In the fast-paced world of personal audio, around-the-neck Bluetooth headphones offer a perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and performance. Unlike traditional earbuds that can get lost or over-ear headphones that can feel bulky, neckbands rest comfortably on your shoulders, providing a secure and accessible way to enjoy music and manage calls throughout your day. They are the ideal companion for commuters, fitness enthusiasts, and professionals alike.
With so many options available, finding the right pair can be a challenge. This roundup for 2025 cuts through the noise to present ten of the best models, each with unique strengths. From extended battery life and superior sound quality to specialized features for sports and swimming, there is a perfect neckband headphone here to match your lifestyle and audio needs.
Our Top Picks for Around-the-Neck Headphones
- Soundcore by Anker Life U2i Wireless Neckband Headphones
- SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro – Open-Ear Bone Conduction Sport Headphones
- 1MORE Wireless Earbuds Triple Driver Bluetooth Neckband Earphones
- YOSDOM Neckband Bluetooth Headphones, 24H+ Playtime
- TOZO T10 Wireless Earbuds Bluetooth 5.3 Headphones
- SoundPEATS Air5 Lite Wireless Earbuds with Hi Res Audio
- Bose SoundSport Wireless, Sweat Resistant Headphones
- JLab Go Sport+ Wireless Workout Earbuds
- Skullcandy Sesh ANC XT Wireless Earbuds, Noise Cancelling
- Sennheiser CX 150BT Wireless In-Ear Headphones
Soundcore by Anker Life U2i Wireless Neckband Headphones
The Soundcore Life U2i is designed for users who need reliable, all-day audio. With a generous 24-hour total playtime and a quick-charge feature that provides 3 hours of listening from just a 10-minute charge, you can stay immersed in your music without constant battery anxiety. Its foldable and lightweight design makes it easy to carry, while the IPX5 rating offers protection against sweat and light rain.
Audio quality is a strong point, thanks to the 10mm dynamic drivers and BassUp technology that delivers powerful, deep bass. You can customize your listening experience with dual EQ modes. For calls, a built-in microphone with an AI algorithm ensures your voice is picked up clearly, making these a great choice for both music and communication.
SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro
For athletes, especially swimmers, the SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro is a game-changer. These open-ear bone conduction headphones are built for the water with an IP68 waterproof rating, allowing submersion up to two meters for two hours. They feature both Bluetooth for land use and a built-in MP3 player that can store up to 8,000 songs, so you can leave your phone behind during your swim.
The open-ear design is a key safety feature, keeping you aware of your surroundings whether you’re running on a trail or doing laps in the pool. This design also provides exceptional comfort for extended wear. You can easily toggle between Bluetooth and MP3 modes using the physical buttons or the Shokz App to customize your audio settings.
1MORE Wireless Earbuds Triple Driver Bluetooth Neckband
Audiophiles seeking high-fidelity sound from a wireless neckband will appreciate the 1MORE Triple Driver model. Its advanced driver configuration—one dynamic driver and two balanced armatures—produces a detailed, well-separated soundscape. The aerospace-grade metal composite diaphragm ensures clarity and richness across all frequencies.
This model supports the Hi-Res LDAC codec, which transmits three times more data than standard Bluetooth codecs, allowing for a lossless wireless listening experience that gets you closer to the quality of a wired connection. While playtime is a solid 7 hours, the focus here is squarely on delivering uncompromising audio performance for critical listeners.
YOSDOM Neckband Bluetooth Headphones
The YOSDOM neckband headphones are built for durability and long-lasting use. They provide over 24 hours of playback on a single charge, and a quick 10-minute charge can power them for 4 hours, making them ideal for busy schedules. The unique shark jaw design and secure fit ensure the earbuds stay in place during physical activity.
A standout feature is the call vibration notification, which alerts you to incoming calls so you never miss one. With built-in noise-cancelling microphones and a mute function, call clarity is a priority. The 8mm drivers deliver impressive stereo sound, and the IPX7 waterproof rating means they can withstand sweat and even brief immersion in water.
TOZO T10 Wireless Earbuds
The TOZO T10 stands out with its massive 55-hour total battery life, supported by a convenient wireless charging case. A single charge delivers 15 hours of listening, ensuring you have power for long trips or multiple days of use. The ergonomic and lightweight design is made to fit comfortably in any ear, even during sleep or intense exercise.
Sound quality is driven by newly upgraded 8mm speakers and TOZO’s proprietary OrigX 2.0 Acoustics Technology, which provides full bass and natural, detailed highs. You can further customize your sound profile through the companion app. With an IPX8 waterproof rating, these earbuds are built to handle tough conditions.
SoundPEATS Air5 Lite Wireless Earbuds
The SoundPEATS Air5 Lite is for those who demand high-resolution audio without the high price tag. Certified with the Hi-Res Gold Standard and supporting the LDAC codec, these earbuds deliver exceptional sound quality with deep, rich bass from their 13mm composite bio-diaphragm drivers. The latest Bluetooth 5.4 technology ensures a stable and efficient connection.
These earbuds support dual device switching, allowing you to seamlessly connect to two sources, like a phone and a laptop, without constant re-pairing. For calls, AI environmental noise cancellation with a 4-microphone system works to reduce background noise and wind interference, ensuring your voice comes through clearly.
Bose SoundSport Wireless
The Bose SoundSport Wireless headphones are engineered for fitness enthusiasts who will not compromise on sound. Bose Active EQ maintains a consistently balanced audio profile at any volume, so your music always sounds clear and powerful. The signature StayHear+ tips are designed to provide a secure and comfortable fit that stays in place during vigorous movement.
