We test Beats headphones and earbuds based on six key criteria. These criteria include design, sound quality, noise-canceling performance, voice-calling performance, features and value.
Design
We assess not only how comfortable the Beats fit (ergonomics) but their build quality and how well included features like touch control are implemented. We also look at water- and dust-resistance ratings, but keep in mind that only a few full-sized headphones offer water and dust protection (IP ratings). Models with a more durable build are highlighted as great picks for those who may need a set of earbuds that can withstand a heavy workout or a long trip in your work bag.
Sound quality
We evaluate sound quality and music experience by listening to a set playlist of music tracks and comparing the earbuds to top competing products in their price range. Sonic traits such as bass definition, clarity, dynamic range and how natural the headphones sound are key factors in our assessment. Some of my test tracks include Spoon’s Knock Knock Knock, Athletes of God’s Don’t Wanna Be Normal, The Doors Touch Me – Take 3, Orbital’s Dirty Rat, Taylor Swift’s Vigilante Shit, Jvke’s Golden Hour and Drake’s Passionfruit.
Noise-canceling performance
We evaluate Beats’ noise-canceling performance by wearing the headphones in the same spot indoors near a noisy HVAC unit to see how well they do at muffling lower frequencies. Then we head out to the streets of New York to test the headphones in a real-world environment where we see how they do at muffling not only street noise but people’s voices.
Extra features
Some of the best-sounding Beats headphones and earbuds aren’t loaded with features, but we do take into account what extra features are on board. These include everything from quick-access awareness to transparency modes (your music pauses and the headphones open up to the outside world so you can have a conversation) to special sound modes to ear-detection sensors that automatically pause your music when you take the headphones off your ears. We also take a look at the Beats companion app for the headphones and see how user-friendly it is with the particular model.
Voice-calling
When we test voice-calling performance, we make calls in the noisy streets of New York and evaluate how well the earbuds reduce background noise and how clearly callers can hear your voice. The best headphones and earbuds for voice calling pick up your voice clearly while significantly reducing background noise. Onboard microphones, sophisticated noise-reduction algorithms and voice accelerometers that detect when you’re speaking all factor into call quality. Plus, a sidetone feature allows you to hear your own voice when chatting with noise-isolating buds, helping you avoid talking too loudly.
Value
Beats headphones and earbuds span a wide range of price classes, from the budget-friendly $47 Beats Flex to the pricer $200 Beats Studio Pro. We determine value after evaluating the strength of the headphones against all these criteria and what the buds are able to deliver compared to other models in their price class. Great sounding, feature-packed headphones that offer a great bang for your buck earn top marks in this category.