Beats Studio Buds Black
Score: 74/100
Apple AirPods 4 with ANC and USB-C
Score: 81/100Rankings
Apple AirPods 4 with ANC deliver premium sound, pro-level noise cancellation and a feature-rich MagSafe case. The larger case and occasional control imprecision are notable trade-offs. Best suited for Apple users who need top-tier ANC and advanced health features.
Beats Studio Buds deliver ANC, balanced sound, and cross-platform pairing in a compact package. Limitations include lack of wireless charging, occasional fit issues, and a modest IPX4 rating. Best for users seeking reliable ANC and seamless Apple/Android compatibility without premium extras.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
24 hours | 30 hoursbest | |
8 hoursbest | 6 hours | |
13 mmbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 5 minutesbest | — |
| ↓ lower better | 58 gbest | 61.4 g |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Build & Design(2) | ||
IP Rating | IPX4 | IP54 |
Total Weight (Earbuds + Case) (g) | 58 g | 61.4 g |
Battery & Power(2) | ||
Battery Life (Total with Case) (hours) | 24 hours | 30 hours |
Battery Life (Earbuds Only) (hours) | 8 hours | 6 hours |
Controls(1) | ||
Touch Controls | false | true |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers highlight the Studio Buds + for its reengineered acoustic platform, two-layer transducers and Fast Fuel quick-charge, delivering richer bass, clearer calls and longer battery life than the original model. They also commend the IPX4 rating, cross-platform pairing and Class 1 Bluetooth range, while noting the absence of wireless charging and a lower waterproof rating compared with top competitors.
Everyday users consistently praise the earbuds for their balanced, studio-like sound, reliable Bluetooth connectivity and comfortable, secure fit during workouts. Common frustrations revolve around the need to purchase a separate USB-C charging adapter and occasional fit mismatches when eartip sizes are not ideal.
“Excellent ANC for travel/commutes”
Professional reviewers commend the AirPods Pro 2 for its dramatically improved active noise cancellation, the powerful H2 audio processor, and new adaptive features like personalized Spatial Audio and Adaptive EQ. They also appreciate the upgraded microphones and rear vent for clearer calls, while noting the case's increased bulk and limited non-Apple customization as minor drawbacks.
Everyday users consistently applaud the strong ANC, natural Transparency mode, reliable battery life, and effortless pairing with iOS devices. Recurring complaints focus on occasional fit problems, imprecise swipe controls, and reduced battery endurance when using Spatial Audio, as well as the case's larger size.
