So you think to yourself whatever next? MP3 players that are waterproof? Swimming in the pool with our chosen music on an MP3? Underwater sound?
What do we mean by Waterproof MP3 players? Well, it’s as it says. A device that will play audio while being in the water.
Going where no other electrical sound device has gone before!
A giant splash for mankind!!!
And all in the name of entertainment. And as our devices get smaller and easier to control, they have become popular in swimming pools. They haven’t been around for that long, 2009 we believe, so there is still a lot that will be done technically to improve them.
But for the moment anyway, let’s go through the best waterproof MP3 players currently available and find the perfect one for you…
Contents
- Top 10 Best Waterproof MP3 Players In 2023 Reviews
- 1 FX-Sport VRX Premium Wireless Sport Headphones
- 2 Sony Walkman NWZW273S 4 GB Waterproof Sports MP3 Player
- 3 Diver DB-10 4GB Waterproof MP3 Player With Waterproof Earphones
- 4 Swimbuds Flip Headphones And 8 GB SYRYN Waterproof MP3 Player
- 5 Sony 16GB Waterproof And Dustproof Walkman With Bluetooth
- 6 H2O Audio 100% Waterproof Headphones
- 7 Pyle Upgraded Waterproof MP3 Player
- 8 Tayogo 8GB Waterproof MP3 Player Swimming Headphone
- 9 Underwater Audio 100% Waterproofing Compatible With iPod Shuffle
- 10 IPx8 Waterproof Headphones For Swimming MP3 Player
- Best Waterproof MP3 Player Buyers Guide
- So, What Are The Best Waterproof MP3 Players?
Top 10 Best Waterproof MP3 Players In 2023 Reviews
1
FX-Sport VRX Premium Wireless Sport Headphones
As we go through these products, we are sure it is going to be like an introduction to Superman or Wonder Woman where the action and the technology never ceases.
The VRX Premium by FX-Sport is exactly that. They are not for the faint-hearted. Designed and manufactured in the UK, they are claimed to be the world’s first personal trainer headphones that can be customized. Sweatproof and rainproof, it’s a tough machine.
Not just for Superheros…
When you buy this MP3 player, it comes with so many workouts than you could never possibly use them all. They cover all disciplines and give consideration to the fitness level of the user, so it’s not just Superheroes that will use them.
There are what you might call group sessions, though you are the only one participating. There are also included what are called ‘Real Trainer’ settings, where you can get a one to one session instructed by the voice of a fitness trainer.
Training programs for several weeks can be constructed using the pre-loaded sessions, or you can create your own. Or maybe you want to test yourself against a ‘virtual athlete.’ Nearly every option you can think of has been included.
So much, it is scary…
All of this and more while you are listening to your own music that is interjected by the session when needed. This piece of kit does so much it is scary. The sound it produces, which is actually quite good, seems irrelevant.
It will operate for swimmers, but you will have to get the Silicone Skin accessory which is not included. Five hours of battery life maybe isn’t the greatest, though. Controls are easy to use once you have mastered the basics, but that is going to take some time.
For those that want to have a program to work out with, at whatever level, it is an astonishing piece of kit.
- Pre-loaded with hundreds of workouts or construct your own.
- Well-built with quality components.
- Will take some time to get to grips with how it operates.
2
Sony Walkman NWZW273S 4 GB Waterproof Sports MP3 Player
Ah… the Sony Walkman. It could be described as THE device that started the personal – take it wherever you go – music system, that has now exploded into a huge business worldwide.
It is an interesting device this waterproof MP3 player. Most of our electronic devices are not made to be able to survive jumping in a pool with it, but this is.
Underwater sound will be yours…
Basically, it is a 4Gb mp3 player with earbuds that are enclosed in plastic pods and then connected by rubber wire. The controls are set in the pods. You operate them with a series of easy to find buttons to control volume, playback, off/on, etc.
The sound they control is best described as being adequate, without ever going to get you too excited. But then that was not the prime design function behind them. They have an overload of bass and a shrill top end, but then that seems to be the norm with anything designed to accompany an activity.
Needs a tight seal…
The big problem seems to be using them in the environment for which they were created. They are well made, no complaints there, and you do get three different sizes of earbuds to try and get a good fit. But the problem is that a good fit is very hard to achieve. If you don’t get the earplugs with a very tight seal in comes the water and its goodbye music.
The pods which are in effect the headset must be waterproof and so are sealed units which mean no exposed charging ports. A charging dock is provided that provides you with eight hours of use. They will also give you a quick charge facility.
As we said, they are an interesting unit and are great for activity, but if you jump in the water, make sure the seal is good. If you don’t, the water will be all over you and not the music.
