Powerbeats Pro vs. Powerbeats Pro 2: Complete review, comparison, and ultimate guide for serious athletes.

  • The Powerbeats Pro and Pro 2 offer outstanding support and ergonomics for any sport.
  • They stand out for their powerful sound, long battery life, and sweat resistance.
  • The second generation adds a heart rate sensor, active noise cancellation, and wireless charging.

Powerbeats Pro wireless headphones

Want to enjoy the ultimate wireless sound experience while exercising or going about your daily life? The Powerbeats Pro and its updated version, the Powerbeats Pro 2, are designed for users seeking the highest audio quality, battery life, and comfort, whether during intense workouts or in everyday activities. Discover everything these renowned wireless headphones, developed by Beats in collaboration with Apple, have to offer in this comprehensive review.

Powerbeats Pro: Headphones designed for sports without compromising anything

Powerbeats Pro sports headphones

Since their launch, Powerbeats Pro have been the benchmark in the wireless headphone segment for athletes. Their flexible, ergonomic ear hook design ensures a perfect and comfortable fit over the ear, preventing them from falling out even during intense workouts such as running, cycling, CrossFit, or gym sessions.

The Powerbeats Pro's coating and construction make them sweat and water splash resistant (IPX4 certified), ensuring durability and protection in demanding environments. Their design includes interchangeable ear tips in different sizes for an optimal acoustic seal and maximum stability.

Compatibility and connectivity: Apple and Android without limitations

Bluetooth headset connectivity

The Powerbeats Pro are compatible with any device that has Bluetooth 5 or higher , whether it's an iPhone, an Android phone, a tablet, or even a laptop. They stand out for their Class 1 Bluetooth technology , which offers a wider and more stable connection range, minimizing disconnections even in busy environments. To enhance your experience, you can also check out our recommendations for the best Powerbeats Pro headphones, where we analyze top models and provide current comparisons.

If you're an Apple user, the integration is outstanding thanks to the H1 chip . This allows for instant pairing by simply bringing the open case close to your iPhone, automatic synchronization between devices within the Apple ecosystem, and Siri voice activation with the "Hey Siri" command. For Android, pairing is equally easy through the official Beats app, and you can control them with Google Assistant or Alexa depending on your phone's settings.

Professional sound quality: acoustics, bass and clear calls

Powerbeats Pro sound quality

One of the strengths of the Powerbeats Pro range is its powerful and balanced audio quality . The sound is optimized to deliver deep, defined bass, clear mids, and distortion-free highs, making it ideal for electronic music, hip-hop, and active workouts.

Its redesigned acoustics (in the second generation) allow for a wider dynamic range, greater clarity, and an immersive experience, even at high volumes. In both the original model and the Pro 2, the call experience has been improved thanks to the use of multiple microphones with ambient noise reduction technology , offering high-quality, clear hands-free calls for conversations or using smart assistants. To learn more, also check out our YouTube review of the best wireless headphone options.

For those seeking maximum concentration, the following sound characteristics stand out:

  • Powerful bass: ideal for workouts and activities that require motivation.
  • Treble without saturation: Even at high volumes, they do not produce squealing or ear fatigue.
  • Improved hands-free mode: clear calls, without annoying interference from the environment.
  • Automatic echo and wind reduction: for seamless conversations even outdoors.

Water and sweat resistance: maximum safety and durability

rugged sports headphones

Both generations are IPX4 certified , ensuring they are resistant to sweat and accidental water splashes from any direction. You can train in the rain, sweat heavily, or clean them with a damp cloth without any problems. For more details, visit our section on how to care for your sports headphones and extend their lifespan.

However, they are not designed to be submerged or used for water sports like swimming or surfing. If you're looking for waterproof headphones, there are other options on the market, but for runners, cyclists, CrossFit athletes, or gym users , this level of water resistance is ideal. The investment in quality and durability is reflected in their resistance and design.

Leading battery life: all-day battery life and ultra-fast charging

Powerbeats Pro autonomy

Battery life is another major advantage of the Powerbeats Pro. Each earbud offers up to 9 hours of continuous playback in the first generation and up to 10 hours in the Pro 2 version, more than enough for any daily workout or even several sessions.

The charging case acts as an additional portable battery, providing up to 24 hours of combined playback in the original model, and up to 45 hours in the second generation, which translates to more than a week of normal use without having to recharge the case daily.

Charging the case is as simple as connecting it via the Lightning cable (and, on the Pro 2, also via compatible Qi-compatible charging pads), ensuring convenience both at home and on the go. For the best deals, be sure to check out our recommendations for current sales and discounts.

