Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means I earn a commission when you make a purchase through affiliate links on this site, at no extra cost to you.
Table of Contents
Powerbeats Pro 2 Review: Unboxing and First Impressions
The anticipation was palpable as I carefully opened the sleek, compact box containing the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2. The jet-black earbuds, nestled within their surprisingly small charging case, immediately impressed with their premium feel. Unlike some competitors like the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2, which sometimes feel a bit plasticky, the Powerbeats Pro 2 exude a sense of solid, high-quality construction. The weight is noticeably lighter than its predecessor, a welcome improvement for extended wear during workouts, something I appreciate since I often use earbuds like the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 for my daily runs. The inclusion of five different ear tip sizes ensures a comfortable and secure fit, even during intense activity. Initial impressions suggest that Beats has truly addressed feedback regarding the fit and comfort of the original Powerbeats Pro. The earhooks themselves feel more flexible and less rigid, adding to the overall comfort level. The case, also a substantial improvement over the previous model, feels significantly smaller and more pocketable, and includes a welcomed addition of Qi wireless charging that some competitors such as the Bose QuietComfort Ultra are also starting to include.
One immediate point of comparison arises between these earbuds and the Bose QuietComfort Ultra. While both earbuds offer exceptional noise cancellation, the packaging and unboxing experience present a different aesthetic. The Bose option adopts a more minimalist presentation style. The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 unboxing feels more premium in its presentation. The design emphasizes a more bold look with the jet-black color scheme making it pop out of the package. This is something worth noting.
The initial pairing process with my iPhone was seamless, taking only seconds thanks to Apple’s one-touch pairing functionality. I was quickly able to access and customize the audio settings via the Beats app, adjusting the equalizer to my preferences and exploring the various features like Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode. These initial interactions indicate a user-friendly interface.
The inclusion of a heart rate monitor within the earbuds is an intriguing feature, though it’s not yet clear how effectively it tracks during different workout intensities, and certainly a differentiator from other earbuds such as the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2. This integration alone has peaked my interest enough to move to the next section, exploring the sound quality in detail. What is truly captivating is how effectively these earbuds feel when worn; that’s the focus of the next section of this review.
Powerbeats Pro 2 Sound Quality: A Deep Dive into Audio Performance
Building on the positive first impressions of the Powerbeats Pro 2’s build quality and initial setup, let’s now delve into the heart of the audio experience. The seamless pairing and intuitive app interface hinted at a refined listening experience, but how does the sound quality actually stack up against competitors like the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra?
The Powerbeats Pro 2 delivers a surprisingly rich and balanced sound profile. Unlike some earbuds that overemphasize bass at the expense of clarity, these earbuds achieve a satisfyingly powerful low-end without muddying the mids and highs. The bass is deep and punchy, ideal for genres like hip-hop and electronic music, yet remains controlled and doesn’t overwhelm other frequencies. The mid-range is clear and detailed, allowing vocals to shine through without getting lost in the mix. Highs are crisp and bright, adding sparkle and detail to the overall sound without becoming harsh or sibilant. This balance creates a versatile listening experience suitable for a wide range of musical genres. I found myself appreciating the nuanced details in acoustic tracks, as well as the punchy energy in more upbeat songs—a marked improvement over my previous experiences with earbuds such as the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 which tended to favor a more emphasized bass response.
The Powerbeats Pro 2’s Adaptive EQ plays a significant role in optimizing the sound. This feature dynamically adjusts the audio based on what you’re hearing, ensuring a consistent and enjoyable listening experience across different volume levels and environments. I compared this with the Bose QuietComfort Ultra‘s adaptive EQ and found that while both offered impressive dynamic adjustments, the Powerbeats Pro 2 seemed to offer slightly more nuanced adjustments to maintain consistency across different volume levels and environmental conditions. The overall audio fidelity and detailed precision felt superior to that of the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2, while lacking the slightly warmer overall audio profile of the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4. The overall listening experience with the Powerbeats Pro 2 was ultimately more pleasing due to its better dynamic range and less overpowering bass response.
Furthermore, the inclusion of Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking enhances the immersive quality of the listening experience. This feature creates a three-dimensional soundscape, providing a more realistic and engaging audio presentation compared to traditional stereo sound. While not as overtly dramatic as some dedicated spatial audio systems, the effect is noticeable and adds to the overall enjoyment of music and other audio content. This places the Powerbeats Pro 2 ahead of competitors like the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 in terms of immersive audio technologies.
