Best Open-Ear Headphones of 2026

Mike Davis Avatar
Mike Davis
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2026

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Open-ear headphones are a unique type of headphones that allow users to listen to audio without completely blocking out ambient noise. Unlike traditional headphones that rest on the ears or completely cover them, open-ear headphones are designed to sit just outside the ear canal, allowing users to hear their surroundings while still enjoying their music or audio. This makes them a popular choice for outdoor activities such as running or cycling, where it's important to be aware of one's surroundings. Open-ear headphones also tend to be more comfortable for extended use, as they don't put pressure on the ears like traditional headphones do.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Apple EarPods with USB-C Plug Cover #TOP 1
Apple EarPods with USB-C Plug
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Apple AirPods 4 Wireless Earbuds Cover #TOP 2
Apple AirPods 4 Wireless Earbuds
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Soundcore P30i Noise Cancelling Earbuds Cover #TOP 3
Soundcore P30i Noise Cancelling Earbuds
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Open-Ear Headphones

Apple EarPods with USB-C Plug

MYQY3AM/A
White
One Size
Apple EarPods with USB-C Plug Cover
Apple EarPods Headphones with USB-C Plug, Wired Ear Buds with Built-in Remote to Control Music, Phone Calls, and Volume

The Apple USB-C EarPods are designed for superior comfort, fitting the natural shape of your ears better than traditional earbuds. This ergonomic design allows for longer listening sessions without discomfort. You will also enjoy high-quality audio, as the engineered speakers focus on maximizing sound output while minimizing loss. The built-in remote lets you easily adjust volume, control music playback, and manage calls, all with a simple pinch of the cord. Plus, these earbuds are compatible with any device featuring a USB-C port, making them a versatile choice for your audio needs.

What We Like
Clear, balanced sound quality
Comfortable for extended wear
Convenient inline controls
Compatible with modern devices
Affordable option

Apple AirPods 4 Wireless Earbuds

MXP93LL/A
White
One Size
Apple AirPods 4 Wireless Earbuds Cover
Apple AirPods 4 Wireless Earbuds, Bluetooth Headphones, with Active Noise Cancellation, Adaptive Audio, Transparency Mode, Personalized Spatial Audio, USB-C Charging Case, Wireless Charging, H2 Chip

The Apple AirPods 4 deliver an enhanced listening experience with their redesigned comfort and stability. You will enjoy the Active Noise Cancellation feature, which effectively blocks outside distractions, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your music or calls. The innovative H2 chip also offers Adaptive Audio, blending noise cancellation and transparency modes for seamless interaction with your surroundings. Additionally, Voice Isolation significantly improves call clarity in noisy environments, ensuring that your voice is heard clearly by the person on the other end. With these features, you can enjoy music and conversations with exceptional quality and convenience.

What We Like
Comfortable all-day wear
Effective noise cancellation
Improved call quality
Adaptive audio experience
#TOP 3

Soundcore P30i Noise Cancelling Earbuds

A3959
Black
Standard
Soundcore P30i Noise Cancelling Earbuds Cover
Soundcore P30i by Anker Noise Cancelling Earbuds, Strong and Smart Noise Cancelling, Powerful Bass, 45H Playtime, 2-in-1 Case and Phone Stand, IP54, Wireless Earbuds, Bluetooth 5.4 (Black)

The Soundcore P30i Earbuds offer a unique 2-in-1 charging case that doubles as a phone stand, making it easy for you to watch videos hands-free wherever you are. Their advanced noise cancelling technology can reduce background sounds significantly, so you can enjoy your music or calls without distractions. When you want to stay aware of your surroundings, simply switch to transparency mode to hear outside sounds clearly. Plus, the earbuds deliver powerful bass thanks to their 10mm drivers and BassUp technology, giving you a rich and immersive audio experience. These features make the Soundcore P30i a great choice for on-the-go listening with convenience and quality sound.

