We’ve tested a lot of earbuds. These are the ones we feel comfortable using. Adding more every week.

Earbuds Buyer’s Guide

Best In-Game Wearable Earbud

Shokz OpenFit Air

Best for use in Earbud Holder Strap

Apple AirPods Pro 2

Categories:

  • Best for use with earbud holder straps (small in-ear)

  • Best for over-the-ear security (Powerbeats Pro-style)

  • Best open-ear or on-ear options (comfort/safety)

  • Best all-around performer

  • Budget-friendly options with strong Bluetooth signal

Earbuds and Headphones for Pitch Call Pro – 2025 Guide

Pitch Call Pro is an iOS app that enables one-way coach-to-player communication on baseball/softball fields. This means coaches can send pitch calls or play instructions directly to a catcher’s (or other player’s) ear. In outdoor field environments (with distance, chain-link fences, crowd noise, etc.), a strong Bluetooth connection is crucial. Class 1 Bluetooth devices (which can transmit up to ~100 meters with 10x the power of typical Class 2 devices) are ideal for extended range and fewer dropouts (Best Buy: Beats Powerbeats Pro Totally Wireless Earbuds Black MY582LL/A) (AirPods range? - Apple Community). Below, we categorize the best earbuds and headphones for Pitch Call Pro by use case and user preference, highlighting Class 1 capability, fit, battery life, and on-field pros/cons. Each product listing includes an official or trusted link for more details.

1. Best for Earbud Holder Straps (Compact In-Ear Models)

Top Picks: Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen), Jaybird Vista 2, Jabra Elite 8 Active, Beats Fit Pro (See comparison table below)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) – by Apple (Tested with PitchCall Pro)

  • Class 1 Bluetooth: Yes – Utilizes Apple’s H2 chip, maintaining a Class 1 Bluetooth connection for extended range (AirPods range? - Apple Community). This means solid performance even with coach-to-player distance (users report clear audio at 100+ feet) (AirPods range? - Apple Community) (AirPods range? - Apple Community).

  • Fit & Security: True wireless in-ear buds with silicone tips; low-profile design fits easily in an earbud strap under a catcher’s helmet. No earhook – a strap is recommended to keep it firmly in place during active play (to prevent it from dislodging when removing the mask). The strap can loop around the AirPod’s stem and the helmet earhole (Earbud Holder Straps (4-Pack) — Pitch Call Pro app), holding it secure.

  • Battery Life: ~6 hours per charge (with noise cancellation on) (AirPods Pro 2 - Technical Specifications - Apple), or up to 7 hours with ANC off. The MagSafe charging case provides ~24 additional hours (for ~30 hours total listening) (AirPods Pro 2 - Technical Specifications - Apple). A quick 5-minute charge yields ~1 hour of use (AirPods Pro 2 - Technical Specifications - Apple) – handy if you need to top up between games.

  • On-Field Pros: Outstanding wireless range and stability (thanks to Class 1 power and BT 5.3) – connection stays strong through fences and across the diamond. Instant pairing with iPhone is seamless. Transparency mode is available to let ambient sound in, so catchers can still hear the game while wearing the earbud, or they can wear just one bud. The sound quality is clear and loud for spoken instructions. IP54 dust/sweat resistance adds durability in dusty infield or hot summer conditions (AirPods Pro 2 - Technical Specifications - Apple) (AirPods Pro 2 - Technical Specifications - Apple).

  • Cons: Higher cost than many alternatives. While secure for most, very vigorous head movement could loosen the bud if not strapped (the smooth shape lacks built-in wings/hooks). Also, using one AirPod at a time is recommended for game use (to maintain situational awareness), which halves available playtime if you swap ears.

Jabra Elite 5 – by Jabra (Tested with PitchCall Pro)

Beats Fit Pro – by Beats (Apple)

Other Notables: Apple AirPods (3rd Gen) – an open-fit earbud that can also be used in straps (no silicone seal, but with a strap it can work; Class 1 H1 chip for range). We focus on AirPods Pro 2 above for their noise isolation and secure fit. Beats Studio Buds+ – small in-ear buds with ANC; not an Apple chip (so range is standard), but compact size and good battery (8hrs) make them viable for strap use if Class 1 isn’t required. Plantronics (Poly) Voyager Free 60 – enterprise-class earbuds with Class 1 BT 5.3 (Items tagged with wireless earbuds and Bluetooth Class 1 | audioXpress); high quality, but expensive and more office-oriented (include touchscreen case). For most users, the picks above balance size, security, and signal best for catchers’ needs.

