Beats Solo3 Wireless on-ear Headphones Review – Updated 26 Dec 2024
As someone who loves good music on the go, the Beats Solo3 wireless on-ear headphones immediately caught my attention. Known for their stylish design and impressive battery life, I was eager to test if they truly live up to the hype. After spending a good amount of time with them, I can confidently say they blend sleek aesthetics with solid audio performance. But are they worth the investment, especially for avid listeners or casual users? In this review, I’ll walk you through my experience with the Beats Solo 3, covering everything from sound quality to comfort and battery life.
Reasons to Buy
- Long battery life (40 hours) with quick charging
- Seamless pairing with Apple devices (W1 chip)
- Stylish and portable design
- Punchy, bass-heavy sound that’s great for pop and hip-hop
- Solid Bluetooth range and connection stability
Reasons to Avoid
- No active noise cancellation (ANC)
- Sound leakage at high volumes
- On-ear design may cause discomfort during extended wear
- Micro-USB charging instead of USB-C
Aesthetic Appeal
The Beats solo3 wireless on-ear headphones are undoubtedly a fashion statement as much as they are a piece of audio technology. In line with Beats’ reputation for creating visually appealing audio devices, the model offers a stylish, modern look that appeals to a broad demographic.
The headphones are available in a wide variety of colors to suit different styles and preferences, from the classic glossy black and white to more vibrant hues like red, blue, rose gold, and silver. This wide palette ensures that there’s a color for almost every taste, allowing users to personalize their look.
The iconic “b” logo on each ear cup is prominent, adding a recognizable element of branding without being overly ostentatious. The blend of matte and glossy finishes gives the headphones a premium feel, with the matte headband offsetting the more eye-catching gloss of the ear cups. This combination of finishes creates a subtle contrast that elevates the design beyond what you might find in other mid-range headphones. The Apple Beats Solo3’s minimalistic, clean lines are both modern and urban, making it a popular choice for users who want their headphones to double as a fashion accessory.
Materials and Build Quality
Despite their sleek appearance, the Beats Solo3 Wireless headphones are predominantly constructed from high-quality plastic, which contributes to their lightweight nature. The plastic materials used are well-finished and robust enough for daily use, although some users may question the long-term durability of an all-plastic build, especially at the price point.
The plastic finish is resistant to fingerprints and smudging, helping the headphones maintain their fresh, polished look even after extended use. While Beats has prioritized aesthetics and portability in the design, the plastic construction does mean the headphones might not feel as premium or sturdy as metal-based options in the same price range, like the Sony WH-1000XM series or Bose QuietComfort models.
The headband features a matte finish that balances the gloss of the ear cups, and its flexibility allows for some adjustment to fit a variety of head sizes. Although it’s made of plastic, the headband doesn’t feel flimsy. Its build quality is sturdy enough to withstand the rigors of daily use, whether you’re storing the headphones in a bag or accidentally dropping them. However, it’s worth noting that the plastic construction, while light and convenient, might not endure years of heavy use without showing signs of wear and tear, especially at the foldable hinges.
The ear pads, which come into direct contact with your ears, are made from a soft, cushioned material that enhances comfort. The padding is sufficient to provide a cozy fit, though prolonged use could lead to compression of the cushions over time. Users who plan to wear these headphones for hours on end might need to be mindful of wear on the padding, as replacement ear cushions may be necessary after extended use.
Portability
The portability of the Beats solo3 wireless on-ear headphones is one of its most appealing features, particularly for commuters, travelers, and anyone who needs a compact, on-the-go audio solution. The headphones are foldable, allowing the ear cups to tuck neatly under the headband. This makes them easy to store in the provided soft carrying case, which, while not offering hard-shell protection, is suitable for daily transportation. The folded headphones are compact enough to fit into most bags, backpacks, or even larger jacket pockets, ensuring that they remain highly portable without taking up too much space.