What We Like
2-in-1 charging case and stand
Strong active noise cancelling
Transparency mode
Powerful bass with BassUp tech
#TOP 4

SHOKZ OpenRun Pro 2 Bone Conduction Headphones

SHOKZ S820
Black
SHOKZ OpenRun Pro 2 Bone Conduction Headphones Cover
SHOKZ New OpenRun Pro 2- Bone Conduction Headphones, Open-Ear Bluetooth Wireless Sport Earphones for Running, Workouts - Sweat Resistant, Secure Comfortable Fit -Deep Bass, Smart Mic, Reflective Strip

The SHOKZ OpenRun Pro 2 offers an impressive audio experience by blending bone conduction and air conduction technologies. You get clear highs and rich bass, perfect for staying motivated during your workouts. Its open-ear design lets you stay aware of your surroundings, so you can exercise safely without missing your music. The lightweight frame with memory wire and ergonomic hooks ensures a secure and comfortable fit, even during intense activities like cycling or gym sessions. Plus, you can tailor the sound to your liking using dedicated EQ modes, so your audio is always just right whether you're indoors or outdoors.

What We Like
Clear, balanced audio
Open-ear safety design
Secure, comfortable fit
Customizable sound modes

Soundcore Q20i Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

A3004
Almond White
Standard
Soundcore Q20i Active Noise Cancelling Headphones Cover
Soundcore by Anker Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones, Wireless Over-Ear Bluetooth, 40H Long ANC Playtime, Hi-Res Audio, Big Bass, Customize via an App, Transparency Mode (White)

The Soundcore Q20i Headphones offer an immersive listening experience with their advanced hybrid active noise cancelling technology, effectively blocking up to 90% of external sounds like engines and chatter. You will enjoy rich and detailed audio thanks to the oversized 40mm drivers and BassUp technology, perfect for music lovers. With an impressive 40-hour battery life when using noise cancelling, you can listen for days without needing a charge. Plus, the dual-connection feature allows you to pair with two devices at once, making it easy to switch between your laptop and phone without missing a beat.

What We Like
Long-lasting battery
Comfortable design
Excellent sound quality
Effective noise cancellation
User-friendly controls
#TOP 6

JBL Tune Flex Earbuds

JBL
JBLTFLEXBLKAM
Black
Small
JBL Tune Flex Earbuds Cover
JBL Tune Flex - True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds (Black), Small

The JBL Tune Flex offers an immersive listening experience with its powerful 12mm drivers that deliver deep bass, making every beat feel alive. You can enjoy your music without distractions thanks to the advanced Active Noise Cancelling feature, which uses dual microphones to minimize background noise. If you need to be aware of your surroundings, the Ambient Aware mode lets you stay alert while listening. Plus, with four built-in microphones, your calls will be crystal clear, ensuring that you’re always heard without hassle.

What We Like
Excellent sound quality
Long battery life
Customizable settings via app
Comfortable and lightweight design
Effective noise cancellation
#TOP 7

TOZO O2 Bluetooth Open-Ear Headphones

T13187
Navy blue
TOZO O2 Bluetooth Open-Ear Headphones Cover
TOZO Headphones Lightweight with Multi-Angle Adjustment, Bluetooth 5.3 Earbuds with Dual-Axis Design for Long-Lasting Comfort, Crystal-Clear Calls for Driving

The TOZO O2 Headphones offer a flexible fit thanks to their dual-axis design, allowing you to adjust the ear cups both horizontally and vertically. This means you can customize the headphones to fit your ears comfortably for long listening sessions. They are especially handy for drivers, providing a safe, hands-free experience by letting you use each earbud independently. The open-ear design keeps your ears breathable and aware of surroundings, making these headphones great for calls and music in various settings. Plus, with TOZO’s sound technology and app, you get clear calls, rich bass, and the option to personalize your sound with different equalizer settings.

What We Like
Dual-axis adjustable fit
Hands-free driving safety
Open-ear breathable design
Customizable sound settings

Soundcore P20i True Wireless Earbuds

A3949
Black
5.7 * 5.2 * 2.86 cm
Soundcore P20i True Wireless Earbuds Cover
Soundcore by Anker P20i True Wireless Earbuds, 10mm Drivers with Big Bass, Bluetooth 5.3, 30H Long Playtime, Water-Resistant, 2 Mics for AI Clear Calls, 22 Preset EQs, Customization via App

Experience powerful sound and deep bass with the Soundcore P20i Earbuds. Equipped with oversized 10mm drivers, these earbuds deliver an immersive audio experience, allowing you to fully enjoy your favorite songs. With the Soundcore app, you can personalize your listening experience by customizing the controls and choosing from 22 EQ presets. The "Find My Earbuds" feature helps you locate a lost earbud by emitting noise. The P20i Earbuds offer a long playtime of up to 30 hours with the charging case, and a quick 10-minute charge provides 2 hours of playtime. The portable and lightweight design makes it easy to carry them wherever you go. Additionally, the built-in mics and AI algorithm ensure clear calls without having to shout over the phone.

