Compare Cambridge Audio Melomania P100 Headphones vs Beats 360

Reviewers broadly praised the P100’s sound as detailed, clean, spacious and high-value, though What Hi-Fi and PCMag wanted more energy or EQ help.

Sound quality is one of the 360’s clearest strengths, with most testing describing clean, energetic and balanced playback. A minority view found the tuning thin and grating, especially without Spatial Audio.

Wear detection performance was mixed-to-weak, with reviewers noting delays, context issues or oversensitivity before firmware updates.

Wear-detection performance is effectively nonexistent because the necessary on-head sensing is absent.

Audio-video sync was generally strong thanks to gaming or low-latency modes, though PCMag said latency was reduced rather than eliminated.

Wireless playback is usable for video, but the lack of a wired path means true zero-latency operation is unavailable.

Spatial audio was a clear limitation, with reviewers noting no spatial audio and steering head-tracking seekers toward other brands.

Spatial Audio can be highly immersive for movies and compatible music, especially with head tracking. Some listeners leave it off because it can alter bass or add an artificial echo.

ANC background noise was a concern in quieter use, with static or clicking mentioned by multiple reviewers.

A faint hiss or whooshing noise can be audible with ANC in otherwise quiet conditions, though it is generally described as a minor issue.

Wind and movement noise handling was a recurring concern, with several reviewers hearing wind, popping, footstep or left/right ANC artifacts.

Wind handling is good enough for outdoor calls, with only faint static reported in windier conditions rather than intrusive noise.

Microphone noise handling was split: some reviewers heard reduced echo and clear calls, while PCMag found background noise still came through.

Background-noise suppression is a standout microphone strength, often keeping street, gym and environmental noise remarkably quiet behind the speaker’s voice.

Frequency balance was generally praised as natural, flat or properly balanced, though PCMag and What Hi-Fi wanted more default liveliness.

The tuning is far more balanced than old-school Beats, but it still leans neutral-bright rather than truly reference-flat. That balance works for many listeners but not all.

ANC was seen as good to very good for the price, especially for low-frequency noise, but reviewers repeatedly said Bose, Sony or AirPods Max still do better.

ANC is a major upgrade and repeatedly lands near the top of the premium class for steady noise, travel and gym use. Bose, Sony and Apple flagships can still do better in some situations, especially voices.

Bass was usually described as punchy, controlled and substantial without overwhelming other frequencies, with only one What Hi-Fi comparison finding it short on kick.

Bass is punchy and controlled for many listeners, but opinions vary sharply by cushion, track and listening mode. Some found it lean for workouts, while others heard plenty of weight or even occasional boom.

ANC’s audio impact was mixed: some heard no tonal shift or a useful bass boost, while others heard crackle or distracting movement artifacts.

ANC changes the sound slightly, with one test preferring the tonal balance when noise cancellation was switched off, though the difference was not large.

Immersive audio quality was praised through spatiality, cohesive presentation and a sense of being pulled into the music.

Movies and music can sound convincingly enveloping, with head-filling presentation and strong spatial effects when the material suits them.

ANC’s effect on the sound signature was mostly positive, with no tonal shift in one review and a bass boost in another.

Noise cancellation has only a small tonal effect in the direct listening test, with sound judged slightly better when ANC was off.

Passive isolation was viewed positively, with reviewers saying the fit and earcups blocked or reduced outside sound effectively even before ANC.

Passive isolation benefits from the deep cushions and seal, especially with UltraPlush; the more porous Knit pads trade some isolation for breathability.

Soundstage evidence was positive overall, with reviewers describing wide, expansive, spacious or plausible imaging for a closed-back ANC headphone.

The soundstage is consistently spacious for a closed wireless headphone, with good width and room around instruments.

Hi-res wired and DAC-related playback were viewed positively, especially USB-C lossless playback and direct wired listening quality.

Hi-res and lossless playback are major limitations: there is no wired lossless path and no high-resolution Bluetooth codec support.

3.5mm analog support was positive overall because reviewers valued wired flexibility, though one reviewer noted the port requires the supplied USB-C adapter.

The lack of a 3.5mm analog path is a major recurring complaint, especially for airplane entertainment, consoles and battery-independent playback.

USB-C was a strength, especially for charging and wired digital playback, with reviewers praising hi-res wired output and easy computer connection.

USB-C is primarily a charging connection rather than a dependable wired-audio option, a recurring frustration for travelers and lossless-audio users.

Connectivity options were a strength, with reviewers valuing Bluetooth, USB-C digital audio, 3.5mm support and included cables.

Connectivity is flexible across Apple and Android wirelessly, but Bluetooth-only audio removes the wired fallback that many premium competitors retain.

aptX support was repeatedly treated as a premium strength, especially aptX Lossless and Adaptive for higher-quality Bluetooth playback.

There is no aptX Lossless support, limiting high-resolution wireless playback options.

Water resistance was a weakness in the one review that discussed it, noting there was no water-resistant rating.

