Beats has introduced their latest offering, the Solo Buds, which are true wireless earbuds priced at $80. This marks the company’s most affordable option yet, stepping down from their usual $150-$200 range. While the Solo Buds lack some of the premium features found in their higher-end models, they still offer decent sound quality, long battery life, and a comfortable fit.
The design of the Solo Buds follows Beats’ signature style, with a slightly larger size to accommodate the batteries. The case is notably smaller than previous models, as Beats removed the battery from it, claiming this makes the buds more environmentally friendly. The case is transparent, but the buds themselves remain opaque.
In terms of features, the Solo Buds offer basic functionality, with iOS users benefiting from seamless integration with iCloud and other Apple devices. Android users can use the Beats app for customization. The earbuds lack advanced features like ANC, wear detection, or support for Apple’s Adaptive EQ, but they do allow for volume adjustment via press-and-hold controls.
Sound quality on the Solo Buds is serviceable, though not as dynamic as Beats’ higher-end models. The earbuds support Dolby Atmos for improved audio performance with compatible content. Call quality is decent, with background noise being effectively blocked out.
Battery life on the Solo Buds is impressive, lasting up to 18 hours on a single charge. The case does not have a battery, so the buds need to be charged independently. Charging is quick, with 5 minutes providing an hour of playback. The lack of a battery in the case means there is no LED indicator for charging status.
Overall, the Beats Solo Buds offer a good balance of affordability, sound quality, and comfort. While they may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive models, they provide a solid option for everyday use.
