Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2
Best for Gym & WorkoutsSony WF-1000XM5
Best OverallPrice
$199-$249
$200-$280
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.'
Sony's flagship earbuds dominate Reddit consensus for ANC and sound quality in one package. Repeatedly cited as top-tier across dozens of community discussions and expert reviews alike.
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
- Top-tier ANC that rivals Bose according to multiple Reddit threads
- Excellent overall sound quality praised across audiophile and casual communities
- Strong brand track record with consistent software support
- Works well across Android and iOS ecosystems
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
- Not the most secure fit for vigorous workouts or running
- Premium price point compared to budget alternatives
- Bulky case compared to competitors like AirPods Pro
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.
If you want one pair that does everything well — ANC, audio, calls — Sony's XM5 is the answer Reddit keeps giving. It's not the cheapest, but it earns every dollar.
Buy
