The wireless earbuds you keep seeing everywhere will already be in 2025. The Beats Studio Buds Plus are still ruling the wireless earbuds market, and it’s easy to see why. They may have a few foibles, but the noise-cancelling true wireless earbuds are so exceptional for both iPhone and Android users that they’re a great buy at this price.
Beats Studio Buds Plus: What Makes Them Different
The Beats Studio Buds Plus were released in May 2023 for $169.99. These are superior to the original Studio Buds, offering enhanced active noise cancellation and longer battery life.
Key Beats Studio Buds Plus Details:
- Advanced active noise cancellation (ANC)
- Battery life is between 6 and 9 hours before requiring a charge
- IPX4 water resistance rating
- Compatible with iPhone and Android
- Three stylish color options
- Custom acoustic chipset
Design and Build: A Premium Feel on a Budget
What are the design & comfort like on the Beats Studio Buds? Comes in 3 appealing finishes: clear, black/gold, and ivory.
Transparent Design Appeal
It’s a good thing, then, that we sprayed the Studio Buds white, becoming perhaps the only earbud company excited about showing circuit boards through a transparent shell. This clear design is right in your users’ alley if they favor something a bit different, a bit more modern. The transparent finish holds up far better to fingerprints than glossy alternatives.
Comfort and Fit Options
Four ear tip sizes are included (XS/S/M/L) for a snug, secure fit. Smaller ears are better served than with many competitors by the Studio Buds Plus. Both earbuds are light and, at just a few grams in weight, are fit for all-day wear.
Beats Studio Buds Plus vs the Original Studio Buds
The Studio Buds Plus make some serious upgrades over the first Beats Studio Buds:
Enhanced Features in the Plus Model
- Upgraded Active Noise Cancellation: With the upgraded ANC technology significantly reducing air traffic and other noise, these earbuds provide complete wireless freedom. Note: Human voice cannot be eliminated 100%
- Extended Battery Life: Up to 36 hours total with the charging case
- Additional Ear Tip: Four sizes, not just three, for a better fit
- Custom Chipset: Entirely new acoustic design via the revolutionary custom chipset, a pillar of the performance power of Beats.
- Find My Support: Locate your earbuds with Find My Device for Android users
Price Comparison
The Beats Studio Buds Plus are $20 more than the original Studio Buds. According to current market pricing, Studio Buds are available for approximately $99-149, and Studio Buds Plus for $169.99 retail.
Sound Quality: Bass-Forward Yet Balanced
The Studio Buds offer the signature Beats sound with more clarity. Custom two-layer transducer delivers all aspects of your music with stunning clarity and balanced sound.
Audio Performance Analysis
- Bass: The bass is tight and punchy without any loss to the midrange.
- Midrange Clarity: Voices are clear and articulated
- Treble Detail: Bright with good resolution but not too much harshness
- Soundstage: Decent for earbuds, not great.
Codec Support
The Beats Studio Buds + use the SBC and AAC codecs. These are also great for iPhone and Android sound quality.
Active Noise Cancellation: Enjoy Hearing the Music, not the Noise
The Studio Buds Plus offered greatly improved ANC over their predecessor. Noise-cancelling filters ambient noise out by up to 20dB.
ANC Performance Scenarios
- Commuting: Reduces train roars, street noise, and ambient sound
- Office Listening: Removes keyboard clatter, people chatting, and A/C.
- Air Travel: Cuts engine roar and cabin noise to a minimum
- Gymnasium: Mask background music and equipment noise
Transparency Mode
The transparency mode allows you can hear the surrounding sounds without unplugging the earbuds. This is a great feature for short conversations or for safety.
Battery Life: All-Day Performance
Battery life is a strong suit of the Studio Buds Plus.
Battery Specifications
- Earbuds Only: 6 hours (ANC on), 9 hours (ANC off)
- With Case: 24 hrs (ANC on) / 36 hrs (ANC off)
- Fast Charge: 5 minutes = 1 hour playtime
- Full Charge: 2 hours for a full system charge
Real-World Battery Testing
The independent testing is in, and the Studio Buds Plus live up to battery promises. For most users who mix ANC use, 7-8 hours can be expected.
iPhone and Android Compatibility
The Studio Buds are compatible with iOS and Android devices. Apple ownership brings fantastic iPhone integration.
iOS Features
- Automatic Pairing: No touch connection, just like AirPods
- Siri Without Button Touch: Voice assistant access with a button-less design
- Find My Support: If you lose your earbuds, tap into Apple’s network
- Switch On The Fly: Switch instantly among Apple devices
Android Advantages
- Beats App: Unlock more features through the Beats app
- Google Assistant: Android voice command support for Android users
- Find My Device: Use Google’s service to help locate earbuds
- Customized Control: Change the function of buttons using the app
Beats Fit Pro vs Studio Buds Plus Compared
For those active users who need a little more security, there’s the Beats Fit Pro.
