All products featured are independently chosen by us. However, SoundGuys may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links. See our ethics statement.
Best Beats Headphones and Earbuds in 2025: Every Model Tested
We tested every pair of Beats so you know which ones are worth it.
November 7, 2025
Adam is an Editor at SoundGuys specializing in gaming headsets, flagship headphones, and earbuds. A lifelong fan of video games and cinema, he brings a sharp ear and passion for immersive sound to every review. Beyond hardware, Adam writes thought-provoking features and opinion pieces that explore how audio tech shapes our lives. Armed with a BA in Cognitive Science, he pairs technical insight with a love for music’s psychological uplift. At home, he still rocks his original Sennheiser MOMENTUM over-ears, switches to Bose QuietComfort Ultra on flights, and relies on Galaxy Buds2 Pro while out and about.
Beats launched in 2008 and quickly became famous for their bold, bass-heavy sound and stylish design. Since Apple acquired the brand in 2014, the tuning has matured into a more balanced profile, while still keeping the energy and punch that made Beats popular in the first place. Today, Beats headphones and earbuds are especially appealing for iPhone users thanks to seamless integration with Apple devices, though Android users will miss out on some advanced features.
We’ve tested every current pair of Beats headphones and earbuds, and in this guide you’ll find our results, scores, and recommendations to help you choose the best model.
Compare table
Filter
- Compare tableProductVotes
- 1 total votes1 total votes
$200
7.2
6.3
8.2
8.0
6.0
7.0
9.0
5.0
6.7
8.0
8.0
- 0 total votes0 total votes
$159
7.1
5.0
8.0
8.0
6.5
7.0
9.0
5.0
6.3
8.0
7.8
- 0 total votes0 total votes
$199
6.8
6.6
0.0
6.6
4.2
5.0
7.0
9.0
10.0
7.6
8.2
- 0 total votes0 total votes
$99
6.7
2.8
4.8
8.0
6.9
7.0
9.2
5.0
5.2
6.3
8.5
- 0 total votes0 total votes
$249
6.6
6.9
8.3
8.0
7.0
7.0
8.0
5.0
0.0
9.0
8.0
- 2 total votes2 total votes
$350
6.5
4.3
7.9
4.6
6.0
4.4
7.7
8.5
9.8
8.8
2.9
- 1 total votes1 total votes
$169
6.4
6.7
8.0
7.8
6.4
5.3
9.4
5.0
7.2
5.0
4.5
- 0 total votes0 total votes
$80
5.9
7.5
0.0
6.0
7.0
6.9
9.5
5.0
0.0
7.0
8.0
Product chart
In the chart above, you can see how each of the headphones compares in terms of price and performance.
To gather information about how well each of the earbuds and headphones work, we subject each product to a number of objective tests. We use a Bruel & Kjaer 5128 acoustic measurement system to test headphones and earbuds in our SoundGuys lab. The ear canal of the artificial head was created by averaging and smoothing 3D models of individual ear canal features from the MRI scans of 40 different people.
We perform the following testing to determine the best headphones and best earbuds:
- We run sequences to determine the best fit of the headphones, and if there are any manufacturing issues with the product.
- We measure the headphones’ performance and compare the frequency response to our industry-validated SoundGuys Headphone Preference Curve to give context to readers.
- To rate sound quality, we use the Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Scores (MDAQS) algorithm from HEAD acoustics. These are virtual mean opinion scores as calculated by a powerful machine learning model based on the input of real listeners.
- We play several samples of shaped noise over loudspeakers to test noise canceling and record with our artificial head. We take samples with ANC on, ANC off, and with the headphones off the head. After subtracting the appropriate curves from each other, we can see how well the headphones block out noise.
- To evaluate microphone quality, we play pre-recorded spoken Harvard sentences from a calibrated artificial mouth in our test chamber, either with or without simulated background noises, simulated reverberant spaces, or artificial wind.
- To measure battery life, we play back music through the headphones or earbuds peaking at 75dB(SPL), a safe and realistic listening level.