The Beats solo³’s lightweight design further adds to its portability. Weighing just 215 grams (about 7.58 ounces), they are light enough that carrying them around won’t feel cumbersome. This is a crucial factor for travelers or commuters who often have limited space for accessories. The soft case, while not the most protective in rough conditions, keeps the headphones secure from scratches and dust, but users looking for more robust protection might want to invest in a harder, third-party case for additional safeguarding.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort is an important aspect of any pair of headphones, especially if you’re planning to use them for extended periods. The Beats solo3 wireless on-ear headphones deliver a decent level of comfort, though they are not without their limitations.
The on-ear design means that the ear cups sit directly on top of your ears rather than encircling them as over-ear headphones would. This design choice comes with both advantages and drawbacks. On the plus side, the on-ear style contributes to the headphones’ compact and lightweight nature, making them easier to wear on the go. Additionally, the ear pads are well-padded with a synthetic leather material that feels soft against the skin, providing a comfortable listening experience for short to moderate listening sessions.
However, the on-ear fit can become uncomfortable during extended use. Because the ear cups apply direct pressure on the ears, users may begin to feel discomfort after a couple of hours, particularly if the headphones are worn tightly. This issue is exacerbated for those with larger ears or people who are sensitive to pressure. The clamping force of the headband is moderate—designed to stay securely in place without feeling overly tight—but after long listening sessions, the pressure can lead to fatigue or even mild soreness for some users.
For users who prioritize long-term comfort, over-ear models like the Beats Studio3 Wireless or the Bose QuietComfort 45 might be more suitable options, as they surround the ears rather than pressing against them. Still, for casual users who prioritize portability and style, the Beats solo3 noise cancelling’s on-ear fit should be more than adequate for everyday use.
The adjustability of the headband ensures that most users can achieve a snug fit, and the lightweight build means that the headphones won’t weigh heavily on your head. However, if you’re someone who listens to music or takes calls for hours on end, you may want to take occasional breaks to alleviate any discomfort. Despite these limitations, the Solo3’s combination of soft cushioning and light construction strikes a balance between style, portability, and moderate comfort, making them a good option for short to mid-length listening sessions.
Wireless Connectivity and Range
One of the standout features of the Beats solo3 wireless on-ear headphones is its integration of Apple’s W1 chip, which elevates the headphone’s wireless performance, particularly for Apple users. The W1 chip streamlines the pairing process with Apple devices such as iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, and Apple Watches, creating a more seamless experience than standard Bluetooth connectivity. Pairing is as simple as bringing the headphones close to an Apple device, where a prompt will automatically appear on the screen asking if you’d like to connect. This eliminates the need for navigating through Bluetooth settings, making the process nearly instant.
Beyond effortless pairing, the W1 chip also improves battery efficiency, which we’ll delve into further in the battery life section. The chip helps optimize power consumption, contributing to the Beats Solo3 wireless on-ear headphones‘s impressive 40-hour battery life.
Additionally, if you’re deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem, the W1 chip offers cross-device connectivity. This means that once you’ve paired your Beats Solo3 with one Apple device, switching between other Apple products becomes smooth and hassle-free, allowing for automatic re-pairing without needing to manually disconnect and reconnect to different devices. This integration makes the Solo3 particularly appealing to those already invested in Apple’s product line.
For non-Apple users, the Beats solo3 wireless on ear headphones function as a more traditional Bluetooth headset. Although you won’t benefit from the W1 chip’s pairing advantages, connecting is still straightforward and reliable. Once you’ve paired the headphones to a device, you won’t need to go through the process again unless you connect to a new device. The Bluetooth pairing is stable, quick, and works across a broad range of devices, including Android smartphones, tablets, laptops, and more.
The Beats solo3 wireless on-ear headphones utilizes Class 1 Bluetooth technology, which is known for its extended range and robust connectivity. Class 1 Bluetooth provides an exceptionally long wireless range, far surpassing the capabilities of many competitors in the same category.
In optimal conditions with minimal obstacles such as walls or interference, the Solo3 can maintain a solid connection up to 100 feet (30 meters) away from the source device. This long-range performance is especially beneficial for users who like to move around their home, office, or gym while leaving their device in another room. It allows for a more flexible and untethered listening experience, making these headphones a great option for multitasking or exercising.
