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Best Beats Headphones and Earbuds in 2025: Every Model Tested
We tested every pair of Beats so you know which ones are worth it.
October 1, 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
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- Compare tableProductVotes
- 0 total votes0 total votes
$159
7.1
5.0
8.0
8.0
6.5
7.0
5.0
9.0
6.3
8.0
7.8
- 0 total votes0 total votes
$199
6.8
6.6
0.0
6.6
4.2
5.0
9.0
7.0
10.0
7.6
8.2
- 0 total votes0 total votes
$99
6.7
2.8
4.8
8.0
6.9
7.0
5.0
9.2
5.2
6.3
8.5
- 0 total votes0 total votes
$249
6.6
6.9
8.3
8.0
7.0
7.0
5.0
8.0
0.0
9.0
8.0
- 2 total votes2 total votes
$350
6.5
4.3
7.9
4.6
6.0
4.4
8.5
7.7
9.8
8.8
2.9
- 1 total votes1 total votes
$169
6.4
6.7
8.0
7.8
6.4
5.3
5.0
9.4
7.2
5.0
4.5
- 0 total votes0 total votes
$80
5.9
7.5
0.0
6.0
7.0
6.9
5.0
9.5
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?
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Best overall pick: Beats Fit Pro
Beats Fit Pro are compact workout earbuds that blend iPhone-friendly H1 integration and personalized Spatial Audio with practical features like active noise canceling, automatic ear detection, and an intuitive ear-tip fit test. The Fit Pro use Bluetooth 5.0 with SBC and AAC for stable connections across iOS and Android, and the case charges via USB-C (no wireless charging). Battery performance is about six hours with ANC on and roughly 24 hours total with the case, and a five-minute charge yields about 60 minutes of playback. The wing-tip design keeps the buds secure during activity, though the housing can press on outer ears and become uncomfortable after longer sessions. Overall, the Fit Pro balance workout-ready fit, useful software features, and reliable connectivity for many Beats fans.
Sourced from Beats Fit Pro review – SoundGuys.
Best ANC pick: Powerbeats Pro 2
Powerbeats Pro 2 are engineered for workouts, combining a secure hook design and five silicon ear-tip sizes to lock in a tight seal. They use the Apple H2 chip for deep iPhone integration (instant pairing, automatic switching, hands-free Siri) and add heart-rate monitoring that works during workouts. Active Noise Cancelling is a headline feature here, reducing external noise by an average of about 83% while offering a capable transparency mode when you need awareness. The hooks can cause some pressure after extended wear, and Android users will rely on the Beats app for customization. This model also earned recognition as 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
Beats Studio Pro deliver a balanced sound signature and include a rare USB DAC for higher-fidelity wired listening, and our MDAQS charts show a high overall score (4.8) that underlines their audio strengths. The headphones offer effective ANC across a broad frequency range and returned over 31 hours of battery life in testing. Fit is mixed: small ear cups and a stiff headband can create pressure that limits comfortable listening time for some users, and the physical buttons are noticeably loud inside the cups. They fold for portability and support Bluetooth, 3.5mm, and USB-C wired modes. The Studio Pro also earned recognition as Best Over-Ear Headphones.
Sourced from Beats Studio Pro review – SoundGuys.
Best Battery Life pick: Beats Solo 4
Beats Solo 4 stand out for exceptional battery life, lasting 84 hours and 18 minutes in our 75 dBSPL test and making them ideal when long runtime is a priority. They fold for compact storage and include both USB-C and 3.5mm wired listening options so you can keep listening even when the battery runs low. As an on-ear design, they struggle with fit and pressure on the outer ear, which limited comfortable listening in longer sessions, and they do not include active noise canceling. Controls use a clickable “b” button and Android users can use the Beats app for firmware updates and some customization. The Solo 4’s longevity and wired fallback are its defining strengths.
Sourced from Beats Solo 4 review – SoundGuys.
Best for Comfort pick: Beats Studio Buds
Beats Studio Buds prioritize comfort with a featherweight design (about 5g per bud) and three sizes of silicone ear tips that help most listeners achieve a good seal. They include ANC and transparency modes plus IPX4 water resistance, and their Bluetooth 5.2 connection with AAC/SBC supports both iOS and Android. Battery life with ANC on is modest — around four and a half hours per bud in our continuous tests — but Fast Fuel provides a quick boost from a short charge. The Studio Buds omit automatic ear detection and trade deep iOS-only integration for broader cross-platform ease. Their lightweight fit and simple controls make them a solid choice where comfort and portability matter.
Sourced from Beats Studio Buds review: Android and Apple-friendly – SoundGuys.
Best for Android users pick: Beats Solo Buds
Beats Solo Buds are ultra-portable earbuds that favor Android users with straightforward pairing and full use of the Beats app for customization. The tiny case fits easily in pockets but doesn’t contain a battery to recharge the buds, so total runtime is limited to the earbuds’ single-charge endurance, which tested at about 17 hours and 24 minutes. They use Bluetooth 5.3 with AAC/SBC, but lack ANC and any sweat or dust resistance, and the physical buttons require a hard press that can be uncomfortable. Despite those trade-offs, the Solo Buds pair quickly and provide decent passive isolation thanks to a snug fit, making them a practical, low-profile option for everyday use.
Sourced from Beats Solo Buds review – SoundGuys.
Our verdict
We picked the Beats Fit Pro as the best overall for buyers who want a compact, workout-ready pair of earbuds with H1 integration, reliable Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, ANC, and practical fast-charge behavior; they strike a balance between features and everyday usability. The Powerbeats Pro 2 are the go-to for serious athletes who need the most effective ANC plus a secure hook fit and heart-rate monitoring, while the Beats Studio Pro answer the needs of listeners who prioritize sound quality and wired USB-C DAC capability. Solo 4 shines if you need the longest possible wireless runtime and wired fallback, though its on-ear fit can be uncomfortable for extended listening. Studio Buds are the most comfort-focused true wireless option here, trading some battery runtime for a light, well-sealed fit, and Solo Buds fit Android-first shoppers who want tiny, pocketable earbuds with long single-charge life but without ANC.
Across this Beats lineup — covering wireless earbuds, on-ear and over-ear wireless headphones, and wired options — we see distinct choices for different priorities: fit and workout features, battery life, sound quality and wired listening, or compact Android-friendly convenience.
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.
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