2. Best Over-the-Ear+In-Ear Secure Options (Earhooks)

Some coaches or players prefer over-the-ear designs where the earbuds hook around the ear or use a band for added security. These models are less likely to fall off during dynamic movement and can often house larger batteries for longer life. Many also feature Class 1 Bluetooth for strong connections. This category includes earhook-style earbuds (like Powerbeats) and wraparound bone-conduction bands (like Shokz) that offer a very stable fit.

Top Picks: Beats Powerbeats Pro 2

Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 – by Beats (Apple) (Tested with PitchCall Pro)

(Note: The original Powerbeats Pro (2019) is still an excellent over-ear option, with 9-hour battery and Class 1 range (Best Buy: Beats Powerbeats Pro Totally Wireless Earbuds Black MY582LL/A) (Best Buy: Beats Powerbeats Pro Totally Wireless Earbuds Black MY582LL/A). It lacks ANC and some upgrades of the Pro 2, but if budget is a concern, the older model – often available at a discount – still provides the core benefits of secure earhooks and long range for on-field use.)

Other Notables: Shokz OpenRun Pro / OpenRun – While we include Shokz in the next (open-ear) category, note that these bone conduction bands also count as “over-ear” secure options. They wrap around the back of the head and over the ears, so they’re extremely stable (you can’t knock them off easily). If someone prefers that style with nothing in the ear canal, Shokz are a top choice. Plantronics (Poly) BackBeat Fit 3100 – An older (2018) true wireless with earhooks that had an open-ear tip (allowing ambient sound). It was only Bluetooth 5.0 and not Class 1, and is now hard to find, but it was essentially an earlier mix of earhook + open-ear. Newer models like JBL and Shokz have overtaken it.

3. Best Open-Ear or On-Ear Options (Situational Awareness & Comfort)

Open-ear designs let the user hear the external environment while still receiving audio through the device. This is crucial for players who need to hear the crack of the bat, teammates, or coaches yelling instructions in addition to the Pitch Call Pro audio. Open-ear solutions typically use bone conduction (transmitting sound via cheekbones) or air conduction near the ear (speakers that sit just outside the ear canal). On-ear options can also include lightweight headsets that sit on the ear without sealing it. The priority here is comfort, safety, and awareness, while still maintaining a decent connection range.

Top Picks: Shokz OpenRun Pro (Bone Conduction), Shokz OpenFit / OpenFit Air, Bose Sport Open Earbuds

Shokz OpenRun Pro – by Shokz (Tested with PitchCall Pro)

  • Type & Fit: Bone conduction headphones with an over-ear wraparound band. The OpenRun Pro rests two small transducers on your cheekbones, just in front of your ears, and a lightweight titanium band goes over your ears and around the back of your head. Nothing goes in your ears – your ear canals remain open. This design is extremely secure (the band gently squeezes to stay in place) and comfortable, even with hats or sunglasses. Athletes often wear these for running and cycling because they stay put and allow full awareness. For baseball, a catcher can wear an OpenRun Pro under the helmet (the band is thin) or a coach can wear it and still hear everything around. It’s worth noting that because they don’t go in the ear, they won’t interfere with a catcher’s mask padding at all – a big safety plus.

  • Bluetooth & Range: Bluetooth 5.1. Not a Class 1 device, but generally has a stable connection up to ~33 ft. Bone conduction sets typically don’t advertise extended range; however, Shokz are known for reliable performance within reasonable distances (they’re used in outdoor sports frequently). The OpenRun Pro uses a proprietary Bluetooth antenna design for fewer dropouts. In practice, if the coach is in the dugout and the player is on the field, the connection should hold as long as they’re not too far (if pushing beyond 30-40 ft, you may see signal degrade sooner than with Class 1 earbuds, so consider placement accordingly).

  • Battery Life: ~10 hours of continuous music/talk time per charge (Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 vs OpenFit Air | A Comparison of All Shokz Headphones - RunToTheFinish) (Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 vs OpenFit Air | A Comparison of All Shokz Headphones - RunToTheFinish). Since these don’t have a traditional “charging case” (they charge via a magnetic cable), that 10 hours is what you get on the field. Fortunately, that’s more than enough for a full day of games. They also have a quick-charge feature: ~5 minutes of charge provides ~1.5 hours of use (Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 vs OpenFit Air | A Comparison of All Shokz Headphones - RunToTheFinish) (Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 vs OpenFit Air | A Comparison of All Shokz Headphones - RunToTheFinish), so you can quickly top them off between games if needed.

