Beats ME2M4LL/A

The most secure workout earbuds we've tested, with killer ANC and a bass-heavy sound that pushes you through sets. Absolutely worth it if you find them around $120—at full retail, they're overpriced for what you get.

We were genuinely surprised by the ANC. At 97th percentile in our database, it's best-in-class, beating plenty of earbuds that cost more and aren't built for sweat. Sound quality sits at 84th percentile—well above average, but it's tuned for motivation, not critical listening. You get clear mids and a bass bump that makes workout playlists thump, though the music score in our lab tests was just 63.4/100 because it lacks the detail and soundstage you'd want for acoustic or classical recordings. Call quality is solid with two beamforming mics and background noise reduction, placing 80th percentile—good enough for a quick call between sets.

The Sony WF-1000XM6 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen both beat the Powerbeats Fit on sound quality and music detail, no question. But neither will stay in place through a HIIT class like the Beats do. The new Sony WF-1000XM6 brings even better ANC and a more refined sound than its predecessor, making it the top pick if you want one earbud for everything—just know you'll be adjusting them mid-burpee. Apple's AirPods Pro 2 offer seamless iOS integration and a balanced, clean sound, but the fit isn't gym-proof. For pure workout performance, where a locked-in fit and solid ANC are everything, the Powerbeats Fit still edge out the Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 4, which slips more easily during lateral movements. If you only care about music, skip the Beats. If you prioritize stay-put reliability, these win.

The price swings from $117 to $272 across retailers, so you still have to shop smart. At $120 or below, these are a solid buy—I'd pick them over anything else for the gym. At $150 they're still competitive against workout-focused rivals. But if you're staring at a $250+ listing, walk away. The Sony WF-1000XM6 and Apple AirPods Pro 2 both deliver far better all-around sound and smarter features for that kind of money. Check for deals regularly; the low end pops up often enough.

The Beats Powerbeats Fit are the most secure true wireless earbuds you can buy for the gym right now. The updated wingtip design locks them into your upper ear canal so they don't budge during burpees, sprints, or heavy lifts, and I mean zero readjusting. Sound is punchy and energetic with enough bass to keep you moving, and the active noise cancelling is so good it nearly silences gym clatter and treadmill noise. If you've ever had an earbud fall out mid-set, this is the fix.

If you're after top-tier music fidelity with a wide soundstage and neutral tuning, this isn't it. Head straight for the Technics EAH-AZ100-K or Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 4. Also, if you hated the old Powerbeats wingtip that wrapped around your ear, these use a shorter version that still sits in the ear canal—some find it less secure than the classic hook, so try before you buy if you can.

Buy these if your main listening happens while you're sweating. The fit is unshakeable, the ANC drowns out the gym, and the sound is purposely tuned to keep your energy up. Just don't expect the sonic finesse of a dedicated music earbud. For around $120 when you find a deal, they're a no-brainer for athletes and gym rats.