Jabra Elite 8 Active brings top-notch features like adjustable ANC, wireless charging, and fully waterproof design. With an IP68 rating, they are completely protected from dust ingress and can handle water immersion.

The secure earbud design houses 6 microphones for crystal clear calls and excellent noise cancellation that adapts to your environment. You get over 30 hours of total battery life and fast charging via USB-C or any Qi wireless charger. The Jabra Sound+ app unlocks customizable EQ, Find My Jabra tracking, and customizable controls.

Reviewers praise the Elite Active 8’s comfortable fit, impressive ANC and call quality, durable design, and seamless connectivity. While pricey, these earbuds deliver premium features to match an active lifestyle.

TREBLAB X3 Pro

Budget-friendly but packed with features, the TREBLAB X3 Pro earbuds offer IPX7 waterproofing, great battery life, and customizable sound. Their over-ear hook design ensures a secure and comfortable fit during any activity while allowing full water submersion.

You get 9 hours of playtime from the X3 Pro buds themselves, with a charging case providing an extra 32 hours. The TREBLAB app allows you to tweak the sound profile with presets or a customizable EQ. The earbuds also feature one-step pairing and easy access to voice assistants.

According to reviews, the X3 Pro earbuds deliver excellent value for money. Their flexible ear hooks keep them firmly in place, the IPX7 rating makes them fully waterproof, battery life is outstanding, and sound quality impresses for the low price.

Best

Best IPX8 Waterproof Earbuds

For the most intense water sports enthusiasts, IPX8 rated earbuds allow continuous submersion well below 1 meter without damage. This makes them the ultimate choice for activities like swimming, surfing, water skiing, and more.

Top IPX8 models include the H2O Audio Surge S, Sony WF-SP800N, and JBL Endurance Dive. They can handle depths of 2 meters or more continuously. Prices range from around $80 up to $200.

Key features to look for in IPX8 earbuds are a secure fit, at least 6 hours of battery life per charge, easy controls, audio passthrough/ambient sound mode, and wireless charging. Excellent waterproofing is a given.

While more expensive than standard waterproof models, for hardcore aquatic athletes and water sports lovers, IPX8 rated earbuds deliver the best water protection and audio quality while submerged.