- Well made with easy controls.
- Not the best water seal.
- Quite expensive.
3
Diver DB-10 4GB Waterproof MP3 Player With Waterproof Earphones
The name seems to give the impression that this is a serious MP3 for use in the water and they are correct. The earphones and the MP3 player itself can survive underwater for at least 24 hours. I suppose that is what you call waterproof. They are therefore good for any water-based activity. In fact, to go a stage further, it can be submerged to depth, and so they are even good for snorkeling.
It has a rugged but attractive build, and the blue finish adds a certain aquatic feel to them. It is also available in pink which is altogether less aquatic! Despite its tough look it is lightweight and weighs just 1.4 ounces.
Fits like a glove…
It has a well-made clip which will attach the player to either a belt, headband or goggles. The earphones themselves have ear hooks that fit easily behind your ears and do not interfere. Battery life is about sixteen hours, which is quite good.
The sound is adequate, but it is quite good when using after an activity, maybe lounging beside the pool after a swim, and it provides a decent frequency sound range. All music that is downloaded to the unit must be in MP3 format; otherwise, it will not work. There are plenty of free conversion tools available in case you need to make those changes.
So let’s take a look at the practicalities…
You will not be able to use these to go down and look at the Coral Reef I am afraid. A depth of about 3-4 meters is going to be about as far as they will go. Another issue might be the fit and the seal. It has to be good, so that water does not invade the ear canal and the deeper you go, the more that is likely to happen.
We are not going to complain. To be able to submerge them at all is superb. Inexpensive and a contender for one of the best waterproof MP3 players.
- Fully waterproof to a depth of about 3 meters.
- Well made and rugged, but lightweight.
- Probably best just for swimming or shallow snorkeling.
4
Swimbuds Flip Headphones And 8 GB SYRYN Waterproof MP3 Player
Syryn have come up with a nice little package that includes a few extras. More on this later, but first…
Let’s have a look at the construction
They are solidly built and have a standard rating of IPX-8, which essentially means they will remain waterproof up to a depth of about ten feet, which is good and significantly deeper than most. Now that is underwater sound.
The headphones have a design they call swim buds flip. Designed to stay in your ear and be comfortable at the same time. They are designed to be watertight, but of course, this will depend almost entirely on the fit and seal you achieve within your ear. We would normally make that last comment with some confidence, but not in this case.
We mentioned earlier we would return to talking about a few extras…
One of those extras that are provided is a free tube of Fitgoo. This is essentially a lubricant to help the earbud into the ear, but it also acts as an assistant sealant to keep the water out. You are provided with four different sizes of earbuds to help you get the right fit. And also because they come in different styles, the right fit for the sport you are undertaking.
While on the subject of extras, also included is a tube of Aquaguard pre-swim hair defense. Of course, there are the standard USB cable and 3.5mm connecting wire. The connecting cable from the headphone jack to earbud is only 17 inches long, so there are no awkward cables in the way as you swim.
The MP3 player has an 8Gb memory that will handle approximately 2,000 songs and is compatible with Windows and Mac.
At the price, these represent great value. And could be one of the best waterproof MP3’s around.
- Will submerge to a depth of ten feet.
- 8Gb memory for 2000 songs.
- Control seems a bit flimsy.
5
Sony 16GB Waterproof And Dustproof Walkman With Bluetooth
This is a Sony Walkman that has seemingly got it all. You can store up to a massive 16Gb on the MP3’s internal memory, which means you can listen to your music in the gym or running or just about anywhere.
With the waterproof Sony, you can also listen to your music underwater. The unit will operate for up to 30 minutes underwater to a depth of about 6 feet. One big plus point is that whilst most devices designed to go in or underwater are made for the swimming pool, this unit will also handle saltwater, so the big blue sea is on the list of options providing you don’t go too deep.
No Bluetooth in the Big Blue…
We would, however, like to make the point, before we go too much further, that Bluetooth and the unit’s remote control do now operate underwater. The Bluetooth featured on the Walkman allows you to stream music from iOS or Android devices and is easy to use with its one-touch connectivity.
The sound as you might expect from a Sony product is good. Sounds are built into both earbuds and give you the full ambient experience. You can take calls with the built-in microphone, while the remote control offers volume, play, and pause options.
A stylish design…
The unit is well-designed and built, and has a nice style about it. It is a sturdy unit that isn’t going to fall to pieces. The MP3 player weighs just 1.1 ounces and will fit on your head with either a hat or helmet for comfort and accessibility.
The built-in rechargeable battery will give you up to about 12 hours of constant use. Plus there is an extra quick charge facility that gives you an extra 60 minutes for a small 3-minute charge.
