Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2
Best for Gym & WorkoutsEarFun Air Pro 4+
Best BudgetPrice
$199-$249
$50-$80
Summary
The gym earbud Reddit and expert reviewers keep recommending for secure fit, sweat resistance, and now heart rate monitoring. Wirecutter says it has 'everything we want in a set of workout earbuds.'
The budget pick Reddit recommends without hesitation — high-quality ANC and audio at a fraction of flagship prices. PCMag calls it among the best for those who don't want to miss out on premium features.
Pros
- Ear-hook design stays secure during intense workouts and running
- Heart rate monitoring built in — a first for earbuds at this level
- Noise cancellation and wireless charging added over previous gen
- Bass-forward sound that suits energetic workout music
- Powerful ANC performance at well under $100
- High-quality audio that rivals earbuds twice the price
- Frequently recommended in r/Earbuds community threads
- Full feature set including app support and EQ adjustment
Cons
- Bulkier than standard earbuds due to ear-hook design
- Higher price point than many gym-focused alternatives
- Best experience tied to Apple/Beats ecosystem
- Build quality and materials feel less premium than flagship options
- ANC not quite at Sony or Bose levels
- Brand lacks the long-term support track record of Sony or Apple
Our take
For workouts, the Powerbeats Pro 2 is the clear winner — the ear-hook design actually stays in during hard efforts, and adding heart rate monitoring makes it a fitness tool, not just earbuds.
The EarFun Air Pro 4+ is the best argument against spending $200+ on earbuds. Community recommendations are consistent and enthusiastic — this punches well above its weight class.
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