Audio glitches — like muffled voices, background noise, or dropped words — aren’t just minor distractions. They can disrupt meetings, slow down classes, or make workouts less enjoyable, directly affecting productivity and communication in everyday life.
Whether you’re working from home, studying online, running at the gym, or commuting, the right headphones ensure you stay connected and focused.
A recent IPSOS-EPOS survey revealed that 95% of employees experience audio-related issues that reduce focus and efficiency, with nearly half reporting poor sound quality during phone or internet calls. Poor sound isn’t just inconvenient — it erodes productivity and credibility.
Clip-on headphones and earbuds are designed to meet these needs with secure fits, closer mic positioning, and natural situational awareness. They deliver clear voice transmission while remaining comfortable for long use, making them practical for professionals, students, travelers, gym-goers, and runners alike.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Clip-On Headphones
Selecting the right clip-on headphones involves more than just how securely they sit on your ears. Since these devices are often used for work, study, and fitness, the right features can make a big difference in call clarity and daily comfort. Here are the key factors worth evaluating before making a choice:
- Microphone Quality and Noise Control: A good mic is essential. Multi-mic systems and environmental noise cancelation (ENC) filter out wind, traffic, or chatter, ensuring your voice stays sharp. AI-assisted noise reduction is especially valuable if you take calls in busy environments.
- Comfort and Stability: Clip-on headphones and earbuds are meant for long wear. Lightweight builds, soft silicone or rubberised hooks, and flexible frames reduce ear fatigue while keeping the fit stable during commutes, meetings, or workouts.
- Battery Life and Charging: A reliable model should offer at least 6-8 hours of continuous talk time. If you opt for true wireless clip-on Headphones, make sure the charging case adds enough backup hours. Some premium models extend beyond 30 hours, which is useful for frequent travellers.
- Connectivity Features: Bluetooth 5.3 or newer provides a stronger, more reliable connection. Multipoint pairing is helpful for switching between your phone and laptop seamlessly during workdays. Low-latency modes are an added bonus if you also use them for gaming or video calls.
- Durability and Protection: IPX4 water resistance or higher is recommended for outdoor use, protecting against sweat and light rain. A sturdy frame also ensures the clip doesn’t loosen over time.
- Situational Awareness: Transparency or ambient sound modes allow you to stay alert in traffic, hear announcements at the gym, or keep up with colleagues in the office while still focusing on your call.
Ultimately, the best clip-on headphones are those that strike the right balance for your lifestyle. Frequent travelers may prioritize battery life and multipoint pairing, while fitness enthusiasts—such as gym-goers and runners—might prefer sweat resistance and secure ear hooks.
Professionals, on the other hand, will want the strongest microphones and noise control to ensure their voice comes through naturally in every conversation.
Quick Overview Table — Best Clip-On Headphones and Earbuds
| Overall Best | AfterShokz Aeropex |
| Fitness and Everyday Calls | Anker Soundcore Sport X10 |
| Best for Comfort | TOZO OpenReal |
| Best For Natural Conversations | Bose Sport Open Earbuds |
| Best Budget Choice | Koss KSC75 |
| Multipoint Connectivity | JLab Open Sport |
| Best for Durability | TREBLAB X3 Pro |
| Value and Long Battery | King Lucky Clip-On |
In-Depth Look — 8 Best Clip-On Headphones and Earbuds
We handpicked the 8 best clip-on headphones and earbuds for calls — so you can stay connected with comfort and clarity.
1. AfterShokz Aeropex (Shokz OpenRun)
Overall Best
Pros
- Bone conduction keeps ears open for awareness
- Lightweight and comfortable for long wear
- Dual-mic noise cancellation improves voice pickup
- IP67 waterproof rating supports outdoor use
- Bluetooth 5.1 ensures solid connectivity
Cons
- Bass performance is weaker compared to in-ear models
- Price point is higher than that of many competitors
The AfterShokz Aeropex (Shokz OpenRun) is one of the best picks for everyday use, thanks to its bone-conduction technology. Unlike traditional earbuds, they rest outside the ear canal and transmit sound through vibrations, keeping you aware of your surroundings while delivering clear call quality — perfect for runners, cyclists, and professionals who need situational awareness.
The Aeropex includes dual noise-canceling microphones, IP67 waterproofing, and Bluetooth 5.1 for stable connections. Its lightweight, flexible fit makes it comfortable for long wear, while the 8-hour battery life and quick charging add reliability for workdays or workouts.
In conclusion, the AfterShokz Aeropex (Shokz OpenRun) is a versatile clip-on option that balances safety, comfort, and clarity. Whether commuting, taking virtual meetings, or exercising outdoors, it’s a clear all-around winner
View on Amazon: AfterShokz Aeropex (Shokz OpenRun)
2. Anker Soundcore Sport X10
Fitness and Everyday Calls
Pros
- Rotatable ear hooks for a secure, custom fit
- Six-mic ENC that filters out gym and street noise
- IPX7 waterproof rating, ideal for intense workouts
- Good bass response despite being low in quantity
- Punchy sound with BassUp technology
- Compact charging case with 32 hours of total use
Cons
- Insertion/removal takes more effort compared to small buds
- Call quality drops slightly in very windy environments
The Anker Soundcore Sport X10 earbuds are a top choice for fitness and everyday calls thanks to their secure fit, durability, and clear microphone performance. With rotatable ear hooks, they stay in place even during intense workouts, making them ideal for active users who don’t want to sacrifice call clarity on the move.