A well made Sony product; it is priced competitively.
- Nice solid design with some good features.
- Very good price.
- Functions in seawater.
- Bluetooth connectivity does not work underwater.
- Only operational to a depth of six feet.
6
H2O Audio 100% Waterproof Headphones
Based in the US, H20 is a relatively new company in manufacturing audio for water-based activities.
Building headphones to high quality is the name of the game where H20 is concerned. And these phones whilst suitable for use in the rain, it is the water where we really see the design benefits. The IPX rating they have is an indication of the quality, and they can operate down to a depth of 12 feet.
It is not common to find headphones that will operate at this depth, and they open up a whole new set of underwater opportunities.
Staying with the water theme…
They are also suitable for surfing and paddle boarding or just plain swimming laps in the pool. Being good in the water though shouldn’t hide the fact that these phones are suitable for most activities. The gym, taking a jog, on the bike, there are not many no-go areas for these tough little cookies. And just dealing with some perspiration is not a problem.
They have included an iPod shuffle case, and special loops make it easy to fit it to your goggles, and the whole system can be attached to your head easily. All the controls are handily placed for volume and playback, whether in the water or not.
Made to measure…
The shape and design of the earbuds mean they will be comfortable, fitting flush with the ear. The package comes with five separate sets of earplugs to let you find the perfect fit for you.
They are a quality product, and getting a high safety rating is no mean achievement. They do come in a little expensive, but there is a lot on offer. Are they the best waterproof mp3 player? Read on to find out…
- The iPod shuffle case allows you access to your music.
- Well-built and with a high IXP rating.
- Work down to a depth of 12 feet.
- Great fit.
- Some may think them expensive.
7
Pyle Upgraded Waterproof MP3 Player
Pyle’s contribution to the world of Jacques Cousteau places its emphasis very much on the sound and the music capability. The 8Gb memory gives you plenty of space for a lot of music, and it’s easy to modify the song list with a simple drag and drop process from your laptop. They are Windows and Mac compatible.
If there is one thing Pyle is known for in many of the areas in which they operate, it is that they like things to be loud and these are no exception. They can really pump it out. A lot of these units rely on the devices sound system, but here the Flextreme provides a good reproduction with a very prominent bass frequency.
They are well-built and very stable on the head. The cord will bend, and you place it around the top of your ear to keep everything in place.
A firm and tight fit…
Being an in-ear headphone, you are supplied with a variety of earbuds to ensure a firm and tight fit. There are special earbuds for use in the water for swimming. They have an impressive IPX8 rating and are good down to a depth of about two meters. Controls are basic and easy to use, and the battery will give you up to ten hours of use.
These phones are not all about swimming through and having such a tough build; they will cope with most kinds of rigorous activity and are therefore suitable for most sports and training.
They certainly are a contender for best waterproof MP3 players. The sounds are great and loud, and with that IXP rating, we don’t think Pyle could have done much more to produce a high-quality product. Price is also a big plus and sits at an attractive level.
- The good rating makes them excellent in the water.
- The excellent price level for so much on offer.
- Not suitable for open water swimming.
8
Tayogo 8GB Waterproof MP3 Player Swimming Headphone
Maybe these headphones could reasonably be called the swimmers’ headphones. They are a very lightweight and well-built headphone that actually sits on the back of your head. They weigh just 32 grams, so are not an intrusion at all.
The design is very unique and has been well-thought-out, providing stability that is very secure. It is made from a substance called PP, which, while being flexible, is also very strong and can be bent to fit your head.
A great build…
A special earplug for swimming is provided that is secure in the head and will not fall out. We would like to maybe add something here, in that if you are doing flip turns, you might want to be aware that then there could be an issue with keeping them on. That is not a fault; it is just an observation, and other than that they are a great build.
The USB flash drive is removable and will hold around 2,000 songs. Supported formats include MP3, WMA, DRM, OGG, WAV, and AAC-LC.
Down to the depths…
Battery life is approximately 6-8 hours on one charge, which takes about 2 hours. It has an IPX8 waterproof rating, and they can operate down to a depth of 3 meters.
It is fitted with a waterproof horn that is specially designed for the unit that allows you to hear the music. The controls are located on the headband which is worn on the back of the head and are therefore easily accessible, once you know where everything is.
If you are a swimmer, it is an impressive piece of kit and very cost-effective.
- Good design that works well for swimmers.
- Sturdy fit with easy to use controls.
- A good seal in the ear might be hard to establish quickly.
