Picking wireless earbuds these days is not easy since there are so many choices out there.
But if you like Beats headphones, which are now owned by Apple, you have three main options: the Studio Buds, the Fit Pro, and the Powerbeats Pro.
Each of these earbuds has its own special features and capabilities. Which one is best for you depends on what you need and what you prefer.
This review will look closely at all three Beats earbuds to help you decide which ones to get.
The Advantage of Beats Earbuds
When looking at all the different earbuds you can buy, it’s good to know why Beats might be a great choice, even when you think about Apple’s AirPods.
The main things that make Beats stand out are how they fit and how they sound. AirPods don’t fit everyone’s ears well, but Beats earbuds are made to fit more comfortably for lots of people.
Also, if you love hearing deep bass in your music, Beats earbuds make sure you get that strong bass sound.
This makes them really good compared to other earbuds from brands like Sony and Bose, especially because they work so smoothly with iPhones.
Beats Studio Buds vs Fit Pro vs Powerbeats Pro: Specs Comparison
| Feature | Studio Buds | Fit Pro | Powerbeats Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancellation | Yes | Yes | No |
| Transparency Mode | Yes | Yes | No |
| Chip | Custom | Apple H1 | Apple H1 |
| Hey Siri Support | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| In-Ear Detection | No | Yes | Yes |
| Case Wireless Charging | No | No | No |
| Case Wired Charging | USB-C | Lightning | Lightning |
| Colors Available | Black, White, Beats Red | Black, Gray, Purple, White | Black, Lava Red, Navy, Ivory, Cloud Pink, Glacier Blue |
| Price | $149.99 | $199 | $249.95 |
| Battery Life (ANC on) | 5 hours | 6 hours | N/A |
| Total Battery Life with Case | 24 hours | 27-30 hours | More than 24 hours |
Comparing the Contenders
Design and Charging
Cases and Portability: The Studio Buds and Fit Pro come with standard-sized cases, making them pocket-friendly and convenient for on-the-go users.
In contrast, the Powerbeats Pro’s case is bulkier due to its ear hook design, making it more suitable for storage in a gym bag than a pocket.
Charging: The Studio Buds and Fit Pros support USB-C charging, whereas the Powerbeats Pro relies on a Lightning connector. None of the cases offer wireless charging, which might be a downside for some users.
Battery Life: The Powerbeats Pros lead in battery life, primarily because they lack active noise cancellation (ANC), unlike the other two models.
Earbud Design and Comfort
Fit Pro: Feature a wingtip design for secure fit but might become uncomfortable after prolonged wear due to constant pressure.
Powerbeats Pro: Utilize an ear hook design, offering exceptional comfort and security, ideal for intense workouts.
Studio Buds: Have a standard fit similar to other earbuds on the market, but lack autoplay/pause functionality when removing or inserting the buds.
Sound Quality and Controls
Beats earbuds are synonymous with bass, and these models live up to that reputation.
They offer a bass-heavy sound profile that’s particularly energizing during workouts, though they may fall short in mid-range clarity compared to competitors like AirPods Pro.
Physical multimedia buttons, including volume rockers on the Powerbeats Pros, enhance user experience with tactile feedback.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Transparency Mode
While the Studio Buds and Fit Pros feature ANC and transparency mode, their performance in noise cancellation is not on par with leading competitors like the AirPods Pro 2nd Gen.
The Powerbeats Pros lack ANC altogether but offer decent passive noise isolation.
Microphone Quality
Microphone performance varies across environments, with all models performing adequately in quiet settings but struggling to maintain clarity in noisier environments.
This aspect might not be a deal-breaker for everyone but is worth considering for those who plan to use their earbuds for calls frequently.
Connectivity and Ecosystem Integration
The Fit Pros and Powerbeats Pros come equipped with Apple’s H1 chip, facilitating seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, including easy switching between devices. This feature is particularly appealing for users with multiple Apple devices.
Final Thoughts
Studio Buds: Priced at around $150, these earbuds offer a good balance of style, sound quality, and convenience, albeit with less impressive ANC. They represent a solid choice for users willing to sacrifice top-tier noise cancellation to save money.
Fit Pro: At $200, they strike a balance between functionality and price, excelling in fitness scenarios with their secure wingtip design. However, the mediocre ANC might deter some users.
Powerbeats Pro: As the most expensive option at $250, these are tailored for intense workouts, providing unmatched ear security but lacking in ANC. Their bulkier design and higher price point are justified if you prioritize workout performance over convenience and noise cancellation features.
Also see: Edifier NeoBuds Pro vs Sony LinkBuds S: Which is Best?
Nick, the Co-founder of Earbuds Arena, is a seasoned freelance tech journalist with over ten years of experience covering wearables, apps, headphones, and gadgets. When he’s not immersed in the tech world, you’ll likely find him unwinding with video games, going for a run, or enjoying a game of soccer on the field.
