Tired of untangling your headphone wires every time you want to listen to your music? Do the wires keep snagging whenever you go for a run? Does one of your earbuds keep losing audio? Well surely, these are problems that did not exist when your grandparents were still in their hipster years. Before, people listened to music mainly during concerts or in public places. Songs were played in jukeboxes, phonographs, and boom boxes (much much later), and on the radio.

But with the rise of new technology, music became more personal and portable thanks to the iconic Sony Walkman-- the gadget that started it all. Ever since then music has evolved and got reinvented with the likes of the Apple iPod, and more recently the arrival of music streaming applications like Spotify. And because people would just want to take their music everywhere these days, we’ve relied so much on Headphones. And a majority of these devices are still wired through audio jacks thus causing some inconveniences like tangled wires or snags especially when you go for an exercise.

And because this is has become such a common problem with users, tech companies summoned their research and development gurus and now came up with what we call as “wireless headphones.”

Different Types of Wireless Headphones

What no wires? Yeah! No wires or strings attached on these devices, literally. With the invention of Bluetooth technology, devices are now capable of streaming high quality audio without the aid of wires plugged to the audio jack. Audio data is now transmitted through low-power radio waves (in the name of Bluetooth), much like how music is broadcasted through FM or AM high-power radio frequencies. This totally eliminates the annoying wires that snag or tangle every time you tie your shoes or stretch your body. But there are different type of wireless headphones and it’s important to know what these are so you can make a well-informed decision especially when you want to pick the right one for working out.

Over Ear Headphones

Over Ear Headphones are the most identifiable audio gadgets as it has a headband that connects the left and right audio pads. These are used most popularly by DJs and musicians. To a certain extent, over ear headphones are also used in offices like customer service centers especially those with microphone extensions. But over ear headphones are essentially the same in terms of specs and features. The differences boil down in terms of use and purpose. For example, recording artists and serious audiophiles would prefer over ear headphones as these gadgets are very much capable of transmitting great audio quality because the whole ear is covered and padded, eliminating outside noise. In effect, even the lowest bass beats are heard with utmost clarity. For office use, over ear headphones with noise-cancelling features are more useful as it allows them to speak and listen clearly to their irate customers on the other line. The form factor of these headphones also allow it to be hung over the neck, making you look hip and cool (as popular culture dictates.) Some popular over ear headphones are the Beats Studio Wireless or the Bose Quietcomfort 25 models. But for practical purposes, over ear headphones are great to use but ought to be left at home when you’re going to the gym.

In-Ear Headphones (Earphones)

So when you’re working out, what headphones should you use? Well, the best wireless headphones for working out are in-ear headphones. These audio gadgets are smaller, lighter and more portable in comparison to the clunkier over ear headphones. Also called earphones, they have smaller earpieces and are connected either by a short cord or a hard band that rests at the back of your neck. Wireless earphones no longer have the y-type wire that connects to the audio jack as music is already streamed through Bluetooth. Most in-ear headphones are no longer than your arm so it’s easy to store and is less likely to tangle. Some have added features as well like a built-in microphone to answer calls or built-in remote buttons so you can flip through your songs without ever touching your phone. These gadgets are also preferred by sports enthusiasts because some models are waterproof and sweatproof!

Hook-Type In-Ear Headphones

This sub-type of in-ear headphones are not so different from the standard ones except for the form factor in which the earpieces are attached to plastic hooks that clip comfortably behind the ears. This is a good ergonomic feature to have especially when you move or twist your head. It’s the same feature used in hearing aids. Some users might consider this as the best wireless headphones for kids as they are securely attached to the ears versus standard ones that can fall off if you’re a bit careless. So even if your kids are active and playful, these in-ear gadgets won’t easily fall off and get lost in the playground.

Specialized In-Ear Headphones

Specialized in-ear headphones refer to those gadgets that have a certain innovation to it. One example is a wireless helmet in-ear headphones. This specially designed gadget is made to fit inside helmets. It works perfectly for bikers, skateboarders, and other sports that require safety gear. Another example is a totally wireless in-ear device called earbuds. These have zero wires and music is streamed through two small plain-looking earbuds. It’s a futuristically designed product that makes wires totally obsolete.

Top 5 Products

A lot of tech companies have taken a bite into the audio gadgets market especially with wireless headphones. However, in this hugely diverse selection of devices, it’s good to consider what the best products look like and what features they offer for their selling price, in comparison to their competitors. In-ear headphones don’t differ greatly in design or style, but the inside features may differ a lot, and this is something to consider greatly especially if you’re particular with audio quality. Check out the list below.

