Beats Solo 3 vs 4: Battle of the Beats. Comparing Sound, Style, and Comfort
By Elisabeth Christ
Published May 2024
In the world of iconic headphones, Beats Solo has carved its niche with its distinct style and sound signature. The Solo 3 and Solo 4, while seemingly similar, present distinct choices for music lovers. Join us as we dissect their strengths and weaknesses, comparing them on various fronts to help you determine which model best suits your needs.
Key Takeaways
When diving into the realm of Beats Solo headphones, it's crucial to understand the technical nuances that set the Beats Solo 3 and Beats Solo 4 apart. The Beats Solo 3 boasts an impressive battery life of up to 40 hours, while the newer Beats Solo 4 takes it a step further with an extended battery life of up to 50 hours. In terms of connectivity, the Beats Solo 3 features the W1 chip for seamless pairing with Apple devices, whereas the Beats Solo 4 introduces Bluetooth 5.3 for improved wireless performance. These technical specifications play a significant role in the user experience and overall performance of these popular headphones.
On our list
#1 Price & Design
#2 Audio Quality
#3 Features & Performance
#4 Connectivity & Compatibility
#5 Battery Life
#6 Potential Drawbacks
Beats Solo 3
Better Choice for Budget
✓ Class 1 Bluetooth connectivity
✓ Fast Fuel charging
✓ Apple's W1 chip
✓ 40 hours of battery life
Beats Solo 4
Better Choice for Performance
✓ Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity
✓ 3.5-mm and USB-C ports
✓ iOS and Android compatible
✓ 50 hours of battery life
#1 Price & Design
Beats Solo 3
The Beats Solo 3 and Beats Solo 4 share a similar design aesthetic, with the Solo 4 building upon the foundation of its predecessor. At the price of $169, the Beats Solo 3 is your gateway to the Beats universe. A rainbow of colors and that iconic 'b' logo scream style, but the plastic build feels more fun than fancy. Its on-ear design is sleek, but long jam sessions might leave your ears craving a break.
The Beats Solo 4, while sporting a similar silhouette at $199.95, steps up its game. It introduces a few subtle refinements, such as a more streamlined plusher headband, softer ear cups, and a wider color palette. However, the overall look and feel of the two headphones are quite similar, catering to those who appreciate the signature Beats style.
#2 Audio Quality
Beats Solo 4
In terms of audio performance, the Solo 4 boasts custom Beats chip, which enables advanced audio processing and enhanced sound quality, while its predecessor uses Apple's W1 chip. The low-end response is tighter and more controlled, while the mid-range and treble frequencies are more balanced and refined.
The Solo 3, while still delivering a satisfying Beats-style sound signature with powerful bass, can sometimes feel a bit overpowering in the low-end department. If you're a basshead, the Beats Solo 3 is your jam. It pumps out thumping lows that'll make your heart race (and your head bob). Hip-hop, EDM, pop – these genres shine, but the mids and highs can sometimes feel like they're playing backup singers to the bass's lead vocals.
The Solo 4, on the other hand, takes a different approach, aiming for a more harmonious soundstage and strikes a better balance between the different frequency ranges, providing a more well-rounded and immersive listening experience. The bass is still there, but it's tighter and more controlled, letting those mids and highs have their moment in the spotlight. It's a versatile sound that won't leave any genre feeling left out.
#3 Features & Performance
Beats Solo 3
Although the two devices use different chip, they still try to make the pairing with your iPhone and Android a breeze and optimize power usage like a pro. Both the Beats Solo 3 and Solo 4 offer a range of features to enhance the user experience. The Solo 4 boasts the inclusion of Apple's "Hey Siri" voice control, allowing users to easily access virtual assistant functionality with a simple voice command. Additionally, the Solo 4 offers improved performance, with a faster and more responsive touch control panel on the earcup. The Solo 3, while still offering touch controls, can sometimes feel a bit less precise and responsive in comparison.
#4 Connectivity & Compatibility
Beats Solo 4
Both headphones are Bluetooth-enabled and have a 3.5mm audio jack for wired listening. Thanks to the W1 chip, the Solo 3 is best buddy with Apple devices, but the Solo 4 will gladly connect to your Android or any other Bluetooth-enabled gadget. The Beats Solo 3 utilizes Class 1 Bluetooth for wireless connectivity, while the Solo 4 upgrades to Bluetooth 5.3. This newer Bluetooth standard offers improved range, stability, and power efficiency, making the Solo 4 a more reliable and versatile option for wireless audio.
#5 Battery Life
Beats Solo 3
If battery life is your priority, the Beats Solo 4 takes the crown. It boasts an impressive 50 hours of playback, a full 10 hours more than the Solo 3's already respectable 40 hours. That's more music, more podcasts, more freedom to roam without worrying about finding an outlet. The Solo 4's battery life may be a consideration for those who require extended listening sessions without the need for frequent recharging.
And when you're running low on juice, the "Fast Fuel" feature on both models gives you 3 hours of playback from just 5 minutes of charging – perfect for those always on the move. Furthermore, the Beats Solo 4 has a trick up its sleeve: a USB-C port. This means faster charging and easier cable management (goodbye, micro-USB!).
#6 Potential Drawbacks
Beats Solo 4
Let's be real, neither of these are perfect. Their on-ear design, while stylish, can get uncomfortable after a while, especially if you have larger ears. And if you're often surrounded by noise, you might miss the sweet silence of active noise cancellation, a feature neither of these models offer. The Solo 3's bass-heavy sound and outdated micro-USB port might also give you pause. The Solo 4 addresses these issues, but at a higher price tag.
Beats Solo 3 vs 4
Final Thoughts
Beats Solo 3 vs 4
The Beats Solo 4 undeniably outshines its predecessor in several key areas, offering superior audio quality, extended battery life, a more modern USB-C port, and improved Bluetooth connectivity with Bluetooth 5.3. However, the Solo 3 remains a compelling option for budget-conscious consumers and those who prioritize a bass-heavy sound signature. Ultimately, your choice boils down to your individual preferences and budget. With both models offering a unique blend of style and performance, you're sure to find the perfect pair to amplify your listening experience.
Finding yourself liking headphones? You might want to check these guides out:
Sennheiser Momentum 4 vs Accentum
Sennheiser Momentum 4 vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra
Sennheiser Momentum 4 vs Sony WH-1000XM5
Pulse Elite vs INZONE H7
Pulse Elite vs Pulse Explore
Pulse Elite vs Pulse 3D
Beats Studio Pro vs Sennheiser Momentum 4 Headphones
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