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Beats makes some of the finest headphones, earbuds, andportable Bluetooth speakersmoney can buy.
Every new release from the wireless audio giant seems to eclipse their previous hits.
It isnt hard to see why the Powerbeats Pro 2 are in high demand.
For starters, its a Beats product, so by default, its already considered cool.
All key hallmarks from the originalPowerbeats Prohave been updated and upgraded for the most part.
Simply stated, theres plenty to like about this sequel.
Theres also a lot to dislike.
That is 1 hour more than the previous entry and the highest playtime of any Apple wireless earbuds.
Up to 8 hours is available when usingactive noise cancellation.
The charging case is still clutch for extra playtime.
The inclusion of wireless charging (which took far too long) is the cherry on top.
These buds are engineered with broader frequency range.
In other words, youll hear lows, mids, and highs more clearly.
Bass is robust without compromising treble or creating distortion at high volume.
Mids are a bit unbalanced, though its nothing that the EQ tweaks in thebest music streaming servicescant fix.
Personalized Spatial Audiosteals the show by boosting acoustics and clarity onDolby Atmoscontent.
Several weeks of testing have changed my perspective.
The noise-cancelling technology on these buds is a regression from the Fit Pro.
Our audio editor,Tammy Rogers, mentioned that the buds struggle slightly with areas filled with loud conversation.
High-frequency sounds (e.g., crying babies, sirens) are unavoidable as well.
ANC is much more effective on the AirPods Pro 2 and class-leadingJabra Elite Active 8 (Gen 2).
Luckily, Transparency mode is the best it has ever been on Beats buds.
The listening mode makes ambient sound and conversations sound loud and more natural.
The Powerbeats Pro 2 take complete advantage of this.
Having a built-in heart rate monitor is a huge benefit.
Hate: Beats unflattering redesign
The one thing all Beats products have going for them is style.
Certain staples like the bold colorways and wrap-around-the-ear design remain treasured traits.
The multiple ear tip sizes and slimmer housing are also much appreciated.
At the same time, Powerbeats Pro 2 look less attractive.
Their sportier appearance lacks the chicness of the original and other Beats offerings like theStudio Buds+.
The charging case isnt much to brag about either.
However, theyre a valuable addition to any true wireless control scheme.
Just ask anyone who has purchased the Powerbeats Pro.
This follow-up keeps the trademark volume rockers on each bud.
The buttons are highly responsive and produce solid tactility for reliable input.
Not to mention they are easily accessible.
These could be added in a future software update.
Oddly, the Powerbeats Pro 2 dont support this chipset.
Final Thoughts
It is difficult to overlook some of Beats missteps.
None of Apples newest sound features made the cut.
And the design, while still eye-catching, isnt as enamoring as older Powerbeats models, in my opinion.
Still, the Powerbeats Pro 2 have more going for them than not.
IPX4 protection provides enough sweat/water resistance to survive the wettest and toughest conditions.
Battery life, connectivity, and sound quality are all high points as well.