In addition to objective testing, our team of audio experts uses each of the headphones and earbuds to evaluate the experience of using the product. By wearing the headphones in day-to-day use, we evaluate the comfort, noting any pain points. We also make sure to try out each of the features that the headphones have to offer, such as using the equalizer in the companion app.
Using a combination of subjective and objective testing, we score each product. To learn more about how we evaluate headphones and earbuds, check out our in-depth explainer on how we test.
Here at SoundGuys, we’ve been testing audio products for over a decade. Our team comprises audio product experts who have tested hundreds of different headphones, earbuds, and speakers. Moreover, our team comes from diverse backgrounds and a wealth of expertise, including audio engineering, film production, journalism, podcasting, music production, and even touring musicians.
Everything we recommend results from our objective measurements and great subjective experiences. Ultimately, we want you to enjoy your purchase or, at the very least, leave our site with a little more knowledge about the inner workings of audio. To see why you can trust us with your purchase decision, make sure to check out our ethics policy.
Most Beats headphones come wireless, but not all wireless standards are created equal. Owing to the company’s status as an Apple subsidiary, most Beats headphones and earbuds are firmly locked in to using AAC as its main codec for audio applications.
A codec is how two devices communicate with each other. Think of it like a language that needs to be spoken by one device and understood by another. All devices speak SBC, which is the most basic codec, and from there, things get messy. Mainly due to the fact that different companies prefer different codecs. Sony has LDAC, Qualcomm has aptX (and soon aptX Adaptive, which has the potential to be the best one so far), and companies like Apple use AAC. This should never enter your mind as something to worry about, but if you have an older Android phone, there could be some minor issues.
Poll
Which is the best Beats product right now?
Videos
Best overall pick: Beats Fit Pro
Beats Fit Pro pairs a secure wing‑tip design with an intuitive ear tip fit test that helps you find a proper seal for workouts. We appreciate that it includes active noise canceling, onboard button controls, automatic ear detection, and the H1 chip that enables Spatial Audio on iPhone. In our testing the earbuds delivered about six hours of playback with ANC on and roughly 24 hours total with the case, plus a five‑minute charge that yielded around 60 minutes of playback. The case uses USB‑C but lacks wireless charging, and some users may feel pressure from the housing after roughly 90 minutes of wear. That combination of workout‑ready security, cross‑platform compatibility, and solid battery life makes the Fit Pro our Best overall pick.Sourced from Beats Fit Pro review – SoundGuys.
Best Battery Life pick: Beats Solo 4
Beats Solo 4 delivers exceptional battery life, surviving our test for 84 hours and 18 minutes. It can also play wired via either USB‑C or the included 3.5mm cable, which keeps you listening if the battery runs low. As typical for on‑ear designs, the Solo 4 can place pressure on your outer ears and become uncomfortable after about an hour and a half. They do not include active noise canceling, so isolation relies on fit and leaves them less effective in noisy commutes. If battery longevity is your priority in a compact, foldable on‑ear, the Solo 4 is a strong choice.Sourced from Beats Solo 4 review – SoundGuys.
Best for Comfort pick: Beats Studio Buds
Beats Studio Buds are featherweight 5g true wireless earbuds that come with three sizes of silicone tips to help most users achieve a snug fit. Their IPX4 rating and compact case make them easy to carry for workouts and daily use, and the clickable buttons are more reliable than touch controls. Noise cancellation is middling and they lack automatic ear detection, but the lightweight build keeps them comfortable for extended wear. Battery life with ANC on measured slightly below average in our tests, but the case remains very portable. All of this adds up to the Studio Buds being our Best for Comfort pick among Beats’ true wireless options.Sourced from Beats Studio Buds review: Android and Apple-friendly – SoundGuys.
Best ANC pick: Powerbeats Pro 2
Powerbeats Pro 2 bring a hook design built for secure workouts and now include Active Noise Cancelling that reduced ambient noise by an average of 83% in our measurements. They also add heart‑rate monitoring on the earbuds and use the Apple H2 chip for seamless iPhone connectivity and automatic switching. Five sizes of ear tips and a wrap‑around hook keep the buds from slipping, and the IPX4 rating stands up to sweat. Battery life is strong as well, with up to 10 hours on a single charge and about 45 hours total with the charging case. The Powerbeats Pro 2 also earned recognition for Best Value, Best Call Quality, and Best for iPhone users.Sourced from Powerbeats Pro 2 review: Are these the best workout earbuds of 2025?.