The next section will explore the Powerbeats Pro 2’s noise cancellation and transparency mode, comparing its performance to that of the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II.
Powerbeats Pro 2 Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode: A Comparison with Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II
Following our exploration of the Powerbeats Pro 2’s impressive sound quality, let’s now examine its noise cancellation and transparency mode capabilities. These features are crucial for a premium listening experience, particularly in varied environments. How do they compare to a direct competitor like the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II, a well-regarded option in the noise-cancelling earbud market?
The Powerbeats Pro 2 boasts what Beats claims is their best-performing Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) yet. In practice, this translates to a significant reduction in ambient noise, effectively muffling the distractions of a busy commute or a crowded office. The ANC effectively diminishes low-frequency sounds like engine rumbling and construction noise, allowing for focused listening even in challenging auditory environments. While the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II also provides excellent noise cancellation, the Powerbeats Pro 2 feels slightly more effective at attenuating lower frequencies, providing a quieter overall listening experience. This difference is especially noticeable when compared with the less effective noise cancellation found in earbuds like the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2.
Complementing the ANC is the Powerbeats Pro 2‘s Transparency mode. This feature allows you to selectively hear your surroundings without removing the earbuds, useful for maintaining situational awareness while listening to music or taking calls. The transparency mode on the Powerbeats Pro 2 offers a natural and balanced sound profile for ambient audio, accurately conveying the subtleties of conversations and other environmental cues. While the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II also features a transparency mode, many users prefer the naturalness of Powerbeats Pro 2’s implementation. In my experience, the Bose system sometimes sounds slightly amplified and less natural, while the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2‘s Transparency mode lags in overall fidelity compared to both the Powerbeats Pro 2 and the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II.
The effectiveness of both ANC and Transparency mode on the Powerbeats Pro 2 is further enhanced by the inclusion of the Apple H2 chip. This chip contributes to the earbuds’ overall responsiveness, ensuring a smooth and seamless transition between these modes. The difference in chip technology between the Powerbeats Pro 2 and competitors such as the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 is quite substantial, resulting in a noticeably more fluid user experience.
The next section will shift our focus to the Powerbeats Pro 2’s fit and comfort, comparing its secure design to other sports earbuds designed for workouts.
Powerbeats Pro 2 Fit and Comfort: Secure Fit for Workouts Compared to Other Sports Earbuds
Continuing from the discussion of noise cancellation and transparency, a crucial aspect of any earbud, especially for active use, is the fit and comfort. The Powerbeats Pro 2, designed with intense workouts in mind, excels in this area. The initial unboxing revealed the thoughtfully engineered earhooks and multiple ear tip sizes, suggesting a comfortable and secure fit, even during high-impact activities.
Unlike some competitors that prioritize a sleek design over secure fit, the Powerbeats Pro 2’s earhooks are specifically designed to stay locked in place throughout your workout. This is a significant advantage over earbuds like the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2, which, while comfortable for casual listening, can sometimes feel loose during more vigorous activities. The Powerbeats Pro 2’s design, enhanced with a reinforced nickel titanium alloy earhook, provides phenomenal flexibility and grip—a feature noticeably absent in earbuds such as the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4, which are generally better suited to everyday use than intense exercise. The 20% lighter weight compared to the original Powerbeats Pro further contributes to long-lasting comfort, even during extended workout sessions. This weight reduction significantly minimizes ear fatigue, something I experienced with the Bose QuietComfort Ultra during long runs.
Furthermore, the inclusion of five different ear tip sizes ensures a personalized fit catered to various ear shapes and sizes. This thoughtful detail allows for a secure seal, which not only enhances comfort but also contributes to improved noise cancellation and audio quality. This contrasts with some competitors who may offer only a limited selection of ear tips, potentially restricting their suitability for a broader audience. For instance, while the Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds provide exceptional noise cancellation, their ear tip selection is not as extensive, possibly hindering their ability to provide a completely customized fit for all users.
The secure fit provided by the Powerbeats Pro 2 is a significant advantage for anyone who uses earbuds during workouts. The secure grip and comfortable design allows for focused exercise, enhancing user experience. The combination of comfort and secure fit sets the Powerbeats Pro 2 apart, making them a worthy contender among sports earbuds. The next section will discuss the impressive battery life and charging capabilities of the Powerbeats Pro 2.
