Solo Pro vs Solo 3: Which Beats the Beats?
Choosing the right headphones can be a challenge, especially with so many options vying for your attention. If you’re considering Beats headphones, you’ve likely come across the Solo Pro and the Solo3 Wireless. Both promise a premium audio experience, but which one truly delivers the best value and performance?
This comparison delves into the key differences between these two popular models. We’ll explore their design, sound quality, battery life, and special features to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a casual listener or an audiophile, understanding the nuances of the Solo Pro vs Solo 3 is crucial.
Get ready to discover which Beats headphone reigns supreme in this in-depth analysis. We’ll break down the pros and cons of each, ensuring you know exactly which pair best suits your needs and preferences. Let’s dive in and find out which headphone wins!
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | solo pro | solo 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) | Yes | No |
| Transparency Mode | Yes | No |
| Chipset | Apple H1 | Apple W1 |
| Fast Fuel Charging | Yes | Yes |
| On-Ear Controls | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth Class | Class 1 | Class 1 |
| Foldable Design | Yes | Yes |
| Headphone Type | On-Ear | On-Ear |
| Case | Soft Case | Hard Case |
| Weight | 267 grams | 215 grams |
| Audio Sharing | Yes | No |
| Charging Port | Lightning | Micro USB |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Solo Pro: Features Pure ANC, effectively blocking out external noise for immersive listening. Offers a Transparency mode to hear surroundings. A significant advantage for focused listening but can impact battery life.
- Solo 3: Does not have active noise cancellation. Relies on passive noise isolation from the on-ear design, which is less effective in noisy environments. Provides a more open listening experience.
- Winner: solo pro
Sound Quality
- Solo Pro: Delivers a balanced sound signature with a focus on clarity and detail. Features Beats’ signature tuning, which can be bass-heavy for some listeners. Generally well-regarded for its audio performance.
- Solo 3: Known for its punchy bass, which is a hallmark of the Beats brand. Less refined than the Solo Pro, with a less balanced sound. Suits listeners who prefer a bass-forward sound profile.
- Winner: solo pro
Battery Life
- Solo Pro: Offers up to 22 hours of listening with ANC or Transparency enabled and up to 40 hours with ANC and Transparency off. Includes fast fuel charging for quick power boosts. Battery life is good but can be less with ANC enabled.
- Solo 3: Provides up to 40 hours of listening on a single charge. Doesn’t have ANC, contributing to its longer battery life. Lacks the fast-charging capabilities of the Solo Pro.
- Winner: solo 3
Design and Comfort
- Solo Pro: Features an on-ear design with a foldable construction and rotating earcups. Offers a more premium feel with better materials. Some users find the on-ear design less comfortable than over-ear headphones.
- Solo 3: Uses the same on-ear design as the Solo Pro, with a foldable construction. Comfort can vary depending on ear size and shape. Known for its durability.
- Winner: solo pro
Connectivity
- Solo Pro: Includes Apple’s H1 chip for seamless pairing with Apple devices and “Hey Siri” voice assistant functionality. Offers improved Bluetooth connectivity and range. Apple-centric features are a significant advantage for Apple users.
- Solo 3: Also includes Apple’s W1 chip for easy pairing with Apple devices. Lacks the advanced features of the H1 chip, such as hands-free “Hey Siri”. Connectivity is still reliable.
- Winner: solo pro
Portability
- Solo Pro: Foldable design makes it easy to store and transport. Comes with a carrying case for added protection. Designed for on-the-go use.
- Solo 3: Similar foldable design, making them easy to carry. Includes a soft carrying case. Just as portable as the Solo Pro.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- Solo Pro: Generally more expensive due to its advanced features like ANC and the H1 chip. Reflects the premium features offered.
- Solo 3: Usually available at a lower price point, making it a more budget-friendly option. A good value for its features.
- Winner: solo 3
Controls
- Solo Pro: Features intuitive physical controls on the earcups for music playback, call management, and volume adjustment. Easy to learn and use.
- Solo 3: Similar physical controls on the earcups. Provides easy access to controls.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Noise Cancellation | solo pro |
| Transparency Mode | solo pro |
| Chipset | solo pro |
| Value | solo 3 |
| Battery Life (without ANC) | solo 3 |
| Features | solo pro |
What They Have in Common:
- Sound Quality: Both headphones deliver the signature Beats sound profile, emphasizing bass and clarity for an engaging listening experience. They both provide a similar level of audio fidelity.
- Comfort: Both offer on-ear designs with cushioned ear cups for comfortable listening sessions. The design is generally comfortable, although some users may find on-ear headphones less comfortable than over-ear designs.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Both headphones utilize Bluetooth for wireless connectivity, allowing for easy pairing with smartphones, tablets, and other devices. They both provide a stable and reliable wireless connection.
- Apple Ecosystem Integration: Both integrate seamlessly with the Apple ecosystem, offering features like easy pairing, automatic device switching, and Find My support (location tracking). This is a major advantage for Apple users.
- Fast Fuel Charging: Both headphones offer fast charging capabilities, providing several hours of listening time with just a few minutes of charging. This is useful for users who need a quick power boost.
Solo Pro Vs Solo 3 Buying Guide
Comfort and Fit
The Solo Pro boasts an over-ear design, which generally offers superior comfort for extended listening sessions compared to the on-ear design of the Solo 3. Over-ear cups fully enclose the ear, reducing pressure points. The Solo Pro often features plusher earcups and a more adjustable headband, contributing to a more comfortable fit for various head sizes and shapes. The Solo 3, while lightweight, can cause discomfort after longer use due to the direct pressure on the ears. Consider your usage habits, as the Solo Pro is the better choice for long listening periods.
