Stuck choosing between two pairs of Beats and worried about picking the wrong one? The Beats Studio 3 vs Studio Pro comparison can feel more confusing than it should be.
Both promise punchy sound, strong noise cancellation, and that clean Beats design, but they’re built for slightly different types of listeners.
I’ll help you compare them in a simple, direct way, focusing on what actually matters: sound, comfort, features, and battery life in real-world use.
By the end, you’ll know which one fits your routine, your budget, and the way you like to listen, whether that’s all-day work, travel, or just zoning out with your favourite tracks.
Features and Performance: Beats Studio 3 vs Studio Pro
Both models share a stylish over-ear design with active noise cancellation, but their overall comfort, sound tuning, and smart features differ significantly.
1. Design and Comfort
- Studio Pro: Feels lighter and more breathable with soft, ergonomic earcups.
- Studio 3: Has a tighter seal that blocks sound well, but can feel snug after long wear.
- Comfort Tip: The Pro version is better suited for glasses wearers and frequent travelers needing long-term comfort.
2. Sound Quality and Tuning
- Studio 3: Delivers deep, punchy bass ideal for hip-hop, pop, and EDM lovers.
- Studio Pro: Offers a balanced, natural sound with clear mids and crisp highs.
- Audio Advantage: USB-C digital audio enables cleaner playback and reduces distortion, giving the Pro a more refined tone.
3. Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency
- Studio Pro: Upgraded ANC filters up to 80% more background noise for quieter listening.
- Studio 3: Provides solid ANC performance for travel and work but lacks adaptive response.
- Transparency Mode: The Pro allows ambient sound to be heard naturally without turning ANC off.
4. Connectivity and Ecosystem
- Studio Pro: Supports Bluetooth 5.3 and USB-C with Fast Pair for both Android and iOS devices.
- Studio 3: Uses Apple’s H1 chip for instant, seamless iPhone pairing.
- Multipoint Support: Both connect to multiple devices, though the Pro switches faster and more reliably.
5. Battery Life and Charging
- Studio Pro: Lasts up to 24 hours with ANC on and 40 hours with it off; supports USB-C fast charging.
- Studio 3: Delivers about 22 hours with ANC and similar playtime when off.
- Charging Boost: The Pro provides up to 4 extra hours of playback from a 10-minute charge.
6. Microphones and Call Quality
- Studio Pro: Features enhanced mics for clearer, more natural calls and effective noise suppression.
- Studio 3: Handles calls well but doesn’t isolate voice as effectively in noisy spaces.
- Call Clarity: The Pro offers stronger performance for meetings, travel, and outdoor calls.
Quick Summary
Both headphones offer premium noise cancellation and sleek design, but the newer version refines comfort, sound, and connectivity for a better everyday experience.
| Category | Winner | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|---|
| Sound Quality | Studio Pro | Clearer, more balanced sound |
| Noise Cancellation | Studio Pro | Improved ANC and transparency |
| Battery Life | Studio Pro | Slightly longer with ANC |
| Comfort | Studio Pro | Lighter, more ergonomic earcups |
| Connectivity | Studio Pro | USB-C, Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Price Value | Studio 3 | Cheaper and Apple-optimized |
Overall, the Pro model leads in nearly every category except price, making it the smarter pick for those seeking modern features and superior sound.
Expert & User Opinions
Both models have earned attention for their design, sound quality, and active noise cancellation. They’ve also sparked plenty of debate among reviewers and everyday listeners about which one is truly worth the upgrade.
Beats Studio Pro Reviews
“After several days of testing, the Studio Pro delivers cleaner, more balanced sound with noticeably stronger ANC.” – @AudioTestLabMark, SoundGuys
“Compared to its predecessor, the Studio Pro feels refined with USB-C audio, upgraded comfort, and a more neutral sound profile.” – @CNETSoundEditor, CNET Reviews
“The Studio Pro represents a solid improvement over the Studio 3, finally giving Beats fans modern connectivity and better clarity.” – @VergeAudioCritic, The Verge
“Studio Pro feels like a true upgrade its build, tuning, and battery performance make it one of Beats’ most complete headphones yet.” – @AudioGearJunkie, Reddit r/Headphones
Beats Studio 3 Reviews
“The Studio 3 Wireless still holds up with punchy bass and great Apple integration, but its ANC and sound tuning feel dated.” – @AudioReviewTeam, SoundGuys Forum
“A dependable pair with strong bass and comfort, though newer models easily outperform it in refinement and battery life.” – @TechAnalystDrew, CNET Community
“Studio 3 delivers solid everyday performance, but it’s clearly built for older tech and lacks the polish of the newer release.” – @GearTalkAlex, TechRadar Discussion Board
“Good for Apple users who want simplicity, but not ideal for those prioritizing high-resolution sound or connectivity.” – @SoundWaveLeo, Reddit r/Headphones
The overall verdict from both experts and users is clear: Studio Pro feels like a true upgrade, offering better sound, improved ANC, and modern features, while Studio 3 remains a solid, budget-friendly option.
Price and Value for Money
Price can be a big deciding factor in the Beats Studio 3 vs Studio Pro choice, especially when both look similar at first glance.
| Aspect | Beats Studio Pro | Beats Studio 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Price | $349 – $399 | $199 – $249 |
| Common Sale Price | Often drops to ~$299 during major sales | Often gets deep discounts during big promotions |
| What You’re Paying For | Newer tech, refined sound, better ANC, modern features | Older but reliable performance and classic Beats sound |
| Best For | Listeners who want modern connectivity and long-term value | Buyers on a budget who still want good sound and Apple-friendly pairing |
| Overall Value | Better long-term value thanks to upgraded tuning and features | Better upfront savings and great for cost-conscious users |
Studio Pro is the smarter pick if you want the latest features and balanced sound, while Studio 3 is ideal if you’re focused on price and Apple ecosystem compatibility.
Conclusion
After comparing both models in the Beats Studio 3 vs Studio Pro debate, it’s clear that each caters to a different type of listener.
The Studio Pro stands out with its balanced sound, improved noise cancellation, and modern connectivity, while the Studio 3 remains a dependable pick for those who love rich bass and Apple integration.
I found the Studio Pro to be a stronger choice for those seeking a more refined and future-ready experience. Still, Studio 3 offers great value for everyday users.
If this review helped you, share it or drop a comment. What’s your pick between these two Beats headphones?
