When you see someone rocking Beats headphones as they groove to the music, chances are they’re wearing Solos. These on-ear wireless headphones rank among the most popular Beats models ever made.
In this guide, we’ll compare the Beats Solo Pro and Solo 3 head-to-head. Read on to see how they stack up for design, sound quality, noise cancellation, battery life, controls, and overall value.
A Brief History of Beats
First launched in 2008 by rapper Dr. Dre and producer Jimmy Iovine, Beats headphones exploded in popularity thanks to celebrity endorsements and a focus on bold styling and enhanced bass.
The brand was acquired by Apple in 2014 in a $3 billion deal. Today, Beats remains a subsidiary company that enjoys integration with Apple product lines while retaining its own flashy aesthetic.
The Solo model first arrived in 2011 and has since become Beats’ top-selling headphone series. These on-ear headphones prioritize portability, performance, and eye-catching design.
Beats Solo Pro vs. Solo 3: Key Specs
Before pitting them head-to-head, here’s a high-level overview of what each model brings to the table:
| Model | Solo Pro | Solo 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | Oct. 2019 | Sept. 2016 |
| Price | $299 | $149-$199 |
| Battery Life | 22 hrs ANC on 40 hrs ANC off |
40 hrs |
| Charging | Fast Fuel: 3 hrs in 10 mins Full charge: 1.75 hours |
Fast Fuel: 3 hrs in 5 mins Full charge: 2 hours |
| Noise Cancelling | Yes, adaptive | Yes |
| Transparency Mode | Yes | No |
| Wireless Chip | Apple H1 | Class 1 Bluetooth |
| Mic System | 6 mics | 1 mic |
| Compatibility | iOS/Android | iOS/Android |
So in a nutshell…
- The Solo Pro offers extras like Transparency mode plus refinements like more mics and a newer wireless chip
- The Solo 3 delivers core Beats sound and quality at a more affordable price point
Next, let’s scrutinize how these on-ear models compare across the key categories audiophiles care about most.
Sound Quality
Beats built its reputation on delivering lively, powerful sound with scintillating bass response. Both the Solo Pro and Solo 3 uphold that legacy.
Lows: thumping and vibrant on both models
Even bass-lovers will be wowed by the low end punch on these portable Beats cans. The sound engineers crank up the bass output compared to more neutral headphones. Hip hop, EDM, and pop sound lively.
Mids: emphasized but can lack detail
Vocals and instruments come through clearly on both models but resolution in the midrange isn’t best-in-class. Treble notes also take a backseat to the commanding lows.
Soundstage: intimate staging
Don’t expect a wide, spacious presentation of audio. These are close, intimate headphones that put the listener front-and-center at a concert.
Clarity: Solo Pro pulls ahead
While the Solo 3 sounds characteristically “Beats-y” with those ballooning lows, the Solo Pro displays better clarity and balance across the frequency curve. Instruments sound cleaner and less congested thanks to advances like Apple’s H1 chip.
Noise Cancellation
Blocking out external noise allows you to focus entirely on the music. Here’s how ANC performance shakes out:
Solo Pro: Very good active noise cancelling
Using an array of 6 mics, the Solo Pro effectively tunes out ambient noises like chatter, airplane rumble, and street traffic. The adaptive ANC constantly adjusts to your environment.
Solo 3: Decent ANC
With just a single mic, the Solo 3’s noise cancelling doesn’t live up to the Solo Pro’s more advanced system. It eliminates low rumbles but higher pitched sounds still intrude.
Transparency Mode: Solo Pro exclusive
A handy feature only on the Solo Pro lets you tune into your surroundings without removing the headphones. Great for chatting or being alert in public spaces.
Design & Comfort
Both models share the classic Beats Solo on-ear aesthetic but differ in materials and weight.
- Solo Pro: Sleek metal and plastic build with plush ear pads
- Solo 3: Plastic construction with softer ear cushions
The Solo 3 feels slightly more comfortable for marathon listening sessions. But both allow you to rock out in style and relative coziness.
Battery Life
With booming sound and ANC activated, battery life is impressive:
- Solo Pro: 22 hours
- Solo 3: 40 hours
Turn off active noise cancellation and battery endurance soars even higher. The Solo 3 hits a max of 40 hours with ANC disabled.
Both models also recharge quickly via Fast Fuel. Plugging in for 5-10 minutes nets you roughly 3 more hours of playback. Great for topping them up before you head out.
Controls
You can manage music, calls, and volume right from the headphones—no need to touch your phone. Cues include:
- Tap logo to play/pause
- Press logo to turn volume up/down
- Swipe earcup to skip tracks
The intuitive controls are similar on both units with the Solo Pro adding a button to toggle between ANC and transparency modes.
Solo Pro vs. Solo 3: Verdict
The Solo Pro justifies its higher price with improved sound quality, noise cancelling, and sleeker aesthetics. But the Solo 3 still brings that classic Beats vibe for $100+ less.
Casual listeners save money with the Solo 3. Discerning audiophiles will hear and feel the performance upgrade on the Solo Pro.
Either way, expect lively sound and the same stylish Beats design language that turned heads in the first place back in 2008.
When paired to your Apple or Android device, few wireless on-ear headphones pump out bass and fun at the same potency as Beats Solos. Pound for pound in this price range, the Solo franchise still packs a serious punch.
