Compare Beats Studio Pro Headphones vs Marshall Milton A.N.C.

The 3.5mm input was appreciated as a practical wired listening option.

The included USB-C-to-3.5mm cable supports legacy wired sources and seatback systems. Analog mode still requires battery power, so it is not a true passive fallback.

ANC was usually considered good to very good, but not consistently at the very top of the premium class.

ANC is widely considered excellent for on-ear headphones and works well on engines, traffic hum, offices, and flights. It still cannot consistently match the deep isolation of leading over-ear models.

Advanced features were mixed, with useful cross-platform extras offset by missing iOS-native and premium functions.

The software suite is unusually deep for on-ear headphones, with ANC adjustment, Soundstage, adaptive loudness, battery preservation, timers, and customizable controls.

The low-key styling and reduced branding were praised by reviewers who liked a cleaner, more discreet Beats look.

The design is recognizable and lifestyle-oriented but still understated enough to avoid feeling gimmicky.

ANC background artifacts were a recurring caveat, including adaptive shifts, audible hiss, and leakage of chatter.

ANC reduces steady noise well, but the on-ear seal prevents a consistent sense of deep silence. A faint hiss and persistent voices are occasional concerns.

Switching ANC on does not audibly alter the core sound signature, an excellent result for tonal consistency.

ANC sometimes added hiss or white-noise artifacts, creating a mild audio-side drawback.

ANC can improve listening by reducing surrounding noise and revealing musical details without forcing higher volume.

Android compatibility was a major strength, with reviewers praising cross-platform support and Android-specific pairing features.

The Marshall app works on both Android and iOS, giving both platforms access to sound and ANC customization.

The app and platform controls were useful, especially on Android or iOS, but not a deep customization hub.

The Marshall Bluetooth app is widely praised for clear organization and genuinely useful controls. Minor drawbacks include loading hiccups, pairing reports, and cumbersome EQ comparisons.

Apple H2 chip support was a consistent miss for reviewers expecting deeper Apple feature upgrades.

aptX was treated as a missing Android-friendly codec, limiting high-quality Bluetooth options for Android users.

There is no aptX support, which is a clear limitation for listeners whose devices or libraries depend on that codec.

Wired USB-C use was praised for eliminating lag in a gaming/editing-style use case.

Auracast support is promising but remains beta and receiver-only, with device compatibility still limited.

Auto-play and wear detection were repeated omissions, and reviewers considered the missing auto-pause feature a major miss.

The headphones do not detect when they are removed, so music keeps playing until paused manually. Reviewers consider this a noticeable omission at the price.

Auto-off was a small positive where mentioned, with the headphones shutting down after inactivity.

Configurable auto-off timers help prevent idle drain. One reviewer also observed brief adaptive-ANC dropouts, suggesting some power or mode behavior still needs refinement.

The Milton received an Editors’ Choice award for its comfort, battery life, sound, ANC, and repairable design.

Bass was widely described as strong, controlled, and enjoyable, with a few reviewers wishing for tuning flexibility.

Bass is a defining strength: deep, punchy, and visceral without usually burying vocals. Several reviewers still find the stock low end too heavy.

Battery life was usually considered solid, with some tests exceeding claims, though a few rivals last much longer.

Battery life is the clearest consensus strength, repeatedly lasting around 50 hours with ANC and up to 80 hours without it. Multiple reviewers went a week or more without charging.

Bluetooth reliability was generally positive, with reviewers citing stable connections and strong range.

Bluetooth setup is consistently fast and painless, helped by modern pairing features. Reviewers connected phones and computers without notable trouble.

Bluetooth 6.0, LE Audio, and Auracast give the Milton unusually strong future readiness, though some capabilities are still developing.

Build quality split reviewers sharply, from durable and robust to plasticky or cheap for the price.

Build quality is consistently praised as sturdy, substantial, and well made. Metal mechanisms, a flexible headband, and durable textured surfaces inspire confidence.

The built-in DAC and USB-C hi-res playback were praised for cleaner or more present wired sound, with some execution caveats.

USB digital audio is driver-free, near-zero latency, and slightly clearer and more resolved than Bluetooth, making it useful for computers and production work.

Physical buttons were often praised for simplicity and reliability, though some reviewers disliked the loud or clunky actuation.

Marshall’s brass joystick is one of the product’s most universally praised features. It is tactile, responsive, easy to find, and simpler than touch gestures.

Cable quality drew a practical complaint from one reviewer who wanted a longer USB-C cable.

The USB-C-to-3.5mm cable is rugged and well finished, and one reviewer called it exceptional. The short USB-C charging/audio cable drew strong criticism for being impractical.

