Beats Solo 4 Review: A Stylish and Powerful On-Ear Headphone Experience
The Beats Solo 4 Wireless Bluetooth On-Ear Headphones have made a significant impact on the audio market with their compelling features and sleek design. Released on April 30, 2024, these headphones are compatible with both Apple and Android devices, making them an appealing choice for a wide range of users. With a host of advanced features including personalized spatial audio, long battery life, and a lightweight design, the Beats Solo 4 is aimed at delivering an optimal audio experience. This article delves into various aspects of the Beats Solo 4, analyzing its design, performance, comfort, and overall value.
Design and Build Quality
Dimensions and Weight
The Beats Solo 4 has a compact form factor, measuring 6.9 inches in length, 6.2 inches in width, and 2.7 inches in height. Weighing only 7.65 ounces (217 grams), they are designed to be lightweight and portable, making them easy to carry around or store.
Aesthetic Appeal
Available in multiple colors, including the stylish Slate Blue, the Beats Solo 4 boasts an attractive design with accents that appeal to both casual listeners and audiophiles. The materials used in the construction feel premium and durable, ensuring that these headphones can withstand daily use.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Fit and Cushioning
The ultralight ergonomic design features a flex-grip headband and adjustable ear cups that provide a snug yet comfortable fit. While many users have reported that the UltraPlush ear cushions are soft and comfortable for extended listening sessions, some have noted that prolonged use can lead to a bit of ear soreness, particularly for those with larger ear sizes.
Lightweight Design
Designed for all-day wear, the lightweight nature of the Beats Solo 4 makes them ideal for long listening sessions, whether at home, in the office, or while commuting. The headphones fold easily for storage in the included carrying case.
Audio Performance
Sound Quality
Equipped with custom acoustic architecture and updated drivers, the Solo 4 delivers powerful Beats sound that is rich in bass and clear in mids and highs. Many users have praised the sound quality, noting that it surpasses expectations for on-ear headphones in this price range.
Spatial Audio
A standout feature of the Beats Solo 4 is the personalized spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, providing an immersive listening experience. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who enjoy watching movies or playing games, as it enhances the overall audio experience.
Battery Life and Connectivity
Longevity
One of the most impressive features of the Beats Solo 4 is its astonishing battery life, offering up to 50 hours of listening time on a single charge. The Fast Fuel feature allows for a quick 10-minute charge that provides up to 5 hours of playback, making it convenient for users who are always on the go.
Connectivity Options
The headphones support Class 1 Wireless Bluetooth® for extended range and fewer dropouts. Additionally, they come equipped with USB-C audio and a 3.5 mm analog input for those who prefer wired connections. The dual compatibility with Apple and Android devices also makes for a seamless pairing experience.
User Experience
Overall Performance
Users have reported a generally positive experience with the Beats Solo 4. The built-in microphone works well for calls, providing clear audio quality for conversations. The headphones have also received accolades for their ease of use and straightforward setup process.
Cons
Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some users have mentioned that the sizing may not be ideal for everyone, particularly those with larger head sizes. A few reviews indicated slight discomfort after wearing them for extended periods, leading to a minor deduction in their overall rating.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional sound quality with powerful bass.
- Up to 50 hours of battery life.
- Lightweight and comfortable design.
- Personalized spatial audio with dynamic head tracking.
- Easy connectivity with both Apple and Android devices.
- Fast Fuel charging capability.
Cons:
- Potential discomfort for users with larger ears or head sizes.
- Lack of active noise cancellation may affect sound isolation in noisy environments.
Overall Rating: 4.4/5
Ratings Breakdown:
- Design and Build Quality: 4.5/5
- Comfort: 3.8/5
- Audio Performance: 4.5/5
- Battery Life: 5/5
- User Experience: 4.3/5
Conclusion
The Beats Solo 4 Wireless Bluetooth On-Ear Headphones are a stellar option for those seeking a stylish, high-quality audio experience. With impressive battery life, lightweight design, and excellent sound performance, they have quickly become a favorite among users. While they may not be perfect for everyone due to fit issues, those who find them comfortable will likely enjoy them for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are the Beats Solo 4 headphones compatible with both Android and Apple devices?
Yes, the Beats Solo 4 headphones offer dual compatibility and support one-touch pairing for both iOS and Android devices.
2. What is the battery life of the Beats Solo 4?
The headphones can provide up to 50 hours of listening time on a single charge. Additionally, a quick 10-minute charge allows for up to 5 hours of playback.
3. Do the Beats Solo 4 have noise cancellation features?
While the Beats Solo 4 do not feature active noise cancellation, they do offer good sound isolation due to their on-ear design and plush ear cushions.
4. How do I connect the Beats Solo 4 to my device?
The headphones are easy to connect; simply enable Bluetooth on your device, power on the headphones, and select them from the list of available devices.
5. What is included in the package with the Beats Solo 4?
The package includes the Beats Solo 4 headphones, a USB-C charging cable, and a carrying case for storage and travel.
Drinkwater –
I bought these for both of my daughters for Christmas. They had been using pods for years, but they would often fall out of their ears and get lost. The sound quality is amazing, although it sometimes makes me wonder if they’re ignoring me or if the noise-canceling is just that effective! Just kidding—seriously, the noise-canceling feature is fantastic, and my youngest can use them on her own with ease. My other daughter has had hers for quite some time, so I can confirm they’re durable and lightweight. They also love the impressive battery life and the cute colors!