9
Underwater Audio 100% Waterproofing Compatible With iPod Shuffle
Some people love fitness workouts and can’t wait to get out on the track or in the pool. While others know they should keep themselves fit, but find the whole thing a drudgery. For those that swim, but get bored with just plowing up and down, this product was designed for you
The waterproofing process created by Underwater Audio is designed specifically to take your beloved music and make it absolutely 100% watertight.
Can they actually do that? Read on…
Your music player begins its aquatic life as a normal player and is then whisked away by Underwater Audio and given a complete waterproofing. It is then ready for whatever you can throw at it, and will hold all your favorite music while giving you 15 hours of battery life. It is PC and Mac compatible for downloads up tp 2Gb. Plus it has an easy to use shuffle control
It is a great product for the amateur who finds it all a bit boring and wishes they could listen to their music. But at the other end of the scale for those serious swimmers who may even be training for events.
So what do you actually get for your money because it isn’t cheap?
Well as we have talked about a 100% waterproof iPod, a syncing and charging cord. Short cord waterproof headphones. Fitgoo ear sealant – a jelly that keeps the water out and the sound in and ensures a nice easy, comfortable fit. There is also a tube of Aquaguard pre-swim hair defense.
Further to help you on your way to great things a download of a video by Rebecca Soni, who is an Olympic swimmer, and gives you a thirty-minute swim workout.
All in all, an interesting package, but a mentioned, one that doesn’t come cheap. We think you’re going to have to be serious to get this one.
- Guaranteed waterproofing for a 2Gb iPod.
- Lots of extras.
- Video workout with Rebecca Soni.
- The price will put some off.
10
IPx8 Waterproof Headphones For Swimming MP3 Player
There might be some people who want some music while they pursue their favorite activities, but really don’t want to spend too much money on it. If you are one of those, then these phones could well be the ones for you.
These in-earphones are designed for those who pursue a busy and sometimes rigorous lifestyle. These will provide you with your music if your running, working out in the gym, cycling or in several land-based activities. But it is in the pool that the real claims are made for this set of headphones.
Introduce the fishes to a bit of rock n roll…
They have an IPX8 rating, which is only secured if your product is considered of high quality, and a waterproof rating of that level is not easy to achieve. So having achieved it, then we turn our eyes to the water. Swimming, surfing, even a bit of shallow snorkeling are all now on the itinerary. Now you can introduce the fishes to a bit of rock n roll.
They are constructed mainly from quite rugged plastic and have been designed with a three-layer earplug to give a solid waterproof effect. They have two plastic clips for attaching them that are also quite sturdy.
The design is an over-ear for stability and security, and included are some different sized earbuds to make sure you get a good fit. They are plastic ear fittings, rather than the softer silicone.
The sound is surprisingly good. We say that because for this price you don’t expect too much, but really it was adequate for what they will be used for.
They are very inexpensive, and so we suppose you can’t lose much by trying them out.
- Ridiculously low cost.
- Sound is quite good, especially for the cost.
- Build quality might not be up to a long life in the pool.
Best Waterproof MP3 Player Buyers Guide
So you want to stay in the water and listen to your own music!
Underwater sound. An unheard-of concept even a few years ago, but now familiar to us all. We go to the local pool or the beach, and there they are. More people using them than we thought. Of course, some use them for running and the gym, because being waterproof they resist sweat and moisture, but there is a question…
What Will You Use Your Waterproof Mp3 Player For?
If it is for the gym or cycling, maybe running, then the quality of build must be good, but the waterproofing not as important as if you are going in the pool and certainly not in the sea.
That is your first decision, but then you probably have already made that.
Connections
Do you want Bluetooth capability? Understanding that you can’t use Bluetooth underwater, that may be a consideration and what other extra functions do you want your MP3 player and associated equipment to have?
How Much Is My Budget?
That is the next decision and a little bit more tricky because you are moving in areas where safety certificates are awarded to products. It would be a good idea to understand what they mean and what they will give you. Depending on what use you have planned, you may need a high rating. The higher the rating then usually, though not always, the higher the cost.
It’s still a new and growing technology, and they certainly haven’t finished developing it yet, so your choice might want to reflect that.
So, What Are The Best Waterproof MP3 Players?
Not being used to using headphones for anything other than recording this is a new adventure for us and one that has opened our eyes, and ears I suppose, to the possibilities. However, we quite like the idea of lying around the pool with a decent sounding set of phones and then being able to go and lie in the water or just gently swim up and down while the music carries on.
Therefore, we have chosen a set of waterproof headphones that will do just that for us. We have chosen the…
Tayogo 8GB Waterproof MP3 Player Swimming Headphone
As our choice for the best waterproof MP3 player. They feature a great design and good sound quality and are waterproof down to 3 meters, which more than enough for us. Highly recommended.