In the bustling world of wireless audio accessories, the competition is fierce, with brands vying for consumer attention. Apple, through its Beats subsidiary, offers a range of products that cater to audiophiles and casual listeners alike. The Powerbeats Pro, released in May 2019, has become a notable player in this market. While it stands out as bulkier than Apple’s iconic AirPods, it boasts superior sound quality and performance. In this comprehensive review, we will delve into the design, performance, battery life, connectivity, and overall value of the Beats Powerbeats Pro.
Design and Build Quality
When it comes to design, the Beats Powerbeats Pro adopts a distinct style that sets it apart from its sibling, the AirPods. The first thing you’ll notice is the size – these earphones are noticeably larger and bulkier, designed primarily for athletic performance and extended wear. Their in-ear style ensures a secure fit, which is essential for active users.
Ergonomics and Comfort
The Powerbeats Pro includes customizable ear tips, which come in multiple sizes to ensure a snug and comfortable fit for different ear shapes. The earhooks contribute to their stability during movement. Whether you're jogging, cycling, or working out, these earphones provide the necessary hold without compromising comfort.
Weighing in at just 0.53 ounces (15.2 grams) per earbud, they manage to keep the bulk to a minimum despite their robust design. In contrast, AirPods weigh a mere 0.14 ounces (4 grams) each, leading to a perception of lightness that many users appreciate. However, the added bulk of the Powerbeats Pro is a trade-off for better sound isolation and comfort during prolonged use.
Durability
Another important feature is the sweat and water resistance rating. The Powerbeats Pro has an IPX4 rating, making them resistant to sweat and splashes from any direction. This level of durability is crucial for athletes and anyone who enjoys listening to music while engaging in physical activities.
Sound Quality
One of the standout features of the Powerbeats Pro is undoubtedly its sound quality. While the AirPods provide decent sound for casual listening, the Powerbeats Pro offers a more immersive audio experience.
Audio Performance
The Powerbeats Pro is equipped with 9.2mm dynamic drivers, delivering rich bass and crisp highs. The sound profile is balanced, with a slight emphasis on bass, which is ideal for those who prefer genres like hip-hop, EDM, and rock. This punchy low-end response enhances the overall listening experience, making every beat more pronounced.
In practical terms, listening to a song like "Lose Yourself" by Eminem will give you that powerful bass drop that makes you feel every note. In contrast, the AirPods tend to provide a more neutral sound, which may appeal to some users but lacks the depth that the Powerbeats Pro delivers.
Noise Isolation and Transparency Mode
In addition to sound quality, the Powerbeats Pro excels in noise isolation. The in-ear design, combined with the right ear tips, forms a tight seal that prevents external noise from intruding on your audio experience. This is particularly beneficial when using them in bustling environments or during workout sessions where motivation is key.
Unlike the AirPods, which offer a transparency mode allowing ambient sounds to filter in, the Powerbeats Pro focus more on isolating your sound experience. While this might be a drawback for users who want to maintain awareness of their surroundings, it serves those who prefer an uninterrupted listening session.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is a critical factor for any wireless earbud, and the Powerbeats Pro does not disappoint. With a substantial 9-hour battery life on a single charge, these earbuds outlast the AirPods significantly, which offer around 5 hours of playtime.
Charging Case
Furthermore, the included charging case can extend the battery life to up to 24 hours. It is worth mentioning that the case is bulkier than that of the AirPods, yet it provides a significant increase in playtime. A quick 5-minute charge can provide up to 1.5 hours of playback, which is perfect for those on-the-go moments.
In a world where battery life is a common concern for wireless accessories, the Powerbeats Pro stands out as a reliable option for users who don't want to be tethered to a charging cable.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Equipped with the Apple H1 chip, the Powerbeats Pro offers seamless connectivity with Apple devices. Pairing is quick and easy, thanks to the one-step setup process, which is particularly appealing for Apple users.
Multi-Device Connectivity
One of the H1 chip's key features is its ability to connect to multiple devices simultaneously. This means you can quickly switch between your iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch without needing to disconnect and reconnect. In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, the convenience of not fumbling with wires or settings is a notable advantage.
Compatibility with Non-Apple Devices
For non-Apple users, the Powerbeats Pro still functions well, although some advanced features may not be accessible. Nevertheless, they remain fully functional with Android devices and can still deliver impressive sound quality and battery life.
Controls and Features
The Powerbeats Pro features on-ear controls for easy access to music playback and calls. The buttons are well-placed, allowing users to adjust volume, skip tracks, and answer calls without having to reach for their devices.
Voice Assistant Integration
Additionally, the earbuds support hands-free "Hey Siri" activation, enabling users to access their voice assistant without manual input. This hands-free operation is particularly useful during workouts or when your hands are occupied.
Pricing and Value
When considering a purchase, pricing is always a pivotal factor. The Powerbeats Pro is priced higher than AirPods, reflecting its premium sound quality and additional features. As of this writing, the Powerbeats Pro retails at approximately $249, whereas AirPods start around $159.
However, for music lovers and fitness enthusiasts, the added investment in sound quality and battery life can be worthwhile.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Beats Powerbeats Pro stands as a formidable contender in the wireless earbud market. While its bulkier design may not appeal to everyone, the enhanced sound quality, excellent battery life, and secure fit for active users make it an appealing choice. The blend of comfort, connectivity, and durability solidifies its place as an ideal companion for athletes and music enthusiasts alike. If you prioritize sound quality over a sleek form factor and are willing to invest in your listening experience, the Powerbeats Pro is an option worth considering.
FAQs
1. Are Powerbeats Pro worth the price? Yes, the Powerbeats Pro offers superior sound quality, exceptional battery life, and durability, making them a worthwhile investment for music lovers and fitness enthusiasts.
2. How do Powerbeats Pro compare to AirPods in sound quality? The Powerbeats Pro delivers richer bass and a more balanced sound profile compared to the AirPods, which have a more neutral sound.
3. Can I use Powerbeats Pro with Android devices? Yes, Powerbeats Pro can be used with Android devices, although some features like the "Hey Siri" command will not be available.
4. Is the charging case for Powerbeats Pro bulkier than AirPods? Yes, the charging case for Powerbeats Pro is larger and bulkier compared to that of AirPods, but it offers more battery life.
5. How long does the battery last on Powerbeats Pro? The Powerbeats Pro provides up to 9 hours of playback on a single charge, with an additional 24 hours available via the charging case.