Beats Studio 3 vs Solo Pro: Which Beats Headphones Reign?
Choosing the right headphones can be a tough decision, especially when you’re looking at premium brands like Beats. The market is flooded with options, but two models consistently stand out: the Beats Studio3 and the Solo Pro. Both offer a sleek design and the signature Beats sound, but they cater to different needs and preferences.
This comparison dives deep into the features, performance, and overall value of the Beats Studio3 and Solo Pro. We’ll explore everything from sound quality and noise cancellation to battery life and comfort. Our goal is to help you determine which pair of Beats headphones is the perfect fit for your lifestyle.
Whether you’re a frequent traveler, a dedicated audiophile, or simply someone who appreciates great sound, understanding the key differences between the Beats Studio3 and Solo Pro is crucial. Get ready to discover which Beats headphone deserves a spot in your collection. Let the battle of the Beats begin!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | beats studio 3 | solo pro |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) | Yes | Yes |
| Transparency Mode | No | Yes |
| Chipset | Apple W1 | Apple H1 |
| Bluetooth Version | 4.0 | 5.0 |
| Battery Life (ANC On) | 22 hours | 22 hours |
| Battery Life (ANC Off) | 40 hours | 40 hours |
| Fast Fuel (5 min charge) | 3 hours playback | 3 hours playback |
| Foldable Design | Yes | Yes |
| On-Ear Detection | No | Yes |
| Water Resistance | No | No |
| Controls | Physical Buttons | Physical Buttons |
| Headphone Style | Over-Ear | On-Ear |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Noise Cancellation
- Beats Studio 3: Features Pure Adaptive Noise Canceling (Pure ANC) that actively blocks external noise. Offers a good level of noise cancellation, making it suitable for travel and noisy environments. Some users report a slight pressure sensation.
- Solo Pro: Boasts Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency mode. Provides excellent noise cancellation and a seamless transition to Transparency mode for situational awareness. ANC performance is generally considered superior to Studio3.
- Winner: solo pro
Sound Quality
- Beats Studio 3: Delivers a bass-heavy sound signature, which is characteristic of Beats headphones. Offers a decent overall sound experience, though audiophiles may find the emphasis on bass overwhelming.
- Solo Pro: Known for a more balanced sound profile compared to previous Beats models. Offers clearer highs and mids, resulting in a more refined listening experience.
- Winner: solo pro
Design & Comfort
- Beats Studio 3: Over-ear design with cushioned earcups, providing a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions. Can feel bulky for some users and may cause heat buildup over time.
- Solo Pro: On-ear design, which is more compact and portable. Some users may find the on-ear design less comfortable than over-ear headphones, especially for long periods.
- Winner: beats studio 3
Battery Life
- Beats Studio 3: Offers up to 22 hours of listening time with Pure ANC on, and up to 40 hours without. Provides a decent battery life for everyday use.
- Solo Pro: Provides up to 22 hours of listening time with ANC or Transparency on, and up to 40 hours with both turned off. Battery life is slightly better overall.
- Winner: solo pro
Portability
- Beats Studio 3: Over-ear design makes them less compact for travel, though they fold flat. Comes with a carrying case for protection.
- Solo Pro: On-ear design is more compact and easier to carry around. Folds for storage and less bulky.
- Winner: solo pro
Controls
- Beats Studio 3: Features on-ear controls for volume, track selection, and call management. Controls are generally easy to use.
- Solo Pro: Features on-ear controls, similar to the Studio3. Uses a button based system.
- Winner: Tie
Connectivity
- Beats Studio 3: Uses Class 1 Bluetooth for a strong and stable connection. Easy pairing with Apple devices.
- Solo Pro: Uses Class 1 Bluetooth for a strong and stable connection. Easy pairing with Apple devices, with the H1 chip for quick pairing and hands-free “Hey Siri” functionality.
- Winner: solo pro
Price
- Beats Studio 3: Generally more affordable than the Solo Pro, especially when on sale. A good value for its features.
- Solo Pro: Typically has a higher price point due to its advanced features and improved sound quality.
- Winner: beats studio 3
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancellation | Tie |
| Transparency Mode | solo pro |
| Comfort (Over-Ear vs On-Ear) | beats studio 3 (for over-ear preference) |
| Portability | solo pro |
| Sound Quality | Tie |
| Features | solo pro |
| Design | Tie (Subjective) |
What They Have in Common
- Active Noise Cancellation: Both the Beats Studio3 and Solo Pro feature active noise cancellation, allowing you to immerse yourself in your audio by blocking out external sounds. This is a key feature for both models.
- Apple Ecosystem Integration: Both headphones seamlessly integrate with Apple devices, offering easy pairing, switching between devices, and access to Siri. This makes them ideal for Apple users.
- Fast Fuel Charging: Both models offer Fast Fuel charging, providing several hours of playback with just a few minutes of charging. This is a convenient feature for users on the go.
- Foldable Design: Both headphones feature a foldable design, making them easy to store and transport. This portability is a key advantage for both models.
- Built-in Microphone: Both headphones include a built-in microphone for phone calls and voice commands, ensuring clear communication. This adds to their versatility.
Beats Studio 3 Vs Solo Pro Buying Guide
Comfort and Design
The Beats Studio 3 and Solo Pro offer distinct design philosophies. The Studio 3, with its over-ear design, provides a more spacious and encompassing feel, ideal for extended listening sessions. Its plush earcups and padded headband contribute to superior comfort, though it can feel warmer in hotter environments. Conversely, the Solo Pro’s on-ear design is more compact and portable, making it convenient for travel and everyday use. However, some users may find the on-ear pressure less comfortable over longer periods. Consider your preference for ear coverage and portability when making your choice.