Carry case reactions were mixed: reviewers liked the compact soft case, but several felt it was less protective or awkward.

The drawstring pouch is useful, compact, and sometimes described as premium. It protects against basic bumps but is not a rigid travel case.

A report of occasional left-right imbalance adds a minor reliability concern, although cleaning or a forced reset may correct it.

Fast charging was consistently received positively, with short charges giving several hours of playback.

Quick charging is excellent: a 15-minute USB-C charge provides about 9.5 hours of playback, enough for a commute or workday.

Clamping force was a common caveat, with several reviewers finding the fit tight or pressure-heavy.

Clamp is generally secure without excessive pressure, and several reviewers found it gentler than typical on-ears. Glasses and very long sessions can still produce pressure.

Codec support was judged limited because Bluetooth playback is restricted to AAC and SBC, without higher-quality options.

Codec coverage is unusually broad, including AAC, SBC, LC3, and LDAC for flexible use across devices.

Comfort was the most divisive area: some reviewers wore them for hours, while others found the fit tight, shallow, or uncomfortable.

Most reviewers find these among the most comfortable on-ear headphones, with low weight and soft pads enabling long sessions. Fit remains subjective: a few felt pressure after hours, and one reviewer found the small square cups unusable.

Connectivity options were a strength, with Bluetooth, 3.5mm, and USB-C audio repeatedly appreciated.

Wired USB-C, USB-C-to-3.5mm, Bluetooth, LDAC, and multipoint provide excellent connection flexibility across travel and desk setups.

Design was generally viewed as stylish, mature, and recognizable, though some reviewers found it too familiar or plain.

The textured faux leather, brass accents, and exposed-wire details create an elegant, instantly recognizable Marshall look. One reviewer strongly criticized the square earcup design for poor ergonomics.

The detachable USB-C-to-3.5mm cable makes it easy to switch between wireless and legacy wired sources without carrying a permanently attached lead.

Dolby Atmos with head tracking was praised as enjoyable or useful on Apple devices.

The absence of Dolby Atmos and head tracking disappoints reviewers who expect full spatial-audio support at this price.

Durability over time was viewed positively in CNET's hands-on assessment, particularly compared with older Studio hinge concerns.

The self-healing earcup finish resists minor scratches and scuffs, supporting better cosmetic durability over time.

Ear pad changes helped comfort and seal for some reviewers, but stiffness and shallow cups remained concerns.

The larger memory-foam ear pads are usually praised as soft, plush, and much improved over the Major V. One reviewer’s ear shape and piercings made the small square cups extremely uncomfortable.

The cups fold inward but do not rotate fully flat. That is compact enough for most bags but awkward in very slim storage.

Mechanical or earpad-adjacent noise was a minor annoyance, including loud clicks or popping during use/folding.

Ecosystem integration was strong across Apple and Android, but some compromises remained compared with platform-specific rivals.

Native Apple Find My and Google Find Hub support integrates the headphones cleanly with both major mobile ecosystems.

EQ customization was one of the strongest complaints because wireless listening lacks adjustable EQ.

The five-band EQ is effective at taming excess bass, recessed mids, or bright treble. Fine-tuning is useful, though the missing reset and zero markers make experimentation less convenient.

Launch feature completeness was criticized because head detection and other basics were missing.

The Milton launches with a notably complete feature set, adding adaptive ANC and advanced codecs to Marshall’s compact on-ear format.

Find My support was useful, but reviewers noted limitations versus more advanced precision finding.

Apple Find My and Google Find Hub support make misplaced headphones easier to locate across both major phone ecosystems.

Firmware outlook was uncertain where reviewers hoped for fixes but had no clear update timing.

Auracast and LE Audio have room to expand through future updates, but current beta limitations mean buyers are partly relying on Marshall’s roadmap.

Measured and subjective comments generally viewed the frequency response as close to target and more balanced than older Beats tuning.

The tuning is broadly balanced and cohesive, but one reviewer found the dynamic range compressed. It favors an enjoyable presentation over strict analytical neutrality.

The gaming/movie preset was considered useful where reviewers evaluated the USB-C EQ modes.

Glasses compatibility is split: the pads can avoid pressing directly on frames, but firm clamp may cause pressure after about an hour.

Headband adjustability was praised for allowing precise fit changes.

The highly adjustable headband accommodates different head sizes and helps users position the cups more comfortably.

Headband padding was criticized by reviewers who found it scant or insufficient for long comfort.

The cushioned headband spreads pressure effectively and supports comfortable all-day wear.

