If you want a dedicated underwater companion for serious laps and pool training, choose MARLALL Swimming Headphones-Bone Conduction; if you need the ultimate all-day driver for commuting with extended battery life and superior call clarity on land, choose Boytond Open Ear Earbuds.
• MARLALL: The undisputed king of waterproofing with an IP68 rating and built-in 32 GB storage for MP3 mode underwater, but it sacrifices Bluetooth connectivity while submerged.
• Boytond: Delivers an impressive 50-hour total battery life with a charging case and premium 16.3mm drivers for rich stereo sound, though it lacks true submersion capabilities.
• Who buys which: Choose MARLALL if your primary workout involves deep water or heavy sweat where durability is non-negotiable; pick Boytond if you are a commuter or runner who needs seamless connectivity and long-lasting audio without constant recharging.
The MARLALL S800 is not designed to be a general-purpose listener's device; it is an engineering marvel built specifically for the aquatic environment. Its core identity revolves around its IP68 waterproof rating, which goes beyond simple splash resistance to offer full protection against immersion in water, salt, and chlorine. This makes it the ideal choice for swimmers who refuse to compromise their playlist during a lap session. The device features a lightweight design weighing only 22.68 grams, constructed from premium liquid silicone that conforms to the ear without creating pressure points. This ensures that even after hours of wear in the pool, the headphones remain comfortable and secure, resisting damage from repeated exposure to harsh environments.
A critical feature for the serious swimmer is the internal 32 GB MP3 memory. Because Bluetooth signals cannot transmit through water, this model includes a dedicated MP3 mode that allows you to store music directly on the device. You can bypass the need for a phone in the locker room entirely. Simply load your favorite tracks onto the unit via the included magnetic charging cable and dive in. The bone conduction technology keeps your ears open, ensuring you remain aware of your surroundings even in the water, which is a vital safety feature for open-water swimming or crowded lanes. While it supports Bluetooth 5.4 for use on land with stable connections up to 10 meters, its true strength lies in its ability to function as a standalone underwater player.
We compare products from their published specs and features; the verdicts below are our independent editorial opinions.
Updated: 2026-10-27 · 6 min read · Independent comparison
However, this specialization comes with specific trade-offs. If you are looking for a headphone that offers high-fidelity stereo separation comparable to sealed in-ear models, the bone conduction driver will deliver a different experience focused on openness rather than isolation. Furthermore, while the microphone is present for calls, the manufacturer explicitly advises drying it thoroughly after any swim to prevent issues. This product is strictly for those who prioritize waterproof durability and underwater functionality over general audio fidelity. It is perfect for the athlete who spends more time underwater than on dry land, but it may feel like overkill for someone who only swims occasionally.
The Boytond S30i Ultra Open Ear Earbuds are engineered for the person who lives their life on the move. Unlike the MARLALL, which is tethered to the pool, the Boytond is designed for the commute, the gym floor, and the hiking trail. Its defining characteristic is the "ultra-open" ergonomic clip-on design that hangs securely over the ear without sealing the canal. This design choice prioritizes ventilation and situational awareness, making it exceptionally comfortable for long durations. Whether you are navigating a busy city street or running a marathon, the open ear placement allows you to hear traffic, announcements, and conversations without needing to remove the device. This is a crucial safety factor for anyone using these earbuds while active outdoors.
Where the Boytond truly outshines the competition is in its energy architecture. With a single charge delivering 10 hours of playback and a charging case adding another 40 hours, the total 50-hour lifespan is a game-changer for commuters. You simply do not need to think about charging every night. The inclusion of fast-charging technology means that a mere five-minute charge provides an hour of listening, perfect for those rushed mornings when you forget to plug in. The audio performance is driven by 16.3mm dynamic drivers, which aim to provide a realistic stereo experience with clear instrument and vocal reproduction. Combined with Bluetooth 5.3, the connection remains stable within a 33-foot range, ensuring your music stays uninterrupted even if you leave your phone behind in the locker.
This product is tailored for the user who values versatility and battery longevity above all else. The touch controls allow for easy management of tracks and calls without fumbling for a device. However, because it is not rated for submersion like the MARLALL, it is not suitable for swimming. The waterproof design mentioned in its specs refers to resistance against sweat and rain, not immersion. If your routine includes daily commutes where you might encounter sudden downpours or intense sweating during workouts, this is a robust solution. It is the ideal choice for professionals and fitness enthusiasts who need a reliable audio partner that lasts all week without draining their anxiety about battery life.
• Best for underwater use → MARLALL Swimming Headphones-Bone Conduction: Only this model supports Bluetooth-free MP3 playback while fully submerged due to its IP68 rating.
• Best for battery life → Boytond Open Ear Earbuds: The 50-hour total capacity with a charging case eliminates the need for frequent charging during the work week.
• Best for audio fidelity → Boytond Open Ear Earbuds: The 16.3mm dynamic drivers offer a richer stereo experience compared to standard bone conduction transducers.
• Best for weight and comfort → MARLALL Swimming Headphones-Bone Conduction: At just 22.68 grams, it is incredibly light and designed specifically to avoid pressure points during extended wear.
• Best for calling quality → Boytond Open Ear Earbuds: The advanced drivers and precise sound capture create a face-to-face communication experience ideal for office calls.
• Best for safety awareness → Both: Both utilize open-ear designs to keep you connected to your environment, but the Boytond is optimized for dry-land traffic awareness.
• Best for connectivity range → Boytond Open Ear Earbuds: Supports a 33-foot range with Bluetooth 5.3, offering slightly more distance stability than the MARLALL's 10-meter limit.
• Best value for swimmers → MARLALL Swimming Headphones-Bone Conduction: The built-in 32 GB storage removes the need to carry a phone into the pool.
In my opinion, the Boytond Open Ear Earbuds are the superior choice for most people, particularly for commuting. While the MARLALL is an incredible niche tool for swimmers, the Boytond offers a level of versatility and endurance that fits a modern lifestyle better. The 50-hour battery life alone changes how I interact with my devices, removing the daily charge anxiety that plagues other wireless earbuds. For the average buyer who needs reliable audio for travel, the gym, and the office, the Boytond delivers a more balanced package with better sound drivers and a secure fit that won't slip during movement. I would buy the Boytond because it adapts to my day rather than forcing me to adapt my day to a specific sport.
Neither product features active noise cancellation (ANC). They both use open-ear designs to let ambient sounds in for safety, which is generally preferred for safe commuting in traffic.
No, the MARLALL does not support Bluetooth underwater. You must switch to the MP3 mode using the built-in 32 GB storage to listen while submerged.
The Boytond offers significantly longer battery life with up to 50 hours total including the case, whereas the MARLALL is designed for shorter, intense sessions and requires recharging more frequently.
The MARLALL includes a one-year warranty description, while the Boytond explicitly supports a 365-day no-reason return and warranty service for added peace of mind.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon and affiliated sites.
When you buy through links on this page, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon or its affiliates. This site is an independent third-party review and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Amazon or the product brands mentioned.