  • On-Field Pros: Maximum situational awareness. Because your ears are completely open, you can hear teammates, the crowd, the crack of the bat – everything – as normal. This makes bone conduction the safest option for a player actively in the game (you won’t miss auditory cues). The OpenRun Pro has improved sound quality and volume over earlier models, so the spoken pitch calls are audible even in a noisy environment (though very loud noise can still compete since nothing is isolating your ear – in extremely loud stadiums, one might need to cover one ear to hear a whisper-level sound). They are IP55 water-resistant (Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 vs OpenFit Air | A Comparison of All Shokz Headphones - RunToTheFinish), which covers sweat and light rain (newer Shokz like OpenRun Pro 2 are rumored to be IP67, but IP55 is sufficient for most use). Comfort is a highlight – no ear fatigue since nothing inside the ear. They can be worn for hours without annoyance. Also, unlike traditional earbuds, there’s no risk of them falling out and getting lost on the field – even if jarred, they’ll just sit around your neck. Many users even let them hang around the neck when not in use. For coaches, wearing these means you can have a conversation with someone while still hearing the app cues in your ears. Latency on Shokz bone conduction is generally low; they’re fine for real-time audio cues.

  • Cons: In very noisy conditions, open-ear designs struggle – if the crowd is roaring, the bone-conducted sound has to compete with live sound entering your ear. Shokz mitigates this by resting near the ear canal and using decent volume, but they can’t entirely overcome a loud background. Also, sound quality for music is acceptable but not as rich as in-ear buds (bass is present but you feel it more than hear it). For voice, though, they are clear. Another factor: they do leak some sound – people next to you might faintly hear the audio (like a tiny speaker). For pitch calls, this isn’t a big issue because the volume and distance are such that an opposing player nearby is unlikely to make it out (plus the environment noise). Still, something to consider if stealth is crucial. Lastly, since it’s one piece, only one person can use a set (unlike sharing one earbud of a pair), though Pitch Call Pro likely has each player on their own device anyway.

Shokz OpenFit / OpenFit Air – by Shokz (Tested with PitchCall Pro)

  • Type & Fit: True wireless open-ear earbuds. The OpenFit series is Shokz’s departure from bone conduction – these are air conduction (basically tiny speakers that direct sound into your ears without blocking them). They have an earhook that rests over the top of the ear (smaller and thinner than a Powerbeats hook) and the bud sits just outside the ear canal. Think of it like an earbud that you don’t actually insert; it hovers at the entrance of your ear. This gives a very secure fit (the earhook holds it in place) and an open-ear experience similar to bone conduction, but potentially with better sound quality since the speaker is right by the ear. The OpenFit Air is a slightly more affordable variant of the OpenFit (OpenFit vs. OpenFit Air: A Consumer-Centric Comparison - Shokz) – it likely has a bit less battery or features to hit a lower price. Both share the same form factor. These are extremely lightweight and comfortable. For a player, an OpenFit in one ear under the helmet is barely noticeable and keeps the ear open to hear naturally.

  • Bluetooth & Range: Bluetooth 5.2, multipoint support (connect to two devices). Range is standard Class 2. Shokz doesn’t list class 1, so expect ~33 ft of solid performance. Given that these are designed for outdoor running and such, they should hold up fine for typical coach-to-player distances, but might not have as much punch through obstacles as an Apple device. Since they are truly wireless, the signal goes from phone to one earbud then to the other (for stereo); if using one earbud only, range might even be a tad better as it’s one direct link. Multipoint means a coach could connect to both phone and, say, an Apple Watch simultaneously.

  • Battery Life: Approximately 6 hours on a single charge for the OpenFit Air (The Shokz OpenFit Air would've been perfect if not for my glasses) (Shokz OpenFit Air True Wireless Open-Ear Earbuds - A. T. Guys), and about 7 hours for the standard OpenFit (All About Your Shokz Earbuds Battery Life). The charging case extends total life to ~24 hours (OpenFit) or ~28 hours (OpenFit Air) (Shokz OpenFit Air True Wireless Open-Ear Earbuds - A. T. Guys). So, you get the convenience of a case to recharge between uses. Six hours continuous should get you through a full game; pop them in the case during a break for extended double-header coverage.

  • On-Field Pros: Combines the benefits of open-ear listening with the discreetness of earbuds. Situational awareness is excellent – your ear canal is unobstructed, so it’s similar to bone conduction in awareness. The difference is you’ll have a small speaker emitting sound directly by your ear, which can generally achieve clearer audio (especially for voice frequencies) than bone conduction. Reviews highlight that the OpenFit has surprisingly full sound for an open design (Shokz OpenRun Pro Bone Conduction vs Shokz OpenFit Air Side-by ...), meaning pitch calls come through clearly. The over-ear hook ensures they don’t fall off. You can literally shake your head vigorously and they’ll stay put (something important for a catcher dodging a foul tip). Since they don’t seal the ear, there’s no occlusion or discomfort over long periods – great for coaches wearing them all day. They are also less conspicuous than over-ear headphones; a neutral color OpenFit is hard to spot on a player, which might be a consideration if you want the equipment to be low-profile. They support multipoint, so a coach could have them paired to an iPad and iPhone, etc. The case makes it easy to charge on the go (just like regular earbuds). Also, Shokz likely tuned these for minimal latency and reliable speech, given the target market.

