When it comes to premium wireless earbuds, two standout options are the Beats Fit Pro ($219) and Apple AirPods Pro 2 ($249). Both offer impressive features, but they serve different needs in interesting ways. Let's break down everything you need to know to make the right choice.
The Beats Fit Pro launched in late 2021, bringing Apple's technology to a more fitness-focused design. The AirPods Pro 2 arrived about a year later in September 2022, introducing the newer H2 chip and significantly improved noise cancellation. Both have received software updates since release, adding features like Adaptive Audio (for the AirPods) and improved device switching.
Both earbuds deliver excellent audio quality, but they take different approaches:
The Beats Fit Pro offers a more energetic sound signature with slightly emphasized bass - great for workout playlists and modern music. It's less boomy than older Beats products, showing how the brand has matured.
The AirPods Pro 2 aims for a more neutral, balanced sound that works well across all music types. Its H2 chip processes audio more effectively, resulting in cleaner separation between instruments and voices.
Here's where we see a clear generational difference. While both offer active noise cancellation (ANC - technology that creates inverse sound waves to cancel out background noise), the newer H2 chip in the AirPods Pro 2 is notably more effective. In my testing, it handles both constant noise (like airplane engines) and variable sounds (like office chatter) more effectively.
Both offer transparency mode (which lets you hear your surroundings through the earbuds), but again, the AirPods Pro 2 has an edge. Its "Adaptive Transparency" can instantly reduce sudden loud noises while keeping normal sounds natural - something I've found genuinely useful when walking near construction sites.
The Beats Fit Pro uses a wing-tip design - a small flexible fin that tucks into your ear's upper ridge. This creates a very secure fit that's especially valuable during exercise. I've found they stay put during everything from running to high-intensity interval training.
The AirPods Pro 2 uses a traditional in-ear design with several tip sizes. While comfortable for most people, they may not feel as secure during vigorous movement. However, they're arguably more comfortable for extended wear, especially if you're mostly sitting or walking.
Both support quick charging, providing about an hour of playback from 5 minutes of charging.
Both products work seamlessly with Apple devices, offering:
The Beats Fit Pro has a clear advantage here with its dedicated Android app, offering:
The AirPods Pro 2 works with Android but loses many special features and becomes essentially standard Bluetooth earbuds.
Both support spatial audio for movies and shows, creating a virtual surround sound experience that tracks head movement. When watching content on an Apple TV or other compatible device, both provide an immersive experience. However, the AirPods Pro 2's more neutral sound profile might give it a slight edge for movie dialogue clarity.
The Beats Fit Pro typically sells for $219 but can often be found for less. Given its versatility and cross-platform support, it offers excellent value, especially for active users or those who switch between Apple and Android devices.
The AirPods Pro 2 at $249 commands a premium but justifies it with superior noise cancellation and the latest features. For Apple ecosystem users who prioritize pure audio quality and noise cancellation over workout security, the extra cost makes sense.
Consider these key factors:
Both products receive regular firmware updates, but the AirPods Pro 2 typically gets new features first due to its newer hardware. However, the Beats Fit Pro remains highly competitive, especially for active users and those wanting cross-platform flexibility.
Choose the Beats Fit Pro if you:
Choose the AirPods Pro 2 if you:
Either way, both options represent the premium end of true wireless earbuds, and your choice mainly depends on your specific needs rather than overall quality.
Beats Fit Pro ($219) |
AirPods Pro 2 ($249) |
|---|---|
| Processor Chip - Determines features and performance available | |
| H1 chip (2021) | H2 chip (2022, better noise processing) |
| Battery Life - Critical for all-day use without recharging | |
| 6 hours (ANC on), 18 hours from case | 5.5 hours (ANC on), 24 hours from case |
| Fit Security - Important for active use and staying in place | |
| Wing-tip design (excellent for workouts) | Traditional in-ear (good for casual use) |
| Noise Cancellation - Key for commuting and office use | |
| Good (handles consistent noise well) | Excellent (best-in-class, especially for voices) |
| Platform Compatibility - Affects available features | |
| Full Android + Apple support with dedicated app | Limited Android support, full Apple features |
| Water Resistance - Matters for workouts and rain | |
| IPX4 (splash and sweat resistant) | IP54 (added dust protection) |
| Charging Case - Affects convenience and finding lost buds | |
| USB-C, basic charging | USB-C, MagSafe, precision finding, speaker |
| Special Features - Extra capabilities that might matter | |
| Basic spatial audio, device switching | Adaptive Audio, advanced spatial audio, conversation detection |
| Value Proposition - What you get for the money | |
| Better for active users, cross-platform | Better for Apple users, office/commute use |
The AirPods Pro 2 offers slightly better spatial audio processing and more neutral sound profile, making it superior for movie dialogue clarity. However, the Beats Fit Pro still provides excellent movie performance with comparable spatial audio features. Both work well with Apple TV and other streaming devices.
The AirPods Pro 2 tends to be more comfortable for extended sedentary use, like watching movies, while the Beats Fit Pro wing-tip design might create slight pressure over several hours of viewing.
The Beats Fit Pro offers slightly longer single-charge battery life at 6 hours versus 5.5 hours for the AirPods Pro 2, though both are sufficient for most movies.
Neither connects directly to most TVs. You'll need to connect through a compatible streaming device like Apple TV, or use a Bluetooth transmitter if your TV supports it.
The AirPods Pro 2 offers more balanced sound, while the Beats Fit Pro provides slightly enhanced bass. For movies, AirPods Pro 2's more neutral profile may provide clearer dialogue.
The Beats Fit Pro works better with Android due to its dedicated app. The AirPods Pro 2 loses many features when used with Android devices.
The AirPods Pro 2 offers superior noise cancellation thanks to its newer H2 chip, making it better at blocking out household distractions during movies.
Both offer low latency when used with Apple devices, but neither is ideal for competitive gaming where minimal audio delay is crucial.
The Beats Fit Pro at $219 offers better value if you need cross-platform compatibility or workout features. The AirPods Pro 2 at $249 is worth the premium if you're primarily in the Apple ecosystem.
Both support Apple's Audio Sharing feature, allowing two pairs to listen to the same device when watching content on Apple devices.
The AirPods Pro 2 has slightly better call quality with improved voice isolation, though both perform well for video calls and regular phone use.
The AirPods Pro 2 requires an iPhone for full functionality, while the Beats Fit Pro offers more features to Android users through its dedicated app.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: sixminutemile.com - apple.com - youtube.com - bestbuy.com - pcrichard.com - expercom.com - target.com - beatsbydre.com - soundguys.com - businesswire.com - staples.com - recordingnow.com - apple.com - apple.com - cnet.com - hearingreview.com - target.com - support.apple.com - costco.com - cnet.com - quill.com