In real-world scenarios, environmental factors such as thick walls, wireless signal interference, or electronic devices may slightly reduce the effective range. However, even in less-than-ideal conditions, users can typically expect a reliable connection within a range of 30 to 50 feet, which is more than sufficient for most daily activities. Whether you’re working at your desk and want to step into the kitchen without your phone, or you’re at the gym moving between equipment, this wireless headphone ensures a steady connection with minimal dropouts or signal degradation.
Connection stability is another strength of the Solo3 Wireless. Once connected, the headphones rarely suffer from signal interruptions, providing a consistent listening experience whether you’re using them for music, calls, or video playback. Even in busy environments where multiple Bluetooth devices are in use, this high performance headphone maintains a strong connection without significant interference.
Sound Quality
Beats headphones have built their reputation on delivering a sound profile dominated by heavy bass, and the Beats solo3 wireless on-ear headphones stays true to this legacy. If you’re a fan of bass-driven music genres like hip-hop, EDM, or pop, you’ll likely appreciate the punchy low-end that the Solo3 delivers. The bass is prominent without being overwhelmingly muddy, though audiophiles seeking a more balanced sound profile may find it overpowering.
While the bass takes center stage, the midrange frequencies (vocals and instruments) remain present, though slightly recessed compared to some competing models. The highs are clear but not as crisp or detailed as those found on higher-end models like the Sony WH-1000XM5 or Bose QuietComfort 45. Still, for casual listeners, the sound profile will be enjoyable, particularly if you favor genres where bass plays a significant role.
The Beats solo3 wireless on-ear headphones can get very loud. Even at high volumes, the sound remains relatively distortion-free, which is great for users who like to crank up the volume during workouts or while commuting. However, at maximum volume, the high frequencies can become slightly piercing, so users who prefer a more nuanced sound experience may want to adjust accordingly.
Call Quality
The Beats Solo3 also doubles as a Bluetooth headset for making phone calls. The built-in microphone does a good job of picking up your voice clearly, even in noisy environments, though it’s not on par with premium noise-canceling microphones found in high-end over-ear models. Call quality is acceptable for most users, but those who require crystal-clear communication for professional use may want to explore dedicated headsets.
Battery Life and Charging
One of the best things about the Beats Solo3 is its long battery life. On a full charge, the headphones can deliver up to 40 hours of playback, which is among the best in its class. This extended battery life makes the Solo3 an excellent option for users who are frequently on the go and don’t want to worry about recharging every few hours.
Another convenient feature is Fast Fuel charging. With just a 5-minute charge, the Solo3 can provide up to 3 hours of playback. This is incredibly useful for situations where you forget to charge your headphones and need to juice them up quickly before heading out the door.
The Beats solo3 wireless on-ear headphones charges via a Micro-USB cable. While this works fine, it’s worth noting that many newer headphones have transitioned to USB-C charging, which is faster and more universally compatible. The charging time from 0% to 100% takes about 2 hours, which is relatively quick given the long-lasting battery.
Noise Isolation and Sound Leakage
The Beats Solo3 doesn’t feature active noise cancellation (ANC), but it does provide decent passive noise isolation due to the snug fit of the ear cups. In moderately noisy environments like offices or public transport, you’ll find that a fair amount of ambient sound is blocked out, allowing you to focus on your music. However, in very noisy places, like airplanes or busy streets, you may find yourself wishing for the added benefit of ANC.
At lower volumes, the Beats Solo3 wireless on-ear headphones does a good job of keeping sound from leaking out, but as you crank up the volume, sound leakage becomes more noticeable. This might not be a major issue in loud environments, but in quieter settings like libraries or offices, you might attract some unwanted attention if you’re playing music at high volumes.
Features and Controls
This Beats headphones is equipped with intuitive on-ear controls. On the left ear cup, you’ll find buttons that allow you to control playback (play/pause), skip tracks, and adjust volume. The controls are tactile and easy to use, even when you’re on the move or wearing gloves.
