Beats Solo 4 Review by CNET

Electronics & Technology Review CNET Beats Solo 4

CNET reviews the Beats Solo 4, detailing the improvements from its predecessor, the Solo 3, and the absence of expected features like active noise cancelling.

🔑 Key Takeaways

  • 🔊 The Beats Solo 4 maintains a familiar design with minor exterior refinements but introduces significant internal upgrades, enhancing sound quality and performance.
  • 🚫 Although priced at $200, the Solo 4 surprisingly lacks active noise cancelling, a feature now common in this price range.
  • 🎧 The new soft case design is more compact and features pockets for accessories, improving portability and convenience.
  • 🔗 For connectivity, Solo 4 supports Bluetooth 5.3 and has multi-point pairing for Android users, although it misses out on some Apple-specific features like automatic device switching.
  • ⚡ Improved battery life boasts up to 50 hours, and the headphones offer detailed sound quality with enhanced bass definition.

📝 Timestamped Summary

00:02 Introduction to Beats Solo 4:

  • Discussion about the Solo 4's design similarities with previous models and the new color options available.
  • Overview of external design changes and upgrades from Solo 3 to Solo 4, including USB-C charging and a new soft case design.

02:00 Design and Comfort Features:

  • Detailed comparison of physical aspects like weight and comfort between Solo 4 and Beats Studio Pro.
  • Mention of improved earpad materials aimed at enhancing durability.

03:00 Missing Features: Active Noise Cancelling and Sensor Technology:

  • Discussion on the absence of active noise cancelling and ear detection sensors which are common in similarly priced headphones.

04:00 Connectivity and Additional Features:

  • Explanation of connectivity features specific to Android and Apple users, including the limitations and benefits for both.
  • Introduction of audio features available to Apple users only, such as spatial audio with head tracking.

05:00 Sound Quality Enhancement:

  • Commentary on the improved sound quality, with specific details on the acoustic architecture and clarity compared to Beats Studio Pro.
  • Information on wired and wireless connectivity options provided by USB-C and traditional aux ports.

06:00 Battery Life and Voice Call Performance Improvements:

  • Description of the extended battery life and enhanced voice call capabilities due to new beamforming microphones and advanced noise reduction algorithms.

07:00 Conclusion and Pricing Thoughts:

  • Final thoughts on whether the Beats Solo 4 provides sufficient value for its price point.
  • Comparison with competitors that offer noise cancelling at a similar or lower price range.

❓ FAQ

How do the Beats Solo 4 compare in comfort to over-ear headphones?

While the Solo 4 are on-ear headphones and generally less comfortable than over-ear models, they are relatively comfortable within their category thanks to well-cushioned earpads.

Does Beats Solo 4 support both iOS and Android devices?

Yes, the Solo 4 is geared towards both Apple and Android users, featuring compatibility and tailored connectivity options for each platform.

Can I expect the Beats Solo 4 to go on sale anytime soon?

Based on past pricing trends with Beats products, it's likely that the Solo 4 could see a price reduction in the near future, making them a better value purchase.

🎬 Conclusion

The CNET review highlights the Beats Solo 4 as a solid choice in on-ear headphones, balancing design familiarity with internal advancements for better performance and sound quality. While they miss out on some modern features like active noise cancelling, their improvements in battery life and audio clarity make them worth considering, especially if you find them at a discounted price. For more opinions and to see the headphones in action, consider watching the full video review on CNET's channel.