Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 Review: Best Workout Earbuds of 2025 with Heart Rate Tracking

In 2025, the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 have arrived as a game-changer for fitness enthusiasts and audiophiles alike. Launched on February 11, 2025, these premium wireless earbuds, priced at $249.99, build on the legacy of their predecessors, which were reportedly the world’s best-selling headphones. With a sleek redesign, active noise cancellation (ANC), heart rate monitoring, and a host of Apple ecosystem features powered by the H2 chip, the Powerbeats Pro 2 are poised to dominate the workout earbuds market. After a week of testing, here’s our in-depth review of why these earbuds are a must-have for gym-goers, runners, and anyone seeking high-performance audio in India and beyond.

Why the Powerbeats Pro 2 Stand Out

Beats, owned by Apple, has taken the original Powerbeats Pro—launched in 2019—and elevated them with modern upgrades while maintaining the iconic ear-hook design that ensures a secure fit during intense workouts. The addition of ANC, a smaller charging case, USB-C, wireless charging, and a first-of-its-kind heart rate sensor makes this refresh a standout. Whether you’re an iPhone or Android user, these earbuds deliver a premium experience that rivals the AirPods Pro 2, often surpassing them for fitness-focused use cases.

Key Features at a Glance

• Price: $249.99 (₹20,999 in India, approx.)
• Colors: Jet Black, Quick Sand, Hyper Purple, Electric Orange
• Battery Life: Up to 10 hours (ANC off), 6-8 hours (ANC on), 45 hours with case
• New Features: ANC, Transparency Mode, heart rate monitoring, H2 chip, USB-C, wireless charging
• Fit: Adjustable ear hooks, 20% lighter, extra-small to extra-large ear tips
• Water Resistance: IPX4 (sweat and splash resistant)
• Compatibility: Seamless with iOS and Android (via Beats app)

1. Design and Comfort: A Secure Fit for Workouts

The Powerbeats Pro 2 retain the signature ear-hook design, now made from a flexible nickel-titanium alloy for durability and comfort. The earbuds are 20% lighter than the originals, reducing fatigue during long sessions. With five ear tip sizes (extra-small to extra-large), they cater to a wide range of ear shapes, ensuring a snug fit that stays put during running, weightlifting, or yoga.

• Why It Matters: Unlike wingtip designs (e.g., Beats Fit Pro), the ear hooks provide unmatched stability, making these the go-to choice for vigorous workouts. Testers found no slippage, even during high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
• Pro Tip: Experiment with ear tip sizes for the best seal, which enhances bass and ANC performance.

2. Sound Quality: Energetic and Bass-Forward

The Powerbeats Pro 2 deliver a lively, bass-forward sound that’s perfect for workout playlists featuring hip-hop, pop, or EDM. Upgraded drivers, a new acoustically transparent mesh, and a venting channel improve bass response and relieve ear pressure. The soundstage is wider than the original, with better instrument separation and clarity, earning them an 8/10 for audio quality.

• Comparison: They outshine the AirPods Pro 2 for workout scenarios due to their punchier bass and higher volume. However, audiophiles seeking a flat sound signature might prefer alternatives like Audio-Technica.
• Pro Tip: Enable Personalized Spatial Audio (iOS) for immersive movie watching or music listening.

3. Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode

For the first time, Powerbeats Pro feature ANC, sampling the environment 200 times per second to block steady-state noises like gym equipment hums or airplane engines. While not as advanced as the AirPods Pro 2 or Bose QuietComfort Ultra, the ANC effectively mutes white noise, making it ideal for focused workouts or commuting. Transparency Mode is near industry-leading, allowing natural ambient sound for situational awareness, though it’s slightly less refined than AirPods Pro 2.

• Why It Matters: In 2025, ANC is a must-have for premium earbuds. The Powerbeats Pro 2 deliver solid performance, enhancing the listening experience in noisy environments.
• Pro Tip: Use Transparency Mode during outdoor runs to stay aware of traffic or conversations.

4. Heart Rate Monitoring: A Fitness Game-Changer

The headline feature is the built-in heart rate sensor, a first for Apple audio products. Optical sensors in both earbuds pulse green LEDs 100 times per second, delivering readings every five seconds during workouts. The data syncs to the Apple Health app or third-party apps like Nike Run Club, Peloton, and Runna, and can pair with Bluetooth-enabled gym equipment (e.g., treadmills).

