The Powerbeats Pro are the next logical step for Apple’s series of workout-focused earbuds. They might not be the best true wireless earbuds in Apple’s audio department now that the AirPods Pro are here, but they are Apple’s most premium play into the true workout space and are the buds we’d recommend to most workout enthusiasts.
The three things any music-listening athlete will look for in a pair of headphones are comfort, a secure fit and long-lasting battery life. With the boom in wireless technology in the past few years, you can add securely fitting ear hooks.
In terms of design, there’s a lot to like about the new Powerbeats Pro – it has a sporty look, they are unmistakably on-message with parent company Apple. They come in a swish, black charging case that’s a pleasure to open and close. It’s solid, smooth and, thanks to the magnetic catch, it won’t accidentally open up and let your earbuds spill out.
Another factor that contributes to the excellent fit is how slim the nozzle of the earbuds are – it’s smaller than a lot of other true wireless earbuds on the market and with four different ear tip options, there are still plenty of ways to get that perfect seal.
Best of all, the controls are duplicated on each earpiece, so there’s no need to remember which side does what – that could make a difference when you’re on the treadmill and every little hesitation counts.
Naturally, the wireless technology that pairs the Powerbeats Pro to your device is Bluetooth and the H1 chip that’s in charge. There are no dropouts of sound throughout our testing with the playback from each ear consistent at all times.
The PowerBeats Pro are excellent earbuds which have a few compromises caused by the large form and ear attachment.
They really sound good, have rock-solid connectivity and an excellent set of controls. They also have the same Apple magic that makes the AirPods extremely convenient to use with an iPhone or any other Apple device, which is the main advantage over other brands.
But the case is enormous, the fit won’t suit everyone, they don’t isolate that well, and forget wearing them with glasses. They’re also fairly expensive, placing them in a bracket filled with excellent true wireless earbuds. Most fitness-orientated sets are much cheaper than this.
So the PowerBeats Pro earbuds are for those who wish the AirPods offered a little isolation and held on to their ears better, particularly for exercise.
