Beats Studio Pro Review

Beats by Dre has been a polarizing name in the audio world since its inception. Once synonymous with bass-heavy sound and flashy aesthetics aimed at a younger crowd, the brand has evolved significantly under Apple’s stewardship. The Beats Studio Pro, released in 2023, represents the latest chapter in this journey—a premium over-ear headphone designed to compete with heavyweights like Sony’s WH-1000XM5 and Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra. Priced at $349.99, the Studio Pro promises top-tier noise cancellation, refined sound, and seamless integration with both Apple and Android ecosystems. But does it deliver enough to justify its price tag in a fiercely competitive market? After spending extensive time with these headphones, here’s my in-depth take.

The Beats Studio Pro arrives with a design that feels both familiar and refreshed. Available in four colorways—Black, Navy, Sandstone, and Deep Brown—the headphones sport a minimalist, modern look that’s less ostentatious than earlier Beats models. The signature “b” logo is subtly etched into the ear cups, and the overall aesthetic leans toward sophistication rather than streetwear swagger.

Weighing in at 260 grams, the Studio Pro is lightweight for an over-ear headphone with active noise cancellation (ANC). The build combines premium plastic with metal accents, giving it a sturdy yet comfortable feel. The headband is padded with a soft, leather-like material, and the ear cushions are plush, though they use synthetic leather rather than genuine leather—a choice that might disappoint some at this price point. After hours of wear, the clamping force feels snug but not overly tight, making them suitable for extended listening sessions, though those with larger heads might notice mild pressure over time.

The carrying case deserves a shoutout. Unlike the flimsy fabric pouches included with some competitors, Beats provides a semi-rigid, zippered case with internal pockets for the included USB-C cable, 3.5mm audio cable, and adapters. It’s a practical touch that enhances portability and protects the headphones on the go.

One nitpick: the buttons. The Studio Pro relies on physical controls—a multifunction “b” button on the left ear cup for playback and calls, plus volume rockers above and below it. While tactile and responsive, they feel a bit dated compared to the touch controls on Sony or Bose models. There’s also no power button; the headphones turn on when unfolded and off when folded, which is convenient but removes manual control over power management.

Sound Quality

Beats has long been criticized for prioritizing bass over everything else, often at the expense of mids and treble. The Studio Pro marks a significant departure from that reputation. Outfitted with custom 40mm drivers, these headphones deliver a sound profile that’s punchy yet more balanced than their predecessors.

Bass is still a standout feature—deep, controlled, and impactful without overwhelming the mix. Listening to tracks like Billie Eilish’s “Bad Guy,” the low-end thumps with authority, but the vocals remain clear and present. The mids, often a weak spot in older Beats models, are fuller here, allowing instruments like guitars and pianos to shine in songs like Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams.” Highs are crisp, though they can occasionally feel slightly recessed—cymbals and hi-hats in jazz or classical tracks lack the sparkle you’d get from audiophile-grade cans like Sennheiser’s HD 660S.

Beats touts “Adaptive EQ” that adjusts sound in real-time based on fit and seal, and it works subtly but effectively. The soundstage is decent for a closed-back headphone, though it’s not as expansive as open-back designs or Sony’s XM5 with its 360 Reality Audio. Imaging is precise enough for casual listening, but don’t expect pinpoint accuracy for critical mixing.

The Studio Pro supports high-resolution audio via USB-C with a built-in DAC (digital-to-analog converter), a rare feature in this category. Wired playback in lossless mode (up to 24-bit/48kHz) brings out extra detail in tracks from services like Apple Music or Tidal. It’s a welcome addition for audiophiles, though the difference is subtle unless you’re using high-quality source files.

Overall, the sound is versatile and enjoyable across genres—pop, hip-hop, rock, and even podcasts sound great—but it’s not quite reference-grade. If you’re a bass lover, you’ll be satisfied; if you crave neutrality, you might still prefer Sony or Bose.

Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode

Active noise cancellation is a cornerstone of premium headphones, and the Beats Studio Pro delivers solid performance here. Using six external microphones and real-time processing, the ANC effectively mutes low-frequency hums like airplane engines or air conditioners. In a busy coffee shop, it dulled the roar of espresso machines and chatter to a murmur, letting me focus on my music or calls.