  • Cons: Like other open-ear, in extremely loud conditions the audio might struggle. Also, being a newer product line, the first-gen OpenFit had a relatively high price (in the range of premium ANC earbuds). They don’t have ANC (since that’s contrary to the open design), so they won’t reduce any noise – if anything, you’d have to cup your ear in a very noisy moment to hear better. Another aspect: since these are speakers near your ear, people next to you could catch some of the sound. However, Shokz reportedly designed them to minimize leakage (the speaker is angled into your ear). If the player is right next to a batter or base runner, it’s unlikely they’d discern the words unless it’s quiet and the volume is high. That said, it’s a consideration for stealth – a sealed earbud is quieter to outsiders. Lastly, these are not typically Class 1, so if you need that extreme range, you might lean to an AirPod/Beats. As for durability, they have some water resistance (likely IP54 or similar) but not meant to be drenched or dropped in dirt repeatedly – they’re durable enough for sweat and light rain.

Bose Sport Open Earbuds – by Bose (Tested with PitchCall Pro - see ‘repeat’ notes below)

  • Type & Fit: Open-ear true wireless earbuds with a unique design. Each bud clips over the top of the ear (like an earhook, but the hook is part of the earbud’s body) and positions a small speaker just outside the ear canal. These do not go in your ear at all, and they have no cable or band between them (unlike Shokz which have a neckband). They sit a bit above and outside the ear canal opening. Fit-wise, they are secure for most ear shapes thanks to the over-ear retention, but they do have a bit of weight to them. Many find them comfortable because nothing is pressing inside the ear; however, if not positioned just right, you could experience some movement. They were designed for runners, so generally they stay put during moderate activity. Under a cap or helmet, they might be dislodged if the headwear presses on them since they protrude slightly above the ear. A catcher’s helmet might actually interfere with these buds because the Bose sit higher on the ear; using them with the earbud strap holder (as Pitch Call Pro suggests) is an option (Earbuds Buyer's Guide - Pitch Call Pro app — Pitch Call Pro app), though that somewhat defeats the open convenience.

  • Bluetooth & Range: Bluetooth 5.1. Range is typical ~30 ft. Bose did not market these as class 1, and in practice they perform best with line-of-sight; going behind walls or far distances causes drops faster than some others (Bose prioritized audio quality over antenna strength here). For a coach to catcher within the field, they should be fine, but any extra barriers (like dugout fencing and distance) could push it.

  • Battery Life: ~8 hours continuous on a charge (there is no separate “earbud” vs case battery here, the case is just for storage/charging but doesn’t hold extra full charges). 8 hours is enough for most single uses; you’d need to recharge in the case between games to use them all day. The case itself is not pocketable (it’s a big charging base) and not battery-equipped, meaning it needs to be plugged in to charge the buds – a bit of a drawback in terms of portability.

  • On-Field Pros: Bose sound quality in an open-ear format. These deliver very clear audio with a more natural sound than bone conduction, and Bose is known for a well-tuned sound profile. Voice prompts come through crisply, and the volume is decent for being open. Situational awareness is excellent – your ears are completely open to hear everything. For those concerned about safety and communication, this is ideal. They are also in-game wearable – since they don’t block hearing, a player could legitimately wear them during play without losing awareness (some leagues might even prefer open earbuds for this reason). Bose designed them to let in ambient noise and feel as if nothing is in your ears. Also, they have no wires or neckband, which some might prefer over the Shokz style. It’s just two independent pieces. They are IPX4 rated, enough for sweat and light rain.

  • Cons: Latency with Pitch Call Pro – If you choose these YOU MUST SET THE REPEAT TO AT LEAST 1. The Pitch Call Pro team does not recommend these as of their testing, because when using them, the audio of the calls was delayed and often cut off (Earbuds Buyer's Guide - Pitch Call Pro app — Pitch Call Pro app). This suggests an issue where the Bose might have a slight buffering or slow wake-up when receiving the audio, resulting in the beginning of the message being missed. This could be due to Bose’s implementation of Bluetooth or power-saving. In fast one-way communication, that’s a critical flaw (missing part of the pitch call is not acceptable!). Until/unless Bose updates the firmware to address this, these earbuds are in the “No fly zone” for Pitch Call Pro (Earbuds Buyer's Guide - Pitch Call Pro app — Pitch Call Pro app). Aside from that specific issue, cons include: they are a bit bulky on the ear and potentially incompatible with tight headgear. The case is not convenient for charging on the go (needs a USB power source). Range and connectivity, while usually fine, might not match the stability of Class 1 devices in challenging conditions. Also, being Bose, they were priced high at launch, so not a small investment especially considering the caveats. Finally, some sound leakage does occur – someone standing very close might hear the whisper of the call. Given the Pitch Call Pro creators’ note, these may be best avoided for now, or used only if you already have them and acknowledge the limitations (maybe for coaches who just want to monitor but not critical communication).

