Beats 360 Review: Customizable Over-Ear Headphones Shine for Workouts, Fall Short on Sound

The Beats 360, priced at $350, are over-ear headphones that excel as workout companions but deliver mediocre sound quality for their price. They feature swappable headbands and ear cups, with two cushion options: Performance Knit (breathable mesh) and UltraPlush (soft faux-leather). The headphones have IPX4 water resistance, physical button controls, and active noise cancellation that provides 32 hours of battery life. They pair instantly with Apple devices and offer fast pairing on Android. The reviewer found them secure for most exercises, though they shift during bicycle kicks and sprints. Weighing more than Sony and Bose over-ear models but less than Apple AirPods Max, they balance portability and stability. However, the sound quality is criticized for scooped mids, making guitars and vocals weak, and they don't match the audio performance of cheaper competitors like the Sony WH-1000XM4C, Sonos Ace, or Bose QuietComfort Headphones. The reviewer notes that the strong clamping force becomes uncomfortable for extended office use. Despite these drawbacks, the Beats 360 are seen as a fun, customizable alternative for gym-goers, especially Apple users seeking a cheaper option than AirPods Max. The review concludes that while not best in any single metric, the headphones successfully target the workout niche with intentional trade-offs.