What We Like
Comfortable fit
Impressive sound quality
Long battery life
Quick Bluetooth pairing
Affordable price
#TOP 9

Soundcore V20i Open-Ear Headphones

A3876
Black
Standard
Soundcore V20i Open-Ear Headphones Cover
Soundcore V20i by Anker Open-Ear Headphones, Adjustable Ear Hooks, Ultra-Comfort, Snug Fit, Powerful Sound, Clear Calls, IP55, 36H Playtime, Bluetooth 5.4 Wireless Earbuds, Multipoint Connection

The Soundcore V20i Headphones offer unmatched comfort with their open-ear design, perfect for all-day use. You’ll appreciate how these earbuds enhance your awareness of your surroundings while providing excellent sound quality. With four adjustable positions, you can easily find the perfect fit, allowing you to move freely without worry. The advanced 16mm drivers deliver powerful sound, immersing you in rich bass and clear audio. Whether you're commuting or enjoying outdoor activities, the V20i ensures a snug and secure fit, making them a great choice for any lifestyle.

What We Like
Ultra-comfortable design
Enhanced awareness of surroundings
Secure and adjustable fit
Powerful sound quality
#TOP 10

SHOKZ OpenRun Pro - Open-Ear Bluetooth Bone Conduction Headphones

S810
Black
Standard
SHOKZ OpenRun Pro - Open-Ear Bluetooth Bone Conduction Headphones Cover
SHOKZ OpenRun Pro-Bone Conduction Headphones, Open-Ear Bluetooth Wireless Sport Headphones for Running and Workout, Sweat Resistant, Long Battery Life, Premium Deep Bass, Mic,with Hair Band, Black

The SHOKZ OpenRun Pro is an open-ear Bluetooth bone conduction sport headphone that provides a comfortable fit and premium sound quality. It features Shokz's 9th bone conduction technology, Shokz TurboPitch technology, and a lightweight, wraparound titanium frame for a secure fit. With up to 10 hours of music and calls, these headphones are perfect for workouts and running. Customers have praised the sound quality and comfort of the OpenRun Pro, while noting that the bass is not as rich as traditional headphones.

What We Like
High-quality and well-made
Sweat-resistant and suitable for workouts
Comfortable to wear for long periods of time
Built-in mic for easy communication
Allows users to stay aware of their surroundings
Buying Guide Image

Guidelines for Choosing the Right Open-Ear Headphones

Introduction

Headphones are great for pumping out your favorite music or podcasts while you're on the go, but they can be a bit of a hassle when it comes to having conversations. Open-ear headphones, also known as half-in-ear headphones, offer the convenience of being able to hear the world around you while still listening to your audio. In this article, we'll explore the features you should consider when choosing open-ear headphones.

Comfort and Fit

When choosing open-ear headphones, comfort should be a top priority. It's important to find a pair of headphones that fit snugly, but not too tight. The ear cups should be large enough to cover your ears and provide a secure fit, but not so large that they press against the sides of your head. They should also be lightweight enough that you can easily forget you're wearing them.

Sound Quality

Open-ear headphones typically don't offer the same sound quality as traditional headphones, but there are a few features you should look for to ensure you're getting the best sound possible. Look for headphones with noise-cancelling technology to help block out unwanted noise. Additionally, look for headphones with a wide frequency range and a good bass response for the best sound.

Battery Life

When it comes to open-ear headphones, battery life is an important factor to consider. Depending on the model, open-ear headphones can have anywhere from 8 to 30 hours of battery life. If you plan on using your headphones for long periods of time, look for a model with a long battery life.

Connection Type

Open-ear headphones come in two connection types: wired and wireless. Wired headphones are typically more affordable, and they don't require charging. Wireless headphones, on the other hand, offer more freedom of movement and are more convenient. If you plan on taking your headphones on the go, wireless may be a better option.