Powerbeats Pro 2 Battery Life and Charging: 45-Hour Playtime Compared to Competitors like Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2
Following our examination of the Powerbeats Pro 2’s comfortable and secure fit, let’s turn our attention to a critical aspect of any wireless earbud: battery life. The Powerbeats Pro 2 boasts an impressive claim of up to 45 hours of total playtime, combining the earbuds’ battery with that of the included charging case. This is a significant selling point, particularly for users who value extended listening sessions, especially during extended workouts or commutes. But how does this impressive claim stand up against competing earbuds such as the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2?
The 45-hour total battery life of the Powerbeats Pro 2 significantly surpasses the battery life of many competitors. The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2, for example, provides a considerably shorter total playtime, which, according to Jabra, depends on usage. Although Jabra does not state the total playtime with the case, even with the impressive audio quality and ANC offered by the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2, its shorter battery life may be a deal breaker for some users who rely on prolonged usage. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra offers a total of 20 hours with ANC enabled, while the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4’s total playtime, despite being impressive in its own right, falls short of the Powerbeats Pro 2‘s extensive battery life. This longer playtime is crucial for users who are actively engaged in activities such as exercising or traveling where access to charging outlets is limited.
Furthermore, the Powerbeats Pro 2’s charging case is notable not only for the impressive battery life it provides but also for its inclusion of Qi wireless charging. This feature adds to the overall convenience and enhances the user experience, eliminating the need for fiddly cable charging in certain instances. This sets it apart from many other models, including the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 and Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4, which may require a wired charging solution. The smaller size of the Powerbeats Pro 2’s case is also a benefit. The combined features of prolonged battery life, convenience, and compact form factor make the Powerbeats Pro 2 a compelling option for users who value convenience and portability.
The next section will delve into the various features and functionality of the Powerbeats Pro 2, focusing on its integration with Apple devices and other smart features, and comparing them to the Nothing Ear (a).
Powerbeats Pro 2 Features and Functionality: Heart Rate Monitoring, Apple H2 Chip, and App Integration Compared to Nothing Ear (a)
Building upon the exceptional battery life and charging convenience of the Powerbeats Pro 2, we now examine its sophisticated features and functionality. Beyond its impressive audio capabilities, these earbuds offer several unique selling points that set them apart from the competition. One such feature, prominently absent in most competitors like the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2, is the integrated heart rate monitor. This innovative addition allows for real-time heart rate tracking directly through the earbuds, making it a valuable tool for fitness enthusiasts who want to monitor their workout intensity without additional wearable devices.
The heart rate monitor’s accuracy and reliability during various workout intensities remain to be fully explored, but the seamless integration promises a more convenient and streamlined fitness tracking solution. This is a significant point of differentiation from other earbuds such as the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4, and even the Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds, which lack this functionality entirely. While dedicated fitness trackers remain the gold standard for precise heart rate monitoring, the incorporation of this feature into earbuds represents a significant step forward in convenience and integration for workout tracking.
Further enhancing the Powerbeats Pro 2’s functionality is the integration of the Apple H2 chip. This chip significantly contributes to the earbuds’ overall performance, optimizing not only audio processing but also the effectiveness of the active noise cancellation and transparency modes, as discussed in previous sections. The swift pairing process, seamless switching between modes, and generally improved responsiveness are all direct results of this powerful chip. The inclusion of the H2 chip is especially beneficial for users within the Apple ecosystem, facilitating a deeply integrated experience with seamless connectivity to iPhones, iPads, and Macs.
This integrated experience goes beyond just hardware; the Beats app provides a comprehensive interface for managing and customizing the Powerbeats Pro 2’s settings. This includes adjustments to the adaptive EQ, which dynamically tailors the audio output to your listening environment, and allows control over other features like noise cancellation. In contrast, the Nothing Ear (a), while offering several customizability options through its app, lacks the same level of streamlined integration and overall feature richness found in the Beats app. The Beats app also offers essential functions like battery status widgets, and the ‘Locate My Beats’ feature, further enhancing the overall user experience. These features highlight a clear focus on user experience and functionality which, along with the powerful hardware, set the Powerbeats Pro 2 apart from the Nothing Ear (a) and many other competitors on the market today.
The next section will examine the call quality and microphone performance of the Powerbeats Pro 2, comparing its capabilities to those of the JBL Live Pro 2.
Powerbeats Pro 2 Call Quality and Microphone Performance: A Comparison to JBL Live Pro 2
Following our exploration of the Powerbeats Pro 2’s features and functionality, including its impressive heart rate monitor and Apple H2 chip integration, let’s now assess a crucial aspect of any modern earbud: call quality and microphone performance. Clear audio during phone calls is essential, and the Powerbeats Pro 2, with its advanced microphone technology, aims to deliver just that. How does it stack up against a direct competitor like the JBL Live Pro 2?
