The AirPods are some of the best earbuds you can buy, especially if you have an iPhone. They are small, slim and easy to use. However, there are a few things that you should probably know before shopping. If you go to the gym and want to work up a sweat or live in a rainy area, you probably want to know if your AirPods are waterproof. We have your answer, and it's not all good news.
See also: Apple AirPods (2019) review | Apple AirPods Pro review
There are quite a few models to choose from when you keep an eye on AirPods. So we're going to cover them all. Check out our reviews above if you are still weighing your decision.
Are my AirPods waterproof? What about AirPods Pro?
Unfortunately no, your AirPods are not waterproof. They're also not waterproof. It doesn't matter if they're charged wirelessly or with a lightning cable, you won't find any IP rating. You might be able to wear them for a light workout provided you don't exercise too much.
If you've spent a little more money on the AirPods Pro, we've got some slightly better news. These premium earphones have an IPX4 rating, which is good for sweat and light splashes of water. This makes them your top option as a workout companion and they hold up better against rain too. However, this is not a suggestion that you should wear them out in a pouring rain. You probably shouldn't be wearing them to shower or swim, either.
See also: AirPods Pro versus Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro
If you're splashing the cash on the $ 549 AirPods Max, know that this is the only splash they can handle. Apple's highest quality audio devices have ever achieved the IP rating and offer no protection from rain or dust. You'll need to direct your attention elsewhere if you want solid doses that can handle some water.
Which earbuds can I buy instead?
If you want to exercise regularly or live in a humid climate, this may just have turned you off AirPods. The good news is that you are out of luck. There are plenty of waterproof headphones and earbuds out there, just know where to look. The latest Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro has an IPX7 rating that can hold its own against water significantly better. JayBird Vista's true wireless earbuds are another great option. They come with soft fins that snap into your ear.
See also: The best true wireless workout earbuds you can buy
You can also dive into our list of workout earbuds linked above. Most of the options on this list offer some level of water resistance, or at least sweat resistance, to keep up with the gym. We've picked options from Jabra, Bose, and others to give you a solid choice.
Perhaps Apple will be waterproofing its wireless earbuds in the future, but for now it's best to go for a third-party option.
