Do Beats Headphones Still SUCK?

The video opens with Linus and the crew explaining the premise: they shifted from a planned review of the Microsoft Surface headphones to a four-way round-up of premium noise-cancelling over-ear headphones in the $350 range. They compare Sony WH1000XM3s, Bose QC35s, Microsoft Surface Headphones, and Beats, aiming to determine which model delivers the best overall package. Early on they discuss unboxing experiences, build quality, and fit, highlighting the Sony and Bose cases as particularly solid, with Sony emphasizing USB-C charging and robust comfort. The hosts acknowledge the Beats' reputation and acknowledge the challenge of making objective judgments when subjective comfort, user interface, and perceived value all factor into the decision. The discussion transitions to live in-hand impressions, focusing on weight, clamping force, ear-pad quality, and headband design, setting up a structured, multi-criteria comparison that goes beyond mere sound quality. They then pivot to a thorough interface and control test, evaluating volume control methods, on-device buttons, touch interfaces, and voice-assistant integrations, noting that some models rely on capacitive controls while others use physical dials or buttons. The group then dives into performance tests, including noise-cancelling effectiveness, transparency modes, and how each headset handles different noise profiles, from airplane rumble to high-frequency sounds. The ranking discussion follows, with consensus that Sony and Bose lead in comfort and noise cancellation, while the Beats and Surface offer competitive features but fall behind in certain usability aspects. In the finale, the hosts present a final tiered ranking, arguing that the Sony XM3s or Bose QC35s deliver the strongest all-around package for most users, while Beats remain a controversial option due to control ergonomics and perceived value. They conclude with reflections on how interface design, charging standards, and everyday practicality influence buying decisions, emphasizing that the best headset depends on user priorities such as comfort, ANC performance, interface preferences, and ecosystem compatibility.

Topics · audio · consumer_electronics · technology_reviews · headphones · noise_cancelling · product_comparison