Beats has introduced the 360 over‑ear headphones as a sport‑oriented, modular alternative to its earlier models. Priced at $350, the 360s weigh 294.5 grams and feature an IPX4 splash‑proof and sweat‑resistant rating, a rarity among full‑size headphones. The design includes swappable earcup and headband cushions that can be exchanged for free at launch, with additional kits normally selling for $50.
Design and Customization
The 360s arrive with a Knit Performance Kit that matches the four core color options—black, cloud, pink and sky blue. Users can also purchase faux‑leather UltraPlush cushions in black or cloud. A built‑in sensor detects which cushion type is attached and automatically calibrates the sound profile, noise cancellation and transparency mode. The headphones fold flat for transport, and a magnetic soft‑carrying pouch protects them when stored in a backpack.
Physical control buttons sit on the earcups, while the inner half of the earcup features a silicone finish that can attract hair and particles, requiring occasional cleaning. The metal slider on the yoke and the overall solid construction give the 360s a premium feel despite an initial impression of cheapness from leaked images.
Audio Performance and Features
Beats equips the 360s with custom dual‑magnet dynamic drivers and an amplifier that deliver 12 dB higher output than the Beats Studio Pro. In testing, the headphones produced cleaner mids, better‑defined bass and overall clearer sound. Bass response is balanced rather than overly boomy, though it still delivers impact on heavy‑bass tracks. Noise cancellation performs strongly, though reviewers note it trails the AirPods Max 2 by a small margin.
Voice‑call quality ranks among the best in the category, and the transparency mode sounds more natural than previous Beats models. Spatial audio with head‑tracking, always‑on Siri and automatic device switching between iCloud‑linked Apple devices are retained thanks to a custom Beats chip that runs Bluetooth 5.3. The chip also improves Android compatibility, allowing Beats app pairing, firmware updates and a Find Hub feature for Android users.
Limitations and Trade‑offs
Unlike many premium headphones, the 360s lack a wired listening option, a wear‑detection sensor that pauses playback when removed, and Apple’s H2 chip. Consequently, features such as Conversation Awareness, Live Translation and other H2‑specific functions are missing. The headphones do include an auto‑off idle timer that powers down after seven hours of inactivity when noise cancellation is active, though the timeout is not user‑adjustable.
Beats does not recommend machine‑washing the knit cushions, but a reviewer reported that placing them in a laundry bag and air‑drying produced acceptable results. Repeated washing could degrade the memory foam, and the cushions should be kept out of a dryer.
Athlete feedback has been positive; Beats president Oliver Schusser said brand ambassadors such as NBA star LeBron James provided enthusiastic input during development. Footballer Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona has been spotted using the 360s as a fashion accessory, highlighting the product’s appeal beyond pure performance.
Overall, the Beats 360 headphones blend a modular, sport‑friendly design with high output and strong noise cancellation, while omitting some premium conveniences found in competing flagship models. At $350, they represent Beats’ most feature‑rich and best‑sounding offering to date.
Steve Lopez is a Senior Editorial Columnist and Health & Public Policy reporter for News Raise. Steve focuses on healthcare advancements, medical technologies, and public health policies.