Sound Quality and Noise Cancellation
The Solo Pro incorporates active noise cancellation (ANC), a feature absent in the Solo 3. This significantly enhances the listening experience, especially in noisy environments. ANC effectively blocks out ambient sounds, allowing you to focus on your music or calls. While the Solo 3 delivers decent sound quality, it lacks the advanced noise isolation capabilities of the Solo Pro. The Solo Pro’s drivers are also tuned to a higher fidelity and produce a well-balanced sound profile compared to the Solo 3.
Battery Life and Charging
The Solo Pro excels in battery life, providing significantly longer playback with ANC enabled compared to the Solo 3. The Solo 3, while offering a reasonable battery life, is outperformed by the Solo Pro. The Solo Pro also incorporates a fast-charging feature, which quickly replenishes the battery. This is a crucial advantage for users who need a quick power boost. The Solo 3 may take a longer time to charge from zero.
Portability and Design
Both headphones are designed for portability, but there are subtle differences. The Solo Pro folds for compact storage, and its over-ear design might be bulkier in some cases. The Solo 3 is on-ear and more compact, making it easier to slip into a bag. Design aesthetics are subjective, with both headphones available in various colors. Consider where you will primarily use the headphones – the Solo 3 is generally a more compact option for travel due to the on-ear design.
Connectivity and Controls
Both headphones offer easy pairing with Apple devices, but the Solo Pro offers some advanced features. The Solo Pro features on-ear controls for volume, track selection, and call management. The Solo 3 also has integrated controls, but the Solo Pro often provides a more intuitive and responsive experience. The Solo Pro also supports voice assistant integration, allowing for hands-free control. Check the control schemes to see which suits your usage preferences best.
Price and Value
The Solo Pro typically carries a higher price tag than the Solo 3, reflecting its advanced features like ANC and over-ear design. Evaluate your budget and listening needs. If noise cancellation and extended comfort are crucial, the Solo Pro is worth the investment. However, if you are looking for a more affordable option and don’t need ANC, the Solo 3 presents good value. The Solo 3 is a great option for those looking for a budget-friendly option with good sound quality.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy solo pro If…
- You prioritize active noise cancellation to block out distractions.
- You want Transparency mode to hear your surroundings when needed.
- You desire the latest Apple H1 chip for seamless integration and features.
- You want a more premium build quality.
Buy solo 3 If…
- You don’t need active noise cancellation and want to save money.
- You prefer a slightly more affordable option.
- You prioritize a longer battery life without ANC enabled.
- You want a hard carrying case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between Solo Pro and Solo 3?
The primary difference lies in the features and design. The Solo Pro boasts active noise cancellation (ANC), over-ear design for more comfort, and a longer battery life. The Solo 3 lacks ANC and has an on-ear design. The Solo Pro has advanced features, while the Solo 3 focuses on affordability and portability. Consider your need for noise cancellation and desired comfort for your choice.
Does the Solo Pro have better sound quality than the Solo 3?
While sound quality is subjective, the Solo Pro’s drivers and ANC technology contribute to a potentially more refined listening experience. The Solo Pro aims for balanced audio, while the Solo 3 delivers a vibrant sound. The Solo Pro has a more nuanced sound profile. However, both deliver a satisfying audio experience.
How long does the battery last on the Solo Pro and Solo 3?
The Solo Pro typically offers significantly longer battery life, especially with ANC enabled. The Solo 3 provides a decent battery life, but the Solo Pro can last much longer. The Solo Pro can provide up to 22 hours with ANC enabled. The Solo 3 typically offers around 40 hours of playback without ANC.
Are the Solo Pro and Solo 3 comfortable for long listening sessions?
The Solo Pro, with its over-ear design, tends to be more comfortable for extended use. The Solo 3, being on-ear, can cause discomfort after longer periods due to pressure on the ears. The Solo Pro generally offers better comfort due to its design. Consider the pressure points and your usage habits for the best option.
Do the Solo Pro and Solo 3 offer noise isolation?
The Solo Pro features active noise cancellation (ANC), providing excellent noise isolation. The Solo 3 lacks ANC but offers passive noise isolation through its ear cups, though it is not as effective. The Solo Pro’s ANC is a significant advantage in noisy environments. The Solo 3 provides some noise isolation, but the Solo Pro provides a superior experience.
Which headphone is better for travel?
Both are portable, but the Solo 3’s on-ear, more compact design might make it slightly better for travel. The Solo Pro, being over-ear, may take up more space. The Solo 3 is generally more compact. Consider the bulk and your storage preferences. Both are designed for portability, but the Solo 3 is often preferred for on-the-go use.
Which headphone is better for phone calls?
Both headphones offer integrated microphones for phone calls. The Solo Pro, thanks to its ANC, tends to provide better call clarity in noisy environments. The Solo 3 also works well, but the Solo Pro may offer a superior experience. The Solo Pro is better for phone calls in noisy environments due to its ANC capabilities.
Final Verdict
The Solo Pro emerges as the superior choice, offering a premium listening experience with its active noise cancellation, superior comfort, and extended battery life. While the Solo 3 remains a viable option for those on a tighter budget, the Solo Pro’s advanced features and performance make it the clear winner for most users. The Solo Pro provides a more immersive and enjoyable listening experience.
Winner: Solo Pro