When Apple removed the headphone jack from iPhones in 2016, they sparked a revolution in wireless audio. Today, true wireless earbuds (TWS) have evolved into sophisticated devices that do much more than just play music. They're our constant companions for calls, podcasts, workouts, and even gaming.
The Beats Fit Pro ($179) and Soundcore P40i ($69.99) represent two different approaches to TWS earbuds - premium features versus exceptional value. Let's explore how these options stack up in today's market.
Released in late 2021, the Beats Fit Pro brought Apple's advanced audio processing to a sports-focused design. Their custom acoustic platform uses a dual-element diaphragm driver (think of it as two specialized speakers in one) that delivers impressive clarity across all frequencies. The spatial audio feature, which creates a virtual surround sound experience that moves as you turn your head, is particularly impressive when watching movies or playing games.
The newer Soundcore P40i uses 11mm drivers (the part that creates sound) with what Anker calls "BassUp" technology. While it doesn't match the Beats' refinement, it delivers punchy bass and clear vocals that exceed expectations for its price point. The sound signature is more bass-forward, which many listeners actually prefer for modern music.
Both models offer active noise cancellation (ANC), which uses microphones to detect external noise and create opposing sound waves to cancel it out. However, there are notable differences:
This is where we see a significant difference between the two approaches:
If you're an iPhone user, the Beats offer several exclusive features:
The P40i takes a platform-agnostic approach:
The secure-fit wing tip design was developed using thousands of ear scans. It's particularly good for active use and stays put during workouts. Three sizes of ear tips help ensure a good seal.
Uses a more traditional design with standard ear tips. While comfortable for most users, it may not be as secure for vigorous activity. The lighter weight (4.5g vs 5.6g per bud) makes them comfortable for long sessions.
For movie watching, the Beats have a clear advantage due to their spatial audio support. When paired with an Apple TV or recent iPhone/iPad, they create a convincing virtual surround sound experience that enhances movies and shows. The P40i offers a movie mode through its app, but it's more basic.
The Beats Fit Pro remains competitive despite being older, thanks to its premium hardware and regular firmware updates. Apple has expanded spatial audio support and improved ANC performance through software updates.
The Soundcore P40i benefits from newer Bluetooth 5.3 (versus 5.0 in the Beats) and more efficient battery technology. However, it lacks some advanced features like spatial audio that might come to future models.
The price difference ($179 vs $69.99) is significant. The Beats offer better sound quality and Apple integration, but the P40i delivers 80% of the experience at less than half the price. Consider how much you'll use the advanced features before deciding.
Both products excel in their respective categories. The Beats Fit Pro represents the premium end with superior sound quality and seamless Apple integration. The Soundcore P40i offers remarkable value with features that match or exceed the Beats in areas like battery life and charging options.
For most users, the decision will come down to ecosystem preference and budget. Apple users who value premium audio should consider the Beats, while those seeking maximum value or platform flexibility will find the P40i hard to beat.
Remember that both options represent significant improvements over traditional wired earbuds, and either will serve well for music, calls, and general use. The choice ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
| Beats Fit Pro ($179) | Soundcore P40i ($69.99) |
|---|---|
| Sound Quality - Primary factor in overall listening experience | |
| Premium balanced sound, spatial audio support | Good sound with enhanced bass, no spatial audio |
| Battery Life - Critical for daily convenience and long sessions | |
| 6 hours (24 total with case) | 12 hours (60 total with case) |
| Noise Cancellation - Important for commuting and office use | |
| Advanced adaptive ANC, excellent performance | Basic ANC, good for general use |
| Ecosystem Integration - Affects convenience and features | |
| Apple H1 chip, seamless iOS features | Basic connectivity, works well with all devices |
| Fit and Comfort - Critical for exercise and long wear | |
| Secure-fit wingtips, excellent for workouts | Standard design, comfortable but less secure |
| Charging Features - Affects daily usability | |
| USB-C, no wireless charging, 5min = 1hr playback | USB-C, wireless charging, 10min = 5hr playback |
| Call Quality - Important for work and communication | |
| 3 mics per bud, excellent clarity | 6 total mics, AI-enhanced clarity |
| Water Resistance - Important for exercise | |
| IPX4 (splash resistant) | IPX5 (better water resistance) |
| Special Features - Can enhance user experience | |
| Spatial audio, dynamic head tracking | Multi-device connection, case works as phone stand |
| Value Proposition - Overall price-to-feature ratio | |
| Premium price, premium features | Excellent value, strong feature set for price |
The Beats Fit Pro is significantly better for movies due to its spatial audio feature with dynamic head tracking, creating a virtual surround sound experience. The Soundcore P40i has a basic movie mode but lacks advanced spatial features.
If you're an Apple user or prioritize sound quality, the Beats Fit Pro at $179 is worth the premium. However, if you want great value and longer battery life, the Soundcore P40i at $69.99 offers excellent features for less than half the price.
The Soundcore P40i offers substantially longer battery life with 12 hours per charge (60 hours total with case) compared to the Beats Fit Pro's 6 hours (24 hours total with case).
Both models can connect to TVs via Bluetooth, but the Beats Fit Pro offers lower latency and better audio synchronization, especially with Apple TV devices.
The Beats Fit Pro features superior adaptive noise cancellation that continuously adjusts to your environment. The Soundcore P40i's noise cancellation is good but more basic.
Both perform well for calls, but the Soundcore P40i has 6 microphones with AI enhancement, while the Beats Fit Pro uses 3 microphones per bud with Apple's voice isolation technology.
The Beats Fit Pro has lower latency and better spatial audio, making it superior for gaming. The Soundcore P40i includes a gaming mode but has slightly higher latency.
Both are water-resistant, but the Beats Fit Pro has a more secure fit with wingtips, making it better for intense exercise. The Soundcore P40i has better water resistance (IPX5 vs IPX4) but a less secure fit.
Yes, both work with all phones, but the Beats Fit Pro offers additional features with Apple devices. The Soundcore P40i provides a more consistent experience across all platforms.
The Beats Fit Pro is superior for home theater use due to its spatial audio and head tracking features, especially when paired with Apple TV or iOS devices for movies and shows.
The Soundcore P40i supports wireless charging and includes a case that doubles as a phone stand. The Beats Fit Pro only supports USB-C charging.
The Beats Fit Pro offers more balanced, premium sound quality with spatial audio support. The Soundcore P40i provides good sound with enhanced bass, but lacks the same refinement and spatial features.
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 - rtings.com - youtube.com - soundcore.com - youtube.com - youtube.com - soundcore.com - verizon.com - nfm.com - insight.com - soundcore.com - youtube.com - soundcore.com - dexgen.com.bd - ictmirror.com
