Beats Studio Buds + Review: A Closer Look at the True Wireless Earbuds

Wireless earbuds have become an essential everyday carry for many, and the market is packed with options that promise to handle everything from commutes to workouts. The Beats Studio Buds + enter this space with a clear focus on blending a familiar design with modern features like Active Noise Cancelling and broad device compatibility. Available here in a Black/Gold finish, these true wireless earbuds aim to be a versatile choice for both Apple and Android users. This review breaks down what these earbuds offer based on their official specifications, helping you determine if they align with your listening needs.

Design & Build Quality

The Beats Studio Buds + adopt a compact, in-ear design that prioritizes a secure and comfortable fit. A key element of this design is the inclusion of four different silicone tip sizes. The stated purpose of these multiple size options is to accommodate a wider range of ear shapes. The goal is to help users find a tip that creates a comfortable seal, which is a critical factor for both acoustic performance and passive noise isolation. A proper seal helps keep external noise out, allowing you to focus on your audio without needing to increase the volume.

In terms of physical resilience, the earbuds themselves carry an IPX4 rating, making them sweat and water resistant. This suggests they are designed to handle the moisture associated with intense workouts or being caught in light rain. It is important to note that this rating applies specifically to the earbuds, not the charging case, which is a common distinction for this class of product. The overall aesthetic, particularly in the Black/Gold colorway, gives the earbuds a slightly premium and distinctive look that stands apart from more monochrome competitors.

Features & Technology

At the heart of the Beats Studio Buds + is what the manufacturer calls their custom acoustic platform. This is the foundation designed to deliver what they describe as rich, immersive sound, whether you are playing music, watching a video, or taking a phone call. While the specifics of the driver technology are not detailed, the platform is engineered to provide a complete audio experience across different types of content.

One of the most prominent features is the inclusion of two distinct listening modes. The first, Active Noise Cancelling (ANC), is described as personalized, allowing you to tune out the world around you. The second is Transparency mode, which is designed to let ambient sound in. This dual-mode approach is practical, as it gives you control over your auditory environment. You can switch to Transparency when you need to be aware of your surroundings, such as when crossing a street or having a quick conversation, and then switch back to ANC when you want to focus or block out background noise.

Beats has also put a significant emphasis on call quality with a redesigned microphone system. The earbuds feature voice-targeting mics that are stated to be three times larger than previous iterations. These larger mics are engineered to filter background noise more precisely, with the goal of ensuring your voice comes through loud and clear during calls. This is a direct response to one of the most common pain points with wireless earbuds, where the person on the other end of the line often struggles to hear the caller over ambient noise.

Performance & Everyday Experience

When considering the everyday experience, the Beats Studio Buds + are designed to be a reliable companion from morning to night. The battery life is a significant highlight, with the earbuds and their pocket-sized charging case combining to offer up to 36 hours of total listening time. This figure is a strong indicator that the earbuds are built for multi-day use without the constant need for a power source. The charging case itself is described as pocket-sized, making it easy to carry around for on-the-go top-ups.

The wireless connectivity is handled by Class 1 Bluetooth, which is described as industry-leading. This classification is associated with providing an extended range and fewer dropouts. In practical terms, this means the connection is designed to be more stable, even when your phone is not in your immediate line of sight, such as when it is in a backpack or on the other side of a room. This robust connection is essential for an uninterrupted listening experience.

For those who enjoy a more immersive audio experience, the earbuds support spatial audio. This feature is designed to create a surround-sound-like effect, making the audio feel more expansive and three-dimensional. This can be particularly engaging when watching movies or certain types of music that are mixed to take advantage of the format. It adds another layer to the listening experience beyond standard stereo sound.

Compatibility & Connectivity

One of the defining characteristics of the Beats Studio Buds + is their enhanced compatibility with both Apple and Android devices. Beats has historically been closely associated with Apple, but this model is explicitly designed to offer a robust set of native features on both platforms. This includes one-touch pairing, which simplifies the initial setup process. For Apple users, this works seamlessly with the existing ecosystem, while Android users will find a similarly streamlined pairing experience through the Beats app.

The inclusion of a USB-C to USB-C charging cable in the box is a notable detail. This indicates a move toward a more universal charging standard, which is convenient for users who already have USB-C chargers for other devices like laptops or tablets. It simplifies the charging process by allowing you to use a single cable type for multiple gadgets.

Who Is This Product Best For?

Given the combination of features, the Beats Studio Buds + are best suited for individuals who want a single pair of earbuds that can perform well across a variety of scenarios. The IPX4 sweat and water resistance makes them a viable option for gym-goers and those with active lifestyles who want to listen to music during a workout without worrying about moisture damage.

The dual-mode ANC and Transparency features make them a strong choice for commuters and office workers. They can block out the drone of a train or the chatter of a busy office when you need to concentrate, and then switch to Transparency mode to hear announcements or interact with colleagues without removing the earbuds. The enhanced call quality, driven by the larger voice-targeting mics, also makes them a good option for professionals who spend a significant amount of time on phone calls.

Furthermore, because of the explicit focus on both Apple and Android compatibility, they are an excellent choice for users who are not tied down to a single smartphone ecosystem. Whether you are an iPhone user or an Android enthusiast, the earbuds are designed to provide a full-featured experience, including one-touch pairing, without compromising on functionality.

Final Verdict

The Beats Studio Buds + present a well-rounded package for anyone in the market for true wireless earbuds. They combine a comfortable, secure fit with the flexibility of four eartip sizes, ensuring that a wider range of users can find a suitable seal. The inclusion of both Active Noise Cancelling and Transparency mode offers practical control over your listening environment, while the focus on larger voice-targeting microphones addresses the common issue of poor call quality in noisy settings.

With a total battery life of up to 36 hours and a pocket-sized charging case, they are designed to keep pace with busy schedules. The Class 1 Bluetooth and support for spatial audio add to their appeal, as does the broad compatibility with both Apple and Android devices. While the IPX4 rating provides a degree of protection against sweat and water for the earbuds, it is a feature that adds to their versatility for active use. Overall, the Beats Studio Buds + appear to be a thoughtful and capable option for users seeking a versatile pair of earbuds that do not force them to choose between their device ecosystem and premium features.