Beats by Dre, the renowned US-based audio accessory brand owned by Apple, has made waves in India with the launch of its latest product: the Beats Solo 4 on-ear headphones. Often perceived as alternatives to Apple’s AirPods, the Beats Solo 4 distinguishes itself as the only on-ear headphone in Apple’s lineup. Unlike many other Apple products, these headphones are compatible with Android smartphones. So, how do they perform when paired with non-Apple devices, and are they a true alternative to AirPods? Let’s explore.
Design and Fit
The Beats Solo 4 sports a classic on-ear headphone design that offers comfort without sacrificing style. Although they appear somewhat bulky when held, they feel lightweight when worn. Constructed primarily from smooth plastic, the headphones feature premium touches like a metallic Beats logo on the outer ear cups and shiny metal hinges with a brushed finish. The ear cushions are wrapped in a soft-touch, leather-like material that enhances comfort, though the thin cushioning on the headband has a rubber-like texture that detracts slightly from the overall premium feel.
The headphones are flexible, catering to various head sizes. The ear cups feature multiaxial movement and soft ear pads that effectively enclose the ears, providing a snug fit. When not in use, the headphones can be conveniently folded at the adjustment slider and stored in the included carrying case, which also has a premium feel. The case features dedicated pockets for the USB Type-C to Type-C cable and the 3.5mm audio cable, offering additional connectivity options.
Compatibility and Connectivity
The Beats Solo 4 headphones are compatible with both iPhones and Android smartphones, providing an array of advanced features for both platforms. However, as an Apple product, the feature set is more extensive when paired with an iPhone. During my review, I tested the headphones with both types of devices.
When used with the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, the Beats Solo 4 delivered high-definition audio support over the Advanced Audio Codec (AAC) for wireless streaming. The headphones also support Spatial Audio and Google’s Audio Switch, which enables automatic switching between source devices linked to the same Google account. This feature mirrors Apple’s Audio Sharing available with iPhones. The Solo 4 paired seamlessly with the iPhone 16, allowing direct access to device settings and customization options through the Settings app. iPhone users can enjoy Personalized Spatial Audio, similar to what is offered with AirPods.
While paired with Android, advanced features such as Spatial Audio and HD Audio can be toggled within the Bluetooth settings, but button controls require the Beats app for customization. In addition to wireless connectivity, the headphones can be used with the USB-C cable or the 3.5mm audio cable, both providing lossless audio and lower latency—beneficial for gaming. However, wired connections have limitations, such as the inability to change button controls or disable charging on the smartphone’s power.
Companion App
While iPhone users can access available options within the Settings app, Android users must switch between Bluetooth settings and the Beats app for customization, which is somewhat limited. The Beats app lacks features like an equalizer or listening modes, which can be disappointing for users seeking a tailored audio experience.
Audio and Calling Performance
Equipped with 40mm transducers, the Beats Solo 4 delivers balanced sound across various genres. It excels in acoustic and instrumental music but still provides sufficient low-frequency response for bass enthusiasts. However, the lack of an in-app equalizer or different sound modes restricts customization options. While Personalized Spatial Audio significantly enhances the listening experience on an iPhone, pushing volume levels too high reveals the headphones’ limitations, resulting in a noticeable decline in sound quality. Although the ear pads reduce ambient noise, outdoor and crowded situations expose the absence of Active Noise Cancelling (ANC).
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The calling experience with the Beats Solo 4 is surprisingly impressive. The built-in microphones outperform typical headphone microphones, accurately capturing voice even in closed environments and effectively isolating the user’s voice in crowded areas. While voices may sound slightly robotic in extremely noisy conditions, they remain clear and understandable.
Battery Life
Beats claims the Solo 4 offers up to 50 hours of battery life, a promise largely fulfilled in practice. After over two weeks of usage, I only needed to charge them once, with 40 percent battery remaining at the time of writing. The impressive battery life is complemented by quick charging speeds, with the headphones reaching 20 percent in about 15 minutes—more than enough for daily use.
Verdict
Priced at Rs 22,900, the Beats Solo 4 on-ear headphones may seem slightly overpriced given their overall audio clarity and the absence of Active Noise Cancelling (ANC). However, they compensate with versatility in connectivity options, impressive voice calling performance, and exceptional battery life.
While the Beats Solo 4 may not cater to audiophiles, they represent a solid choice for those seeking a comprehensive all-in-one solution. With the ability to connect via a wired connection for low-latency gaming, compatibility with both Android and iOS, and strong performance in calling and video conferencing, these headphones deliver a robust package. All of these features come encased in an on-ear design that boasts outstanding battery life, making the Beats Solo 4 a noteworthy addition to the market.
