Beats Phil
We are demonstrating exceptional performance in nearly every category.
Advantages
- reasonable price
- Impressive midrange and highs
- Amplify and Stereo modes are welcome features.
- Lossless audio over USB-C is not just a gimmick
- It offers double the battery life compared to other Phil speakers in this range.
Disadvantages
- The low end could be more pronounced
- It isn’t the sturdiest option for travel.
Beats has finally acknowledged that it manufactures speakers as well. The Apple-owned audio brand recently released its latest speaker, the Pill+ which was launched nearly 10 years ago, and its successor, the Pill, was introduced in June.
The Pill retails for $150, and I found myself comparing it to the recently launched $130 Sony Ultrafield 1 throughout my testing. Both feature the same pill-shaped design, a mono output system, and aim at non-audiophiles seeking decent sound for picnics, hiking, or casual listening.
Beats Pill Review: Design
I wouldn’t say it’s the best option for a hiking trip.
In terms of design, Beats has clearly attempted to enhance the Pill’s portability. It features ample shock-absorbing rubber and silicone, along with a long strap for clipping it onto your backpack while hiking. The Pill boasts an IP67 rating, providing high levels of dust resistance and water resistance (while IP68 is the highest). It meets all essential requirements and is suitable for the average consumer looking to bring substantial audio in a compact form to locations like the beach or park.
However, for someone who carries their speaker everywhere (like me), the Ult Field 1 might be a more comfortable choice for adventures. Despite its IP67 rating, it features a noticeably more rugged build and a sturdier appearance. I appreciate that the Type-C charging port is protected by a rubber flap, preventing water ingress, while the Beats Pill’s exposed USB-C port may raise concerns at the beach or poolside.
Photo: Artem Golub / Gizmodo
Both speakers come with a strap, but the one on the Sony is significantly better. The Ult Field 1’s strap is thicker, feels more durable, and includes an extra loop that serves as a handle along the speaker’s body. Additionally, the Ult Field 1 is lighter, weighing in at 650g versus the Pill’s 680g.
Photo: Artem Golub / Gizmodo
Beats Pill Review: Battery Life
Offering double what you might expect from a speaker of this size.
In battery life, the Pill significantly outperforms the Ult Field 1. The Pill can provide an impressive 24 hours of playtime, while the Field 1 lasts only 12 hours. I’ve intermittently used the Pill for a few weeks without needing to recharge it. It also includes features that other speakers in this category (such as the Ult Field 1 and Sonos Roam 2) lack. You can enjoy lossless audio via the USB-C connection, allowing for high-resolution audio even while connected to a laptop or compatible device. I did feel that the audio quality was somewhat improved, though not enough to justify using a wired connection when wireless is available.
I’m pleased that Beats is catering to Android users, offering the same fundamental features available for iOS. The Pill supports one-touch connection and Find My (for iOS) alongside the Find My Device option (for Android) on both platforms. Additionally, Beats had previously used a Lightning port for earlier models of the Pill but transitioned to USB-C to enhance compatibility with non-Apple devices.
Beats Pill Review: Sound
It excels in high notes more than low notes.
Beats claims that the new racetrack woofers can move 90 percent more air for enhanced bass performance. After listening to a few tracks from Fred Again on both speakers, I still recommend the Ult Field 1 if you prefer substantial bass that can overshadow other musical components. Though the Pill offers rich and powerful bass sound even without activating the bass boost, some bass-heavy songs may feel slightly overwhelming; simply reducing the volume can remedy that.
The Pill does better in the midrange (especially vocals) and treble. In tracks with layered vocals, like “ocean”, the Pill provided a much clearer sound. The instrumentation felt less congested, allowing every element sufficient space to shine. Beats asserts that the tweeters have been upgraded for crisper highs and richer mids, and I can confirm this after testing songs with prominent treble.
One impressive feature, surprisingly abundant at its price point, is the Amplify and Stereo modes. In Amplify mode, you can connect two Pills for enhanced sound, increasing volume as the name implies. Alternatively, you can utilize the Stereo mode, where the speakers function as left and right outputs. I tested this mode with a pair of Pills provided to us, and it was very straightforward to set up. Just position the speakers close to each other and hold the multifunction button on either speaker to initiate or switch between modes. Amplify mode could be advantageous during home parties, allowing for speakers located in different rooms.