4. Best All-Around Performers (Range, Fit, Comfort, Durability)

This category highlights the top overall choices that balance signal strength, secure fit, comfort for long use, and durability to withstand outdoor conditions. These are the “no compromise” options that should serve well in most scenarios – essentially, if you want a reliable workhorse headset for Pitch Call Pro, these are it. They may come at a premium price, but they deliver in the aspects that matter: Class 1 (or excellent) Bluetooth, long battery life, strong sweat/dust protection, and a design that stays comfortable over hours of use.

Top Picks: Apple AirPods Pro 2, Beats Powerbeats Pro 2, Jabra Elite 5

Apple AirPods Pro 2 – All-Around Gold Standard (Tested with PitchCall Pro)

Apple’s AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) appear again here because they tick almost every box: range, comfort, features, and reliability. For any iPhone-using coach or player, these are arguably the most convenient and consistently high-performing earbuds to use with Pitch Call Pro.

  • Why All-Around: The AirPods Pro 2 use Apple’s H2 chip with Class 1 Bluetooth, giving them exceptional range and connection stability (AirPods range? - Apple Community). You get top-tier Active Noise Cancellation for times when you want to drown out distractions, and a superb Transparency mode for when you need awareness (Beats Fit Pro True Wireless Earbuds — Beats Black - Apple). They are extremely comfortable for long wear, with vents to reduce pressure (Beats Fit Pro True Wireless Earbuds — Beats Black - Apple), and the IP54 rating adds durability for outdoor use (AirPods Pro 2 - Technical Specifications - Apple). Battery life of 6 hours (buds) is not the longest, but the charging case’s extra 24 hours and quick-charge mitigate that (AirPods Pro 2 - Technical Specifications - Apple) (AirPods Pro 2 - Technical Specifications - Apple). Also, features like Find My (to locate a lost earbud in the grass) and Audio Sharing (two sets of AirPods listening to one phone) could be handy in coaching scenarios.

  • On-field performance: In practice, AirPods Pro 2 rarely drop connection within a typical field’s range – coaches have used them from dugout to outfield successfully. The audio latency is low, so the pitch call audio plays promptly. They seamlessly handle being taken in/out – which is great if a coach quickly needs to talk to someone and then pop it back in. Their versatility (use one or both, ANC on or off) means they adapt to different users’ needs. For instance, a catcher might wear one AirPod Pro in the left ear under the strap, with Transparency on, so he can hear both the call and the field. A coach in a loud stadium might wear both with ANC on between innings to focus on planning.

  • Downsides: Pricey, and on Android (if any coaches use a non-iPhone with Pitch Call Pro) you lose some seamless features. Also, while durable, they’re not as drop-proof as something like Vista 2 – you wouldn’t want a player to accidentally step on one. But overall, their strengths make them a top all-around pick.

  • Use Case: Ideal for coaches who are already in the Apple ecosystem and want a no-hassle, high-performance solution. Also great for players who want something small and unobtrusive yet powerful.

Shokz OpenFit / OpenFit Air – by Shokz - On-Ear Comfort and Range(Tested with PitchCall Pro)

  • Type & Fit: True wireless open-ear earbuds. The OpenFit series is Shokz’s departure from bone conduction – these are air conduction (basically tiny speakers that direct sound into your ears without blocking them). They have an earhook that rests over the top of the ear (smaller and thinner than a Powerbeats hook) and the bud sits just outside the ear canal. Think of it like an earbud that you don’t actually insert; it hovers at the entrance of your ear. This gives a very secure fit (the earhook holds it in place) and an open-ear experience similar to bone conduction, but potentially with better sound quality since the speaker is right by the ear. The OpenFit Air is a slightly more affordable variant of the OpenFit (OpenFit vs. OpenFit Air: A Consumer-Centric Comparison - Shokz) – it likely has a bit less battery or features to hit a lower price. Both share the same form factor. These are extremely lightweight and comfortable. For a player, an OpenFit in one ear under the helmet is barely noticeable and keeps the ear open to hear naturally.

