Best Earbuds for Motorcycle Riding Without a Helmet: 15 Top Picks with Reviews, Pros, and Cons

Motorcycle riders, especially those who enjoy the freedom of cruising without a helmet, often find that listening to music, podcasts, or taking calls while riding adds to the experience. However, riding without a helmet can leave your ears exposed to wind noise, engine sounds, and other distractions. To combat these challenges, having the right pair of earbuds is crucial. The ideal earbuds for motorcycle riding need to offer excellent sound quality, stability during motion, effective noise cancellation, and the ability to protect your hearing while still allowing you to stay aware of your surroundings.

In this article, we’ll review 15 of the best earbuds for motorcycle riders who prefer not to wear a helmet. We’ll explore their features, pros, and cons to help you choose the best fit for your needs.

15 Best Earbuds for Motorcycle Riding Without a Helmet

• Sony WF-1000XM4
• Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II
• Jabra Elite 85t
• Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)
• Sony LinkBuds S
• Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3
• Bose Sport Earbuds
• Shure AONIC 215
• Beats Fit Pro
• JBL Live Pro+ TWS
• Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro
• Anker Soundcore Liberty 3 Pro
• Sennheiser CX Plus True Wireless
• Jabra Elite Active 75t
• Anker Soundcore Liberty 2 Pro

1. Sony WF-1000XM4

Review: The Sony WF-1000XM4 earbuds are renowned for their industry-leading noise cancellation (ANC) technology. Although they are primarily designed for everyday use, their advanced features make them a solid option for motorcycle riders. Their ergonomic design ensures a secure fit, even during high-speed rides, and the sound quality is top-notch, with rich bass and clear treble. While they are highly effective at canceling out background noise, their transparency mode allows riders to hear important external sounds when needed.

Pros:

• Superior Noise Cancellation: Perfect for blocking out wind and engine noise.
• Exceptional Sound Quality: Clear, detailed audio with deep bass.
• Transparency Mode: Lets you hear important sounds (e.g., horns or sirens) without removing the earbuds.
• Comfortable Fit: Customizable ear tips ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
• Long Battery Life: Up to 8 hours of playtime with ANC activated.

Cons:

• Price: Relatively expensive compared to other earbuds.
• Wind Noise at High Speeds: While the ANC is good, extreme wind noise may still seep through at very high speeds.

Best for: Riders who prioritize premium sound quality and effective ANC while still needing situational awareness.

2. Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II

Review: Bose’s QuietComfort Earbuds II are another fantastic option for motorcycle riders looking for top-tier noise cancellation and sound quality. Known for their superior ANC, they effectively reduce wind and engine noise while allowing you to enjoy your music or take calls. The earbuds are designed for all-day wear and provide a secure fit, making them ideal for long rides. The customizability of the ANC and transparency features ensures that you can fine-tune your experience to suit your needs.

Pros:

• World-Class Noise Cancellation: Blocks out nearly all external noise, including wind and traffic.
• Comfortable Design: Multiple ear tip sizes for a secure fit, even at high speeds.
• Clear Audio: Balanced sound with excellent clarity for calls and music.
• Transparency Mode: Hear surrounding sounds when needed for safety.
• Sweat-Resistant: Ideal for outdoor use in various weather conditions.

Cons:

• High Price Tag: These earbuds are one of the priciest options available.
• Bulky Case: The charging case is a bit large compared to other earbuds.

Best for: Riders who want premium sound quality and excellent noise cancellation for a safer and more enjoyable ride.

3. Jabra Elite 85t

Review: The Jabra Elite 85t is a great all-around pair of earbuds that offers active noise cancellation, exceptional sound quality, and a comfortable fit. These earbuds provide a secure, snug fit, making them perfect for motorcyclists who want earbuds that stay in place. The ANC works well for blocking out the loud engine noise and wind, but the HearThrough mode allows you to remain aware of your surroundings, such as traffic sounds and sirens.

Pros:

• Effective Active Noise Cancellation: Helps block wind and engine noise effectively.
• Secure and Comfortable Fit: Designed for all-day wear with customizable ear tips.
• Clear Sound Quality: Balanced audio with excellent mids and treble.
• HearThrough Mode: Allows you to hear your environment when necessary.
• Long Battery Life: Up to 5.5 hours with ANC activated.

Cons:

• Bulkier Design: The size of the earbuds might be a bit large for some users.
• Limited Bass: The bass response may not be as pronounced as some other models.

Best for: Riders looking for a good balance between ANC, situational awareness, and sound quality at a reasonable price.

4. Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)

Review: The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) has earned a reputation for offering excellent sound quality, effective noise cancellation, and seamless integration with Apple devices. Their small form factor ensures a secure and comfortable fit, even while riding. The ANC is effective at reducing background noise, while the transparency mode allows you to hear traffic sounds when needed, ensuring a safer riding experience.

Pros:

• Great Active Noise Cancellation: Excellent at reducing ambient noise like wind and engine sounds.
• Transparency Mode: Hear important environmental sounds while riding.
• Comfortable and Secure Fit: Small and lightweight, ideal for long rides.
• Excellent Sound Quality: Crisp audio with good bass response.
• Seamless Integration with Apple Devices: Easy pairing with iPhones, iPads, and Macs.