1. Powerbeats 2 Wireless In-Ear Headphones

From the famous rap and music artist, Dr. Dre, his line of audio equipment under the brand name Beats have been invading the tech market by storm. Initially co-introduced with the Apple iPod in the past, the Beats brand have gained a following from a lot of audiophiles as it merges great sound quality with stylish and sleek designs. The Beats on ear headphones have proven to be a strong competitor in the music market, but its more sporty brother Powerbeats 2, plans to conquer the sports and fitness market. This Beats bro is a pair of hook-type earphones equipped with Bluetooth that allows you to listen to your music up to 30 feet away. It is capable of fast charging for 15 minutes and gives you 60 minutes of music. When charged at full, you can listen to your tunes for up to six straight hours. another great feature for sports addicts is that Powerbeats 2 is sweat and water resistant all over, so no need to worry about it getting wet even when you’re jogging under the rain. It also has a small remote attached to the single cord, allowing you to adjust volume or switch songs. Powerbeats 2 comes with a microUSB cable for charging and a hardshell carrying case as well.

http://www.amazon.com/Powerbeats-Wireless--Ear-Headphone-Black/dp/B00IYA2ZJW/ref=sr_1_6?s=aht&ie=UTF8&qid=1455422269&sr=1-6&keywords=wireless+headphones&refinements=p_n_feature_two_browse-bin%3A2266980011

2. Photive PH-BTE70 Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds

Next is this piece from Photive, a new company that produces several audio devices like this one. The PH-BTE70 model is marketed towards sporty-types as it’s biggest selling point is it’s ergonomic features and sweat-proof feature. The earhooks on this gadget fits securely on you as it follows the curvature on the back of your ears. So even if you’re doing intense workouts or bending over, the earpieces won’t fall off so easily. Another great addition to this device are the three tiny remote buttons located on the right earpiece. It basically allows you to adjust volume, take calls, or even switch tracks. This is perfect especially when you’re far from your phone or you just don’t want to pick it up with your sweaty palms! When it comes to battery life, this Photive gadget can play for six hours straight whether it’s talk or music you’re using it for. It doesn’t mention how fast it charges but it only takes a short while to get it fully charged. The Bluetooth distance is up to 33 feet which is pretty far enough from your phone and it’s 0.6 ounces light so there’s no worry taking this everywhere!

http://www.amazon.com/Photive-PH-BTE70-Bluetooth-Sweatproof-Headphones/dp/B00XZHQAMC/ref=sr_1_3?s=aht&ie=UTF8&qid=1455421973&sr=1-3&keywords=best+wireless+headphones+for+working+out&refinements=p_72%3A1248879011

3. SoundPEATS QY7

This next gadget comes from Shenzen-based tech company SoundPEATS. We all know that a majority of tech products are manufactured in China and there are always mixed reviews when it comes to quality. But to be fair, this model QY7 is a popular product amongst online buyers and it has garnered some pretty high ratings. One reason perhaps is the clever way this device has been designed. From afar, it looks like just any other in-ear wireless earphones, but a close-up view will expose you the features it has. First off are the small loops that protrude outside the earbuds. At first look you’re not sure what it is but once you wear it, you’ll realize that it helps keep the earbuds in place! It’s an ingenious little innovation there. It also has some nicely designed volume/track buttons on the right earpiece, a built-in microphone, and even an LED indicator. On the left earpiece is the charging port. The QY7 can play music for eight hours straight and can stay on standby for up to 150 hours before running out of juice. It’s also sweatproof making it ideal for working out. Considering all the bells and whistles for the price, you can actually consider this as one of the best wireless headphones for under 100!

http://www.amazon.com/Canon-9114B002-VIXIA-mini-X/dp/B00HLDFUM2/ref=sr_1_13?srs=2529502011&ie=UTF8&qid=1455357840&sr=8-13&keywords=vlog+camera

4. ANKOVO Wireless Headphones

The next product sounds more obscure but the Ankovo wireless headphones is another affordable alternative. This gadget may appear to be one of those ordinary wireless earphones but here’s one interesting feature: it has magnets attached to both ends of the device so you can close it like a necklace. Well, it won’t appeal to everybody but for practical reasons alone, having this feature allows you to wear the gadget without any worry of losing it. It’s a simple feature but also pretty clever. Aside from that, there’s nothing much out of the ordinary. It can play music for up to eight hours straight and it charges pretty fast, giving you full power in just two hours. A nice thing about too is that it has a noise-cancelling microphone that works well if you’re using this to take calls while working out or running.

http://www.amazon.com/Sony-DSCW800-Digital-Camera-Black/dp/B00I8BIBCW/ref=sr_1_1?srs=2529502011&ie=UTF8&qid=1455357840&sr=8-1&keywords=vlog+camera

5. LG Tone HBS-730

Finally capping off this list is a gadget from the Korean electronics competitor of Samsung, LG. The LG Tone HBS-730 model is a unique piece in terms of look and style. It actually looks like a futuristic headband, but it actually has some detachable earbuds with short and thin wires that connect to the main u-shaped band. This is actually the memory flex neck strap that rests at the base of your neck. The controls are also located here with a dedicated LED button for taking/rejecting calls, a play/pause button, a volume rack, and separate next/previous track buttons. The LG Tone also has added features like noise and echo cancellation, perfect for chatting over the phone and it can play music up to 10 hours with a charging time to full in less than two hours.

