Beats Powerbeats Pro Reviews: 7 Things You Need to Know
Credit: Digital Trends
Powerbeats Pro headphones officially became available for preorder last week and they'll start shipping this Friday, May 10. But luckily for those of us considering the new Beats headphones, some early reviewers have already written in-detail about their Powerbeats Pro experience.
Compared to Apple AirPods, Powerbeats Pro offer a number of distinct advantages. But there are some apparent caveats to their form factor and audio quality.
Here's what those early reviewers think you should know – continue reading to learn 7 Things Reviewers Want You to Know about Beats Powerbeats Pro.
You’ll Get an Excellent AirPods-like Experience
While the brand on the packaging says Beats and not Apple, prospective buyers should make no mistake: the Powerbeats Pro offer a truly AirPods-like experience.
That means it offers unparalleled convenience when you’re using it with Apple products (but only with Apple products).
The general takeaway is that Powerbeats Pro seamlessly connect to iPhones, iPads and even Macs without much input from the end user.
That’s partly because sensors detect when they’re in your ear, but Apple’s H1 chip also plays a part — and also allows for always-on Hey Siri functionality.
All of the analog controls, like volume and playback rockers, are intuitive and easy-to-use as well. Of course, they’re also compatible with Android devices, but the experience is a lot less seamless on non-Apple platforms.
The Fit Is Better...
AirPods are wildly popular, but they don’t work for everyone’s ear canals. Powerbeats Pro, on the other hand, are a bit more versatile thanks to the included interchangeable ear tips.
Put simply, these headphones are going to fit more comfortably in a wider variety of ears.
And it’ll be a snug and easy-on-the-ear fit, too. Basically all early reviewers say that Powerbeats Pro offers a comfortable fit that isn’t going anywhere. That’s due to their ear hooks, which mean that these headphones aren’t going to fall out — even during high-impact workouts or other activities.
...But They're Clunkier
While they may fit better and are more comfortable, Powerbeats Pro headphones have their own downsides when it comes to form factor.
For one, they’re quite a bit larger than AirPods. One reviewer found that she knocked them around when fidgeting with her hair purely because they stuck out quite a bit more than her AirPods.
The ear-hooks are also non-removable. And while they’re fairly unobtrusive, some reviewers note that they could still interfere with glasses or sunglasses.
On a similar note, users should probably be aware that the charging case for Powerbeats Pro isn’t as small as AirPods. In fact, it’s actually massive by comparison — it’s not the most pocketable size.
The Sound Is All-Beats...
Headphones live and die by their sound quality. But luckily, Powerbeats Pro headphones seem to deliver high-impact performance for truly wireless headphones.
Still, if you aren’t impressed by other Beats offerings, you’ll likely dislike the sound that Powerbeats Pro headphones pump out.
Beats are famous for being low-end heavy and Powerbeats Pro are no different. Still, while the bass in most tracks will appear notably boosted, the Powerbeats Pro doesn’t compromise on clarity or crispness.
More than that, Powerbeats Pro will offer much better sound isolation than AirPods, thanks to their design.
...But Sound Accuracy Could Be Better
As we just mentioned, Powerbeats Pro doesn’t skimp on sound quality. For the majority of users, they’ll deliver top-notch audio performance. But for a select subset of audiophiles who value sound accuracy in their headphones, Powerbeats Pro may miss the mark.
According to PC Mag’s in-depth review, Powerbeats Pro features “wildly sculpted” sound. That isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but it’s far from a flat audio performance. It’s a well-mixed sound signature that echoes other Beats products, but it isn’t for everyone.
Battery Life Is Excellent
There’s one area in which Powerbeats Pro headphones don't come with any caveats: battery life. This is class-leading battery life.
Beats say that Powerbeats Pro will last nine hours during normal playback. And most early reviewers agree that battery life on the headphones is excellent.
Users can also boost that up to more than 24 hours with the charging case. Although clunky, it can offer up to two full recharges when it’s fully juiced up.
It also features Beats’ Fast Fuel system, which can charge Powerbeats Pro with an extra hour-and-a-half of battery life in just 15 minutes. The charging case isn’t Qi compatible, however.
They're Expensive
Reviews are subjective, but price really isn't. Reviewers unanimously agree that Powerbeats Pro are expensive — and they may just be a bit too much money for the type of performance you’ll be getting.
There are similar options on the market for a lot less, including Apple’s own AirPods. And some of those options offer features that Powerbeats Pro headphones currently lacks. Still, if you’re a major Beats fan and have $250 to spend, you won’t be disappointed.