Beats Studio 3 vs Beats Solo Pro: Which Beats Are Best?
Struggling to choose between the Beats Studio3 Wireless and the Beats Solo Pro? You’re not alone! Both headphones promise premium sound and iconic design, but which one truly reigns supreme? This in-depth comparison will help you decide which Beats headphones best fit your lifestyle and listening preferences.
We’ll delve into everything from sound quality and noise cancellation to battery life and comfort. The Beats Studio3, with its over-ear design, offers a different experience than the more compact Beats Solo Pro, an on-ear model. Get ready to discover the key differences.
Whether you’re a casual listener or an audiophile, this comparison of the Beats Studio3 vs Beats Solo Pro will provide valuable insights. We’ll break down the pros and cons of each model, helping you make an informed decision and find your perfect pair of Beats headphones.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Beats Studio 3 | Beats Solo Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) | Yes | Yes |
| Transparency Mode | No | Yes |
| Chip | Apple W1 | Apple H1 |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 4.0 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Battery Life (ANC On) | 22 hours | 22 hours |
| Battery Life (ANC Off) | 40 hours | 40 hours |
| Fast Fuel Charging | Yes (10 min = 3 hours) | Yes (10 min = 3 hours) |
| Weight | 260 grams | 267 grams |
| Folding Design | Yes | Yes |
| On-Ear Controls | Yes | Yes |
| Charging Port | Micro-USB | Lightning |
| Included Case | Soft Case | Hard Case |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Noise Cancellation
- Beats Studio 3: Offers impressive Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) that effectively blocks out ambient noise, making it ideal for travel and noisy environments. However, the ANC can sometimes affect the audio quality slightly.
- Beats Solo Pro: Features Adaptive Noise Cancellation (ANC), which adjusts to your surroundings. It provides excellent noise isolation, creating a more immersive listening experience. Some users may find the ANC performance slightly less aggressive than the Studio 3.
- Winner: Studio 3
Sound Quality
- Beats Studio 3: Delivers a balanced sound profile with a strong bass response, typical of Beats headphones. The sound quality is generally good for casual listening, though audiophiles may find it lacking in detail.
- Beats Solo Pro: Provides a more refined sound signature compared to the Studio 3, with improved clarity and a more balanced overall sound. The audio quality is better suited for various music genres.
- Winner: Solo Pro
Battery Life
- Beats Studio 3: Offers up to 22 hours of listening time with ANC on and up to 40 hours with ANC off. The battery life is respectable, but can be drained quickly with heavy use.
- Beats Solo Pro: Provides up to 22 hours of listening time with ANC or Transparency mode enabled, and up to 40 hours with these modes turned off. The battery life is competitive, but can vary depending on usage.
- Winner: Tie
Design and Comfort
- Beats Studio 3: Features an over-ear design with cushioned earcups, providing a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions. The design is classic Beats, but some users may find them bulky.
- Beats Solo Pro: Boasts an on-ear design with a foldable mechanism, making them more compact and portable. While comfortable for many, the on-ear design can cause pressure and fatigue for some users.
- Winner: Studio 3
Portability
- Beats Studio 3: Being over-ear headphones, they are less portable than on-ear options. They come with a carrying case for storage.
- Beats Solo Pro: Their on-ear design and foldable nature make them highly portable. They are easy to carry around in a bag or pocket.
- Winner: Solo Pro
Controls
- Beats Studio 3: Features physical buttons for controlling music playback, volume, and answering calls. The controls are simple and easy to use.
- Beats Solo Pro: Uses on-ear controls for music playback, volume, and call management. These controls are intuitive and responsive.
- Winner: Tie
Connectivity
- Beats Studio 3: Utilizes Bluetooth for wireless connectivity, offering a stable connection with Apple and Android devices.
- Beats Solo Pro: Offers seamless integration with Apple devices thanks to the H1 chip, including one-tap pairing and “Hey Siri” functionality. Also offers Bluetooth connectivity.
- Winner: Solo Pro
Price
- Beats Studio 3: Generally retails at a lower price point compared to the Solo Pro, making it a more budget-friendly option.
- Beats Solo Pro: Typically priced higher due to its newer technology and premium features.
- Winner: Studio 3
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Value | Beats Solo Pro |
| Noise Cancellation | Tie |
| Portability | Beats Solo Pro |
| Battery Life (ANC Off) | Beats Studio 3 |
| Design | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- Active Noise Cancellation: Both the Beats Studio 3 and the Beats Solo Pro feature active noise cancellation technology, effectively blocking out external noise for an immersive listening experience.
- Apple Ecosystem Integration: Both headphones seamlessly integrate with the Apple ecosystem, offering features like easy pairing, automatic device switching, and access to Siri.
- Fast Fuel Charging: Both models offer Fast Fuel charging, providing several hours of listening time with just a few minutes of charging.
- On-Ear Controls: Both headphones feature on-ear controls for adjusting volume, skipping tracks, and answering calls.
- Comfortable Design: Both headphones are designed for comfort, suitable for extended listening sessions.
Beats Studio 3 vs Beats Solo Pro Buying Guide
Comfort and Design
The Beats Studio 3 and Solo Pro both prioritize comfort, but in different ways. The Studio 3 features over-ear design with plush earcups, offering a spacious and enveloping feel, ideal for extended listening sessions. The Solo Pro adopts an on-ear design, which some find less bulky and more portable. However, the on-ear pressure might become uncomfortable for some users after prolonged use. Consider your preference for over-ear versus on-ear fit when deciding which is best for you. Both headphones incorporate a sleek, modern aesthetic, with a variety of colors available to suit your style.
