Overall, Beats Flex output an accurate response that is unfitted for such a brand, and that’s a good thing. However, the technical performance for the new acoustic drivers is subpar and leaves a lot to be desired. The latter is also true for the Beats Flex, which are surprisingly balanced sounding. Of course, there’s a boost in bass, but it’s hardly suitable for bass heads. Because these are just so cheap, you can’t expect them to sound amazing.
Beats has a reputation for doubling-down on the low end, but the Beats Flex are actually a lot more balanced. You don’t get the heavy punch that more expensive earbuds can deliver, but the bass is measured and precise, without getting flabby. At the other extreme, the high-end delivers clean vocals, though again some of the sparkle that pricier beats solo pro wireless headphones serve up wasn’t quite there. The most welcome surprise was to the midrange, where Beats’ earbuds deliver an unexpected level of detail. The Apple W1 chip seamlessly integrates Beats Flex to your Apple devices as well if you are using an iPhone or iPad. It’s the most seamless setup possible and you can also use AudioSharing.
There’s no “Hey Siri” built-in, no carrying case, no wireless charging, and they lack the more advanced microphone and voice isolating technology. That said, they sound great, offer good noise isolation, a great battery, and are both sweat and water-resistant. Plus, USB-C charging is more future-proof than any other Apple headphones right now. They’re great for the price if you’re looking for everyday headphones that sound good and last through workouts.
This will only cause issues if you have a low pain threshold or use the earbuds for longer than two hours. The Beats Flex have redesigned controls with a volume rocker and multi-function button. The integrated microphone’s noise handling is disappointing. The mic struggles to separate your voice from background noise, even in a moderately loud environment like a busy street. The Beats Flex have a decent noise isolation performance.
They just feel flat, and that’s consistent across genres. Sometimes you can hear ample boom, others it can get lost from one song to the next. More atmospheric indie rock bands that create songs that have a lot of dimensionality don’t have that airy quality on the Flex. Artists like The Appleseed Cast that usually layer textures of drums, guitars, synths and more lack that carefully constructed spatial component on the Flex.
I’ve seen a similarly excellent performance from Apple AirPods Max. It’s good to know Apple doesn’t skim on quality antennas in their products. Bluetooth connection on Beats Flex is proof that wireless connectivity can be reliable, even in earbuds for under $50. Of course, adding music to the equation eliminates any sign of ambient noise. Therefore, bus noises, people’s chatter, or traffic shouldn’t bother you. Beats Flex built-in microphone mic works very well in a quiet environment, making your voice easily understandable and full.
These will certainly get the job done, but if audio is your primary concern, you’ll likely want to look elsewhere. Beats promises up to 12 hours on a charge with the Flex. That’s four more hours than the BeatsX, and about double what a lot of true wireless options will beats solo pro wireless give you. Thankfully, I didn’t have any trouble getting to the full promised listening time. Like its other headphones and earbuds, Beats included its Fast Fuel quick charging feature. Here, you’ll get an hour and a half of use if you charge for just 10 minutes.
Beats Flex have a total of 2 control modules and a lot of space to store a bigger battery. For example, iTeknic IK-BH001 manage to have 24 hours in a similar form factor. You feel a slight pressure in your ear canals upon inserting them. However, they stay comfortable afterward and don’t cause any more annoyance. Besides small, medium, and large tips, you also get one double-flanged pair.
True wireless earbuds have become very affordable and the connection problems that once plagued these devices have largely been eradicated. This had the effect of making the BeatsX look unnecessarily pricey given their bulkier, behind-the-neck design. From the get-go, I have to admit I’m not the biggest fan of connected earbuds, the cable just seems unnecessary when most wireless earbuds stay in my ears just fine without it. But if you want the extra security from a cable then this one is quite discreet, the cable is thin and the buds themselves are much smaller than true wireless earbuds. However, these headphones measure 86.4 cm with the cable which, to be honest, is too long. It means the extra cable waves around a bit when you run and it can get in the way.
Construction appears nicely made but lacks water protection. Also, strain reliefs are usually a weak point of every wired headphone, and the ones on the Flex don’t look reassuring. The earbuds’ housing is relatively small and unintrusive. Its smooth surface prevents the in-ear headphones from poking into your ears. Since the cable likes to twist, it’s sometimes difficult to locate the on-device controls. You’re constantly brushing the modules with your fingers searching for the correct button.