Key Differences
Beats Fit Pro Advantages:
- Wingtip design for secure fit
- Better for intense workouts
- Longer overall battery life
- More stable during movement
Studio Buds Plus Advantages:
- Lower profile design
- More comfortable for extended wear
- Better value proposition
- Transparent color option
Competition Analysis: A Look at How They Stack Up
In 2025, the Studio Buds Plus are up against some solid competition.
Versus Apple AirPods Pro
Studio Buds Plus Pros:
- Cheaper ($169 vs $249)
- Longer battery life
- Android compatibility
- Transparent design option
AirPods Pro Advantages:
- Superior spatial audio
- Better noise cancellation
- Wireless charging support
- Premium build materials
Versus Sony WF-1000XM4
Studio Buds Plus Strengths:
- Better iPhone integration
- Easier physical controls
- More compact design
- Faster pairing process
Sony Advantages:
- Customizable EQ settings
- LDAC codec support
- Superior noise cancellation
- Longer single-charge battery
Common Issues and Solutions
There are a few issues some users are experiencing with the Studio Buds Plus.
Build Quality Concerns
Some users report that transparent varieties do not last for long. The clear plastic is prone to gathering lint and cracking from falls.
Solutions:
- Protect when not worn by applying sunscreen to sun-exposed areas.
- Wipe with a soft, dry cloth frequently and use a soft brush to remove dirt from time to time.
- Avoid extreme temperature exposure
- Handle with care during workouts
Connection Problems
Some people have trouble keeping the Bluetooth connection, in particular with the Android connectivity.
Troubleshooting Steps:
- Hold the button to reset the earbuds for 15 seconds
- Clear the Bluetooth cache on the phone
- Update the Beats app to the newest version
- Repair devices completely
Studio Buds Plus: Ideal Uses
This is an earbud that shines in selective situations yet lacks in others.
Ideal For:
- Casual Listening: Music, podcasts, audiobooks
- Commuting: Public transport, walking, cycling
- Light Workouts: Gym exercise, jogging, yoga
- Office Work: Video calls, focused work periods
- Travel: Flights, hotels, time changes
Consider Alternatives For:
- High-impact sports: Running, CrossFit, contact sports
- Audiophile Listening: Critical music analysis
- Extended Conference Calls: Full-day meetings
- Swimming: Water sports and activities
Value Proposition: Worth the Investment?
Priced at $169.99, the Studio Buds Plus sit in a competitive price range. And they provide those features while staying away from flagship pricing.
Cost-Benefit Analysis
Strong Value Points:
- Lower-cost Apple ecosystem integration
- Apple-owned brand’s Android support is unorthodox
- Solid ANC performance for price
- Attractive design options
Value Limitations:
- No wireless charging capability
- Limited sound customization
- Competition offers similar features cheaper price
- Some concerns over the build quality for the clear model
Beats Studio Buds Plus FAQs: Learn More About Beats Studio Buds Plus
Are Beats Studio Buds good quality?
Are Beats Studio Buds better than Samsung earbuds?
Are Beats Studio Buds compatible with Android?
What is better, headphones or earbuds?
Brand and Ownership Questions
Is Beats owned by Apple?
Apple bought Beats Electronics in 2014 for $3 billion. That ownership accounts for the flawless iPhone integration and the signing up of Android with custom apps.
Who is the CEO of Beats?
Beats is an Apple company. The brand is, however, without a separate CEO and belongs to Apple’s executive team, including CEO Tim Cook and the wider Apple team.
Do Beats work with iPhone?
Yes, Beats Studio Buds Plus is compatible with iPhone. You also receive instant pairing, hands-free Siri, support for Find My, automatic device switching, and spatial audio.
Durability and Longevity Questions
How long do Beats Studio Buds last?