Price

When it comes to price, you should expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $200 for open-ear headphones. If you're looking for a basic pair, you can probably find a decent pair for around $50. If you're looking for a higher-end model, expect to pay closer to $200.

Conclusion

Open-ear headphones are an excellent option if you want to be able to hear your audio while still having conversations or being aware of your surroundings. When choosing open-ear headphones, look for a comfortable fit, noise-cancelling technology, a long battery life, and a connection type that suits your needs. Prices can range from $20 to $200, so you should be able to find a pair that fits your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are open-ear headphones better for you?

Open-ear headphones have some advantages. They don't block your ear canal, which is better for hygiene as it reduces the risk of bacterial build-up and ear infections. Additionally, open-ear headphones let ambient sound in, allowing you to remain aware of your surroundings. This can be beneficial for activities like running or biking, where hearing approaching cars is important.

2. Are open-ear earbuds worth it?

Open-ear earbuds offer certain benefits. They allow ambient sound in, enhancing safety by letting you hear what's happening around you. This can be particularly useful for runners and bikers. Additionally, open-ear earbuds are more hygienic as they don't block the ear canal, reducing the risk of bacterial infections.

3. What is the purpose of open-ear headphones?

Open-ear headphones are designed to allow audio leakage out of the earpieces and not block out ambient noise. They provide a more airy and spacious sound compared to closed-back headphones. Open-ear headphones are useful when you need to remain aware of your external surroundings while enjoying your audio.

4. Is bone conduction safe?

Bone conduction headphones can be safe if used properly and at a moderate volume. However, if used at high volumes or improperly, they can still damage your hearing. It's important to find a comfortable listening level that won't harm your hearing over time when using bone conduction headphones.

5. What is the downside of bone conduction headphones?

Bone conduction headphones have a few drawbacks. The sound reproduction may not be as good as traditional in-ear headphones because sound is transmitted through the skin and skull. Additionally, bone conduction headphones are prone to sound leakage, which means others may be able to hear what you're listening to.

6. Why do audiophiles like open back headphones?

Audiophiles prefer open-back headphones because they provide a clearer, more immersive, and realistic sound. The open-back design allows the music to interact with the surrounding room, resulting in a more natural listening experience. These headphones are often favored by professionals and audio enthusiasts.

7. Can other people hear bone conduction headphones?

Bone conduction headphones can have some sound leakage, meaning others may be able to hear what you're listening to. However, high-quality bone conduction headphones have minimal sound leakage. The severity of sound leakage can indicate the quality of the headphones.

8. What is the difference between open-ear and bone conduction headphones?

Open-ear headphones and bone conduction headphones are similar in that they provide a more natural listening experience and minimal sound leakage. However, open-ear headphones generally have an open-back design, while bone conduction headphones transmit sound through the skin and skull. Bone conduction headphones are also secure during physical activities and do not cause fatigue to the outer or middle ear.

9. What is the disadvantage of bone conduction?

Bone conduction headphones have a few disadvantages. The sound reproduction may not be as good as traditional in-ear headphones because sound is transmitted through the skin and skull. Additionally, bone conduction headphones are prone to sound leakage, which means others may be able to hear what you're listening to.

10. What are the disadvantages of bone conduction implants?

Bone conduction implants, like any surgical procedure, carry the risk of infection and inflammation at the implant site. There is also a small possibility of the new bone growth around the implant failing, which may result in the implant falling out. It's best to consult with an audiologist if you experience any issues after the surgery.

Editor's Notes

During our open-ear headphones research, we found 24 open-ear headphones products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 1,026,174 customer reviews through our big data system to write the open-ear headphones list. We found that most customers choose open-ear headphones with an average price of $52.33.

The open-ear headphones are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of open-ear headphones, including Apple, Soundcore, SHOKZ, JBL, TOZO. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Mike Davis Avatar

Mike Davis is a professionally trained electrician with six years of working experience in the electronics industry. He has written an array of web and mobile-based articles for e-magazines and blogs. He loves trying out some novel and popular gadgets and his expertise is in the areas of electronics and computers which is built over many years of working and personal experiences.