They feature IPX7 waterproofing to resist sweat and rain, along with a six-microphone ENC that cuts down background noise. The sound profile emphasizes energetic bass for workouts while keeping voices crisp during calls.
With Bluetooth 5.2 and a compact charging case, you enjoy stable connections and up to 32 hours of playtime (approximately 8 hours per charge).
In conclusion, the Anker Soundcore Sport X10 stands out as a fitness-ready option, boasting sweatproof endurance, a stable fit, and reliable voice clarity — making it a strong choice for commuters, professionals, and active users alike.
View on Amazon: Anker Soundcore Sport X10
3. TOZO OpenEarRing
Best for Comfort
Pros
- Open-ear clip design reduces fatigue during long use
- Excellent 40-hour total battery life (10 hrs per charge)
- Bluetooth 5.3 ensures strong, stable pairing
- Lightweight and discreet for all-day wear
- Allows ambient sound awareness for safer commuting
Cons
- Sound leakage can be noticeable in quiet environments
- Lacks advanced app customization
The TOZO OpenEarRing is chosen for its comfort-focused open-ear design that reduces fatigue during long use and ensures situational awareness during calls. Its lightweight clip-on fit makes it especially suitable for commuters and office users who want all-day wear without blocking their surroundings.
Equipped with Bluetooth 5.3 and ENC microphones, it maintains stable connections and clear voice quality in most environments. Battery life is a standout feature, offering 10 hours per charge and up to 40 hours with the case, which makes it one of the longest-lasting models in its category. In conclusion, the TOZO OpenEarRing is ideal for those who prioritize comfort and awareness over isolation. With strong battery performance and practical call clarity, it’s a dependable open-ear alternative for long days of use.
View on Amazon: TOZO OpenEarRing
4. Bose Sport Open Earbuds
Best For Natural Conversations
Pros
- Comfortable open-ear clip that doesn’t block the ear canal
- Clear, voice-focused microphone system
- Sweat-resistant design for workouts and outdoor use
- Balanced Bose audio signature for calls and music
- Secure yet lightweight fit
Cons
- Limited stock, as the model is no longer widely produced
- An open-ear design can let in too much noise in very busy environments
The Bose Sport Open Earbuds deliver premium comfort with a natural listening experience. Their open-ear clip design avoids ear canal pressure, making them ideal for long calls while keeping you aware of your surroundings — perfect for runners, commuters, and professionals.
They emphasize clear voice pickup with a tuned microphone system, while still offering Bose’s balanced audio for music and podcasts. The sweat-resistant build adds durability, and the secure fit stays steady even during workouts. With up to 8 hours of use, they cover a full day of calls and listening.
In conclusion, the Bose Sport Open Earbuds combine comfort, clarity, and awareness in a pressure-free design, making them a reliable pick for fitness, commuting, or everyday calls.
View on Amazon: Bose Sport Open Earbuds
5. Koss KSC75
Best Budget Choice
Pros
- Extremely affordable without compromising clarity
- Classic clip-on lightweight frame
- Surprisingly good audio performance for the price
- Comfortable fit suitable for extended wear
Cons
- Wired only, no wireless or modern smart features
- No noise cancellation or mic enhancements
The Koss KSC75 is a budget-friendly clip-on headphone known for its comfort and clarity. Its lightweight, over-ear clip design makes it practical for long listening sessions, especially for those who prefer a simple wired option without charging hassles.
While it lacks wireless features or noise cancellation, its sound quality is impressive for the price. The open-air design delivers clear vocals and natural audio, making it great for calls, online classes, and casual music. The sturdy build and replaceable foam pads also boost long-term value.
In conclusion, the Koss KSC75 is the best low-cost choice for dependable clarity and comfort. It’s an affordable, no-frills option perfect for students, home use, or anyone wanting reliable performance at a low price.
View on Amazon: Koss KSC75
6. JLab Open Sport
Multipoint Connectivity
Pros
- Extremely affordable without compromising clarity
- Multipoint Bluetooth lets you connect to two devices at once
- ENC microphone improves clarity in light noise
- IP55 rating for sweat and rain resistance
- Stable fit for active lifestyles
Cons
- Open-ear design can let in too much background noise in crowded places
- Sound quality is tuned more for casual listening than detailed audio
The JLab Open Sport stands out for its versatile clip design that attaches to either ears or glasses, offering comfort without constant adjustments. This makes it a practical choice for professionals, students, and active users who need hands-free calls throughout the day.
Its multipoint Bluetooth pairing allows smooth switching between devices like a phone and laptop, while the ENC microphone keeps voices clear by reducing background noise. With an IP55 rating for sweat and rain protection and up to 7 hours of battery life, it’s well-suited for daily work or exercise.