  • Bluetooth & Range: Bluetooth 5.2, multipoint support (connect to two devices). Range is standard Class 2. Shokz doesn’t list class 1, so expect ~33 ft of solid performance. Given that these are designed for outdoor running and such, they should hold up fine for typical coach-to-player distances, but might not have as much punch through obstacles as an Apple device. Since they are truly wireless, the signal goes from phone to one earbud then to the other (for stereo); if using one earbud only, range might even be a tad better as it’s one direct link. Multipoint means a coach could connect to both phone and, say, an Apple Watch simultaneously.

  • Battery Life: Approximately 6 hours on a single charge for the OpenFit Air (The Shokz OpenFit Air would've been perfect if not for my glasses) (Shokz OpenFit Air True Wireless Open-Ear Earbuds - A. T. Guys), and about 7 hours for the standard OpenFit (All About Your Shokz Earbuds Battery Life). The charging case extends total life to ~24 hours (OpenFit) or ~28 hours (OpenFit Air) (Shokz OpenFit Air True Wireless Open-Ear Earbuds - A. T. Guys). So, you get the convenience of a case to recharge between uses. Six hours continuous should get you through a full game; pop them in the case during a break for extended double-header coverage.

  • On-Field Pros: Combines the benefits of open-ear listening with the discreetness of earbuds. Situational awareness is excellent – your ear canal is unobstructed, so it’s similar to bone conduction in awareness. The difference is you’ll have a small speaker emitting sound directly by your ear, which can generally achieve clearer audio (especially for voice frequencies) than bone conduction. Reviews highlight that the OpenFit has surprisingly full sound for an open design (Shokz OpenRun Pro Bone Conduction vs Shokz OpenFit Air Side-by ...), meaning pitch calls come through clearly. The over-ear hook ensures they don’t fall off. You can literally shake your head vigorously and they’ll stay put (something important for a catcher dodging a foul tip). Since they don’t seal the ear, there’s no occlusion or discomfort over long periods – great for coaches wearing them all day. They are also less conspicuous than over-ear headphones; a neutral color OpenFit is hard to spot on a player, which might be a consideration if you want the equipment to be low-profile. They support multipoint, so a coach could have them paired to an iPad and iPhone, etc. The case makes it easy to charge on the go (just like regular earbuds). Also, Shokz likely tuned these for minimal latency and reliable speech, given the target market.

  • Cons: Like other open-ear, in extremely loud conditions the audio might struggle. Also, being a newer product line, the first-gen OpenFit had a relatively high price (in the range of premium ANC earbuds). They don’t have ANC (since that’s contrary to the open design), so they won’t reduce any noise – if anything, you’d have to cup your ear in a very noisy moment to hear better. Another aspect: since these are speakers near your ear, people next to you could catch some of the sound. However, Shokz reportedly designed them to minimize leakage (the speaker is angled into your ear). If the player is right next to a batter or base runner, it’s unlikely they’d discern the words unless it’s quiet and the volume is high. That said, it’s a consideration for stealth – a sealed earbud is quieter to outsiders. Lastly, these are not typically Class 1, so if you need that extreme range, you might lean to an AirPod/Beats. As for durability, they have some water resistance (likely IP54 or similar) but not meant to be drenched or dropped in dirt repeatedly – they’re durable enough for sweat and light rain.

Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 – Longest Range & Battery Workhorse (Tested with PitchCall Pro)

The Powerbeats Pro 2 (2025 model) stands out for combining Class 1 range, very long battery life, and the security of earhooks. It’s essentially built for athletic use, so it thrives on the ballfield.

5. Best Budget-Friendly Options (Good Connectivity on a Budget - Not Tested)

Not every team or coach can allocate top dollar for headphones. Fortunately, you don’t have to sacrifice reliable Bluetooth performance and usability in the field even at a lower price point. This category rounds up options that are more affordable (generally under $100) yet still provide solid range, decent battery life, and features conducive to on-field use. They may not have all the bells and whistles of premium models, but they cover the basics to get the job done for Pitch Call Pro.

Top Picks: Anker Soundcore Sport X10, JLab Epic Air Sport ANC, Soundcore Life P3, Tribit MoveBuds H1

Model Approx. Price Bluetooth Design Battery Life Highlights for Field Soundcore Sport X10 $79 – $99 BT 5.2 (Std range) Earhook TWS earbuds 8h (buds) + 24h case (What is the battery life of Sport X10's earbuds in different modes?) Secure rotating hooks, IPX7 waterproof, strong bass (loud cues) JLab Epic Air Sport ANC $69 – $99 BT 5.0 (Std range) Earhook TWS earbuds 15h (buds) + 55h case (Epic Air Sport ANC True Wireless Earbuds - JLab International) Massive battery, ANC & ambient modes, EQ customization, IP66 Soundcore Life P3 $59 – $79 BT 5.2 (Std range) In-ear TWS (w/ ear fins) 7h (buds) + 28h case Good ANC, bass boost, gaming mode (low latency), several color options Tribit MoveBuds H1 $69 – $89 BT 5.2 (Std range) Earhook TWS earbuds 15h (buds) + 50h case IPX8 waterproof, very secure fit, powerful sound, robust connectivity for price

(Prices are approximate market prices, often lower with sales.)