As a sweat-resistant model, they are built to handle tough workouts. The reliable around-the-neck cable keeps the earbuds handy when not in use, and the simple inline controls make it easy to manage music and calls without reaching for your phone. This model delivers the trusted Bose audio quality in a sport-focused design.
JLab Go Sport+ Wireless Workout Earbuds
Designed for an active lifestyle, the JLab Go Sport+ features a secure over-ear hook design that ensures a stable fit during even the most intense workouts. They are IP55 rated for sweat and dirt resistance, and their compact, ergonomic build is made to fit a wide range of ear sizes comfortably.
With a total of 35+ hours of battery life—9+ hours in the earbuds and 26+ from the charging case—you can rely on them for multiple gym sessions. The case includes an integrated USB cable for easy charging. You can choose from three EQ sound settings to match your audio preference, and C3 Clear Calling technology improves voice pickup during calls.
Skullcandy Sesh ANC XT Wireless Earbuds
If you need to block out distractions, the Skullcandy Sesh ANC XT is a compelling choice. It features premium active noise cancelling powered by a 4-microphone system to effectively silence your surroundings. With up to 46 hours of total battery life (9 in the earbuds and 37 in the case) and a rapid charge feature, you have plenty of power for extended use.
These earbuds are built for adventure with an IP55 rating for sweat and water resistance. Whether you are commuting, working, or working out, the combination of long battery life, effective noise cancellation, and durable construction makes them a versatile option for daily use.
Sennheiser CX 150BT Wireless In-Ear Headphones
From the renowned audio brand Sennheiser, the CX 150BT brings its signature sound quality to a wireless, affordable form factor. While detailed specifications may vary, Sennheiser is known for delivering clear, detailed audio with a well-balanced frequency response. These are an excellent option for listeners who prioritize audio fidelity from a trusted manufacturer.
The neckband design offers the convenience of easy storage and access, with intuitive controls for managing music and calls. The reliable Bluetooth connection and comfortable fit make them suitable for all-day listening, from your daily commute to relaxing at home.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Around-the-Neck Bluetooth Headphones
When I look for a new pair of around-the-neck Bluetooth headphones, I focus on a few key things that make a real difference in my daily use. It is not just about picking the one with the most features; it is about finding the right balance for my lifestyle.
First, I always check the battery life. This is a big one. Some models can last over 20 hours on a single charge, which is perfect for long trips or a full workday without needing a cable. I also pay attention to the charging method. USB-C is my preferred standard now because it is so common, but I make sure to see if wireless charging is an option, as it is a super convenient feature to have.
Next, sound quality is obviously important. I look for drivers that promise a balanced sound profile—clear highs, present mids, and a decent bass that is not overpowering. If I can find a model with support for high-quality audio codecs like aptX Adaptive or LDAC, that is a huge plus for when I want to listen to lossless music from my phone. Noise cancellation is another feature I consider. While not as intense as on over-ear models, a good set of around-the-neck Bluetooth headphones with active noise cancellation (ANC) can really help me focus in a noisy coffee shop or on a plane.
Comfort and design are just as crucial. The neckband itself should be lightweight and flexible, with a coating that feels good against my skin. I prefer a magnetic clasp on the earbuds so they snap together and hang securely around my neck when I am not using them. This prevents them from swinging around and getting damaged. The controls should be easy to use without looking, and having physical buttons can be more reliable than touch panels, especially during exercise.
Finally, I think about durability and extra features. An IP rating for sweat and water resistance is a must if I plan to use them for workouts. Multipoint connectivity is another game-changer, allowing me to stay connected to my laptop and phone at the same time. By weighing these factors—battery, sound, comfort, and smart features—I can find a pair of the 10 best around-the-neck Bluetooth headphones 2025 has to offer that truly fits my needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are around-the-neck headphones still a good choice with all the true wireless earbuds available?
Absolutely. I find they serve a different purpose. The main advantage is that you never have to worry about losing an earbud because they are permanently attached to the neckband. When you need to take them out to talk to someone, you can just let them dangle or snap them together magnetically. They are also much harder to misplace than a tiny charging case. For all-day wear, the weight distribution on your neck is often more comfortable than having something in your ears all the time, and they typically offer much longer battery life.
How secure are they for running or working out?
This depends entirely on the specific model. Many around-the-neck headphones are designed with fitness in mind. I always look for a secure, ergonomic fit for the earbuds themselves (often with wingtips or different ear tip sizes) and a flexible, stable neckband that does not bounce. Crucially, check the IP rating. For sweating and rain, an IPX4 rating is the minimum I would recommend, but for serious training, look for IPX5 or higher to ensure they can handle a good soaking.
What is the average battery life I should expect?
You can generally expect a much longer battery life from this style compared to most true wireless earbuds. A good benchmark is between 15 to 20 hours of continuous music playback. Some high-end models even push past 25 hours. A feature I really appreciate is a quick charge function, where just 10 or 15 minutes of charging can give you several hours of playback, which is a lifesaver when you are in a rush.
Can I use them for making phone calls?
Yes, and they are often better for calls than true wireless earbuds. The longer neckband allows for a better, more advanced microphone system. Most models feature beamforming microphones or some form of wind noise reduction technology that helps isolate your voice from background noise. This means the person on the other end of the call hears you clearly, even if you are walking down a somewhat busy street.
Do any models offer noise cancellation?
They do. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is a common feature in many of the premium models. It might not be as powerful as the ANC on large, over-ear headphones because of the smaller form factor, but it is very effective at reducing constant low-frequency sounds like the hum of an airplane cabin, air conditioning, or office chatter. This makes the 10 best around-the-neck Bluetooth headphones 2025 list a great place to look for commuters and travelers who want to block out the world without the bulk of over-ear cans.