http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-Electronics-EC-DV180FBPBUS-Dual-View-Wireless/dp/B01561G5Z6/ref=sr_1_8?srs=2529502011&ie=UTF8&qid=1455357840&sr=8-8&keywords=vlog+camera

Next Five Products

TAIR Bluetooth Stereo Headphone

Rowkin Mini Sports Bluetooth Earbud

Sony MDR-AS600BT/D Active Sports Bluetooth Wireless In-Ear Headphones

Fit Acoustics Elevate

Skullcandy XT Free Wireless Headphones

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Other Quality Brands to Consider

There’s a diverse list of brands when it comes to wireless audio earphones. The top 5 products each came from a different teach brand and surprisingly, some of them aren’t even the big and popular names. However, the competition can get tighter as even the “big ones” in technology have their own take on wireless in-ear headphones. Here are other brands you might want to consider.

Sony In-Ear Headphones

Sony is one of the top names in technology. And this Japanese iconic brand won’t allow itself to be overtaken by newbies or by other competitors from Korea and China. Sony, the pioneer in portable audio gadgets, still produce some pretty awesome headphones as well. Newer Sony headsets (like SBH-20) are paired up with their impressive Sony smartphones so syncing via Bluetooth won’t be a problem at all.

Skullcandy In-Ear Headphones

For younger ones, gamers, fashionistas, and creative souls, Skullcandy is a very popular brand because of the artsy form factor of its audio gadgets. There’s always a unique look to their headphones and it comes in the details. They either add a nice gothic pattern of skulls or some eccentric colors to the earbuds. It has its own following and is often connected to a certain fashion and lifestyle.

Rowkin Earbuds

The futuristic-looking Rowkin Earbuds is the best manifestation of what it means to have “wireless” earphones. These small gadgets have no wires at all, that’s why they’re just called earbuds. The absence of wires means these things are charged magnetically through a charging dock. Its small circular metallic design also makes it look classy on anything you wear, from suits to your gym attire. The only downside is, because there are no wires to link the buds, there’s no replacements if you lose one of them.

Fit Acoustics

This US -based company produces some snazzy-looking earphones called Elevate. It has a cool yellow and black beehive design that’s surely worth taking a second look.

How to Choose the Best Wireless In-Ear Headphones

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nYuGFXFaKmA

More often than not, we wouldn’t be so picky in choosing the right pair of headphones so long as it can play your music right? Well, not always. Choosing the best wireless in-ear headphones can take some process of thinking and comparing especially when you want to put your money on something pricey. For working out, choosing the right gadget will matter especially depending on the nature of the exercise or sports you do.

Form Factor

In choosing the best wireless headphones for working out, consider the design and match it with your activity. Do you run, crossfit, lift weights, play basketball, boxing? These would matter in choosing as the amount of activity will affect the performance of your headphones. For highly active sports, get in-ear headphones with earhooks. This will ensure that earbuds stay in place. If you’re going swimming or do water sports, definitely pick a waterproof one and not just sweat or water resistant.

Wireless Distance

Always check how far your wireless headphones can go. If you’re going running or jogging, you don’t need a wireless headset that goes up to 30 feet as it is most likely you would keep your phone in your pocket anyway. Long wireless distances would matter if you do gym training or crossfit. This allows you to keep your phone in one location as you tackle different exercises and machines within the proximity.

Audio Fidelity

Many wireless headphones will promise great audio quality but their definition of quality may not match your own expectations. It’s always not easy to figure out which gadgets to pick in terms of audio quality other than the reputation it has built among its users. In this field, even known brands don’t exactly produce the best audio quality. At the same time, some obscure brands offer great audio quality. So ask around and try out different products to develop your own preference.

Battery Life

Most wireless headphones have a staying power of up to six hours of playing music. Some have higher, some have lower. Nonetheless, pick a gadget that can match the number of hours you spend working out.

Conclusion

When it comes to the right pair of wireless headphones, there’s a wide selection of gadgets to choose from. But what will help you narrow it down is to know your own preferences when it comes to music. If you’re super particular with audio fidelity, then getting an over ear headphones might be the best for you. But if you’re going out for an exercise, then over ear ones might not be the best. In ear headphones are actually the most versatile audio devices as it can be used for various activities like commuting or even just relaxing. Also consider the downsides of having wireless headphones. Remember that these need to be charged, so if the gadget runs our of power, you can no longer listen to your music. This is one big advantage of wired headphones as the power is supplied from the device it is connected to. In addition, it can connect to every other device with a 3mm audio jack. Some people actually have both wired and wireless headphones (with the former as a backup). So before you hit your next workout, pick out a new pair of wireless headphones!

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