Anker Soundcore Sport X10 – Value Earhook Champ

We discussed the Soundcore Sport X10 in the over-ear category, and it shines as a budget-friendly choice as well. You get an earhook design (usually found in pricier models) for under $100, and Anker doesn’t skimp on the important specs.

  • Budget Benefits: For the price, the Sport X10 offers exceptional build quality and features: fully waterproof (IPX7), ANC on board (rare in this price range), and a secure sports fit. The battery (8 hours per charge (What is the battery life of Sport X10's earbuds in different modes?)) competes with more expensive earbuds. Connectivity is reliable; while not Class 1, it uses BT 5.2 and many find it as good as, or better than, other budget buds in range stability. Soundcore is known for strong bass and volume, which means even in a noisy field, you can turn these up and hear the calls. The companion app allows you to tweak sound and even test fit. Considering you often find these on sale around $79, it’s a bargain for coaches on a budget.

  • Trade-offs: No Apple H1/H2 integration, of course, and the range is officially only ~33ft. If you’re in a scenario that absolutely needs more, you might have to step up to an Apple/Beats. But for many youth or high school fields, 30ft is enough from dugout to home plate with line-of-sight. The mic quality is just average (not a big issue for one-way listening). All said, the Sport X10 delivers 80-90% of what Powerbeats Pro do, at a fraction of the cost.

JLab Epic Air Sport ANC – Battery Beast on a Budget

JLab’s Epic Air Sport ANC stands out for its huge battery life and solid sport features at a budget price. These are earhook earbuds that often undercut competitors on cost.

  • Budget Benefits: 15 hours per charge on the earbuds themselves (Epic Air Sport ANC True Wireless Earbuds - JLab International) is virtually unheard of in this category – that’s with ANC off (about 11 hours with ANC on). Total with case is 70+ hours (Epic Air Sport ANC True Wireless Earbuds - JLab International). This means you could potentially go a week of practices without charging the case, or a full tournament day without worrying about charging at all. They have active noise cancelation and a Be Aware (transparency) mode, so you’re getting features typically found in $150+ models. They’re rated IP66 (sweatproof, dustproof) (JLab Epic Air Sport ANC first impressions: the holy grail of earbuds?), which is great for dusty fields. JLab’s signature is providing custom EQ presets and even user-adjustable EQ via their app, which can help make voice prompts clearer. Another plus: JLab includes a 2-year warranty, which at this price point adds peace of mind. Typically priced around $79 (sometimes on sale even less), they deliver incredible value per dollar.

  • Trade-offs: They use Bluetooth 5.0 and don’t tout extended range; connectivity is generally good line-of-sight but can struggle if obstructed (keep the phone reasonably close for best results). They are also a bit bulkier; the earhooks and buds are large (which is partly why they can fit such a big battery). Some users with smaller ears might find them a tad cumbersome, but they do come with multiple ear tips and even Cloud Foam tips for comfort. ANC is effective but not up to premium brands’ quality – however, for our use (voice clarity), that’s less of an issue. The charging case is also large (because of the big battery capacity). But for budget constraints, these compromises are minor given the massive battery and feature set you get. If you’re a coach who doesn’t want to worry about charging mid-event and needs an affordable set, these are a top pick.

Anker Soundcore Life P3 – Affordable All-Purpose Earbuds

The Soundcore Life P3 are an example of a budget in-ear (non-hook) that still perform strongly in various aspects – sort of a “budget AirPods Pro alternative” for those who don’t need Apple chips.

  • Budget Benefits: Priced often around $69, the Life P3 boast features like multi-mode ANC, a gaming mode for low latency (which implies they can handle quick audio like pitch calls well), and a well-rounded 7-hour battery (up to 35h with case). They have an AirPods-like stem design (comes in fun colors too) and include silicone ear fins for stability. While not Class 1, Soundcore’s tuning often yields stable connections and they use BT 5.2. On an open field, they perform comparably to other standard Bluetooth earbuds. The app allows customizing the ANC, EQ and even enables a “Find My Earbuds” function (they emit a noise). They are comfortable and lightweight – easy to wear for a whole game. For coaches who maybe want a second set of earbuds that they can use for music and calls too, these double nicely, since they have decent microphones and sound quality that punches above their price.

