Powerbeats Pro 2: A worthwhile upgrade after 6 years? 🎧

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After nearly six years of waiting, Beats is back with the Powerbeats Pro 2. This new version doesn’t revolutionize the concept but refines the experience in several ways.

A sleeker design🎨

First, the design evolves: the earbuds are 20% lighter and feature nickel-titanium alloy ear hooks, which are more flexible and comfortable. The charging case is now 33% more compact, making it easier to carry, especially for sports use.

Photo : © Beats

Another well-thought-out improvement: a fifth ear tip (XS) has been added to the existing sizes, offering an even more personalized fit. In terms of style, Beats introduces four new colors: black, sand, purple, and orange, replacing the previous green, blue, cream, and black shades.

Photo : © Beats

Photo : © Beats

Photo : © Beats

Photo : © Beats

A finally modernized sound experience 🎵

The biggest change? The addition of active noise cancellation (ANC) and Transparency mode—two notable absences in the first generation.

Beats also introduces adaptive EQ and spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, a technology promising a more immersive experience. The Apple H2 chip replaces the H1, delivering improved audio quality and lower latency.

Boosted battery life and more flexible charging ⚡

The Powerbeats Pro 2 offer 10 hours of battery life per earbud (compared to 9 hours previously) and up to 45 hours in total with the case (instead of 24 hours). The Fast Fuel quick charge feature remains, providing 90 minutes of listening with just 5 minutes of charging.

A major new feature: the case now supports Qi wireless charging, a big plus for those who prefer a more convenient solution. Another significant change is the removal of the Lightning port in favor of USB-C, making it more universal. Unfortunately, the charging cable—and even more so, a charger—are not included in the box.

Photo : © Beats

An integrated heart rate monitor 💪

The Powerbeats Pro 2 introduce a brand-new feature: a heart rate sensor. This LED optical sensor tracks real-time heart rate, clearly targeting fitness enthusiasts focused on performance. This integration brings them closer to wearables like the Apple Watch.

Photo : © Beats

Additionally, call quality has improved with a system of three microphones per earbud and a voice accelerometer to reduce background noise.

Optimized compatibility and controls 📱

The Powerbeats Pro 2 seamlessly integrate with Apple’s ecosystem thanks to the H2 chip, enabling instant pairing, automatic device switching, audio sharing, and hands-free Siri activation. They are also compatible with Android via the Beats app, which provides access to advanced settings such as heart rate tracking, custom controls, and earbud location.

Regarding controls, each earbud features a multifunction button and dedicated volume buttons. Automatic play/pause is activated via optical sensors and built-in accelerometers, making the experience more intuitive.

Should you go for it? 🤔

With a price tag of €299.95—€50 more than the original model at launch—the Powerbeats Pro 2 bring clear improvements: ANC, spatial audio, better battery life, wireless charging, and heart rate tracking.

Photo : © Beats

The real question is whether these new features justify the investment, especially in an increasingly competitive market. One thing is certain: if you’re an athlete and a fan of the Apple ecosystem, the Powerbeats Pro 2 have some solid selling points.