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We test Beats headphones and earbuds based on six key criteria. These standards include design, Sound quality, Noise cancellation performance, Voice call performance and features and value.
design
We evaluate not only the fit of the Beats (ergonomics) but also their build quality and how well built-in 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 protection from water and dust (IP ratings). Models with more durable construction are highlighted as great choices for those who may need a set of Earbuds that can handle heavy workouts Or a long trip in your work bag.
Sound quality
We evaluate the sound quality and music experience by listening to a selected playlist of music tracks and comparing the earbuds to the best competing products in their price range. Audio attributes such as bass definition, clarity, dynamic range, and how natural the headphones sound are key factors in our evaluation. 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 cancellation 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 muffle low frequencies. Then we head to the streets of New York to test the headphones in a real-life environment where we see how well they mute people’s voices, not just street noise.
Additional features
Some of the best-sounding Beats headphones and earbuds don’t have features, but we take note of the extra features on board. This includes everything from quick access awareness to transparency modes (pauses the music and opens the headphones to the outside world so you can have a conversation) to private sound modes to ear detection sensors that automatically pause the music when you remove the headphones from your ears. We also take a look at the Beats app that comes with the headphones and see how easy it is to use with the particular model.
Voice calling
When we test voice calling performance, we take calls on noisy New York streets 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 clearly pick up your voice while dramatically reducing background noise. Built-in microphones, advanced noise reduction algorithms, and accelerometers that detect when you’re talking all factor into call quality. Additionally, Sidetone lets you hear your voice when chatting with noise-cancelling headphones, helping you avoid talking too loudly.
value
Beats headphones and earbuds cover a wide range of price categories, starting with the budget-friendly category $47 beats the Flex To the price $200 Beats Studio Pro. We determine the value after evaluating the strength of the headphones against all these criteria and what the headphones are able to offer compared to other models in their price category. Great, feature-packed headphones that offer great value for your money get top marks in this category.