The solid-metal folding mechanism feels more substantial and durable than the pronged hinge design used on the Major V.

Movies and TV benefit from clear, spacious, immersive sound, making the Milton more versatile than simpler on-ear models.

Included accessories were viewed positively where reviewers noted the full cable-and-case package.

The pouch and USB-C-to-3.5mm cable make the package practical for travel and wired sources. The overly short USB-C cable is the main accessory complaint.

Instrument separation drew praise in several reviews, especially on complex tracks and spatially busy mixes.

Instrument separation is consistently good, especially over wired playback. It is clear enough for complex music, though not at top audiophile level.

The integrated microphone hardware worked well in some tests but could sound muffled in others.

The integrated microphones keep calls intelligible, but at least one test found voices scratchy and unnatural compared with stronger competitors.

LDAC was also cited as absent, especially compared with Sony alternatives that support it.

LDAC is a welcome first for Marshall and can reveal more detail with compatible Android devices. One technical test questioned whether the headphones deliver the full high-frequency extension associated with Hi-Res labeling.

Bluetooth 6.0 and LE Audio provide a strong foundation for future features, but parts of the ecosystem remain immature.

At higher volumes, reviewers reported that clarity largely held up and distortion stayed controlled.

The Milton stays composed at high output, with balance and percussion generally intact. One reviewer heard a small amount of harshness only at absolute maximum volume.

Microphone noise reduction was praised in several call tests, but other reviewers found background rejection inconsistent or damaging to voice clarity.

Background suppression works well in some call tests, even against loud music. Other tests still picked up ambient noise, making performance inconsistent.

Call quality ranged from excellent to disappointing, with strong results in some tests and muted voice pickup in others.

Call quality varies substantially: some tests found speech crystal clear, while others heard robotic, scratchy, or unnatural voices. Intelligibility is generally maintained.

Midrange and vocals were usually clear and present, though one reviewer found a bit too much midrange boost.

Vocals and instruments are generally clear, but the default tuning can recess the mids. EQ helps restore presence for acoustic music and speech.

Multi-platform compatibility was one of the strongest differentiators, especially for users moving between Apple and Android.

Pairing and playback work smoothly across phones, tablets, laptops, iOS, and Android, making the Milton easy to move between daily devices.

Multipoint was a repeated weakness because support was limited, missing, or less flexible than expected across platforms.

Multipoint is a standout success, switching smoothly between two phones or across phone, tablet, and computer setups.

Passive isolation depended heavily on fit and seal, helping some listeners while causing performance drops for others.

Passive isolation is the predictable weak point of the on-ear design. The pads help, but the incomplete seal lets voices and sharper sounds pass through.

Overall recommendations were mixed: reviewers liked sound and features more at sale prices, but many flagged comfort, ANC, or value caveats.

The overall recommendation is strongly positive for commuters, travelers, Marshall fans, and listeners who want premium on-ear features. Buyers sensitive to on-ear pressure or seeking over-ear isolation should be cautious.

Overall satisfaction is high, with several reviewers adopting the Milton as a daily favorite. The major dissent comes from one reviewer whose ears did not fit the small square cups.

Portability was a major strength thanks to folding and a very compact footprint.

The foldable, lightweight form is highly portable and can fit in small bags or even large pockets. Two reviewers note that the cups do not fold flat, making slim-bag storage awkward.

Premium feel was a recurring weakness because the plastic finish did not always match the premium price.

Brass accents, textured surfaces, and solid construction make the Milton look and feel more expensive than typical on-ears.

USB-C preset EQ modes were useful and generally worked as intended, but reviewers still wanted fuller EQ control.

The included presets are serviceable rather than exceptional. Reviewers often preferred building a custom EQ to fix the stock tuning.

Replaceable earpad support was criticized where reviewers noted Beats did not offer easy official replacements.

The ear pads are easy to remove and replace, and cross-generation compatibility adds uncommon long-term convenience.

Replaceable pads or headband support was weak in reviews that noted limited official replacement options.

Replaceable pads and other serviceable components reduce waste and make worn parts easier to renew instead of replacing the entire headset.

Sensor support was weak because ear-detection sensors were missing.

The missing wear sensor is one of the product’s clearest feature gaps, leaving users without automatic pause when the headphones come off.

Smart listening features felt underdeveloped because the headphones lack several premium convenience features.

Adaptive ANC, adaptive loudness, Soundstage, Find My, battery preservation, and programmable controls create an unusually complete smart-feature package.

Smart Pause is effectively unavailable because there is no wear detection. Playback must be paused manually when the headphones are removed.

