Beats Studio Buds vs Beats Studio Buds Plus: Which Wins?
Are you torn between the Beats Studio Buds and the newer Beats Studio Buds Plus? You’re not alone. Both sets of earbuds promise a premium audio experience, but understanding their differences is key to choosing the right pair for your needs. This comparison will break down everything you need to know.
We’ll dive deep into the design, sound quality, features, and overall value of both the Beats Studio Buds and Beats Studio Buds Plus. We’ll explore how each model performs in various scenarios, from your daily commute to intense workout sessions. Get ready to discover which earbuds reign supreme.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of each model. We’ll help you determine whether the upgrades in the Beats Studio Buds Plus are worth the extra investment, or if the original Beats Studio Buds still hold their own. Let’s get started!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Beats Studio Buds | Beats Studio Buds Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Chip | Apple H1 | Apple H1 |
| Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) | Yes | Yes |
| Transparency Mode | Yes | Yes |
| Spatial Audio | No | No |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IPX4 |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.3 |
| Charging Case | USB-C, Wireless Charging (optional) | USB-C, Wireless Charging |
| Battery Life (Earbuds) | Up to 8 hours (ANC off) | Up to 9 hours (ANC off) |
| Battery Life (with Case) | Up to 24 hours | Up to 27 hours |
| Weight (per earbud) | 5.1 grams | 5.4 grams |
| Fast Fuel (5 min charge) | 1 hour playback | 1 hour playback |
| Available Colors | Black, White, Red | Black, White, Transparent, Ivory |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design and Fit
- Beats Studio Buds: Compact and lightweight design with a stemless, in-ear fit. Comes with three sizes of silicone ear tips for a customizable fit. Some users find the fit not as secure during workouts.
- Beats Studio Buds Plus: Maintains a similar stemless design but offers improved comfort and a more secure fit. Includes four sizes of ear tips, including a new, smaller size. More comfortable for extended wear.
- Winner: beats studio buds plus
Sound Quality
- Beats Studio Buds: Delivers balanced sound with decent bass and clarity. Lacks some of the detail and precision found in higher-end earbuds. Good for casual listening.
- Beats Studio Buds Plus: Improved sound profile with enhanced clarity, richer bass, and better overall detail. Offers a more refined listening experience.
- Winner: beats studio buds plus
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Beats Studio Buds: Provides decent ANC, effectively reducing moderate background noise. Not as powerful as some competitors in this price range.
- Beats Studio Buds Plus: Significantly improved ANC performance, blocking out more external noise. Offers a more immersive listening experience in noisy environments.
- Winner: beats studio buds plus
Transparency Mode
- Beats Studio Buds: Offers a transparency mode to hear your surroundings, but it can sound slightly artificial.
- Beats Studio Buds Plus: Enhanced transparency mode, providing a more natural and clearer sound of your surroundings.
- Winner: beats studio buds plus
Battery Life
- Beats Studio Buds: Up to 5 hours of listening time with ANC on (up to 8 hours without). The charging case provides an additional 15 hours of battery life.
- Beats Studio Buds Plus: Improved battery life. Up to 6 hours of listening time with ANC on (up to 9 hours without). The charging case offers an additional 18 hours of battery life.
- Winner: beats studio buds plus
Charging and Case
- Beats Studio Buds: Comes with a compact charging case that charges via USB-C. Case lacks wireless charging.
- Beats Studio Buds Plus: Same USB-C charging case as the original. No wireless charging.
- Winner: Tie
Call Quality
- Beats Studio Buds: Delivers acceptable call quality in quiet environments. Performance can suffer in windy or noisy conditions.
- Beats Studio Buds Plus: Improved call quality with enhanced voice pickup and noise reduction. Clearer calls even in challenging environments.
- Winner: beats studio buds plus
Price
- Beats Studio Buds: Typically available at a slightly lower price point. Often available on sale.
- Beats Studio Buds Plus: Generally more expensive than the original Studio Buds.
- Winner: beats studio buds
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Sound Quality | Beats Studio Buds Plus |
| Battery Life | Beats Studio Buds Plus |
| Features | Beats Studio Buds Plus |
| Value | Beats Studio Buds |
| Design | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- Design: Both the Beats Studio Buds and Studio Buds Plus share a similar compact, in-ear design with a focus on a comfortable and secure fit. They both lack the stem found on many other true wireless earbuds.
- Active Noise Cancellation (anc) and Transparency Mode: Both models feature Active Noise Cancellation to block out external noise, as well as Transparency mode, which allows you to hear your surroundings.
- Water Resistance: Both earbuds are rated IPX4 for sweat and water resistance, making them suitable for workouts and light rain.
- Apple H1 Chip: Both models utilize the Apple H1 chip for seamless pairing with Apple devices, easy switching between devices, and hands-free “Hey Siri” functionality.
- Charging Case: Both models come with a compact charging case that extends battery life. The case charges via USB-C.
