Beats Studio 3 vs Beats Studio 2
Beats Studio headphones remain popular in the market because of their decent noise cancelation performance. They are also loved by bass lovers. Now, we are going to compare the latest model in the series against the predecessor, Beats Studio 3 vs Beats Studio 2. Which one is actually better for the money?
Read on below to learn more about:
– The build quality of each headset
– The connectivity features of each model
– The comparison of their noise cancelation performance
– The sound quality of Beats Studio 3 and Beats Studio 2
– The battery life of Beats Studio 3 vs Beats Studio 2
– Which model that gives the best value for the money
Design and Build Quality
In terms of visual aesthetics, it is difficult to distinguish Beats Studio 3 and Beats Studio 2 – and the very first Beats Studio Wireless model. After all the years, the construction is still mainly plastic in the latest model. This is not to say that the build quality is bad. The frame is quite tough and sturdy, as long as you don’t over-abuse the headset. See also: Beats Solo 3 vs Studio 3.
Although these headsets are marketed as Apple headphones, they don’t actually have the signature Apple look. Instead, Beats Studio 3 and Beats Studio 2 have the “b” brand logo stamped on the back of each ear cup. They are still Beats headphones, both in the name and in the style.
There is just a subtle difference in the fit. Compared to the predecessor, Beats Studio 3 seems to fit more snugly. The frame doesn’t feel clunky anymore. The ear pads are thick, soft, and very comfortable. The top headband is nicely padded and is lightweight, so it won’t hurt the top of your head. Both models are available in a variety of colors, including matte black, black-red, gray, white, porcelain rose, red, and blue.
Connectivity
One of the primary differences between Beats Studio 3 vs Beats Studio 2 is related to the connectivity. However, this difference isn’t obvious right away.
The predecessor, Beats Studio 2, already has built-in Bluetooth that allows you to connect the headset to a mobile device up to 30-ft away. The wireless connection is very convenient. You are free from tangled cables. It is powered by a built-in rechargeable battery. In addition, there is a 3.5mm audio input and an included RemoteTalk cable, so you can switch to a wired connection when the battery runs low. A Micro USB charging cable is also included.
Beats Studio 3 comes with the same connectivity features. It has built-in Bluetooth and a 3.5mm audio input. The RemoteTalk cable and the charging cable are included as well.
However, Beats Studio 3 is equipped with Apple’s W1 chip, which can automatically connect to your Apple devices without requiring any action on your part. Hence, the pairing process with Apple devices is very simple and quick. This is why Beats Studio 3 is marketed as an Apple headset. If you have a Mac, iPhone, iPad, or iPod, Beats Studio 3 is an excellent headset for you.
Noise Cancelation
The next big difference between Beats Studio 3 vs Beats Studio 2 is the noise cancelation performance. If we say that the noise cancelation of Beats Studio 2 is “just okay”, then the noise cancelation of Beats Studio 3 is “excellent”. The difference is quite dramatic.
Beats Studio 2 is already able to isolate away normal conversations and muffle loud noises such as traffic noise and machinery noise with the active noise cancelation (ANC). However, it is not very good because it only works with one mic to monitor the environmental noise. Very loud sounds can still get into your hearing, albeit with reduced volume.
Beats Studio 3 is equipped with two mics for the active noise cancelation (ANC). In addition, it has the new software which allows it to compare the original source file of the audio with the actual sound that you hear. Beats Studio 3 continuously compares the two in real-time, and it effectively removes noise artifacts from the headphones.
As the effect, Beats Studio 3 does a much better job in erasing environmental noise. Even if you try telling while wearing the headset with the ANC turned on, you won’t be able to hear yourself. This is a great headset that can help you focus and concentrate without getting disturbed by the world.
Sound Quality
The sound quality of Beats Studio 3 is still similar to Beats Studio 2. It sounds good. If you like heavy bass, it is great. After all, Beats headphones are mostly known to deliver overpowering bass.
There is good bass extension, but due to the strong bass, the midrange may get muffled from time to time. The clarity and detail aren’t great, but there is a nice feel of dynamism and rhythm. The music is eloquent. The soundstage is actually pretty wide. The treble is well-defined without being too harsh. Overall, Beats Studio 3 and Beats Studio 2 are enjoyable for pop, rock, hip-hop, and just about any lively music.
Battery Life
Besides improving the pairing process with Apple devices, the W1 chip in Beats Studio 3 also greatly enhances the battery life and reduces the charging time. This smart chip makes the battery use a lot more efficient.
Beats Studio 2 can only last for up to 12 hours. There is a fuel gauge to show you the remaining battery power. To be fair, this is already pretty good. The battery is enough for a full day at the office. However, you will need to recharge the headset every night for daily use.
Beats Studio 3 is really impressive because it can last for up to 22 hours, and that’s with the ANC continuously turned on. It has enough juice for two or three days if you don’t use it continuously for long multiple hours a day. You probably will only recharge it every two or three days.
In addition, the charging time is really impressive. The battery only takes 10 minutes of charging to get enough power for three hours of playback. So, whenever you are running out of battery, you can just plug it and wait for a short time to continue your music.
Beats Studio 3 vs Beats Studio 2
Conclusion
Between these two headsets, Beats Studio 3 is much more recommended. It is worth the money, thanks to the impressive improvements on the noise cancelation and battery life. The ANC is much better, as it can eliminate most environmental noise properly. It comes with the W1 chip, which makes the pairing process with Apple devices a lot easier and the battery life much longer.