When it comes to high-end wireless earbuds in 2024, two compelling options are the Beats Fit Pro ($149.99) and the LG TONE Free T90Q ($229.99). Let's explore how these earbuds stack up and help you decide which might be right for your needs.
The wireless earbud market has matured significantly since Apple revolutionized it with AirPods. Today's premium earbuds offer features that seemed like science fiction just a few years ago - things like spatial audio (which makes sound appear to come from all around you), adaptive noise cancellation (that automatically adjusts to your environment), and even UV sterilization.
The Beats Fit Pro, released in late 2021, represents Apple's sports-focused premium offering, while the LG TONE Free T90Q from late 2022 showcases LG's most advanced audio technologies. Both have held up well against newer competitors, thanks to firmware updates and solid core features.
The Beats team has really nailed their sound signature with these earbuds. Gone are the days of overwhelming bass - instead, you get clear, balanced audio that works well for everything from podcasts to classical music. The spatial audio feature, which creates a virtual surround sound experience, is particularly impressive when watching movies on an iPhone or iPad.
Having tested these extensively, I've found the sound quality remains consistent whether you're sitting still or jogging, thanks to their secure fit. This is crucial for workout earbuds, where many competitors struggle to maintain seal and sound quality during movement.
LG takes a different approach, partnering with Meridian Audio for their sound tuning. The standout feature is Dolby head tracking, which adjusts the audio as you move your head - imagine watching a movie and the sound staying fixed in space even as you turn to grab a snack. It's impressive technology that works with any device, unlike Apple's spatial audio which is limited to their ecosystem.
The sound customization options are extensive, with multiple EQ presets and the ability to create your own. For home theater use, the charging case's unique ability to accept wired audio input means you can connect to older TVs or airplane systems - a thoughtful feature for travelers.
The Beats Fit Pro uses a unique wingtip design that hooks into your ear's concha (the bowl-shaped area). This creates an extremely secure fit that's perfect for workouts but might feel too aggressive for some users during long listening sessions. I've worn them for entire workdays without discomfort, but everyone's ears are different.
The LG T90Q takes a more traditional approach with a stem design similar to AirPods Pro. They're lighter and less intrusive, which some users might prefer for long-term wear. The trade-off is less stability during vigorous movement.
Both earbuds offer active noise cancellation (ANC), which uses microphones to detect external noise and create anti-noise waves to cancel it out. The Beats implementation is more effective, especially with consistent sounds like airplane engines or office noise. The LG's noise cancellation is adequate but can sometimes alter the sound quality noticeably.
Both offer transparency modes (allowing outside sound in), but I've found the Beats' implementation more natural-sounding, especially for voice conversations.
Here's a simple breakdown:
Beats Fit Pro:
LG TONE Free T90Q:
The battery life difference might seem small, but in real-world use, that extra hour from the Beats can mean making it through a long flight without needing the case.
At $149.99, the Beats Fit Pro delivers exceptional value, focusing on core features done well. The $229.99 LG T90Q offers more features but at a significant premium. Whether the additional features justify the cost depends on your specific needs.
Consider these scenarios:
Both products have received regular firmware updates improving their performance since release. The Beats have gained additional Android features, while the LG has refined its head-tracking performance.
Looking forward, while newer models continue to emerge, both these earbuds remain competitive thanks to their strong core features and reliable performance. The Beats' Apple H1 chip ensures long-term support, while LG's more feature-rich approach provides flexibility that may become more valuable as technology evolves.
For most users, the Beats Fit Pro represents the better value, offering excellent core performance at a lower price. However, if you're intrigued by advanced audio features and appreciate the flexibility of wired input and multi-device connectivity, the LG TONE Free T90Q might be worth the premium.
Remember that earbud fit is highly personal - if possible, try both or purchase from a retailer with a good return policy. Your perfect choice ultimately depends on your specific needs and how you plan to use them most often.
Beats Fit Pro ($149.99) |
LG TONE Free T90Q ($229.99) |
|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancellation Quality - Critical for commuting and office use | |
| Superior ANC with consistent performance | Moderate ANC with occasional sound quality impact |
| Battery Life - Important for all-day use without charging | |
| 6 hours (ANC on), 24 total with case | 5 hours (ANC on), 20 total with case |
| Fit Style - Determines stability during movement and comfort | |
| Secure wingtip design, excellent for workouts | Traditional stem design, better for casual use |
| Device Integration - Affects ease of use and features | |
| Seamless Apple integration, basic Android support | Universal compatibility, multi-device connection |
| Audio Features - Impacts listening experience | |
| Spatial Audio (Apple devices only) | Dolby head tracking, customizable EQ, works on all devices |
| Special Features - Added value considerations | |
| Find My support, instant Apple pairing | UV sterilization, wired audio input via case |
| Water Resistance - Important for workouts | |
| IPX4 (splash and sweat resistant) | IPX4 (splash and sweat resistant) |
| Case Features - Convenience factors | |
| Compact case, USB-C charging | Larger case with UV cleaning, wireless charging |
| Price-to-Performance Ratio - Value consideration | |
| Better core performance at lower price | More features but higher cost |
The LG TONE Free T90Q has a slight edge for home theater use due to its Dolby head tracking and ability to connect to TVs via the case's wired input. However, the Beats Fit Pro offers excellent spatial audio when used with Apple devices.
Yes, at $149.99, the Beats Fit Pro offers excellent value with strong noise cancellation, good sound quality, and reliable performance for both music and movies.
The LG T90Q performs well for gaming thanks to low latency and the ability to connect directly to gaming setups through its case's wired input feature.
The Beats Fit Pro has superior noise cancellation compared to the LG TONE Free T90Q, with more consistent performance and less impact on sound quality.
The LG TONE Free T90Q can connect directly to TVs using its case's wired input. The Beats Fit Pro requires Bluetooth TV support or connection through an Apple device.
The Beats Fit Pro offers better battery life with 6 hours (ANC on) compared to the LG T90Q's 5 hours, and more total time with the charging case (24 vs 20 hours).
Both are excellent for late-night viewing. The Beats Fit Pro has better noise isolation, while the LG T90Q offers more connection options for different TV setups.
The LG TONE Free T90Q works equally well with both platforms, while the Beats Fit Pro offers better features when used with Apple devices.
The LG T90Q generally offers better comfort for extended viewing due to its lighter stem design, while the Beats Fit Pro has a more secure but potentially more noticeable fit.
The LG TONE Free T90Q supports true multipoint connection between devices, while the Beats Fit Pro only offers seamless switching between Apple devices.
Both offer excellent spatial audio, but the LG T90Q works with any content through Dolby processing, while the Beats Fit Pro requires Apple devices for spatial audio.
Both work well for home theater, but the LG TONE Free T90Q offers more flexibility with its wired input option, while the Beats Fit Pro excels when used within the Apple ecosystem.
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 - techradar.com - soundstagesolo.com - digitaltrends.com - loudnwireless.com - tomsguide.com - soundguys.com - thetechnologyman.com - youtube.com - musicphotolife.com - aptx.com
