The Jaybird X4 offers a modest upgrade from its predecessor, but if you're in the market for workout earbuds, there's no shortage of options available. The truly wireless Jabra Elite Active 65t in particular is a standout choice as it offers great sound quality, a comfortable fit, and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity. Here are the best alternatives to the Jaybird X4.
The active variant of Jabra's Elite 65t share the same great sound quality and secure fit as the standard model, but come with IP56 rating (versus IP55) and a 2-year warranty against sweat and dust ingress. You get Bluetooth 5.0, 5-hour battery life with the case offering a further 10-hour charge, and Alexa or Google Assistant connectivity.
The sound quality of the SoundSport Wireless is a notch above what you get with the X4, and the range of wingtips provided ensure you get the perfect fit. The earbuds don't fully isolate noise, so you'll be able to hear your surroundings when you're out running. They're good for six hours' worth of use, and are sweat-resistant.
Unlike the rest of the headphones on this list, the Trekz Titanium use bone conduction tech to deliver sound through your cheekbones to the inner ear. These headphones sit outside your ear, allowing you to hear ambient noise when you're working out, and the neckband ensures they stay on even during extended running sessions. The Trekz Titanium is also IP55 rated and has a battery life of six hours.
Jaybird's $100 Tarah is designed for runners. The earbuds come with an IPX7 rated design, fast charging, 6-hour battery life, customizable EQ, and a range of silicone ear gels that ensure you get a comfortable fit. They cost $30 less than the X4 and offer a similar design, so if you're looking to save some cash, the Tarah is a great alternative.
Retailing for $24, you can pick up five of these for the price of a Jaybird X4. The SoundBuds Surge offer a lightweight design with wingtips that ensure a tight fit, aptX codec for great sound quality, IPX5 water resistance, a 3-button remote, and 6-hour battery life. Oh, and the earbuds have magnetic connectors at the end, so they snap together just like OnePlus' Bullets Wireless.
The best thing about the BackBeat Fit is that they stay in place regardless of the workout. They offer an IP57 rating and a sweatproof nano-coating for added durability, and you can also access an on-demand coaching feature to get you motivated to hit your fitness goals. With an 8-hour battery life, the BackBeat Fit can also help keep you motivated no matter how long your race or workout runs.
Whether you work out at the local gym or prefer running on the road, there are several options in the market today to suit your needs. The Jabra Elite Active 65t gets our vote because of the freedom you get with the truly wireless earbuds. They provide a secure fit that ensures they don't fall out, and the 5-hour battery life should be more than adequate for marathon running sessions.
Google Assistant integration is an added bonus that lets you change tunes or switch to your favorite podcast directly with your voice. At $189, you're getting your money's worth with the earbuds.
