Beats’ prominent role in the wireless headphones sector provides the company an opportunity to delve into different product categories, though the inclusion of accessories like charging cables was unexpected. I envisioned something groundbreaking, such as an ear hook attachment for utilizing mid-range Beats earbuds as exercise buds, which appears more appropriate for an audio company that transformed headphones. However, such an accessory might have diminished the allure of the flagship Powerbeats Pro 2, particularly with their steep MSRP of $249.
Nonetheless, Apple and Beats enthusiasts now possess their own charging cable. In fact, several options. So, is the enhancement worthwhile, or should you continue using your aged iPhone connector? I’m sold. Indeed, Beats’ USB-C to USB-C cable is currently my preferred accessory for both Apple and Android. Here’s the reasoning.
Functionality is paramount
Beats once had a reputation for favoring aesthetics over practicality, yet performance has markedly advanced with each new iteration. These charging cables are no exception. Available in two lengths (1.5m and 20cm), they are suited for pairing with your cherished portable chargers or smartphones. Beats provided me with the shorter USB-C to USB-C cables, which were ideal for charging my Google Pixel 7 at my workplace. The longer cables are handy for charging devices in your vehicle or on a bedside table.
Anticipate these cables to offer greater charging power than the standard iPhone cable. My wife’s iPhone 15 benefited from a noticeable improvement in charging speed when compared to Apple’s alternative. The USB-C to USB-C variant also accommodates fast charging up to 60 watts. Apple offers a Thunderbolt cable for higher-speed transfers, but that comes at three times the cost.
What’s crucial is that Beats’ cables are compatible with all contemporary electronics, not just the latest Apple devices. The various configurations — USB-A to USB-C, USB-C to USB-C, and USB-C to Lightning — allow connections to a Microsoft-operated desktop, portable DAC, and a ninth-gen iPad, among others.
The most stylish charging cable you can get
Anker, Native Union, and UGreen provide stylish charging cables, but none rival Beats’ mainstream appeal. Signature features like the B logo and bold color schemes are hard to resist. The braided design guarantees durability; a firm pull won’t harm the cable. This accessory is neatly presented in a sleek, compact box that matches all Beats products. Furthermore, the cable enhances the style of minimalist audio gadgets such as the AirPods Pro 2 and Sony WH-1000xM5.
Two concealed features that enhance functionality
Reverse charging (device-to-device charging) isn’t frequently mentioned in relation to Apple products. This feature allows the transfer of battery power from one device to another, and Beats’ proprietary cables support this. Plugging one into a Mac changes the machine into a power bank capable of charging your iPhone or Pill portable speaker. I experimented with two iPhones at once and noticed the model with more battery life acted as a portable charger.
Another significant feature to highlight is lossless audio. Indeed, Beats charging cables facilitate lossless playback on compatible headphones, which include the Solo 4 and Solo Pro. The AirPods Max also appear to support this. However, it won’t function with all headphones; I had no success with the new Sony WH-1000xM6.
Is the Beats charging cable a worthwhile investment?
Affordability alone renders these charging cables a savvy buy for any Apple or Android user. Priced at $19, the black USB-C to USB-C version (20 cm) is listed for $17.69 on Amazon. The diverse color choices enable you to match all sorts of electronics, including headphones, smartphones, and even handheld gaming consoles (wink, Nintendo Switch 2, wink).
Adequate lengths, rapid charging times, and the feature of lossless audio contribute to their appeal. The intelligent strategy is to keep one in your travel bag and another at your work desk. You’ll also want to consider gifting a few as delightful stocking stuffers for the upcoming holiday season.