The Powerbeats Pro 2 features advanced microphones designed to provide exceptional call quality, even in noisy environments. During my testing, I found that these microphones effectively filtered out background noise, ensuring that my voice remained clear and easily understood by the person on the other end of the call. This performance was consistent across a variety of locations, from quiet home offices to bustling city streets. While the JBL Live Pro 2 also boasts multiple microphones and noise-reduction technology, I found the Powerbeats Pro 2 to offer a slightly more natural sound during calls, with less background noise bleed and a crisper delivery of my voice. The difference might be subtle for some users, but in scenarios with increased ambient noise, such as outdoor calls, I found the improvement significant. In contrast, during several calls using the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2, which is not optimized for noisy environments, I experienced more difficulty communicating effectively.
One significant factor contributing to the Powerbeats Pro 2‘s superior call quality is the presence of the Apple H2 chip. As previously discussed, this chip enhances the overall performance of the earbuds, and its processing power plays a crucial role in optimizing the microphones’ noise reduction algorithms. This is a significant advantage over some competitor products, such as the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2, which often lack this type of advanced processing power. Though competitors like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra also deliver solid performance during calls, the subtle improvements in noise reduction and natural sound make the Powerbeats Pro 2 a compelling choice for those prioritizing call quality.
The next section will shift our focus to the Powerbeats Pro 2‘s water resistance and durability, comparing its IPX4 rating and build quality to that of the Technics EAH-AZ80E.
Powerbeats Pro 2 Water Resistance and Durability: IPX4 Rating and Build Quality Compared to Technics EAH-AZ80E
Having explored the Powerbeats Pro 2‘s impressive audio capabilities, battery life, and feature set, we now turn our attention to its durability and water resistance. These are critical considerations, especially for active users who might expose their earbuds to sweat, rain, or other environmental elements during workouts or outdoor activities. How does the Powerbeats Pro 2 fare in this regard, particularly when compared to a competitor known for its durability, such as the Technics EAH-AZ80E?
The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 boasts an IPX4 rating for water resistance. This means they are protected against splashes and sweat but are not designed for submersion in water. This level of protection is sufficient for most workout scenarios, shielding the earbuds from the rigors of intense exercise and accidental exposure to moisture. The reinforced nickel titanium alloy earhooks also contribute significantly to the overall durability and longevity of the Powerbeats Pro 2. The earhooks are noticeably more flexible and less prone to breakage than those on earlier Beats models, and more durable than some competitors such as the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2. This robust construction, combined with the IPX4 rating, ensures the earbuds can withstand the demands of regular use, offering reliability even during more intense workouts. They feel noticeably more robust than some earbuds such as the Bose QuietComfort Ultra which may feel less resilient to prolonged and intensive usage.
In comparison, the Technics EAH-AZ80E also features an IPX4 rating, providing similar protection against sweat and splashes. However, the overall build quality and feel might differ slightly. While both offer robust construction, the Powerbeats Pro 2, with its reinforced earhooks and generally more athletic design, might feel slightly more secure and durable for high-impact activities. The Technics EAH-AZ80E, while possessing adequate durability for everyday use and light activity, might not be as well-suited to the rigors of intense workouts or high-impact sports. Many users report that both earbuds hold up under heavy use, with the Powerbeats Pro 2 generally scoring slightly higher in user satisfaction regarding durability for physically demanding activities.
The next section will compare the Powerbeats Pro 2 to another popular Beats earbud, the Beats Studio Buds, offering a head-to-head comparison within the Beats product line.
Powerbeats Pro 2 vs. Beats Studio Buds: A Head-to-Head Comparison of Beats’ Earbud Lineup
Having thoroughly examined the Powerbeats Pro 2‘s capabilities across various metrics, it’s now time to compare them directly to another popular Beats offering: the Beats Studio Buds. This head-to-head comparison will highlight the key differences and similarities, helping potential buyers determine which model best suits their needs and preferences. While both earbuds share the Beats DNA and offer impressive sound quality, their design and feature sets cater to different user preferences.
The most obvious difference lies in their design. The Powerbeats Pro 2, with its distinctive earhooks, prioritizes a secure fit ideal for intense workouts. This contrasts with the more compact and discreet design of the Beats Studio Buds, better suited for everyday use. This difference in design philosophy also affects the comfort level, with the earhooks of the Powerbeats Pro 2 offering greater stability during physical activity but potentially feeling less comfortable for extended periods of passive listening compared to the lighter and less intrusive Beats Studio Buds. This is a key factor to consider; many users may find the design and overall comfort of the Beats Studio Buds far more appealing for everyday use compared to the more sports-oriented Powerbeats Pro 2. Conversely, if you are looking for an earbud primarily intended for use during high-intensity physical activities, the secure fit of the Powerbeats Pro 2 will likely be a superior option.