Cons:

• Battery Life: A bit shorter compared to other earbuds, around 4.5 to 5 hours with ANC.
• Not as Customizable as Other Options: Some riders may find the ANC settings not as adjustable as others.

Best for: Apple users looking for an excellent all-around earbud for music, calls, and situational awareness while riding.

5. Sony LinkBuds S

Review: The Sony LinkBuds S earbuds are an excellent choice for motorcycle riders who need earbuds that are both comfortable and capable of delivering high-quality sound. These earbuds feature adaptive sound control, which automatically adjusts ANC depending on your environment. The small, lightweight design makes them perfect for riding without a helmet, and the ambient sound mode allows you to hear important external sounds, like traffic.

Pros:

• Adaptive ANC: Customizes noise cancellation based on your surroundings.
• Comfortable Design: Lightweight and ergonomic, perfect for all-day wear.
• Clear Sound Quality: Good balance of highs and lows.
• Ambient Sound Mode: Keeps you aware of your surroundings for safety.
• Long Battery Life: Up to 6 hours with ANC.

Cons:

• Wind Noise at High Speeds: While the ANC is good, strong wind noise may still be an issue.
• Bass-Heavy Sound: May not be ideal for those who prefer a more neutral sound.

Best for: Riders who need lightweight earbuds with adaptable noise cancellation and good sound quality.

6. Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3

Review: Sennheiser’s Momentum True Wireless 3 earbuds offer impressive sound quality with a focus on deep bass and clear mids. They feature hybrid noise cancellation, making them a solid option for reducing external noise while riding. The adaptive ANC and transparency mode help riders maintain situational awareness while still enjoying high-quality sound.

Pros:

• Hybrid Noise Cancellation: Effectively reduces wind and engine noise.
• Clear and Balanced Sound: Excellent sound quality with a focus on bass.
• Adaptive ANC: Automatically adjusts the noise cancellation based on your environment.
• Transparency Mode: Allows you to hear your surroundings.
• Comfortable Fit: Ergonomic design with customizable ear tips.

Cons:

• Expensive: One of the more costly options available.
• Battery Life: Slightly lower battery life compared to other models, up to 7 hours with ANC.

Best for: Riders looking for premium sound quality, strong bass, and effective noise cancellation for long rides.

7. Bose Sport Earbuds

Review: The Bose Sport Earbuds are designed for active use, offering a secure and comfortable fit for motorcyclists. They don’t have active noise cancellation but provide a secure and snug fit that blocks out much of the external noise. The sound quality is clear and balanced, with enough bass for an enjoyable experience. While not the best for blocking wind noise, they allow you to remain aware of your surroundings.

Pros:

• Secure and Comfortable Fit: Designed to stay in place during active use.
• Clear Sound: Well-balanced audio for calls and music.
• Lightweight and Durable: Water-resistant, perfect for outdoor conditions.
• Affordable: A more budget-friendly option compared to others.

Cons:

• No Active Noise Cancellation: Less effective at blocking out wind and engine noise.
• Limited Bass: The sound profile may not be ideal for bass-heavy music.

Best for: Riders who want a budget-friendly option with a comfortable fit and decent sound quality.

8. Shure AONIC 215

Review: Shure’s AONIC 215 earbuds are known for their excellent sound quality and strong noise isolation. These earbuds have a secure, over-ear design that ensures a snug fit during motorcycle rides. The earbuds are equipped with a detachable cable, making them flexible for use with various devices. The sound quality is clear and rich, with good bass response, while their noise isolation blocks out the engine noise and wind.

Pros:

• Excellent Sound Quality: Clear, detailed audio with deep bass.
• Strong Noise Isolation: Blocks out external sounds effectively.
• Comfortable Fit: Over-ear design keeps the earbuds secure.
• Detachable Cable: Allows for easy use with different devices.

Cons:

• No Active Noise Cancellation: Relies on passive noise isolation, which may not be as effective as ANC at high speeds.
• Bulky Design: May feel too large for some riders.

Best for: Riders who prioritize sound quality and secure fit for long rides.

9. Beats Fit Pro

Review: The Beats Fit Pro offers a sleek, ergonomic design that stays securely in place during physical activity, making them a good choice for motorcyclists. These earbuds feature active noise cancellation and transparency mode, allowing you to block out unwanted noise while still remaining aware of your surroundings. The sound quality is excellent, with a good balance of bass and clarity.

Pros:

• Active Noise Cancellation: Blocks out external noise, making for a more immersive ride.
• Secure Fit: Designed for all-day wear, perfect for riders who need stability.
• Transparency Mode: Lets you hear important sounds, like traffic, when needed.
• Great Sound Quality: Clear, balanced audio with a focus on bass.

Cons:

• Battery Life: Only up to 6 hours with ANC, which may not last for long rides.
• Price: On the more expensive side.

Best for: Riders looking for a secure, comfortable fit and effective ANC without sacrificing sound quality.

