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An online search for thebest sports headphoneswill lead you to the all-newBeats Powerbeats Pro 2.
The heart-rate-enabled headphones are currently top-ranked among fitness and tech experts.
Were not debating their marquee status.
The Powerbeats Pro 2 have everything the avid exerciser wants in a pair of sports earbuds.
They improve on every one of their predecessors hallmarks, from battery life to connectivity to sound quality.
If thats the case, then youll want to seek out more affordable options.
I have a trio of recommendations that are as serviceable as the Powerbeats Pro 2.
Best of all, theyre all listed under $100.
Scroll down to view our three favorite budget alternatives to the Powerbeats Pro 2.
The Sport X20 is a low-cost contender that shares many similarities to the Powerbeats Pro 2.
Were talking fit, noise cancellation, and personalized sound.
Lets start with the obvious, that being Ankers swivel ear hook mechanism.
We prefer it over Beats design because it can extend and twist to accommodate different ear shapes.
The hooks lock on firmly for maximum fit.
These buds are composed of sturdy plastic with IP68 dirt and waterproofing that ensures long-lasting use.
Meanwhile, the Powerbeats Pro 2 come with a lower IP rating (IPX4).
ANC on the Sport X20 does a solid job of tuning out gym distractions.
The humming noises from a rowing machine are silent.
You wont hear beeping sounds or the impact of running feet on a treadmill.
Wind resistance is surprisingly good and minimizes harsh sounds created in gusty conditions.
Ambient Sound keeps you focused on running trails by capturing ambient noise loudly and clearly in real-time.
Underneath the buds svelte hood lies 11mm drivers that dish out adrenaline-inducing audio.
Luckily, its a feature you wont miss when exercising.
Battery life on the Sport X20 exceeds the Powerbeats Pro 2: up to 12 hours per charge.
Thats still sufficient for about 3 to 4 days of workouts.
Tossing the buds in their charging case can generate 2 hours of listening time on a 5-minute charge.
The case gives you 48 hours of additional use when fully charged.
Their active noise cancellation can turn the loudest of gyms into a quiet space.
Plus, they’ll last 12 hours on a single charge and 48 hours with the charging case.
TheElite 4 Activeis one of them.
These mid-range buds do something that no Beats models can, which is allow users to manually tweak sound.
Niche features like Spotify Connect offers instant access to favorited workout playlists on the streaming service.
It adapts to surrounding noise levels and can be tailored to your hearing.
The feature works well for silencing clanky gym machines and talkative treadmillers.
Jabras beloved HearThrough mode raises environmental awareness during outdoor runs.
The Elite 4 Active are more durable than any Apple or Beats buds; IP57 certification makes them sweat/waterproof.
A smooth rubberized exterior prevents scratches and scuffs.
Lastly, the EarGels tips form a tight seal to maintain on-ear stability when engaged in lateral-heavy movements.
Jabra’s Elite 4 Active is a winning True Wireless ANC earbud option for fitness types on a budget.
JLab JBuds Sport ANC 4
JLabs massive collection of inexpensive sports earbuds is greatly inspired by the Powerbeats line.
TheJBuds Sport ANC 4provide many benefits to active runners and extensive trainers.
Sound is dynamic and lively right out of the box.
The bottom-heavy low end gives contemporary tracks a thumpy presence that increases energy levels during workouts.
All that means is youll hear enticing sonic elements (e.g., crashing cymbals, thrashing drums) clearer.
Practical features are abundant.
Theres an Interval Timer for timing works and repeating sets, which comes in handy for stationary workouts.
Bluetooth 5.3 with multipoint technology pairs the buds to two devices simultaneously within a 60-foot range.
These buds make that switch seamlessly without compromising connectivity or sound performance.
Its ideal for monitoring traffic on nightly runs or eavesdropping on conversations.
Aesthetically, the JBuds Sport ANC 4 are nothing to brag about.
However, they are sturdier than any Apple-made audio product.
Hard plastic with IP66 certification (dirt-/sweat-proofing and water resistance) protects the buds.
JLabs on-ear hooks and silicone tips are a terrific combination for prime stabilization.
Even the wireless charging case is built to withstand the daily abuse youll put it through.
Dropping it on hard surfaces wont crack the exterior.
Most importantly, the magnetic closures keep these buds secure in their charging slots.
They also fit well, sound good and are great value.
They hold a top spot on our list of thebest cheap running headphones.