Photo: Artem Golub / Gizmodo
Beats Pill Review: Verdict
I believe the Pill is a competitively priced speaker that delivers more than expected. Surprisingly, it doesn’t come with the premium typically associated with Apple products, often referred to as the Apple Tax. For just $150, you receive impressive highs and mids, several portability-focused features, and additional options like Amplify and Stereo Modes or lossless audio via USB-C. While there are more powerful low-end alternatives available at the same price, I wouldn’t recommend the Pill solely for its bass capability. Its 24-hour battery life exceeds that of comparable speakers in this category (which typically last 10-15 hours), and the new Android compatibility feature broadens the appeal for users seeking a compact speaker capable of delivering high-quality audio.
Beats Pill Review: Sound, Features, and Performance
Exceptional performance across the board as Beats enters the speaker market.
Advantages
-
Affordable price point -
Impressive midrange and highs -
Functional Amplify and Stereo modes -
Lossless audio capability via USB-C -
Outstanding battery life lasting up to 24 hours
Disadvantages
-
Low-end bass could be improved -
Not the most durable for extensive travel
Beats has evolved beyond headphones to embrace the speaker market, showcasing its latest model, the Beats Pill, launched recently after the original Pill+ debuted a decade ago. Priced at $150, it squares off against competitors like the Sony Ultrafield 1 at $130, arming non-audiophiles with an accessible, room-filling sound.
Beats Pill Review: Design
Thoughtful portability meets aesthetic appeal
The Beats Pill aims for portability with significant shock-absorbing rubber and silicone, complete with a long strap for convenient attachment to backpacks. With an IP67 rating, it combines exceptional dust and water resistance, making it ideal for casual outdoor trips.
However, for frequent travelers, the Sony Ultrafield 1 offers a sturdier, more rugged alternative. With a weight difference, the slightly heavier Beats Pill (680g) measures up against the lighter Ultrafield 1 (650g), but its exposed USB-C port raises concerns about durability in moisture-heavy environments like beaches or pools.
Beats Pill Review: Battery Life
Unmatched endurance in portable speakers
Where the Beats Pill shines is in its battery life, boasting an impressive 24 hours of playback—double that of many competitors, including the Ultrafield 1’s 12-hour lifespan. Users will appreciate the seamless USB-C lossless audio support, ideal for high-resolution sound playback when connected to a laptop.
Beats’ evolution extends to Android compatibility, matching iOS features like one-touch connection and location tracking options. Transitioning from the previous Lightning port to USB-C enhances accessibility for both Apple and non-Apple users.
Beats Pill Review: Sound Performance
A symphony of highs and mids, with some bass caveats
The new racetrack woofers contain a claim to push 90% more air, amplifying sound performance. However, audiophiles seeking deep bass might lean toward alternatives like the Ultrafield 1, as the Pill tends to accentuate clarity in mid and high frequencies.
With layered vocal tracks, the Pill showcases impressive clarity, allowing distinct elements to breathe musically. Innovations such as the Amplify and Stereo modes enable pairing for louder, stereo sound experiences, ideal for gatherings or hosting.
Beats Pill: Comparison Chart
| Feature | Beats Pill | Sony Ultrafield 1 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $150 | $130 |
| Battery Life | 24 hours | 12 hours |
| Water Resistance | IP67 | IP67 |
| Weight | 680g | 650g |
| Audio Output | Stereo, Mono | Stereo |
| Lossless Audio | Yes | No |
Practical Tips for Using the Beats Pill
- Utilize the Amplify mode to dramatically increase sound for larger gatherings.
- Consider pairing two Pills for a fuller stereo experience.
- Always keep the USB-C port protected when near water or sand.
- Regularly update any supporting apps for optimum functionality.
First-Hand Experience
Having tested the Beats Pill in various environments, the sound clarity for vocals and intricate layers is commendable. Despite its lightweight build, the 24-hour battery makes it an attractive option for extended trips, where charging isn’t easily accessible. The portable design, coupled with advanced audio features, solidifies its place in the competitive space of portable speakers.