Beats Studio Buds vs Beats Studio Buds Plus Buying Guide
Design and Comfort
Both the Beats Studio Buds and the Studio Buds Plus share a similar design philosophy, focusing on a compact and lightweight build. This makes them ideal for extended listening sessions and portability. The Studio Buds Plus, however, introduce subtle refinements in fit and finish, potentially offering a slightly more secure and comfortable experience for some users. Consider your ear shape and preferences when choosing, as fit is subjective and impacts sound quality and noise isolation. Both come with multiple ear tip sizes for a customized fit.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is a crucial factor. The Beats Studio Buds offer a balanced sound signature that is generally well-received. The Studio Buds Plus aim to improve upon this with enhanced clarity and a wider soundstage. The Studio Buds Plus also features improved drivers and acoustic architecture, leading to better overall audio performance, especially in the mids and highs. If sound fidelity is a top priority, the Studio Buds Plus likely offer a more refined listening experience, but both are suitable for various music genres.
Noise Cancellation and Transparency
Noise cancellation (ANC) performance is a key differentiator. While both models offer ANC, the Studio Buds Plus boast significant improvements in this area. They are more effective at blocking out external noises, making them better for noisy environments like public transport or busy offices. The transparency mode allows you to hear your surroundings without removing the earbuds. The Studio Buds Plus also refines the transparency mode, providing a more natural and less processed sound of your environment.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is an important consideration for frequent users. The Studio Buds Plus often provides a longer battery life compared to the original Studio Buds, especially with ANC enabled. Both models come with a charging case that provides additional battery life on the go. Charging times are relatively similar for both models. Consider your typical usage patterns and charging habits when evaluating battery life, as it varies depending on ANC usage and volume levels.
Microphone and Call Quality
The quality of the microphone is crucial for calls. The Studio Buds Plus generally offer improved microphone performance compared to the original Studio Buds. This leads to clearer voice transmission during calls, even in environments with background noise. The Studio Buds Plus often has enhanced wind noise reduction capabilities. If you frequently make calls, the Studio Buds Plus are likely a better choice, ensuring clearer communication for both you and the person you’re speaking with.
Price and Value
Price is a significant factor. The original Beats Studio Buds are generally available at a lower price point, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The Studio Buds Plus, with its enhanced features and performance, comes at a higher price. Evaluate your budget and the importance of each feature when deciding. Consider whether the improvements in sound quality, ANC, and battery life justify the higher cost of the Studio Buds Plus. Assess the value proposition based on your needs.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Beats Studio Buds If…
- You’re looking for a more affordable option.
- You want a compact design without stems.
- You want reliable ANC and Transparency modes.
- You prefer a smaller charging case.
Buy Beats Studio Buds Plus If…
- You prioritize improved sound quality and clarity.
- You want longer battery life.
- You value a more refined design with enhanced features.
- You want a charging case with more battery life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between Beats Studio Buds and Beats Studio Buds Plus?
The primary differences lie in improved sound quality, enhanced noise cancellation, and extended battery life with the Beats Studio Buds Plus. The Plus model generally offers a more refined listening experience, along with better performance in noisy environments, and longer usage times. The Studio Buds Plus usually has a more robust feature set.
Do both models offer noise cancellation?
Yes, both the Beats Studio Buds and the Studio Buds Plus include active noise cancellation (ANC). However, the Studio Buds Plus features upgraded ANC technology, providing superior noise isolation. This makes the Plus model ideal for blocking out more external sounds like traffic or conversations, creating a more immersive listening experience.
How is the battery life different between the two?
The Studio Buds Plus generally offers slightly improved battery life compared to the original Studio Buds. With ANC enabled, the Studio Buds Plus often provide a longer listening time. The exact duration depends on usage, but the Plus model aims to provide longer use between charges, making it suitable for longer trips or extended use.
Are the designs of the two models different?
The design of both models is very similar, focusing on a compact and lightweight build. Both share a similar aesthetic, making them easy to carry and wear. The Studio Buds Plus might have subtle refinements in the fit and finish, but the overall design language remains consistent, ensuring a comfortable experience.
Which model has better call quality?
The Studio Buds Plus typically offers better call quality. Its microphone system is enhanced, leading to clearer voice transmission during calls. It often has improved wind noise reduction, making it a better choice for making calls in varied environments. The Plus model prioritizes clear communication.
Does the Studio Buds Plus support spatial audio?
The Beats Studio Buds Plus, like the original Studio Buds, does not natively support spatial audio on all devices. However, compatibility may vary depending on the connected device and its operating system. Check the device’s specifications for spatial audio support before purchasing to ensure compatibility and immersive listening.
Which model is best for working out?
Both models are suitable for workouts, but the Studio Buds Plus might be slightly better due to its improved fit and more secure design. The sweat-resistant design is included in both models. Consider your activity level and the need for a very secure fit when deciding which model is best for you.
Final Verdict
The Beats Studio Buds Plus emerges as the superior choice due to its enhanced sound quality, superior noise cancellation, and extended battery life. While the original Beats Studio Buds offer a compelling value proposition, the improvements in the Plus model justify the price difference for users seeking a premium listening experience. The refinements in microphone quality and overall performance make the Studio Buds Plus a more versatile and enjoyable option.
Winner: Beats Studio Buds Plus