Beats 360 Review: Stylish, Customizable Over-Ear Headphones for Everyday Listening and Workouts

The Beats 360 are, first and foremost, fun headphones. That may not sound like a major selling point, but it makes them stand out among the many similar over-ear headphones I’ve reviewed. The Beats 360 feature an attractive, slim design with a soft-touch finish and a smooth, telescoping metal headband that adjusts similarly to the AirPods Max and Sonos Ace Ultra.

Interchangeable Headbands and Ear Cups Add Personality

The biggest appeal of the Beats 360 is their interchangeable headband and ear cups. The headband detaches with a gentle downward pull, while the ear cups can be removed with a simple twist. The box includes a matching set of cushions for the headband and both ear cups, but the ability to mix and match colors is a major part of the Beats 360’s appeal and marketing.

The removable design also makes the Beats 360 easier to clean and replace than most other headphones. That is especially useful for anything you wear while exercising, when sweat and regular wear can quickly become a problem.

Two Cushion Materials for Different Listening Needs

The cushions are available in two fabric options. Performance Knit is a mesh-like material that feels reasonably breathable and durable. UltraPlush is a softer, synthetic leather-style material similar to the finish used on other premium over-ear headphones from Bose, Sony, and Sonos.

The Performance Knit ear cups are the better choice for workouts. They feel particularly breathable once you start sweating. For daily listening, however, the UltraPlush cushions become softer and more comfortable over time.

Are the Beats 360 Good for Working Out?

To be clear, the Beats 360 did not make me suddenly enjoy exercising with over-ear headphones. Wireless training earbuds such as Beats’ Powerbeats Pro 2 are still the better option for workouts. Even so, the Beats 360 are more suitable for exercise than most other over-ear headphones.

The clamping force is strong enough to keep them securely in place during most exercises without making them so tight that they become uncomfortable. However, kicks and sprints on a bike still caused the headphones to shift slightly.

Comfort and Weight

The Beats 360 are middleweight over-ear headphones. They are heavier than comparable models from Sony and Bose, but lighter than the AirPods Max. The weight is well balanced, although they could be lighter. Overall, they do not feel excessively heavy.