However, it doesn’t reach the eerie silence of Sony’s WH-1000XM5 or Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra, especially with mid- and high-frequency sounds like voices or sudden clatters. The difference isn’t night-and-day, but in head-to-head tests, the Studio Pro lets more ambient noise seep through. For most users, though, the ANC is more than adequate for daily commutes or office use.

Transparency Mode, activated with a double-press of the “b” button, is a highlight. It pipes in outside sound naturally, making conversations or announcements easy to hear without removing the headphones. Compared to Apple’s AirPods Pro, the effect is less “augmented” and more organic, avoiding that overly processed feel some competitors have.

Features and Connectivity

Beats has leaned into its Apple ownership while broadening compatibility. The Studio Pro integrates seamlessly with iOS devices—pairing is instant via the H1 chip (the same found in AirPods), and you get hands-free Siri, Find My support, and automatic switching between Apple devices. Android users aren’t left out, though. The Beats app (available on both platforms) offers EQ customization, firmware updates, and battery status, while one-touch pairing via Google Fast Pair ensures quick setup.

Bluetooth 5.3 provides a stable connection with a range of about 30 feet indoors. Multipoint connectivity lets you pair two devices simultaneously—a laptop and phone, for instance—switching audio smoothly between them. Call quality is excellent, thanks to six beamforming microphones that filter out wind and background noise. During test calls, my voice came through clear even in breezy outdoor conditions.

Battery life is a strong 40 hours with ANC off and 24 hours with it on—competitive but not class-leading (Sony’s XM5 offers 30 hours with ANC). A 10-minute fast charge via USB-C delivers 4 hours of playback, which is handy for emergencies. Unlike some rivals, there’s no wireless charging, and the lack of an auto-pause feature when removing the headphones feels like an oversight.

Comfort and Usability

Comfort is subjective, but the Studio Pro strikes a good balance. The ear pads are thick and cushioned, creating a decent seal without excessive heat buildup during multi-hour sessions. At home, I wore them for three-hour movie marathons without fatigue. On a plane, the lightweight design and moderate clamping force kept them wearable, though the synthetic leather can get slightly sweaty after a while.

The folding mechanism is a plus for travel, collapsing the headphones into a compact shape that fits neatly into the case. Durability seems solid—after weeks of tossing them into a backpack and occasional drops, there’s no visible wear beyond minor scuffs.

Value and Competition:

At $349.99, the Beats Studio Pro sits in a crowded field. Sony’s WH-1000XM5 ($399) offers superior ANC, a wider soundstage, and more customization, while Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra ($379) edges out in noise cancellation and comfort. Both include extras like auto-pause and more advanced touch controls. On the lower end, the Anker Soundcore Space Q45 ($149) delivers impressive sound and ANC for half the price, though it lacks the polish and ecosystem perks of Beats.

What sets the Studio Pro apart is its cross-platform appeal and stylish design. Apple users get a near-AirPods Max experience for $200 less, while Android users enjoy rare parity in features. The lossless audio over USB-C is a unique selling point, appealing to those prioritizing wired quality.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Sleek, durable design with a premium case
Punchy, balanced sound with lossless USB-C support
Strong ANC and excellent Transparency Mode
Seamless Apple and Android integration
Great call quality and battery life

Cons:

ANC isn’t class-leading
Physical buttons feel dated
Synthetic leather may not age as well as genuine
No auto-pause or wireless charging

Final Thoughts

The Beats Studio Pro is a compelling option for anyone seeking premium headphones with a blend of style, sound, and versatility. It’s not the absolute best in any single category—Sony and Bose still reign supreme in ANC, and audiophile brands outclass it in raw audio fidelity—but it’s a well-rounded package that punches above its weight. If you’re in the Apple ecosystem, value cross-platform compatibility, or simply love Beats’ signature vibe, the Studio Pro is a worthy investment. For those chasing the ultimate noise cancellation or neutral sound, though, the competition might edge it out.

At its core, the Beats Studio Pro proves that the brand has matured beyond its bass-heavy roots into a serious contender in the premium headphone space. It’s not perfect, but it’s damn good—and for many, that’ll be more than enough.