Over the past few years, finding truly high-performing earbuds specifically designed for rigorous exercise or athletic training has become increasingly challenging—especially if you prefer models that do not use the open-style clip design. Many major audio companies have gradually shifted their priorities elsewhere, either scaling back on their fitness-oriented offerings or exiting the market altogether. A clear example of this trend came at the end of 2024, when Jabra, once one of the most respected names in workout audio, decided to withdraw completely from the segment. Despite this industry contraction, fitness enthusiasts can still find reasons for optimism. Among the remaining standouts, the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 continue to hold their ground as some of the finest workout earbuds available today. Not only have they remained a staple choice for professionals and everyday athletes alike, but they also received a thoughtful redesign earlier this year, refining what was already a proven formula. Even better, as part of the ongoing Cyber Monday festivities, these earbuds are being offered at several major retailers—including Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy—for the discounted price of $199.95. That marks a $50 reduction from the regular price and brings them very close to their historic lowest rate.
Reflecting on personal experience, the original Powerbeats Pro served as a near-perfect training companion during my own half-marathon preparation in the pre-pandemic years. Their defining feature, the distinctive ear hook design, wraps securely around the back of the ear, ensuring the buds stay locked in place regardless of movement intensity. Whether I was logging long outdoor runs, enduring demanding trail sessions, or performing high-speed sprint intervals, I never once experienced the anxiety of having an earbud slip free. The second-generation Powerbeats Pro 2 elevate this already excellent design through enhanced flexibility and structural durability in the ear hooks. This refined build delivers both a more customized fit and an impressive capacity to withstand physical strain and sweat. While users who wear glasses might initially find the over-ear hooks slightly snug or uncomfortable, with a bit of careful adjustment and repositioning, the fit can be optimized to eliminate discomfort altogether.
One of the most distinguishing aspects of the Powerbeats Pro 2 is their inclusion of integrated heart rate monitoring—a feature that anticipated similar technology later introduced in Apple’s AirPods Pro 3. For anyone who either does not own an Apple Watch or prefers to avoid using a separate chest strap, this internal sensor represents a valuable and convenient alternative. In testing, the heart rate readings proved to be impressively consistent and sufficiently accurate for fitness tracking needs. Furthermore, Beats has made it possible for these sensors to synchronize seamlessly with Apple Fitness—functionality added after launch—as well as with a select assortment of compatible third-party fitness applications. This cross-platform compatibility extends to both Apple and Android ecosystems, which highlights one of Beats’ most practical advantages over Apple’s own-branded audio line.
From an acoustic standpoint, the Powerbeats Pro 2 maintain the energizing, bass-forward character typical of the Beats sound signature, which many athletes find motivating during workouts. The low-end punch is powerful enough to keep momentum high during challenging sessions, yet balanced so that vocals and mid-tones remain clear and dynamic. Complementing their enthusiastic sound profile, the earbuds feature active noise cancellation technology that effectively mitigates surrounding disturbances—ideal for use in loud gyms, crowded streets, or any energetic environment. Call quality is also commendable, aided by noise suppression algorithms that efficiently minimize wind interference and background chatter for clearer communication.
Although the newly redesigned carrying case is notably smaller than the one included with the original model, it remains slightly bulkier than the cases accompanying the more compact earbuds currently prevalent on the market—a tradeoff largely attributed to the additional space required to house the signature ear hooks. Nevertheless, Beats has rectified one of the most common complaints about the previous version by introducing wireless charging capability, a highly practical addition that simplifies everyday use and ensures the earbuds are ready whenever needed.
For those currently searching for a pair of durable, high-quality workout earbuds that combine stability, rich audio performance, and sensor-based fitness functionality, the Powerbeats Pro 2 stand out as an exceptional option. Their thoughtful engineering, refreshed design, and cross-platform integration reveal careful consideration for real-world fitness needs. And with their limited-time Cyber Monday sale price, they represent not only a premium audio investment but also one of the best values available in the sports earbud category this season. Photography by Amelia Holowaty Krales / The Verge.
Sourse: https://www.theverge.com/gadgets/835276/beats-powerbeats-pro-2-cyber-monday-deal-sale-2025