Beats Studio Buds Plus usually stands in service for 2-3 years if taken care of well before you start noticing the battery not holding charge as it did at the start. The earbuds may last longer, but lithium-ion batteries have a finite lifespan.
What are the best headphones for the gym?
For working out at the gym, we would recommend Beats Fit Pro instead of Studio Buds Plus. The Fit Pro comes with wingtips for a secure fit during vigorous activity. But for moderate gym activity, Studio Buds Plus do the job just fine with their IPX4 water resistance.
Comparison Questions
Which headphones are better, Beats or JBL?
Both have strengths in different areas. The Beats have superior iPhone integration, and premium design, and bass-heavy sound. JBL usually offers better value, longer battery, and a wider array of customization.
Why do Beats cost so much?
Beats cost is a class-expensive, Apple-correlatable, premium-material-based, mass-marketed price point. You’re paying for design aesthetics, ecosystem integration, and brand prestige along with technical performance.
Are Beats better than Soundcore?
Beats are usually better built, better integrated with the iPhone, and generally use more premium materials. Soundcore (Anker) value is impressive, features are similar, but the price is lower, and therefore better for the budget value.
Is Skullcandy or Beats better for headphones?
This depends on priorities. Skullcandy has more aggressive styling and is often cheaper. Beats has better build quality across the board, more effective app integration, and better-balanced sound signatures.
Technical and Feature Questions
What are the best Bluetooth earbuds available?
In the year 2025, we are all really excited about the Apple AirPods Pro 2, Sony WF-1000XM4, Beats Studio Buds Plus, and Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro. The “best” choice for you is going to depend on your device ecosystem, what your desired budget and feature priority are.
What are the best noise-canceling headphones?
The top ANC headphones in 2025 are: Sony WH-1000XM5, Bose QuietComfort Ultra, Apple AirPods Max, and Sennheiser Momentum 4. For earbuds, look at AirPods Pro 2, Sony WF-1000XM,4 or Beats Studio Buds Plus.
Is Beats Studio Pro’s sound quality greater than the Sony WH-1000XM4’s?
The Sony WH-1000XM4 typically has better noise canceling and more detailed sound. The Beats Studio Pro offers better bass output and iPhone integration. But both offer high quality in their own way.
Noise Cancellation and Comfort Questions
What kind of noise is best at noise cancelling?
Active noise cancellation is most effective with consistent, low-frequency sounds like airplane engines, air conditioning, traffic noise, and train rumble. It’s less effective with sharp, high-frequency sounds that are sudden, such as voices or alarms.
Are noise-canceling headphones worth it?
Noise-cancelling is worth it for a frequent flier, daily commuter, office worker, or anyone who is subjected to a lot of low-frequency racket. Active noise cancelling cuts down on the racket, lowers the volume, and helps you pay attention to your music.
Do noise-cancelling headphones work without music?
Yes, the active noise cancellation still functions when there is no audio playing. You could turn on the ANC mode when you do not want to be disturbed, even without the music playing. These active noise-cancelling headphones work well with other noise reduction competitors; they are better for quiet and sleeping.
What are the most comfortable earbuds?
This depends on the shape of your ears, but comfortable choices include Beats Studio Buds Plus, Apple AirPods Pro, Sony WF-1000XM4, and Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3. Ear tip size is important for comfort.
What are the best noise-canceling earbuds by 2025?
This year’s best ANC earbuds in 2025 are Apple AirPods Pro 2, Sony WF-1000XM4, Beats Studio Buds Plus, Bose QuietComfort Earbuds, and Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro. Each one is focused on various aspects such as integration, sound, and features.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy Beats Studio Buds Plus in 2025?
The Beats Studio Buds Plus are a great value for money in the wireless earbuds “wild west.” They deliver on the core promises of great sound quality, effective noise cancellation, and painless wireless device integration.
Get the Studio Buds Plus if You:
- Need trustworthy ANC on the cheap
- Support both iPhone and Android phones
- Prefer bass-forward sound signature
- Value attractive design aesthetics
- Want a nice, long battery for the daily commute
Consider Alternatives if You:
- Require wireless charging capability
- Want extensive sound customization
- Need maximum noise cancellation performance
- Prefer smaller, more discrete earbuds
- Want the best possible call quality
Most users who want high-quality wireless earbuds with a mid-range price will be served well by the Studio Buds Plus. They delicately juggle features, power, and value in the commodified 2025 market.