Smudge resistance was weak on darker colors, which reviewers said showed fingerprints easily.

Setup was usually simple, especially with fast pairing, though customization depth was limited.

Initial setup and pairing are straightforward, with Fast Pair and a clean single-screen app interface reducing friction.

Sound leakage becomes noticeable at higher volumes, and the on-ear fit allows outside sound in as well. This is a format tradeoff rather than a minor edge case.

Reviewers generally found the Studio Pro sound better and more balanced than older Beats, though some said class leaders are more refined.

Most reviewers describe the sound as warm, energetic, clean, and enjoyable across genres. A minority dislike the bright, bass-heavy default and say it needs EQ.

Soundstage impressions were split: some heard a compact or closed stage, while others found the image reasonably spacious for closed headphones.

The native soundstage ranges from intimate to surprisingly spacious for on-ears. Marshall’s Soundstage mode can add width, though the result depends strongly on the setting and content.

Spatial audio worked well for Apple movies and supported immersion, but at least one reviewer still found it gimmicky or unappealing.

Soundstage mode can add convincing room-like depth and immersion, and several reviewers kept it enabled. Others find it subtle, bass-reducing, artificial, or inferior to true spatial audio.

Stability was positive where tested, with reviewers finding the fit secure during movement.

Despite a relaxed clamp, the headphones remain secure during normal use and distribute their low weight evenly.

Hi-res streaming service support was a plus through USB-C playback with compatible services.

Spotify Tap provides a convenient double-press shortcut when users want instant music without browsing.

Repairability was a concern because reviewers noted no direct Apple repair path or limited replacement support.

Repairability is exceptional: the battery, ear pads, and several other parts can be replaced by the owner. This is one of the strongest long-term reasons to choose the Milton.

Recycled materials were noted positively, though sustainability reporting and repair options were more limited.

A large share of recycled material gives the construction meaningful sustainability credentials rather than a token eco claim.

Transparency mode received some of the strongest praise, often sounding natural, though a few reviewers heard hollowness or digital coloration.

Transparency mode is useful and mostly natural for conversations and awareness. Some reviewers hear a slightly occluded top end, extra wind, or less-than-crystal-clear passthrough.

Travel friendliness was a clear strength due to compact folding, a small case, battery life, and wired options.

Compact folding, low weight, strong ANC, and marathon battery life make the Milton especially well suited to commuting and air travel.

Treble was often praised for clarity and sparkle, but several reviewers found it sharp, intense, or overemphasized at times.

Treble is usually detailed and controlled, with several reviewers praising the lack of harshness. Two tests found the upper mids and highs overly bright or close to sibilant.

USB-C was a standout upgrade for charging, wired audio, and lossless listening, despite some mode limitations.

USB-C audio is a major strength, providing simple, low-latency wired playback and often clearer, punchier sound than Bluetooth. It can also charge during digital use.

Value depended heavily on sale pricing: many reviewers disliked the launch price but became more positive at discounts.

Most reviewers consider the price fair or excellent given the comfort, battery, ANC, and repairability. Some still see $230 as expensive for on-ears, especially when discounted over-ear alternatives are available.

Voice assistant support worked well for Apple users, especially hands-free Siri.

Voice prompts and feedback were weak because reviewers noted missing audio prompts for modes.

The headphones lack a spoken battery-level announcement and do not clearly identify connected devices by voice, forcing users to check the app.

Volume output divided reviewers, with one noting loud playback and another wanting more headroom for blasting music.

The Milton gets comfortably loud well below maximum output. Pushing to the limit is unnecessary and can introduce slight harshness.

Water and dust resistance was criticized as absent for a Bluetooth headphone at this level.

The lack of an official IP water or sweat rating is a repeated weakness. Light rain may be tolerated, but workouts, heavy sweat, and downpours are risky.

Wear detection auto-pause was repeatedly criticized as absent, especially at the price.

Wear detection is absent, so playback does not pause when the headphones are removed. This is the most repeated missing feature and feels outdated at the price.

Wear detection performance was scored poorly because reviewers identified it as a missing high-end feature.

Wear detection does not merely perform inconsistently; it is absent. Reviewers accustomed to automatic pausing found that omission frustrating.

Weight was a mild positive where mentioned, with the headphones considered relatively light.

At roughly 200 grams, the headphones feel exceptionally light and distribute their weight well. This is one of the most consistent comfort advantages.

Wind handling was mixed: some mics reduced wind well, while others struggled or could not fully block wind noise.

Wind handling is mixed. Calls can suppress wind very well, but transparency and ANC microphones may feed wind noise back to the wearer.