The Beats Solo Buds are the latest addition to Apple’s Beats lineup, offering a straightforward and reliable TWS headset experience. Priced at Rs. 6,900, these earbuds enter a competitive market, aiming to stand out with their impressive battery life and compatibility across both iOS and Android platforms. However, how do they compare to the rivals?
Design and Comfort: Simple Yet Effective
The Beats Solo Buds maintain the brand’s signature design, featuring a compact and lightweight build. The earphones, with their stem-free design and plastic body, offer a comfortable fit thanks to the rounded design and multiple ear tip sizes. The case is one of the smallest and lightest in the market, making it highly portable. The matte finish on the Arctic Purple variant adds a touch of elegance, though the overall design leans towards simplicity.
Customisable Controls: Limited But Functional
When it comes to controls, the Beats Solo Buds offer basic functionality that is easy to use. The earbuds are compatible with both iOS and Android, though iOS users benefit from built-in controls while Android users need to download a companion app. The controls are responsive, allowing for call management, media playback, and volume adjustments. However, the lack of advanced features like equaliser settings may disappoint users looking for more customisation
Performance and Battery Life: Strong, Yet Unspectacular
In terms of audio quality, the Beats Solo Buds deliver a balanced sound that handles a variety of genres well. While not as bass-heavy as other models from the brand, the sound profile is more neutral, providing clarity across different instruments and vocals. The lack of active noise cancellation (ANC) is a notable drawback, especially considering many competitors offer this feature at a lower price point. On the bright side, the battery life is commendable, with up to 18 hours of playback on a single charge. However, the case does not provide any additional battery power, which could be a limitation for heavy users.
Verdict: A Solid Option with Some Trade-offs
The Beats Solo Buds stand out for their long battery life and balanced audio performance, making them a solid choice for users who value simplicity and reliability. However, the absence of ANC and additional charging capabilities in the case may be deal-breakers for some. If you’re an Apple user or someone looking for a no-frills TWS headset with dependable performance, the Beats Solo Buds are worth considering. For those seeking more features, alternatives like the Oppo Enco Air 3 Pro or OnePlus Buds 3 might be better suited.