• Accuracy: Tests show readings within a few beats per minute of an Apple Watch, though the watch takes precedence if paired. For users without a fitness tracker, this is a valuable addition.
• Limitation: Heart rate tracking only activates during workouts and requires both earbuds to be worn.
• Why It Matters: This feature eliminates the need for a separate fitness tracker, appealing to Android users and those who prefer not to wear a watch.

5. Battery Life and Charging: Built for Endurance

The Powerbeats Pro 2 offer 10 hours of playback (ANC off) or 6-8 hours (ANC on) per charge, with the case providing 3.5 additional charges for up to 45 hours total. The case, now 33% smaller, supports USB-C and wireless charging, a significant upgrade from the Lightning port of the original. Fast Fuel charging delivers 90 minutes of playback from a 5-minute charge.

• Why It Matters: With daily 2-hour workouts, you can go nearly a month without recharging the case, making these ideal for busy lifestyles.
• Pro Tip: Use Find My to locate the case if misplaced, a feature enabled by the H2 chip.

6. Apple H2 Chip: Seamless Ecosystem Integration

The H2 chip powers Apple-exclusive features like instant iCloud pairing, hands-free Siri, audio sharing, and ultra-low latency. Android users benefit from the Beats app, which supports one-touch pairing, customization, and updates. However, the lack of multipoint pairing and a user-adjustable EQ is a minor drawback.

• Why It Matters: The H2 chip ensures a polished experience across Apple devices, with robust Android support making these versatile.
• Pro Tip: Customize controls via iOS Settings or the Beats app for quick access to ANC or volume.

7. Durability and Water Resistance

With an IPX4 rating, the Powerbeats Pro 2 are sweat and splash-resistant, suitable for intense workouts but not for swimming or heavy rain. Competitors like the Jaybird Vista 2 offer higher IP67 ratings, but the IPX4 is sufficient for most fitness scenarios.

• Why It Matters: Durability ensures longevity, especially for daily gym use.
• Pro Tip: Wipe down the earbuds after workouts to maintain performance.

8. Travel-Friendly Features

The Powerbeats Pro 2 are surprisingly versatile for travel. The ANC reduces airplane cabin noise effectively, and the secure ear hooks prevent the earbuds from falling out during turbulent flights. The case, while not as compact as AirPods, fits easily in a gym bag or carry-on.

• Why It Matters: These earbuds double as reliable travel companions, balancing workout and everyday use.
• Pro Tip: Use ANC on flights and Transparency Mode in airports for announcements.

Sales Performance and Market Impact

While exact sales figures for the Powerbeats Pro 2 are unavailable, the original model’s reported status as the world’s best-selling headphones suggests strong market demand. Posts on X highlight discounts, with the original Powerbeats Pro dropping to $179.96 (28% off) and the Pro 2 listed at $309.95 (11% off) on Amazon, indicating robust early sales. The addition of premium features at the same $249.99 price point positions the Pro 2 to maintain Beats’ dominance in the fitness earbuds category, especially during India’s festive sales (e.g., Amazon Great Indian Festival, October 2025).

How They Compare to AirPods Pro 2

At the same price ($249.99), the AirPods Pro 2 offer superior ANC and Transparency Mode, plus features like Adaptive Audio and hearing aid functionality. However, the Powerbeats Pro 2 excel for workouts due to their secure fit, heart rate monitoring, and punchier sound. If fitness is your priority, the Powerbeats are the better choice; for general use, AirPods Pro 2 edge out slightly.

Should You Buy the Powerbeats Pro 2?

Who It’s For:

• Fitness enthusiasts needing secure, sweat-resistant earbuds
• Users seeking heart rate tracking without a smartwatch
• Apple ecosystem users who value H2 chip features
• Android users wanting premium workout earbuds with app support

Who Should Skip It:

• Audiophiles needing adjustable EQ or flat sound
• Users with Apple Watches (heart rate feature redundant)
• Those needing IP67 water resistance for extreme conditions

Conclusion

The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 redefine premium workout earbuds in 2025, blending a secure fit, vibrant sound, and innovative heart rate monitoring. With ANC, a smaller USB-C case, and up to 45 hours of battery life, they offer unmatched value at $249.99. Whether you’re hitting the gym, running trails, or traveling, these earbuds deliver. Grab them during festive sales in India (October-November 2025) for potential discounts on Amazon or Flipkart.