Another key differentiator is the inclusion of a heart rate monitor in the Powerbeats Pro 2. This feature is absent in the Beats Studio Buds, making the Powerbeats Pro 2 a more attractive option for fitness enthusiasts who value integrated workout tracking. Both earbuds, however, offer active noise cancellation and transparency mode, although the effectiveness might vary slightly between models, and the degree of noise cancellation in the Powerbeats Pro 2 likely surpasses that of the Beats Studio Buds. While both offer excellent sound quality, the sound signature might differ slightly due to variances in hardware and tuning. Users should research audio reviews to determine which sound profile they prefer.
Finally, battery life is another factor to consider. While both offer impressive playtime, the Powerbeats Pro 2 boasts a significantly longer total battery life (up to 45 hours with the charging case) compared to the Beats Studio Buds. This extended playtime is a crucial advantage for users frequently on the go or those who need earbuds for extended listening sessions.
Powerbeats Pro 2 Final Verdict and Recommendation: Our Overall Assessment and Product Recommendation
This review journey has taken us from the initial unboxing and first impressions of the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2, through an in-depth analysis of its sound quality, noise cancellation, fit and comfort, battery life, features, call quality, and durability. We’ve also compared it directly to several competitors and even other Beats earbuds. Now, let’s synthesize those findings into a conclusive verdict.
Four major themes consistently emerged throughout this review: superior sound quality and balance across frequencies, exceptional noise cancellation and a natural transparency mode, remarkably comfortable and secure fit for workouts, and an impressive battery life with the added convenience of Qi wireless charging. The initial unboxing highlighted the premium build and design, setting the stage for the exceptional audio experience explored in the following section. The Powerbeats Pro 2 consistently delivered a balanced and nuanced sound, outperforming competitors like the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 in both clarity and dynamic range, offering a more refined listening experience than even the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4, despite the latter’s warm sound profile.
The noise-canceling capabilities, tested against the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II, proved particularly effective, especially at lower frequencies, and the transparency mode provided a natural and accurate representation of the surrounding environment. This superior noise cancellation was directly linked to the integration of the Apple H2 chip, a technological advantage that also enhanced responsiveness and seamless mode switching. This superior technology proved even more advantageous when paired with the secure fit which, as highlighted by the comparison with sports earbuds such as the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra, provided unmatched comfort and stability even during high-intensity workouts. The prolonged 45-hour battery life significantly outpaced competitors like the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra, further reinforcing the Powerbeats Pro 2’s overall value. Finally, the inclusion of a heart rate monitor, though a feature not present in any of the competitors studied, added to its functionality, making it a formidable option for fitness enthusiasts.
Some might still have lingering questions regarding the heart rate monitor’s accuracy in extreme workout scenarios. While the accuracy was consistently acceptable during my testing, those concerned about absolute precision should still look towards more dedicated fitness trackers. Similarly, the IPX4 rating provides water resistance but doesn’t imply complete submersion capability. Those requiring a higher waterproof rating should explore options with a higher IPX rating.
Considering all the above, we strongly recommend the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 to users seeking a premium combination of exceptional audio quality, effective noise cancellation, and secure fit for workouts. The impressive battery life and convenient features further solidify its position as a top contender in the true wireless earbuds market. Its features and competitive advantages over earbuds such as the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 and even the Bose QuietComfort Ultra demonstrate its exceptional value. While the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 offers a great alternative for everyday use with longer battery life, the Powerbeats Pro 2’s superior athletic design, better noise-cancellation, and heart rate monitoring make it the superior choice for fitness enthusiasts. The Beats Studio Buds offer a viable alternative, albeit one less versatile for the athletic user. The Nothing Ear (a), while offering a compelling set of features, falls short in overall performance and lacks the polished and refined user experience offered by the Powerbeats Pro 2. If you’re looking for the best combination of performance, durability and features, the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 is a must-consider and is superior to many competing models.
Ready to experience the superior sound and performance of the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2? Head over to Amazon now to check out the latest pricing and availability. Don’t delay—secure your pair today!
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means I earn a commission when you make a purchase through affiliate links on this site, at no extra cost to you.
