Apple AirPods 3rd Gen vs Beats Solo 4
The Verdict
Apple AirPods 3 and Beats Solo 4 serve entirely different use cases despite both lacking active noise cancellation. AirPods 3 excel as truly wireless earbuds with spatial audio, seamless Apple ecosystem integration via the H1 chip, and IPX4 water resistance,ideal for active users prioritizing portability. Beats Solo 4 are premium on-ear headphones delivering exceptional 50-hour battery life, lossless wired audio capability, and powerful 40mm drivers, though they sacrifice mobility and water resistance. For commuters, gym-goers, and Apple users, AirPods 3 provide superior convenience and features per dollar. However, if you need extended listening sessions, superior sound depth, or wired connectivity for studio work, Beats Solo 4's durability and battery justify the higher investment. Choose AirPods 3 for wireless versatility; select Beats Solo 4 for serious listening sessions.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple AirPods 3rd Gen if…
- →Spatial Audio with head tracking creates an immersive listening experience
- →MagSafe charging case is convenient for iPhone and Apple Watch charger users
- →IPX4 sweat and water resistance for workouts
Buy the Beats Solo 4 if…
- →50-hour battery life is the longest in any Beats product
- →Works equally well with both iOS and Android — no ecosystem lock-in
- →Lossless audio via USB-C is a first for Beats on-ear headphones
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple AirPods 3rd Gen
Pros
- Spatial Audio with head tracking creates an immersive listening experience
- MagSafe charging case is convenient for iPhone and Apple Watch charger users
- IPX4 sweat and water resistance for workouts
- Comfortable open-ear design with shorter stems than AirPods 2
- Excellent microphone quality for calls
Cons
- No active noise cancellation at $169 price point
- Open design leaks sound and doesn't isolate ambient noise
- No ear tips — may not fit all ear shapes securely
- AAC-only codec limits audio quality on Android devices
Beats Solo 4
Pros
- 50-hour battery life is the longest in any Beats product
- Works equally well with both iOS and Android — no ecosystem lock-in
- Lossless audio via USB-C is a first for Beats on-ear headphones
- Lighter and more comfortable than Solo 3 at 217 g
- Spatial Audio with head tracking for immersive music
Cons
- No active noise cancellation — odd for $199 in 2024
- On-ear design causes pressure fatigue after extended wear
- AAC/SBC only via Bluetooth — no LDAC or aptX
- Sound leans bass-heavy, which won't suit all genres
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple AirPods 3rd Gen | Beats Solo 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | on-ear |
| Weight | 4.28 g (each) | 217 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 6 hrs (earbuds), 30 hrs total with case | 50 hrs |
| Charging | Lightning or MagSafe wireless, 5 min = 1 hr playback | USB-C, 10-min Fast Fuel for 5 hrs |
| Drivers | Apple-designed driver with custom amplifier | 40 mm transducer with custom acoustic platform |
| Features | Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, Adaptive EQ, MagSafe and wireless charging case, Force sensor controls, Automatic device switching | Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking, Lossless audio via USB-C or 3.5mm cable, Apple and Android Find My support, One-touch pairing with both iOS and Android, Class 1 Bluetooth for extended range, Up to 50 hours of battery life |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | None |
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in headphones, see all Apple products or all Beats products. View full details for the Apple AirPods 3rd Gen or the Beats Solo 4.