Sound Quality and Noise Cancellation
Both models boast impressive sound quality, but with subtle differences. The Studio 3 delivers a powerful, bass-heavy sound signature, which is characteristic of Beats products, appealing to those who enjoy energetic music. Its Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) effectively blocks out ambient noise, enhancing the listening experience. The Solo Pro, while also featuring ANC, has a slightly more balanced sound profile, offering a clearer presentation of vocals and instruments. Its ANC performance is also commendable, making it suitable for noisy environments. Assess your preferred sound profile and noise cancellation needs.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is a crucial factor, and both models offer respectable performance. The Studio 3 provides a long battery life with ANC enabled, allowing for extended listening. The charging process is straightforward via a Micro-USB cable. The Solo Pro, with its on-ear design, provides a similar battery life with ANC enabled, though it also has a fast-charging feature, adding more listening time with a quick charge. The Solo Pro uses a Lightning port for charging, which could be a factor if you are in an Android ecosystem. Evaluate your daily usage and charging habits.
Connectivity and Features
Both headphones utilize Bluetooth for wireless connectivity, ensuring compatibility with various devices. The Studio 3 features the Apple W1 chip for seamless pairing with Apple devices. The Solo Pro, being a more recent release, incorporates the H1 chip, offering even faster pairing and improved performance. Both models include built-in microphones for calls and voice assistant integration. Consider your device ecosystem and desired convenience features when comparing these headphones. The Solo Pro also features a transparency mode, which is a useful feature.
Portability and Build Quality
The Solo Pro has a clear advantage in terms of portability due to its on-ear design, which allows for a more compact and foldable form factor. This makes it easier to carry in a bag or backpack. The Studio 3, while not as compact, still features a foldable design for easier storage. Both models are generally well-built, with durable materials that can withstand daily use. Assess your need for portability and the overall build quality that suits your lifestyle. Consider whether you need a carrying case.
Price and Value
The pricing of the Beats Studio 3 and Solo Pro is a crucial factor in your decision. While both are in the premium headphone category, their prices might fluctuate. The Solo Pro, often priced slightly higher, offers advanced features and a more modern design, potentially justifying the cost for some users. The Studio 3, sometimes available at a more competitive price, provides excellent value, especially if you prioritize comfort and noise cancellation. Compare the prices and consider the features each model offers to determine the best value for your needs.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy beats studio 3 If…
- You prefer over-ear headphones for a more immersive listening experience.
- You prioritize a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions.
- You are looking for a reliable and proven ANC performance.
- You prefer the classic Beats design.
Buy solo pro If…
- You prefer on-ear headphones for a more compact and portable design.
- You want Transparency mode for awareness of your surroundings.
- You value the convenience of on-ear detection to automatically play/pause music.
- You prefer the newer H1 chip for better performance and connectivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary difference between Beats Studio 3 and Solo Pro?
The main difference lies in the design: Studio 3 are over-ear headphones, offering a more comfortable and encompassing fit, while Solo Pro are on-ear, emphasizing portability and a more compact design. The Solo Pro also incorporates the H1 chip for faster pairing and a transparency mode, features not found in the Studio 3. Sound profile also differs slightly, with the Solo Pro offering a more balanced presentation.
Which headphone offers better noise cancellation?
Both headphones offer excellent noise cancellation capabilities. The Studio 3’s ANC is effective at blocking out ambient sounds, creating an immersive listening experience. The Solo Pro also has commendable ANC, and its design contributes to blocking external noise. The effectiveness of the ANC can vary depending on individual ear shape and the environment. Both are excellent choices.
How long does the battery last on each headphone?
Both the Beats Studio 3 and the Solo Pro offer impressive battery life. The Studio 3 can provide a significant amount of listening time with ANC enabled. The Solo Pro boasts a similar battery life. The exact battery life may vary depending on usage, such as volume levels and the use of the noise cancellation feature. Both offer enough battery for a day of listening.
Are the Beats Studio 3 and Solo Pro compatible with Android devices?
Yes, both the Beats Studio 3 and the Solo Pro are compatible with Android devices. They connect via Bluetooth. While the Apple W1 or H1 chips offer seamless pairing with Apple devices, the Bluetooth connection ensures compatibility with Android smartphones, tablets, and other devices. You may not experience the same quick pairing as with Apple devices, but the functionality remains.
Which headphone is better for working out?
The Solo Pro is arguably better suited for workouts due to its more compact and secure on-ear design. The Studio 3, being over-ear, may be less comfortable during intense physical activities, and its larger size might be a hindrance. The Solo Pro’s sweat-resistant design and portability make it a more practical choice. Though, neither headphone is specifically designed for intense workouts.
Does either headphone have a built-in microphone?
Yes, both the Beats Studio 3 and the Solo Pro have built-in microphones. These microphones enable you to take calls and use voice assistants such as Siri or Google Assistant. The microphones are designed to capture your voice clearly, even in noisy environments, enhancing the overall call quality. The microphone performance is generally good on both models.
What is the charging method for each headphone?
The Beats Studio 3 uses a Micro-USB charging cable, while the Solo Pro uses a Lightning cable. The Studio 3’s use of Micro-USB may be less convenient for those who have moved to newer devices. The Lightning port on the Solo Pro is compatible with Apple devices. Both headphones have fast-charging capabilities, allowing you to quickly gain listening time with a short charge.
Final Verdict
Both the Beats Studio 3 and Solo Pro offer compelling features. The Studio 3 excels in comfort and immersive noise cancellation, while the Solo Pro prioritizes portability and a more balanced sound profile. The choice depends on your priorities: over-ear comfort and affordability versus on-ear portability and advanced features. Consider your daily needs and desired sound experience carefully.
Winner: Solo Pro