Kindle Customer –
I received mine today and I can’t stop loving them! I may not have a small head, but these fit perfectly—comfortable yet snug. Connecting them to my phone was a breeze, and I really appreciate how lightweight they are! Plus, they fold neatly into a case. I work in a noisy office, and these are exactly what I need to drown out the background sounds. I got the Cloud Pink pair, and they are absolutely adorable! 🥰
Shannon L –
I thought I had lost my Beats FitPro earbuds and decided to take advantage of the Black Friday sale on the Beats Solo4. After reading numerous reviews mentioning that they felt small or tight, I was hesitant but decided to give them a shot since I have a smaller head. Most over-ear headphones tend to be too big for me. I am so glad I did! I absolutely love these headphones! They fit perfectly for anyone with a smaller head, and I highly recommend them.
I was initially concerned about the lack of a noise-canceling feature, especially since the gym I go to plays loud music that usually overwhelms my earbuds. However, I could barely hear the gym’s music while I was listening to my own (which I like to blast!).
The sound quality is excellent, and the battery life seems impressive, although I’ve only had them for a week. If you have a smaller head and want great sound, these are definitely worth it!
Alexis Scott –
This product is fantastic! For the price, you get three months of Apple Music for free, and it connects seamlessly with both Apple and Android devices. Plus, it has a “find my” feature in case you misplace it. The battery lasts an impressive 50 hours, and the padding is very comfortable. The sound quality is outstanding, and the headphones are durable and water-resistant. Overall, the functionality is excellent.
Pauline White –
The sound quality is excellent, and the noise cancellation is fantastic. They are very comfortable and have a long battery life between charges. I liked them so much that I ended up purchasing two additional pairs.
Usheena –
These headphones are quite comfortable, although wearing them for extended periods can lead to some ear discomfort. The sound quality is impressive, and they have a nice appearance that I appreciate. The microphone functions well for calls and overall usage is straightforward. Overall, they offer excellent sound quality and great performance.
Stephanieanne –
The material quality and sound are excellent. It’s incredibly user-friendly and includes a compact carry case that’s just right. The battery life is also impressive.
gasleak –
Lightweight headset with excellent sound quality and an ideal color. Fantastic value for the price.
Arin Handy –
I picked these up for $100 during a sale, and as a high schooler who loves music, I was eager to switch from earbuds to headphones to protect my eardrums. They arrived quickly, and I have mostly positive feedback, though there are a few drawbacks.
Overall, these headphones are fantastic for the price and make an excellent starter option. I’m giving it 4 stars mainly due to sizing. Since you can’t choose different sizes, it’s important to note that these are on the smaller side. If you have a larger build, be cautious with this design. I have a slim frame, but even after just 30 minutes of wearing them, my ears start to feel sore. While the adjustable length is perfect and offers great flexibility, the width is lacking, leading to discomfort with extended use.
The audio quality is quite good; the bass and volume are satisfying. I love to crank up the music, and while they aren’t overwhelmingly loud at full volume, which is a plus for me, it can be a bit frustrating at times. When I connect the headphone jack to my phone, the sound clarity improves, but the bass diminishes slightly.
Connecting via Bluetooth was simple on my Android, and I also downloaded the app, which allows for easy navigation and customization of settings (it works with other Beats products too). They power on and off quickly, a significant upgrade from my old earbuds. The left side features the iconic B button, which lets you pause, play, and skip tracks effortlessly without accidental touches (my previous earbuds were touch-sensitive). The power button on the right side is small but user-friendly.
In conclusion, the design is sleek, user-friendly, and portable. The carrying case isn’t the best, but it keeps everything organized, so it’s not a major issue. The audio and bass performance are solid but could be improved. The battery life is impressive, so you won’t need to charge them daily. The sizing may be a challenge, as those with smaller heads or builds will likely have no issues, making them suitable for short listening sessions. They serve as a great starter pair, but I don’t see them being my go-to for the long haul.
Jacob o. –
Excellent value for the price and a high-quality product. I’m very satisfied with these. The sound is fantastic, and shipping was quick.
Alexis Scott –
I previously owned the Beats Solo buds, but they kept falling out during my workouts. So, I decided to try these, and I absolutely love them! The sound quality is excellent, they feel sturdy, and they’re user-friendly! They do slide a little when I sweat on the treadmill, but they’re still comfortable. They deliver great volume and effectively block out distracting gym noise! Plus, the side buttons make it easy to change or skip songs, and the battery lasts through several workouts!
Elle –
I was eager to try these headphones after searching for a pair for some time. I snagged them during Black Friday at a great price. They have a stylish design with rose gold accents, are lightweight, and were incredibly easy to set up—no issues at all. I also received offers for three free months of Apple Music and Amazon Music. The sound quality is outstanding; I didn’t want to take them off! I’ve worn them for hours and haven’t needed to charge them since I bought them a few weeks ago. I also picked up a cute rose gold carrying bag from Amazon because I wasn’t a fan of the black one that came with it. Overall, I absolutely love them! 💕
Jacob o. –
Having used AirPods for a few years, I decided it was time to invest in a proper pair of headphones. These were on sale and offered great sound quality. While they lack active noise cancellation, they do a decent job of sound isolation. They’re compact and come with a nice carrying case.
However, the delivery experience was frustrating. It took almost a week despite the promise of same-day delivery, so I would recommend checking in-store availability.