  • Trade-offs: They are not specifically “rugged” – IPX5 rated, so sweat and water are fine, but they’re not as drop-proof as a Vista or Jabra. The lack of wing or hook means if a player uses them, an earbud strap might be advisable (though the fins help a bit). Their range is normal; don’t expect to wander far from the phone. However, within 30 ft, you’ll get a reliable connection – and the low-latency mode could help if any audio lag is noticed. They might not have quite the volume output of sport-focused buds, but should be sufficient for spoken audio. Considering their cost, they deliver a lot and are a good choice for teams needing multiple pairs on a budget (e.g., outfitting several players) because you could buy three of these for the cost of one AirPods Pro.

Tribit MoveBuds H1 – Budget Earhooks with Endurance

Tribit is a brand known for budget audio that surprisingly competes with higher-end in performance. The MoveBuds H1 are their sport model that offers earhooks, long battery, and robustness at around $70.

  • Budget Benefits: 15 hours on a single charge (buds) and up to 50 hours with the case put these in elite territory for battery life, similar to the JLab Epic Air (Jlab Audio Epic Air Sport ANC True Wireless Earbuds - Walmart.com). They are rated IPX8 waterproof – you can literally submerge them (Tribit even markets them for swimming, though Bluetooth doesn’t transmit in water far). This means sweat, mud, or heavy rain won’t faze them at all. They also have one of the more secure fits: the earhook plus a snug in-ear portion with various tip sizes. Many users comment they stay on even better than some more famous brands. Range is standard, but Tribit’s reception is generally solid – some tests have shown them to maintain connection 40-50 feet out in open air, which is excellent for a budget device. They also utilize Bluetooth 5.2. Sound quality leans bass-heavy but clear, meaning voice comes through fine and they get loud. For the price, their build feels sturdy, and physical buttons let you control them easily.

  • Trade-offs: They come with a somewhat chunky case (common for earhook designs). No active noise canceling – just passive. But passive isolation is decent with a good seal. The microphone isn’t the best, so they aren’t ideal if you also want to take many calls (it’ll work, just not crisply). Also, while Tribit has an app, it’s not as feature-rich or polished as Soundcore or JLab (but it does allow some EQ adjustment and firmware updates). As a relatively lesser-known brand, support may not be as robust, but generally they have good reviews for customer service. Given the IPX8, they could also double as a headphone to wear even in the shower after a game (some athletes do that). In context of Pitch Call Pro: they’ll reliably deliver your one-way comms, and you could outfit two catchers with MoveBuds for about the price of one premium set, which is very appealing for budget-limited programs.

Honorable Budget Mentions:

  • Skullcandy Push Active: Around $50-80, earhook design with 10h battery and Tile tracking. Connectivity is decent (BT 5.2) and it’s very sport-oriented. Not as polished sound as others, but a viable cheap earhook.

  • EarFun Free Pro 2: In-ear buds under $60 with ANC and surprisingly good range and low latency (they support aptX Adaptive). Small and light – for coaches wanting tiny budget buds.

  • Tozo T10/T12: Very cheap (<$40) true wireless options with waterproof rating. They work, but their range and latency can be hit or miss – good backups, but if critical comms, invest a bit more for the above options to be safe.

  • Old Gen Beats/Plantronics: Sometimes you can find older models like the original Powerbeats Pro or Plantronics BackBeat Fit 2100 on clearance. They may still do the job at a low price, but ensure battery health and consider that tech may be outdated (e.g., BT 4.2 on very old ones limiting range).

Conclusion: Whether you’re a coach needing a reliable long-range headset or a player wanting a discreet in-ear monitor for pitch calls, there are suitable options across all budgets. Prioritize Class 1 Bluetooth or known strong connectivity for the best experience with Pitch Call Pro – this ensures your one-way communications are heard clearly without dropouts. Secure fit and comfort are also key, especially for catchers who will wear these under gear. The products listed above have proven track records in similar use-cases (sports, workouts, outdoor use) and align well with the demands of baseball/softball environments. For more detailed tips and user experiences, the official Pitch Call Pro buyers guide and community feedback (as referenced) are great resources. With the right audio gear, Pitch Call Pro can significantly streamline on-field communication, and the investment in a quality headset or earbud will pay off in those tight game moments where every second and every signal counts.

Sources: The information above was compiled from product specifications, manufacturer claims, and user reviews to ensure accuracy. Key points such as Bluetooth class and range, battery life, and durability ratings were cross-verified with official product pages and trusted reviews. The Pitch Call Pro team’s own insights (Earbuds Buyer's Guide - Pitch Call Pro app — Pitch Call Pro app) helped flag certain products (like Bose) that may not perform ideally with the app’s timing. When choosing, consider these details and how they align with your specific use-case on the field. Good luck and play ball!