The wireless earbud market is teeming with choices, but now and then, something really unique arrives. That’s just what the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 offers. Out in early 2025, this second-generation model does more than update the original—it redefines what workout earbuds are capable of, particularly for those who are serious about fitness.
Built-In Heart Rate Monitoring: Fitness Data Without the Wristwear
The highlight of the Powerbeats Pro 2 is the integrated heart rate monitor. Every earbud has a sensor at the ear tip, which is placed just within your ear canal and measures your pulse as you move. This real-time information gets synchronized with popular fitness apps such as Nike Run Club and Peloton and operates on both iOS and Android.
Testers found the readings surprisingly accurate, often aligning closely with those from dedicated wearables like the Garmin Forerunner 265 or the Pixel Watch 3. For athletes who dislike wrist-based trackers—or those whose tattoos interfere with optical sensors—this in-ear solution is a welcome alternative. That said, if you’re already using a smartwatch with robust tracking features, the heart rate sensor might feel like overkill.
Secure Fit That Can Handle Real Workouts
Beats held onto their signature earhook style, and it still works for them. Powerbeats Pro 2 has one of the most comfortable and secure fits available. Sprinting, box jumps, or burpees – these earbuds stay put. Physical buttons on both buds ensure you can change volume or skip songs easily, even during a sweat session.
Battery life is another area where the Powerbeats Pro 2 shines. You’ll get up to 8 hours of playtime per charge with noise cancellation on, and up to 45 hours total when factoring in the compact charging case. It’s an endurance-focused design, perfect for those long training days or back-to-back classes. The smaller case also makes it easier to toss into your gym bag or pocket.
Sound and Noise Cancellation: Tuned for Exercise, Not Music Enthusiasts
Let’s get one thing straight: these are not audiophile earbuds. The Powerbeats Pro 2’s audio profile is meant for energetic exercise—boisterous and clear enough to cut through the hum of treadmills or traffic in the city. But the sound can sometimes sound a bit tinny, with bass and treble that miss the target.
There’s transparency mode and noise cancellation, but it’s not going to be as good as Bose or Sony. Spatial audio is present as well, with a dash of immersion, though more of a plus point than a make-or-break feature. On the plus side, the microphone itself is great, with calls and video conferencing ringing out in clear, crisp clarity.
Apple Integration with Android Respect
Driven by Apple’s H2 chip, these earbuds are easy to pair with iPhones, complete with features such as Find My support and adaptive spatial audio. Apple hasn’t forgotten Android users, though. The majority of important features are provided through the Beats app, an uncommon instance of Apple hardware getting along with anyone.
Is the Powerbeats Pro 2 Right for You?
These aren’t all-purpose earbuds, and they’re not attempting to be. The Powerbeats Pro 2 is designed for individuals who sweat a lot and need earbuds that can handle it. If you need something to wear during exercise and then simply use throughout the day at the office, you might want to look at something like the AirPods Pro 2 or Galaxy Buds 3 Pro.
But if you prefer long-lasting, comfortable workout earbuds with heart rate monitoring built in—and don’t feel like wearing a smartwatch to access that information—these do the trick. Mix in the solid battery life, clean app integration, and exercise-friendly controls, and you’ve got a fitness buddy that plays music, not just accompanies your performance.
The Powerbeats Pro 2 isn’t for everybody, but for runners, weightlifters, and fitness addicts who value comfort, tracking, and being in the zone, it’s an absolute game-changer. It’s not just an update—it’s a leap ahead for what fitness earbuds can do.
