I was one of the first people to get their hands on the Powerbeats Fit earbuds and give them a test. Since those first impressions, I’ve run nearly 20 miles with them in my ears, used them on a noisy train, and used them around the house for work. The verdict? They’re really good, for certain uses. They aren’t perfect for everyone or every situation, however.
I’ve been reviewing audio gear for the last decade and I’m thoroughly impressed with the Powerbeats Fit’s secure fit. They don’t shift around, even when confronted with slippery sweat. Anyone who’s lost an earbud while working out should highly consider these.
The sound of these Beats earbuds is good for the gym
What you want when pushing yourself to finish the final mile of a run is full, high-energy music pounding in your ears. The Beats Powerbeats Fit deliver deep bass, impressive clarity, and an overall even sound. I had no problem picking out guitar strumming and sticks hitting high hats while I was listening outside. Most importantly, I was able to feel the music moving me. They have a live, energetic sound.
Even when I’ve been using the earbuds at my desk, I’ve been completely satisfied by the sound of streaming music. Folk, pop, rock, and R&B songs have all sounded as expected.
The strength of the ANC on the Powerbeats Fit is probably the buds’ major downside. It’s just not as strong or capable as other earbuds on the market, including the $250 AirPods Pro 3. In fact, the Pro 3 put these to shame.
While that’s disappointing, there is a bright side. Instead of completely quieting your surroundings, which could be dangerous in fitness situations, the sound dampening these offer is good for places like a gym.
I was able to hear my music and podcasts just fine on a train with ANC, even though they didn’t completely block all the noise. These won’t be ideal specifically for air travel, but they could still lower the annoying plane hum somewhat.
The “b” button is a big deal
My favorite part of the Powerbeats line of earbuds is that they retain a physical, tactile button. This is so important while you’re running on the road or treadmill. Not only is the button on the Powerbeats Fit easy to feel for, but it clicks when you press it, so there’s no second-guessing. Double pressing it is easy to do as well.
Since the wingtips are more flexible and comfortable, it felt like there was less pressure when pressing the button.
By the way, if you’re curious, the orange Powerbeats Fit color is not the same hue as the new iPhone 17 Pro. The color is also not the same as the Powerbeats Pro 2.
Comparing the Powerbeats Fit and Powerbeats Pro 2
The reason these new earbuds are called Powerbeats Fit is that they’re similar to the Powerbeats Pro 2. The Pro 2 use an over-the-ear clip for their secure fit, while the Fit use an in-ear wingtip. Pick your preference.
There are a few other differences, too. Most obvious is that the Pro 2 have a physical volume rocker, while the Fit don’t.
Less visible is that the Powerbeats Pro 2 use an H2 chip inside to power their sound profile, enhanced ANC, and the embedded heart rate sensor. I think these earbuds do sound better and block noise more thoroughly. They get longer battery life and the case can be charged wirelessly.
By all accounts, the Powerbeats Pro 2 are a big step up for only $50 more. So why would anyone want the Powerbeats Fit? Well, they fit completely in your ears, so they might be more comfortable if you wear glasses. The case is noticeably smaller and very pocketable. I also think they have a more secure fit. The over-the-ears clip model isn’t insecure, but the wingtip model doesn’t shift at all.
Are the Beats Powerbeats Fit worth spending money on?
At full retail price, the $200 Powerbeats Fit are a little bit of a tough sell for anyone not using them for workouts. While music sounds good and ANC performance is okay for general use, the $180 AirPods 4 with ANC sound better, and you can find better noise blocking in other earbuds for $200.
On the other hand, if you are constantly on the move, then there might not be a better pair of in-ear headphones. The secure fit is more comfortable than nearly all other options I’ve tried. So whether you’re a professional athlete, training for a 5K race, or just working a job where your earbuds can’t fall out, these are perfect for all those things.