Best Sound Quality pick: Beats Studio Pro
Our MDAQS charts and ratings show the Beats Studio Pro with a strong overall score of about 4.8 and a balanced sound signature that emphasizes clear highs and decent bass. The headphones also include a USB DAC for wired listening and three EQ presets when using USB‑C, which adds flexibility for higher‑fidelity sources. ANC performance is effective—varying with fit—and the battery lasted about 31 hours and 25 minutes in our test. However, small ear cups and a stiff headband can make long listening sessions uncomfortable for some users, and the physical buttons are loud inside the cups. That combination of strong measured sound quality and features makes the Studio Pro our Best Sound Quality pick, and it also earns a nod as Best Over‑Ear Headphones.Sourced from Beats Studio Pro review – SoundGuys.
Best for Android users pick: Beats Solo Buds
Beats Solo Buds are tiny earbuds with a very pocketable case and Bluetooth 5.3 that pairs smoothly with Android devices via the Beats app. They automatically pre‑pair with nearby Android phones and the app lets you customize controls and manage updates. Battery life is strong at about 17 hours and 24 minutes on a single charge, but the case lacks its own battery so you can’t recharge the buds on the go. The Solo Buds aren’t water resistant and their hard‑press buttons can be uncomfortable, so they’re better suited to casual daily use than sweaty workouts. All told, their compact portability and Android‑friendly pairing make them our Best for Android users pick.Sourced from Beats Solo Buds review – SoundGuys.
Our verdict
Across Beats’ recent wireless earbuds and headphones released within the past several years, we found options tailored to different uses. For compact workout earbuds that balance iPhone features and ANC, Beats Fit Pro is our go‑to, while Powerbeats Pro 2 emphasize a more secure hook fit, stronger ANC, and onboard heart‑rate monitoring for athletes. If marathon battery life is your primary need, the Solo 4 stands out among the on‑ear options, whereas the Studio Buds prioritize comfort and portability for students and everyday carry. The Studio Pro delivers the best measured sound on our MDAQS scale and adds a USB DAC for wired listening, but its smaller ear cups and a stiff headband reduce long‑wear comfort for some listeners.
The Solo Buds are the smallest and most Android‑friendly option but sacrifice case charging and water resistance, and the Studio Buds sit between compact comfort and only average ANC. All six products in this Beats selection appear in the picks above, so no reviewed item from this set was left out of our recommendation coverage.
Yes, for many people. Beats are known for their bass-forward sound, sleek design, and seamless integration with Apple devices. They’ve improved in audio quality and features since Apple’s acquisition, adding options like active noise cancellation and spatial audio. While audiophiles may prefer more neutral-sounding brands, Beats remain a great choice if you value style, strong bass, and easy connectivity.
Yes, Beats is owned by Apple. This acquisition allowed Apple to integrate Beats products with its ecosystem, leading to features like the H1 and H2 chips, which enhance the user experience, especially for Apple device users.
Yes, Beats connect over Bluetooth to any device. However, some advanced features like instant pairing, automatic device switching, and spatial audio tuning are limited to Apple devices.
Beats headphones generally support SBC and AAC over Bluetooth. Some higher-end models (like the Studio Pro) include USB-C digital audio with a DAC, enabling lossless playback. Beats do not support LDAC or aptX over Bluetooth, so listeners who prioritize high-res wireless codecs may want to explore other brands.
At the very beginning of the Beats brand, most options the company offered were incredibly bassy. That’s no longer the case, as the brand has been releasing headphones and earphones with a much more reasonable sound profile for a while now.
The Powerbeats Fit are okay workout earbuds, but the lack of durability and hooks for a secure fit means they aren't our top choice.
Yes, Android users can use the Powerbeats Fit with the Beats app.
Thank you for being part of our community. Read our Comment Policy before posting.