In conclusion, the JLab Open Sport is ideal for anyone who values flexibility and comfort. With reliable connectivity, clear voice pickup, and a lightweight fit, it adapts seamlessly to hybrid work, study, or everyday use.
View on Amazon: JLab Open Sport
7. TREBLAB X3 Pro
Durability
Pros
- Secure ear-hook design ideal for workouts
- Massive 45-hour total battery life with case
- IPX7 waterproofing adds extra reliability
- ENC microphones handle noisy environments fairly well
- Punchy, energetic sound signature
Cons
- Bulkier fit than minimalist designs
- Earhooks may feel stiff at first use
The TREBLAB X3 Pro is built for durability and long battery life, making it a dependable choice for heavy, everyday use. Its secure over-ear hook design keeps the earbuds stable through long commutes, intense workouts, or outdoor runs, giving users confidence they’ll stay in place no matter the activity.
With an IPX7 waterproof rating, the X3 Pro resists sweat and rain, while the ENC microphone system reduces background noise to keep voices clear during calls. Its massive 45-hour total playtime (including the charging case) makes it one of the longest-lasting options available, ensuring you won’t need frequent recharges. The sound profile leans toward energetic bass, adding punch to workouts and casual listening while keeping voices distinct.
In conclusion, the TREBLAB X3 Pro offers toughness, extended endurance, and reliable call clarity. For active users, travelers, or anyone who wants earbuds that can handle demanding routines without compromise, it’s a strong all-around performer.
View on Amazon: TREBLAB X3 Pro
8. King Lucky Clip-On
Value & Long Battery
Pros
- Up to 50 hours total playtime with the case
- Affordable price with strong ENC mic performance
- Lightweight clip-on fit
- Easy pairing and reliable Bluetooth connection
Cons
- Build quality feels more basic compared to premium models
- Comfort may vary for extended wear depending on ear shape
The King Lucky Clip-On is a value-focused option that blends long battery life with everyday practicality at an affordable price. Its lightweight clip-on design provides a secure, comfortable fit during long calls, making it a strong choice for users who need reliable performance without paying premium prices.
Its biggest strength is endurance — offering up to 6 hours per charge plus an impressive 50 additional hours with the charging case. The ENC microphone keeps voices clear by filtering background noise, while simple, intuitive controls add to its ease of use.
In conclusion, the King Lucky Clip-On stands out for budget-conscious buyers. With extended battery performance, dependable call clarity, and a comfortable fit, it’s a smart and practical pick for daily communication at a low cost.
View on Amazon: King Lucky Clip-On
Frequently Asked Questions About Clip-On Headphones and Earbuds for Calls
Can you take calls with clip-on headphones?
Yes, most modern clip-on headphones and earbuds include built-in microphones that allow you to make and receive calls on both Android and iOS devices. Once paired via Bluetooth (or plugged in for wired models), they function just like traditional earbuds for phone conversations.
Are clip-on headphones comfortable for long calls?
Clip-on headphones are designed to rest lightly on the ear with secure hooks, making them more stable and less intrusive than in-ear models. Their open or semi-open design helps reduce ear fatigue, so they’re often more comfortable for extended calls or meetings.
Do clip-on earbuds block outside noise?
It depends on the model. Some clip-ons are open-ear, allowing you to stay aware of your surroundings, while others offer passive noise isolation or ENC microphones to reduce background sounds. However, they generally don’t seal the ear canal like in-ear earbuds.
Can I use clip-on headphones for workouts? Yes, many clip-on models (like fitness-focused or waterproof designs) are built with stability and sweat resistance in mind. Their secure ear hooks prevent slipping during runs, cycling, or gym workouts, while keeping calls clear.
Do clip-on headphones work with laptops and tablets?
Absolutely. Most clip-on headphones use Bluetooth 5.0 or newer, which supports seamless pairing with laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Some models even include multipoint connectivity, letting you stay connected to two devices at the same time.
Final Thoughts
After careful consideration and evaluation, we’ve found that the AfterShokz Aeropex (Shokz OpenRun) and the Bose Sport Open Earbuds are the standout choices for anyone looking for the best clip-on headphones and earbuds for calls in 2025.
The AfterShokz Aeropex stands out as the overall best, offering a unique bone-conduction design that balances comfort, awareness, and call clarity.
It’s perfect for users who want reliable performance during commutes, workouts, or everyday calls — without blocking their surroundings. With lightweight comfort, clear microphones, and dependable battery life, it remains the most versatile pick in this category.
On the other hand, the Bose Sport Open Earbuds excel at delivering a natural and comfortable calling experience. Their open-ear clip design avoids ear fatigue, while Bose’s voice-focused microphones ensure clear, natural-sounding conversations.
They are particularly well-suited for those who want a premium fit and balanced sound in casual or active use.
Both of these options deliver excellent performance, comfort, and usability, making them the top choices for clear and comfortable calls. Whether you’re working, exercising, or simply staying connected with friends and family, these clip-on headphones and earbuds will ensure your conversations remain effortless and enjoyable.
If you have any questions or would like us to review other models, feel free to let us know in the comments below.
