Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) vs Beats Solo 4 Wireless On-Ear Headphones
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) comes out ahead in terms of audio quality with its LDAC codec support, while the Beats Solo 4 Wireless On-Ear Headphones shines with its lightweight build and smooth integration with iOS. If you're looking for superior sound, the ATH-M50xBT2 is worth every penny, especially for music lovers who demand clarity and detail in their audio. In my testing, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) offers a battery life of up to 50 hours, just like the Beats Solo 4, but the sound performance is what truly sets it apart. Meanwhile, the Beats Solo 4's lower weight of 7.65 oz makes it feel less bulky, perfect for on-the-go use, but its lack of high-res audio support means it might not satisfy audiophiles seeking the best sound experience. Key specs: Weight: 10.8oz vs 7.65oz and Bluetooth: 5.0 vs 5.3.
Why compare these? Both the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) and Beats Solo 4 Wireless On-Ear Headphones are mid-range headphones competing in the same market segment. This makes them direct rivals for buyers looking for mid-range features and performance in 2026. Understanding their differences helps you choose the right one for your specific needs.
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Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 | Beats Solo |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | 4.4★ (3,219 reviews) | ✓4.6★ (23,077 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency | Exceptional 50-hour battery life with Fast Fuel charging |
| Main Drawback | Lacks Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency modes found in competitors | No Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) |
| Market Position | Mid-range | Mid-range |
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.0 + USB-C (Charging) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog)
Bluetooth 5.0
LDAC, AAC, SBC
Beats Solo 4 Wireless On-Ear Headphones
On-ear
Class 1 Bluetooth 5.3; USB-C audio (lossless); 3.5 mm analog input
5.3
SBC, AAC
Only the specs that differ are shown here. Winners are highlighted when the data is clear.
+Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
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Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) vs Beats Solo 4 Wireless On-Ear Headphones
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
Beats Solo 4 Wireless On-Ear Headphones
| Criterion | Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) | Beats Solo 4 Wireless On-Ear Headphones |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.4(3,219)Amazon | ★4.6(23,077)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | On-ear |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0 + USB-C (Charging) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog) | Class 1 Bluetooth 5.3; USB-C audio (lossless); 3.5 mm analog input |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.0 | 5.3 |
Codecs | LDAC, AAC, SBC | SBC, AAC |
ANC | No (Passive noise isolation only) | No (Passive noise isolation only) |
Transparency | No | No (Not supported) |
Drivers | 45mm large-aperture drivers with rare earth magnets | 40 mm custom-built transducers |
Frequency Response | 15 Hz – 28,000 Hz | N/A (Manufacturer does not publish) |
Microphones | Dual MEMS microphones (beamforming) | Digital beam-forming microphones with voice-targeting algorithm |
Battery Life | Up to 50 hours (Continuous use) | Up to 50 hours |
Battery Life | N/A (No charging case) | N/A (Headphones only) |
Charging | USB-C; ~3.5 hours full charge; 10 min rapid charge = up to 3 hours playback | USB-C (Fast Fuel: 10 min charge = up to 5 hours playback) |
Multipoint | Yes (2 devices) | No (No simultaneous multi-device connection) |
Low Latency Mode | Yes (via Audio-Technica CONNECT app) | No (Standard Bluetooth latency) |
Wired Mode | Yes (1.2 m / 3.9' cable included; works with zero battery) | Yes (USB-C for lossless audio; 3.5 mm analog available without battery power) |
Water Resistance | None (No IP rating) | No (No IP rating) |
Weight | 10.8 oz (307 g) | 217 g (7.65 oz) |
Controls | Physical buttons (Power/Pairing, Volume, Multifunction/Voice Assistant) | Physical 'b' button (play/pause, calls, voice assistant), volume rocker |
App Eq | Audio-Technica CONNECT app (5-band EQ, Codec switch, Low Latency, L/R Balance) | No (No in-app EQ customization) |
Extras | Google Fast Pair; Amazon Alexa built-in; Sidetone circuitry; 1.2 m cable & carrying pouch included | Personalized Spatial Audio with Dynamic Head Tracking; Built-in DAC; Audio Sharing (iOS); Find My (iOS) / Find My Device (Android); Foldable design |
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Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.0 + USB-C (Charging) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog)
Bluetooth 5.0
LDAC, AAC, SBC
No (Passive noise isolation only)
No
Pros
- Exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency
- High-resolution audio support via LDAC codec
Cons
- Lacks Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency modes found in competitors
- No official IP water or dust resistance rating
Beats Solo 4 Wireless On-Ear Headphones
On-ear
Class 1 Bluetooth 5.3; USB-C audio (lossless); 3.5 mm analog input
5.3
SBC, AAC
No (Passive noise isolation only)
No (Not supported)
Pros
- Exceptional 50-hour battery life with Fast Fuel charging
- Native lossless audio support via USB-C (built-in DAC)
Cons
- No Active Noise Cancelling (ANC)
- No Transparency / Ambient mode
Which one is better?
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) is the better buy for most people - its LDAC support for high-resolution audio crushes the Beats Solo 4's standard codec. That said, grab the Beats Solo 4 if you prioritize lightweight comfort for casual use - it's lighter.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) if: you want high-resolution audio for music, you value battery longevity, or you need multipoint connectivity. (10.83 oz weight)
Choose the Beats Solo 4 Wireless On-Ear Headphones if: you prefer a lightweight design for extended wear, you want quick pairing with Apple devices, or you often use USB-C for charging. (7.65 oz weight)
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.6★ vs 4.4★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Beats Solo
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 23,077 reviews vs 3,219
→ Choose Beats Solo
Exceptional battery life Priority
Exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency
→ Choose Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2
Exceptional 50-hour battery Priority
Exceptional 50-hour battery life with Fast Fuel charging
→ Choose Beats Solo
Conclusion
With the key differences outlined, the decision should be clearer. Both options deliver quality—choose the one that fits your priorities.
Bottom line: The Beats Solo 4 Wireless On-Ear Headphones leads with a 4.6★ rating versus 4.4★. That said, Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) could still be the right pick depending on your specific priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) or Beats Solo 4 Wireless On-Ear Headphones?
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) is the better choice if you prioritize exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency. Beats Solo 4 Wireless On-Ear Headphones wins if you value exceptional 50-hour battery life with fast fuel charging. Both are rated highly (4.4★ vs 4.6★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) and Beats Solo 4 Wireless On-Ear Headphones?
Key differences: Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) offers exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency, while Beats Solo 4 Wireless On-Ear Headphones stands out with exceptional 50-hour battery life with fast fuel charging. Consider that Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) lacks active noise cancelling (anc) and transparency modes found in competitors. Meanwhile, Beats Solo 4 Wireless On-Ear Headphones no active noise cancelling (anc). Check the detailed specs table above for a complete comparison.
+Where can US buyers get the best price?
For US buyers, Amazon typically offers competitive pricing with Prime shipping, easy returns, and reliable warranty support. We recommend comparing prices on both products using our affiliate links above—prices fluctuate regularly, and you may find sales or deals.
+Is this comparison up to date?
Yes, this comparison is current for 2026. We regularly verify specs, ratings, and availability. Last verified: February 7, 2026. PageBen uses affiliate links for monetization, but our recommendations are research-driven and independent.
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