Sound Quality and Noise Cancellation
Both headphones deliver rich and balanced sound, but with distinct characteristics. The Studio 3 utilizes Apple’s W1 chip, providing excellent noise cancellation and a slightly warmer sound profile. The Solo Pro, with its updated chip, offers enhanced noise cancellation and a more neutral sound signature, allowing for better clarity. The Solo Pro’s Transparency mode is a standout feature, enabling you to hear your surroundings without removing the headphones. Ultimately, the choice depends on your sound preference and the importance of noise cancellation for your listening environment.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is a crucial factor, and both headphones offer impressive performance. The Studio 3 boasts up to 22 hours of listening time with noise cancellation enabled, and up to 40 hours with noise cancellation off. The Solo Pro provides up to 22 hours with noise cancellation or Transparency mode on, and up to 40 hours with these features disabled. Both support Fast Fuel charging, providing several hours of playback with just a few minutes of charging. The Solo Pro edges ahead with its power-saving design, turning on and off automatically when you fold/unfold it.
Portability and Build Quality
The Solo Pro wins in terms of portability due to its on-ear design and compact folding mechanism, making it ideal for travel and everyday use. The Studio 3, while foldable, is bulkier due to its over-ear design. Both headphones feature a durable build, with a focus on premium materials. The headband and earcups are designed to withstand daily wear and tear. Consider your lifestyle and how often you’ll be on the move. Both headphones include a carrying case for added protection during transport.
Connectivity and Features
Both headphones offer seamless integration with Apple devices. The W1 chip in the Studio 3 and the H1 chip in the Solo Pro facilitate easy pairing, automatic switching between devices, and hands-free Siri activation. The Solo Pro has an edge with its improved Bluetooth 5.0, offering a more stable and reliable connection. Both headphones include on-ear controls for music playback, volume adjustment, and call management. Consider your ecosystem preferences when choosing between these two options.
Price and Value
The price point is a critical factor in any purchasing decision. Both the Beats Studio 3 and Solo Pro are premium headphones, but their pricing may vary depending on sales and retailer availability. Evaluating the features, sound quality, and battery life relative to the price is crucial. Consider your budget and your priorities. If noise cancellation is a high priority, consider the value proposition based on the price. Research current prices and compare them to your expectations before making a final decision.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Beats Studio 3 If…
- You prefer over-ear headphones for maximum comfort and sound isolation.
- You want a longer battery life in ANC off mode.
- You don’t mind the Micro-USB charging.
Buy Beats Solo Pro If…
- You prioritize a more compact and portable design.
- You want transparency mode for awareness of your surroundings.
- You prefer the Lightning charging cable.
- You value the updated H1 chip for improved performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary difference between Beats Studio 3 and Beats Solo Pro?
The main difference lies in the design: Studio 3 are over-ear, offering greater comfort for extended use but are bulkier. The Solo Pro is on-ear, providing better portability. Both provide excellent sound quality and noise cancellation, but the Solo Pro has a more neutral sound profile and enhanced noise cancellation powered by the H1 chip.
Which headphone has better noise cancellation?
The Beats Solo Pro generally offers slightly better noise cancellation. It features the H1 chip, which enhances the noise cancellation performance compared to the W1 chip found in the Studio 3. The Solo Pro’s noise cancellation is also more effective in a wider range of environments.
Which headphone is better for travel?
The Beats Solo Pro is better for travel. Its on-ear design is more compact and foldable, making it easier to pack and carry. The Solo Pro also features a power-saving design that automatically turns the headphones on/off when folded/unfolded, conserving battery life during travel.
How do the battery lives compare?
Both headphones offer impressive battery life. The Beats Studio 3 offers up to 22 hours with noise cancellation on and 40 hours with it off. The Beats Solo Pro also provides up to 22 hours with noise cancellation or Transparency mode on and 40 hours with these features disabled. Both offer fast charging capabilities.
Which headphone has a better sound profile?
This is a matter of preference. The Beats Studio 3 offers a slightly warmer sound, which some find more appealing. The Beats Solo Pro has a more neutral sound signature, providing a clearer and more accurate audio experience. Ultimately, the best sound profile depends on your individual listening habits.
Are both headphones compatible with Android devices?
Yes, both headphones are compatible with Android devices via Bluetooth. However, some advanced features, like seamless device switching, might be optimized for use with Apple devices. You can still enjoy music, make calls, and use the basic controls on Android devices.
Which headphone is more comfortable?
Comfort is subjective. The Beats Studio 3, with its over-ear design, provides a more spacious and enveloping feel, which can be more comfortable for extended listening. The Solo Pro’s on-ear design is less bulky, but the pressure on the ears might become uncomfortable for some users after extended use.
Final Verdict
Both the Beats Studio 3 and Solo Pro offer excellent sound quality, noise cancellation, and a sleek design, but their target audiences differ. The Beats Studio 3 excels in comfort and is a great choice for long listening sessions. The Beats Solo Pro is the better pick for portability, enhanced noise cancellation, and a more neutral sound profile. Consider your lifestyle and listening preferences.
Winner: Beats Solo Pro