10. JBL Live Pro+ TWS

Review: The JBL Live Pro+ TWS earbuds offer solid noise cancellation and sound quality, making them a strong contender for motorcycle riders. They come with a comfortable fit, effective ANC, and a reliable transparency mode that lets you stay aware of your surroundings. The sound profile is dynamic, with a good mix of bass and treble.

Pros:

• Effective Noise Cancellation: Reduces background noise like wind and engine sounds.
• Transparency Mode: Helps you hear your surroundings.
• Clear Sound: Balanced audio for calls and music.
• Comfortable Fit: Multiple ear tips ensure a secure fit.

Cons:

• Wind Noise: ANC helps, but wind noise can still be noticeable at high speeds.
• Shorter Battery Life: Only around 6 hours with ANC.

Best for: Riders who want good noise cancellation and sound quality at an affordable price.

11. Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro

Review: The Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro offer high-quality sound with effective ANC and ambient sound features. They deliver a secure fit and clear sound for calls and music, making them a good choice for motorcyclists. The noise cancellation is effective, although some wind noise may still leak in at high speeds.

Pros:

• Active Noise Cancellation: Blocks external noise effectively.
• Ambient Sound Mode: Lets you hear important surroundings.
• Clear Sound: Rich bass and clear mids and highs.
• Comfortable Fit: Secure and ergonomic design.

Cons:

• Wind Noise: Some wind noise may still seep through at high speeds.
• Battery Life: Up to 5 hours with ANC on.

Best for: Samsung users looking for a reliable, high-quality audio experience while riding.

12. Anker Soundcore Liberty 3 Pro

Review: The Anker Soundcore Liberty 3 Pro earbuds are designed for those looking for a well-rounded experience with effective ANC and premium sound quality. The earbuds provide great sound clarity and the hybrid ANC blocks out wind and engine noise effectively, making them an excellent choice for motorcycle riders.

Pros:

• Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation: Blocks most external sounds for a quieter ride.
• Clear Sound: Excellent clarity with rich bass.
• Comfortable Fit: Ergonomic design ensures a snug fit.
• Long Battery Life: Up to 8 hours of playtime with ANC activated.

Cons:

• Bulky Charging Case: Larger than some other earbuds.
• Price: More expensive compared to some other options.

Best for: Riders looking for a balanced combination of sound quality, ANC, and comfort at a reasonable price.

13. Sennheiser CX Plus True Wireless

Review: Sennheiser’s CX Plus True Wireless earbuds deliver good sound quality with effective noise isolation. The earbuds are designed for long-term wear and are comfortable enough for motorcycle riders. The ANC works well for reducing background noise, although extreme wind noise might still pose a challenge.

Pros:

• Good Sound Quality: Clear, balanced audio.
• Active Noise Cancellation: Blocks out wind and engine noise.
• Comfortable Fit: Ergonomic design.
• Affordable: Offers great value for the price.

Cons:

• Limited ANC: Not as effective at very high speeds.
• Battery Life: Lower than some premium models.

Best for: Budget-conscious riders looking for solid sound quality and noise cancellation.

14. Jabra Elite Active 75t

Review: The Jabra Elite Active 75t earbuds are designed for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, making them a great choice for motorcyclists. They feature a secure fit, excellent sound quality, and are sweat- and water-resistant. The active noise cancellation works well to block out background sounds like wind, making them perfect for longer rides.

Pros:

• Secure Fit: Designed to stay in place during active use.
• Clear Sound Quality: Balanced audio, ideal for calls and music.
• Active Noise Cancellation: Reduces external noise effectively.
• Sweat and Water-Resistant: Durable for outdoor conditions.

Cons:

• No Transparency Mode: Lack of environmental awareness feature may not be ideal for all riders.
• Bass-Heavy Sound: The bass may overpower midrange frequencies.

Best for: Riders who prioritize fit, durability, and decent ANC for an active lifestyle.

15. Anker Soundcore Liberty 2 Pro

Review: The Anker Soundcore Liberty 2 Pro earbuds offer great sound quality with a focus on balanced audio, making them an excellent option for motorcycle riders. With hybrid ANC, they effectively block out wind noise and engine sounds. They also come with an extended battery life, which is perfect for long trips.

Pros:

• Balanced Sound: Excellent clarity with rich bass and clear treble.
• Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation: Reduces wind and engine noise effectively.
• Comfortable Fit: Ergonomic design with multiple ear tip sizes.
• Long Battery Life: Up to 8 hours with ANC.

Cons:

• Large Case: The charging case is larger than many competitors.
• Wind Noise: May still pick up some wind noise at higher speeds.

Best for: Riders looking for great sound quality and effective ANC on long rides.

Conclusion

The best earbuds for motorcycle riding without a helmet should prioritize sound quality, comfort, and effective noise cancellation while still allowing you to hear important external sounds for safety. Whether you’re looking for premium earbuds like the Sony WF-1000XM4 or a more budget-friendly option like the Anker Soundcore Liberty 3 Pro, there are plenty of options to fit different needs and preferences. Select earbuds that provide a secure fit, high-quality audio, and reliable ANC, and you’ll have a safer and more enjoyable ride. Happy riding!