Beats has officially launched its new over-ear model, the Beats 360, priced at $349.99. Rather than replacing the Studio Pro, it serves as a higher-end option; the Studio Pro is being reduced to $299.99. The Beats 360 is designed around three key pillars: superior noise cancellation, stronger output, and customizable comfort. It delivers up to 1.75× more active noise cancellation than Studio Pro, boasting a 12 dB output boost while keeping distortion low and clarity high across all frequencies.
Advanced Features & Design Innovations
Built with eight microphones, the ANC system works alongside a Transparency mode for hearing your surroundings. Adaptive EQ is engaged when noise cancellation is off or transparency is active, to maintain balanced sound. Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking is fully supported, allowing immersive Dolby Atmos sound that adjusts as you move.
Color options include Black, Cloud, Pink, and Sky, with matching Performance Knit ear and headband cushions. What sets Beats 360 apart are the cushions themselves—a standout feature. Cushions are removable, interchangeable, and available in extra colors like Volt (neon yellow-green) and Navy. For those wanting a softer feel, UltraPlush cushion kits in Black and Ivory mirror the pillowy comfort of previous models like the Studio Pro and Solo 4.
Sensors inside the headphones detect cushion material—Performance Knit or UltraPlush—and automatically adjust acoustic tuning and noise cancellation to compensate. The Performance Knit uses breathable memory foam suited for active use or workouts. UltraPlush favors engineered leather over more traditional cushion feel.
Build, Battery & Compatibility
One of Beats’ boldest moves: each earcup houses its own battery, antenna, and processing chip. The headband itself is stripped down, carrying just a power cable, enabling simultaneous charging via a single USB-C port. At just under 300 grams, it hits similar weight to Studio Pro, but by shifting more mass into padded parts, Beats improves comfort. The Beats 360 also earns its first IPX4 sweat and water resistance rating among Beats’ over-ear line.
In terms of controls, the left earcup includes the USB-C charging port, power button, and a mode switch among ANC, Transparency, and Adaptive EQ. The right side holds playback and volume controls. Users also get hands-free “Hey Siri” integration. When battery life is tested with ANC on, Beats 360 delivers about 32 hours of playtime and supports a five-minute Fast Fuel quick-charge that yields an hour of use.
Deep ecosystem integration is present. On Apple platforms, you get one-touch iCloud pairing and switching, Audio Sharing to share audio with compatible Beats or AirPods users, and Find My support. Android users already get one-touch and ecosystem pairing, Audio Switch, and Find Hub geolocation tools.
Availability & Pricing
Beats 360 ships with its woven ripstop carrying case, which fits easily into backpacks thanks to fold-flat earcups. While the headphone doesn’t fold at the headband, the earcups twist flat for portability. The case measures around 9 inches square and just over 2 inches thick.
Cushion kits cost $49.99, with Performance Knit and UltraPlush options, and additional colors. However, there’s a launch deal in select countries (including U.S., UK, Canada, Australia, France, China, and South Korea) offering cushion kits for only $9.99 during the introductory period. Customers elsewhere or later on will pay full price. Beats 360 is available for preorder immediately, with wide release set for Thursday, September 24.
Beats 360 represents a bold step forward in over-ear headphone design—melding refined acoustics, active lifestyle functionality, and aesthetic flexibility. It’s not just about louder sound or stronger ANC; it’s about giving users control over how the gear adapts to them. Watch how these swappable materials and sensor-driven tuning perform in real life—comfort and consistency are hard to deliver, but if Beats pulls it off, 360 could set a new benchmark in premium over-ear headphones.
