Beats by Dre, the US-based audio accessories brand owned by Apple, recently launched its latest portfolio in India, including the Beats Solo 4 over-ear headphones. While some may see Beats products as alternatives to AirPods From Apple, the Beats Solo 4 stand out as the only over-ear headphones among Apple’s offerings. Unlike many other Apple products, Beats audio devices, including the Solo 4, are compatible with Android smartphones. How well do they work when paired with non-Apple devices? Are they really an alternative to AirPods? Let’s find out.
Design and fit
The Beats Solo 4 feature a classic over-ear headphone design that is comfortable to wear and feels lightweight, despite feeling somewhat bulky when held. The earbuds are primarily made of smooth plastic, but incorporate elements of more premium materials, such as a metallic Beats logo on the outer earcups and shiny metal hinges, both with a brushed finish. The earpads are covered with a soft-touch, leather-like material that is luxurious and enhances comfort. However, the headband’s thin cushioning has a rubber-like texture that doesn’t quite match the premium feel of the earpads.
The Beats Solo 4 is quite flexible and provides a comfortable experience for most head sizes. The headphones, with their multi-axial movement and soft ear cushions that effectively surround the ears, further enhance comfort.
When not in use, the headphones can be folded using the adjustment slider and stored in the included carrying case, which also exudes a premium feel. The case features dedicated pockets to store the USB Type-C to Type-C cable and 3.5mm audio cable included in the box, offering additional connectivity options.
Compatibility and connectivity
Beats Solo 4 headphones are compatible with iPhones and Android smartphones, providing a variety of advanced features for both platforms. However, being an Apple product, the feature set is broader when combined with an iPhone. During my review, I tested the headphones with both types of devices.
When used with the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, the Beats Solo 4 provided high-definition audio support via the Advanced Audio Codec (AAC) for wireless streaming. It also supports Google’s Spatial Audio and Audio Switch, which allows the headphones to automatically switch between source devices linked to the same Google account. This feature is similar to Apple’s Audio Sharing, available when paired with an iPhone. While tested with the iPhone 16, the Solo 4 paired perfectly, as did the AirPods, with device settings and customization options accessible directly from the Settings app. iPhone users can enjoy personalized spatial audio, similar to what is offered with AirPods. Additionally, the headphones can connect to both the Find My network for iOS and the Find My Device network for Android.
It is important to note that while paired with Android, options to enable and disable advanced features like Spatial Audio, HD Audio, and Audio Switch are available in the Bluetooth settings. However, the button controls can only be customized through the Beats app.
In addition to wireless connectivity, the headset can be used with the USB-C cable or 3.5mm audio cable, both of which provide lossless audio and lower latency, which is beneficial for gaming. However, there are limitations when using a wired connection, such as the inability to change button controls or disable charging on the smartphone.
Companion App
While iPhone users can access all available options directly from the Settings app, Android users with the Beats Solo 4 must frequently switch between Settings and the Beats app to customize it, which is also quite limited. On Android, button customization options are found in the Beats app, but options for Spatial Audio and HD Audio are only available in the Bluetooth settings menu. Additionally, the Beats app contributes little to the overall experience, lacking features like equalizer or listening modes.
Audio and calls
Equipped with 40mm drivers, Beats Solo 4 delivers balanced sound across multiple genres. While it feels particularly suited to acoustic and instrumental music rather than heavy bass, there’s still enough low-frequency response for those who prefer it. However, the absence of an in-app equalizer or different sound modes limits customization options for users. On iPhone, custom spatial audio significantly improves the listening experience. However, when volume levels are raised to higher levels, the limitations of the headphones become apparent, resulting in a noticeable decrease in sound quality. Although the earpads effectively reduce ambient noise, outdoor situations and crowded spaces highlight the lack of active noise cancellation.
The calling experience with the Beats Solo 4 is surprisingly impressive. Headphone microphones are generally not known for accurately picking up voice, but they turn out to be exceptions. The built-in microphones work well in closed environments and also effectively isolate the user’s voice in crowded environments. While the voice may seem somewhat robotic in extremely noisy conditions, it is still clear and easily understandable.
Battery
The company claims that the Solo 4 has 50 hours of battery life and the headphones largely deliver on this promise. After using them for more than two weeks, I only had to charge them once to half and they still had 40 percent battery left at the time of writing. The impressive battery life is complemented by satisfactory charging speeds: the earbuds reach up to 20 percent in about 15 minutes, more than enough to get you through the day.
Verdict
Priced at Rs 22,900, the Beats Solo 4 over-ear headphones may seem a bit expensive given their overall audio clarity and lack of active noise cancellation (ANC). However, they make up for it with versatility in connectivity options, impressive voice calling performance, and exceptional battery life.
The Beats Solo 4 may not appeal to audiophiles, but it’s a good option for those looking for an all-in-one all-in-one solution. It can connect via a wired connection for low-latency gaming, works well with both Android and iOS, and excels at calling and video conferencing. All of these features are packed into an over-ear headphone design with exceptional battery life.
First published: October 15, 2024 | 14:52 IS
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