If you want open-ear headphones that last for weeks on a single charge and handle intense sweat without slipping, choose ZKBSIAXD Open Ear; if you need waterproof bone conduction earbuds specifically designed to go underwater while swimming, choose MARLALL Liquid Silicone Swimming.
• ZKBSIAXD Open Ear: The standout strength is its massive 300-hour total battery life and secure clip-on design that stays put during vigorous movement. The trade-off is it only reaches an IPX4 water resistance rating, meaning it handles sweat and light rain but cannot be submerged. This pick is for the active commuter or runner who prioritizes all-day power and comfort over submersion.
• MARLALL Liquid Silicone Swimming: Its biggest advantage is the IP68 waterproof rating and built-in 32GB storage, allowing it to function perfectly as a standalone MP3 player underwater where Bluetooth fails. The compromise is a shorter single-charge playback time and a specific requirement to switch modes for land use. This pick is for the dedicated swimmer or triathlete who needs audio protection against deep water.
The ZKBSIAXD Open Ear headphones are engineered for people who view their audio gear as a daily companion rather than a specialized tool. The defining feature here is the sheer endurance of the battery system. With a single charge providing six hours of continuous playback and the included charging case adding another 294 hours, this device effectively eliminates the anxiety of running out of power mid-workout or during a long commute. For someone who might forget to charge their devices regularly, having a total capacity of 300 hours means they can go weeks between plugging in the case itself. This makes it an exceptionally low-maintenance option for busy lifestyles.
Comfort is equally critical, especially for those with sensitive ears or who wear glasses. The clip-on design utilizes a secure fit that accommodates various ear shapes without the pressure points often caused by in-ear buds. The combination of ABS plastic and silicone materials ensures the unit remains lightweight while gripping the ear firmly enough to survive high-intensity activities like sprinting or jumping rope. Unlike traditional earbuds that rely on a seal inside the canal, this open-ear approach allows ambient noise to pass through, which is a safety feature for outdoor runners who need to hear traffic or cyclists approaching from behind.
We compare products from their published specs and features; the verdicts below are our independent editorial opinions.
Updated: 2026-10-29 · 6 min read · Independent comparison
This product is ideal for anyone seeking the best open ear headphones for elderly users or individuals who prioritize stability and battery longevity above all else. If your primary activities include running, cycling, gym workouts, or simply navigating an office environment where you need to stay aware of your surroundings, the ZKBSIAXD model offers a robust solution. However, if your routine involves heavy sweating followed by immediate submersion in a pool, or if you require full immersion capabilities, this unit is not the right choice due to its IPX4 rating, which protects against splashes but not total water entry.
The MARLALL Liquid Silicone Swimming headphones occupy a very specific niche: aquatic sports. This level of protection means the earbuds can withstand prolonged submersion in water, making them the only viable option for lap swimming, open-water training, or any activity where the device will be fully underwater. Furthermore, the inclusion of 32GB of internal memory transforms these into a standalone music player. Since Bluetooth signals cannot travel through water, the user can load up to 8,000 songs directly onto the device and swim without needing a phone tethered nearby.
Bone conduction technology forms the core of the audio delivery here. Instead of pushing sound into the ear canal, the driver transmits vibrations through the cheekbones to the inner ear. This method keeps the ear canal completely open and dry, which is essential for hygiene and comfort during swimming. The device weighs only 22.68 grams, ensuring it does not drag down the head or cause fatigue during long training sessions. The soft, skin-tone silicone material conforms to the shape of the ear, providing a secure fit that resists the force of water and the motion of treading or kicking.
This product is the clear winner for athletes focused on swimming or triathlons. While it features Bluetooth 5.4 for terrestrial use, its true value lies in its ability to function independently underwater via the MP3 mode. It is also suitable for hikers or bikers who want the safety of hearing their surroundings while listening to music, though the lack of active noise cancellation means ambient sounds will always bleed in. If you are looking for the best sweatproof earbuds for elderly users who also enjoy occasional swimming, or simply need a durable device that can handle accidental drops in the shower, this is a strong contender. However, the battery life per charge is less emphasized in the specs compared to the ZKBSIAXD, suggesting it may require more frequent recharging for extended land-based use.
• Best for extreme battery life → ZKBSIAXD Open Ear (300 hours total vs. standard single-charge reliance).
• Best for underwater swimming → MARLALL Liquid Silicone Swimming (IP68 rating and 32GB onboard storage).
• Best for active safety awareness → Both offer open-ear designs, but ZKBSIAXD has ENC noise cancellation for clearer calls in noisy environments.
• Best for weight and portability → MARLALL Liquid Silicone Swimming (22.68g ultra-lightweight build).
• Best for call clarity → ZKBSIAXD Open Ear (features ENC algorithm to suppress background noise up to 90%).
• Best for independent music playback → MARLALL Liquid Silicone Swimming (can play stored music without a phone connection).
• Best for sweat resistance → Both handle sweat well, but MARLALL goes further with full waterproofing.
• Best for universal connectivity → ZKBSIAXD Open Ear (Bluetooth 6.0/5.4 hybrid claims and broad device compatibility).
After analyzing the specifications and intended use cases, I would personally buy the ZKBSIAXD Open Ear for general daily use. The 300-hour battery life is a game-changer that solves the most common frustration with wireless audio, and the ENC technology ensures my voice comes through clearly even when I am talking while moving. It strikes the perfect balance between security, sound quality, and convenience for the vast majority of users, including the elderly who need reliable, easy-to-use tech. However, if your primary goal is swimming, the MARLALL Liquid Silicone Swimming is the only logical choice because no other device on the market offers that specific combination of IP68 waterproofing and internal MP3 storage. For everyone else, the ZKBSIAXD is the superior all-around companion.
No, the ZKBSIAXD Open Ear headphones have an IPX4 rating, which means they are splash-proof and sweat-resistant but not designed to be submerged in water. You should stick to the MARLALL Liquid Silicone Swimming model for actual swimming.
Yes, the MARLALL Liquid Silicone Swimming headphones come with 32GB of built-in storage. When you switch to MP3 mode, you can play up to 8,000 songs directly from the device, making it perfect for swimming where Bluetooth signals do not work.
For most elderly users who exercise, the ZKBSIAXD Open Ear is likely better due to its massive battery life and secure clip-on design that prevents loss. However, if the user swims regularly, the MARLALL Liquid Silicone Swimming is necessary for safety and functionality in the pool.
The ZKBSIAXD Open Ear features an ENC (Environmental Noise Cancellation) algorithm that actively suppresses background noise for clearer calls. The MARLALL Liquid Silicone Swimming relies on bone conduction and does not list active noise cancellation features, focusing instead on keeping the ear canal open for safety.
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.