The best bone conduction headphones we tested most loved. Since bone-conduction headphones are becoming more popular, we’ll address the issue of what is the finest. We also wish to address how bone-conduction headphones operate for our readers. What are the advantages of bone-conduction headphones?
The greatest bone-conduction headphones are fantastic. They let you listen to music and pay attention to your surroundings. Bone conduction headphones employ small transducers to convey sound by vibrating your bones to your ears, allowing you to hear what’s going on around you.
Unlike many of the best wireless or over-ear headphones, certain bone-conduction headphones are waterproof, making them a great choice for swimmers. Our finest waterproof headphones include several of the best bone-conduction headphones.
To help you choose, we’ve tested most of the top bone-conduction headphones in the pool while jogging and in a busy workplace. Here are the finest bone-conduction headphones for working out, swimming, jogging, and budget shoppers. The top bone conduction headphones provide quality sound via the temporal bone and were our favorites. View the whole list.
Contents
Best Bone Conduction Headphones We Tested Most Loved
1. SHOKZ OpenSwim Swimming MP3
The SHOKZ OpenSwim is purpose-built for swimmers who want music without distractions. Unlike Bluetooth models, it features a built-in MP3 player with storage for up to 1,200 songs, ensuring stable playback underwater. The open-ear bone conduction design keeps ears free while delivering clear audio through vibrations. With an IP68 waterproof rating, these headphones perform reliably in pools and open water. The lightweight, secure fit stays comfortable during long swim sessions, and the included nose clip and earplugs add extra convenience. If you want dependable, no-fuss underwater audio, OpenSwim is one of the best swimming headphones available today.
Specifications:
- Type: Bone conduction, open-ear
- Connectivity: Built-in MP3 (not Bluetooth)
- Storage: 4GB (up to 1,200 songs)
- Waterproof Rating: IP68
- Battery Life: Up to 8 hours
- Extras: Nose clip and earplugs included
Pros:
- Fully waterproof, ideal for swimming and water sports
- Reliable internal MP3 playback with stable sound underwater
- Lightweight and secure fit during intense movement
Cons:
- No Bluetooth support
- Music transfer requires a computer
2. SHOKZ OpenRun (AfterShokz Aeropex)
The SHOKZ OpenRun is a top choice for runners and fitness enthusiasts who prioritize comfort and situational awareness. Its open-ear bone conduction design lets you hear traffic and surroundings while enjoying balanced sound. Bluetooth connectivity pairs easily with smartphones, while the 8-hour battery life supports long workouts. Sweat-resistant construction makes it suitable for intense training sessions, and the lightweight frame ensures a secure, bounce-free fit. The built-in microphone allows for clear calls on the go. Overall, the OpenRun delivers a reliable blend of safety, durability, and performance for everyday sports use.
Specifications:
- Connectivity: Bluetooth
- Battery Life: Up to 8 hours
- Water Resistance: IP55
- Weight: Approx. 26g
- Microphone: Built-in mic for calls
Pros:
- Excellent balance of comfort and sound quality
- Open-ear design enhances safety during outdoor workouts
- Fast charging with solid battery performance
Cons:
-
Not fully waterproof for swimming
3. SHOKZ OpenRun Mini (AfterShokz Aeropex Mini)
The SHOKZ OpenRun Mini offers the same performance as the standard OpenRun but in a more compact size, ideal for users with smaller heads. It features open-ear bone conduction technology that enhances safety during outdoor activities like running or cycling. Bluetooth connectivity ensures stable wireless performance, while the 8-hour battery life easily covers daily workouts. The sweat-resistant design handles intense exercise, and the lightweight build reduces pressure over long wear. With clear call quality and a snug, ergonomic fit, the OpenRun Mini is perfect for athletes seeking comfort without sacrificing awareness.
Specifications:
- Connectivity: Bluetooth
- Battery Life: Up to 8 hours
- Water Resistance: IP55
- Design: Smaller band for narrow heads
- Microphone: Integrated
Pros:
- Perfect fit for users with smaller head sizes
- Lightweight and stable during running
- Clear vocals and consistent performance
Cons:
-
Not adjustable for larger heads
4. Aftershokz Aeropex (Rebranded as Shokz OpenRun)
The AfterShokz Aeropex is a premium bone conduction headset designed for serious athletes. With an IP67 rating, it offers excellent resistance to sweat, rain, and dust. The open-ear design enhances safety by keeping you aware of your surroundings during outdoor workouts. Improved transducers deliver clearer sound and stronger bass compared to earlier models. Its lightweight titanium frame ensures a secure yet comfortable fit, while the long battery life supports extended training sessions. If you want high durability, comfort, and performance, the Aeropex remains a strong contender in the open-ear headphone market.