The multi-function button (disguised as the Beats logo) allows for additional functionality. A single tap plays/pauses your music or answers a phone call, a double-tap skips to the next track, and a triple-tap skips back. The volume up/down buttons are located just above and below the multi-function button for easy access.
For Apple users, the Beats Solo3 wireless on-ear headphones integrate seamlessly with Siri. A simple press-and-hold on the multi-function button activates the voice assistant, allowing you to issue commands, send texts, or make calls without touching your phone. While there isn’t native integration with Google Assistant or Alexa, you can still use them via your connected smartphone, though the experience isn’t as smooth as with Siri.
Comparison with Competitors
In terms of sound quality, the Sony WH-1000XM5 offers a more balanced and refined audio profile, with stronger emphasis on detail in the mids and highs. Additionally, the Sony model includes active noise cancellation (ANC), which is a major advantage for frequent travelers or users in noisy environments. However, the Beats Solo3 excels in battery life, offering almost double the playback time compared to the WH-1000XM5’s 30 hours with ANC off. Check price on Amazon.
The Bose QuietComfort 45 provides a more comfortable over-ear fit and active noise cancellation, making it ideal for long listening sessions in noisy environments. However, the Solo3 offers a more stylish design and bass-heavy sound profile, appealing to a younger, more fashion-conscious demographic. While the QuietComfort 45 is renowned for its comfort, the Solo3 wins in terms of portability and battery life.
For Apple users, the AirPods Max delivers superior sound quality, seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem, and industry-leading ANC. However, the hefty price tag and bulkier design make the Solo3 a more practical option for those looking for an affordable, stylish, and travel-friendly option. If you’re willing to pay a premium for better audio and noise cancellation, the AirPods Max is a strong contender, but the Solo3 provides excellent value for its price. Check price on Amazon.
Pricing and Value for Money
The Beats Solo3 wireless on-ear headphones typically retail for around $119, though discounts are often available. Given the long battery life, stylish design, and seamless integration with Apple devices, the Solo3 offers excellent value, particularly for Apple users who will benefit from the W1 chip. However, for those seeking features like active noise cancellation or more balanced audio, there are other headphones in this price range that may offer better performance in those areas. We found this model is sold in discount under 95$ please check the link.
Final Verdict
The Beats Solo3 Wireless headphone is a stylish and portable option that excels in battery life, offering up to 40 hours of playback, making it ideal for users on the go. The integration of Apple’s W1 chip enhances the wireless experience, particularly for those embedded in the Apple ecosystem, providing seamless pairing and cross-device connectivity. For bass lovers, the headphone delivers a punchy, bass-heavy sound that suits genres like hip-hop and pop, though audiophiles seeking a more balanced sound may find the mids and highs less detailed compared to higher-end competitors.
While the design is sleek and modern, the on-ear fit can become uncomfortable during extended use, and the lack of active noise cancellation (ANC) may be a drawback for users in noisy environments. However, for those who prioritise portability, style, and long battery life over features like ANC or over-ear comfort, the Solo3 offers excellent value, especially when paired with Apple devices.
In comparison to other models, like the Sony WH-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort 45, the Solo3 may not offer the same level of sound refinement or noise-cancelling capabilities, but it shines when it comes to price, convenience, and portability. Overall, the Beats Solo3 Wireless is a strong contender for casual listeners, commuters, and Apple enthusiasts looking for a fashionable and reliable pair of headphones.
How We Tested this Model?
At Versus and Reviews, we put the Beast Solo3 headphones through real-world testing to ensure we captured their true performance. Our team tested them in various everyday scenarios, like commuting, working out, and relaxing at home.
We paid close attention to sound quality across different music genres, checking for clarity, bass, and overall balance. Battery life was monitored by using the headphones continuously, noting how long they lasted compared to the claims. Comfort was also a key focus; we wore the Solo3 for long stretches to see how they felt after extended use. Additionally, we evaluated how well the Bluetooth connection held up in different environments, from crowded areas to open spaces. This hands-on approach helped us deliver an honest, practical review for our readers.