Differences and new features: Powerbeats Pro vs. Powerbeats Pro 2

Powerbeats Pro comparison

The arrival of the Powerbeats Pro 2 represents a significant evolution from the original model, retaining all the best features and adding improvements for the most demanding users. These are the main advancements of the second generation :

  • Integrated heart rate sensor: Detects heart rate with LED optical sensors that monitor blood flow more than 100 times per second. Compatible with iOS and Android fitness apps to track your health data without relying on a smartwatch.
  • Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): It allows you to isolate yourself from your surroundings whenever you want, ideal for training in noisy environments or for traveling. It also includes transparency mode which lets ambient sound through, essential for urban runners or cyclists.
  • Improved audio and increased power: The amplifiers and drivers offer greater clarity and power, with an emphasis on bass for electronic, hip-hop or rock music.
  • Lighter and more flexible hook: Made with nickel and titanium alloy, it guarantees better fit and comfort during prolonged sessions.
  • 33% smaller housing: The charging case is now more compact, making it easier to transport.
  • Machine learning system on calls: Voice Isolation technology improves clarity during conversations by separating your voice from ambient noise.
  • Wireless charging: First Beats model compatible with Qi charging, for greater convenience.
  • Vibrant Colors: available in various finishes to suit all styles.

How to use and get the most out of your Powerbeats Pro

use of wireless headphones

To get the most out of them, we recommend checking out our recommendations on the best Powerbeats Pro headphones and their advanced settings to take advantage of features like active noise cancellation or transparency mode.

  • Easy Pairing: Open the case, bring the earbuds close to your smartphone, and follow the on-screen instructions. Pairing is automatic on iPhone. On Android, use the Beats app or the Bluetooth menu.
  • Intuitive controls: Each earbud has a “b” button to manage music, calls, and voice assistants. Independent volume controls are located on the top bridge.
  • Custom modes: By holding the “b” button, you can activate Siri or your phone’s assistant. On the Pro 2, you can quickly switch between noise cancellation and transparency mode.
  • Single Use: You can use just one earbud to maximize battery life or when you need to be aware of your surroundings.
  • Perfect adjustment: Adapt the hook to the shape of your ear and use the most comfortable ear cushion. This improves the seal, audio quality, and stability during exercise.

User Experience: Expert Opinions and Ratings

opinions on sports headphones

Most users and experts agree: the Powerbeats Pro and Pro 2 are the best option for those who prioritize a combination of sound quality, a secure fit, and long battery life during sports or active routines. To learn more, you can also check out the best deals on technology.

  • Outstanding hold: The flexible hook prevents falls even with sudden movements, something that many other headphones fail to achieve.
  • Long-lasting comfort: hypoallergenic materials, soft pads and ergonomic design.
  • Truly differential autonomy: forget the charger for several days.
  • Versatility: ideal for both training and daily use, calls or teleworking.
  • App integration: health tracking and phone search in case of loss.

headphone care and maintenance

On the downside, some first-generation users miss active noise cancellation , although the fit and passive noise cancellation already provide good isolation. Price-wise, it's also a significant investment, but justified by its quality, durability, and resistance.

Availability, price and alternative models in 2024

alternative sports headphones

The Powerbeats Pro and Pro 2 are available for purchase in Spain and much of Europe . The original model can be found for around €200 to €250, depending on the store and any special offers.

The Powerbeats Pro 2 launch price is higher, ranging from €249 to €299 depending on the retailer and the chosen colors (black, purple, orange, and other neutral or vibrant tones). While the initial investment is significant, promotions are often available at major online retailers or during special events, which can significantly reduce the cost. To take full advantage of these offers, also check out the best deals at [website/store name].

As alternatives within the Beats brand, the Beats Fit Pro also offer Apple device integration, IPX4 water resistance, noise cancellation, and a hookless design thanks to silicone fins. However, their battery life is slightly shorter (up to 6 hours per earbud). To learn more, be sure to check out our comparison of the best wireless headphones on our website.

Powerbeats Pro FAQ

  • How do they connect to iPhone, Android, and other devices? Simply open the case near your Bluetooth-enabled device and follow the instructions. Android requires the Beats app or Bluetooth menu, while iOS pairing is automatic.
  • Are they water resistant? Yes, they are IPX4 certified: sweat and splash resistant, not submersible.
  • Can they be used individually? Yes, each earbud works separately.
  • Do they integrate activity sensors? The Pro 2 adds a heart rate sensor compatible with sports apps.
  • Is there voice control? Yes, they accept commands from Siri, Google Assistant, and other assistants depending on the mobile device.
  • Do you have a search service in case of loss? Both generations can be located through Apple's Find My app.
  • Is the case compact? The Pro 2 is 33% smaller than the previous version.
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Powerbeats Pro: Full Review, Technical Features, and Real-World Opinions of the Apple and Beats Sports Headphones

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