Specifications:
- Connectivity: Bluetooth
- Battery Life: Up to 8 hours
- Waterproof Rating: IP67
- Weight: Approx. 26g
- Charging: Magnetic charging cable
Pros:
- Durable build with high water and dust resistance
- Comfortable for long listening sessions
- Trusted performance with balanced audio clarity
Cons:
-
Older model compared to SHOKZ OpenRun series
5. Aftershokz Air Bone Conduction Wireless Bluetooth Headphones
The AfterShokz Air is a lightweight and affordable entry into bone conduction headphones. Designed for casual runners and commuters, it offers open-ear listening that enhances safety and comfort. Bluetooth connectivity allows seamless pairing with most devices, while the balanced sound is suitable for podcasts, calls, and light music listening. The slim, flexible frame provides a stable fit without pressure, even during long wear. Although it lacks advanced waterproofing, the AfterShokz Air is ideal for everyday workouts and outdoor activities, making it a solid option for beginners exploring bone conduction technology.
Specifications:
- Connectivity: Bluetooth
- Battery Life: Up to 6 hours
- Water Resistance: IP55
- Weight: Approx. 30g
- Microphone: Dual noise-canceling mics
Pros:
- Affordable entry into bone conduction headphones
- Lightweight with decent sound for casual use
- Good call quality for the price
Cons:
- Shorter battery life
- Less powerful sound than newer models
Choose the finest bone-conduction headphones
We recommend bone-conduction headphones for fitness enthusiasts who want to be more aware of their surroundings, but they can also be useful in any situation where you’d benefit from hearing a mix of your own music and background noise, such as walking on a busy street or working at home while listening for family or the doorbell.
- But, too many options might be overwhelming, so we’ve done the hard work (swimming, running, and commuting) for you.
- We examined the finest bone-conduction headphones you can purchase for training, beating your 10k, and more.
- Bone-conduction headphones are scarcer than conventional wireless headphones. There are several considerations.
- If you’re considering buying bone-conduction headphones for exercise, check the IP (ingress protection) rating to see how well they’ll resist sweat and water.
- Moreover, headphones with built-in controls and a microphone are ideal for callers who don’t want to use their phones.
- Design, fit, and price are further factors. Check out 2023’s best bone-conduction headphones. to find out more.
Testing bone-conduction headphones: how?
TechRadar reliability. We spend hours evaluating every product or service we evaluate so you can get the best. Learn about testing. Throughout the years, we’ve evaluated hundreds of bone-conduction headphones, so we can choose our best for this guide.
We evaluated every pair above. We allow each product plenty of time to operate before assessing its sound quality across a range of music genres, games, movies, and podcasts from many sources versus category leaders. While traveling, TechRadar prioritizes sound quality.
We also assess how comfortable and secure the design is for long periods, the settings the device best fits (running, gaming, audiophile hi-res listening), and any unique features given at the level.
Voice assistant integration, on-device touch controls, companion app depth, and other features are considered when comparing bone conduction headphones. To accurately predict their usual lifespan, we also assess battery life claims. We want a product you love. We hope to assist.
Instructions for using bone-conduction headphones are provided.
Tell me about how bone-conduction headphones function.
Bone-conduction headphones deviate from the norm in many key respects. Although both aim to reproduce sound, their respective technologies take quite different approaches. You most likely listen to music through headphones, which employ a conical diaphragm or armature to accurately reproduce the sound wave and transmit it to your eardrums. Air conduction describes this phenomenon.
Bone conduction headphones, on the other hand, are attached to a bony part of your face (often your cheekbone or jaw) and vibrate to transmit sound to your cochlea, which is then processed by your brain. Bone-conduction headphones are discussed in further detail, as well as their unexpected connection to one of the greatest artists of all time and their involvement in the capture of Osama bin Laden, in this entertaining piece.
Bone-conduction headphones’ advantages?
- Bone-conduction headphones can change how many people listen. This technology can save lives when used with conventional headphones.
- Situational awareness is best. Bone-conduction headphones provide air-conduction hearing. Nothing conceals them, so you can hear everything.
- Sportspeople love bone-conduction headphones. These are the ideal headphones for jogging, cycling, and other outdoor activities.
It lets you hear your surroundings. Cyclists and runners on the road can hear cars coming, drillers can hear instructors, and if you work out with a partner, you can talk without taking your headphones off. They’re also really comfy. Bone-conduction headphones solve both earbud and headphone difficulties. A neckband holds them on your cheek.
Best bone conduction headphones we tested, most loved: FAQs
Q. Which bone-conduction headphones have the best battery life?
The Shokz OpenRun Pro has the best battery life for bone-conduction headphones. Most bone-conduction headphones last anywhere from 6-8 hours but the Shokz OpenRun Pro lasts 10 hours on a single charge, which is two hours longer than the standard OpenRun.
Q. What are the best bone-conduction headphones for construction?
The best bone-conduction headphones are the AfterShokz Aeropex, an IP67 waterproof set with built-in Bluetooth technology. With their traditional over-the-ear design and lightweight build, they earn our vote for the best bone conduction headphones.
Q. Can deaf people listen to music with bone-conduction headphones?
Would these headphones work for someone who’s completely deaf because they’re missing their inner ear bones from brain surgery? Unfortunately, bone conduction headphones get sound to your inner ear by vibrating the bones removed in your surgery, so it’s unlikely they’ll work for you.
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