IPX4 sweat and water resistance is a defining strength, making the 360 unusually suitable for workouts and light rain among premium over-ear headphones.

Included accessories were well received, especially the case, storage pouch and USB-C or 3.5mm cabling.

The included pouch is useful, but the absence of a charging cable or charger disappoints some buyers at this price; others are happy not to receive another USB-C cable.

Launch features were viewed as adequate to good, but reviewers wanted more modern extras such as spatial audio or more polished software features.

At launch, the 360 feels short on expected premium conveniences, particularly wear detection, wired audio and broader software personalization.

Auto-play/wear detection was mixed in PCMag because it resumed playback even when the user had paused manually.

Wear detection is one of the clearest weaknesses. The 360 does not sense when it is put on or removed, an omission repeatedly criticized at $350.

Headband padding was mixed: one review wanted it softer, while others praised the soft lining or found pressure points after long wear.

Headband padding reduces top-of-head pressure effectively and contributes strongly to the 360’s long-session comfort.

Stability was weak for active use: reviewers reported looseness, popping with movement, slipping, or suitability mainly for stationary listening.

The secure fit works well for cycling, lifting and most workouts, but sprints, sit-ups and bench movements can expose some movement depending on head size.

Travel friendliness was strong because of battery life and isolation, but softened by the relatively bulky case and non-folding design.

Travel performance is split: comfort, ANC and long battery life are excellent on the move, but no wired seatback connection and limited foldability are meaningful drawbacks for frequent flyers.

Most reviewers found vocals and mids clear, expressive and well placed, although What Hi-Fi and one YouTube reviewer heard a thinner or less forward midrange.

The midrange is generally clearer than older Beats tuning, though not uniformly so. Some listening found vocals full and prominent, while other testing heard recessed or thin mids.

Wear detection auto-pause was criticized by Tom’s Guide for not always initiating and sometimes delaying.

Automatic pause is absent, so music keeps playing when the headphones come off unless the user stops it manually.

Ecosystem integration evidence was limited but positive, with Google Fast Pair enabling one-tap pairing.

Ecosystem integration is a major strength: iPhone users get AirPods-like pairing and switching, while Android still receives Fast Pair, Find Hub and useful native controls.

Multi-platform support was generally positive across Android, iOS, macOS and Windows, though Apple wired behavior was less smooth in one review.

Cross-platform compatibility is one of the 360’s best practical advantages, delivering a near-first-class experience on both iOS and Android.

Treble was generally praised for bite, sparkle and articulation without harshness, while PCMag noted some upper-register energy was missing by default.

Treble often comes across detailed and crisp, but the brighter tuning can become stilted, sibilant or fatiguing on certain tracks.

LDAC was a weakness in the one review that discussed it, because the reviewer preferred LDAC over aptX Lossless for Android hi-res listening.

LDAC is absent, which matters most to Android listeners who want higher-bitrate Bluetooth audio.

Headband adjustment was positively described as stable, seamless or cleanly integrated into the design.

The metal adjustment system provides enough extension to accommodate different head sizes and line the cups up comfortably.

Volume and dynamic output were rated highly, with reviewers describing strong headroom, loud maximum levels and excellent dynamic range.

The 360 plays notably loud, with several comparisons highlighting its roughly 12 dB higher output versus Studio Pro.

Transparency mode drew mixed-to-positive reactions: several found it useful or natural, while others said clarity and ambient audibility needed work.

Transparency mode is widely praised for sounding natural and usable for conversation, though a few tests found it less immediate or polished than Apple’s best implementations.

Premium feel was generally strong, with praise for materials, style and finish, though What Hi-Fi noted cheap-feeling earcups.

Although the construction uses plenty of plastic, the 360 generally feels more premium in hand than earlier Beats models and several similarly priced rivals.

Repairability and sustainability were major strengths, especially user-replaceable batteries and earpads plus longevity-focused design.

Replaceable cushions, simpler construction and available battery-service paths make the 360 notably more repairable and maintainable than many sealed premium headphones.

Replaceable pads and battery support were a strong repairability advantage and helped reviewers view the headphones as longer-lasting.

The modular cushion and headband system is the signature feature: parts swap quickly, support workout-to-office use and make both style changes and wear replacement unusually easy.

The integrated microphones were praised by Tom’s Guide for superb speech recognition and accurate vocal capture.

The integrated microphone system is capable of excellent voice pickup, supporting the 360’s strong call performance.

Replaceable earpads were a recurring repairability strength, with reviewers praising easy replacement and longer-term ownership.

The earpads are exceptionally easy to remove and replace, making worn, sweaty or dirty contact surfaces simple to refresh.

Instrument separation was a recurring strength, with reviewers noting clear detail retrieval, distinct vocals and instruments, and strong layering.

Instrument separation is usually strong, helping busy arrangements stay distinct, though heavy bass can introduce some congestion.

Android compatibility was positive, with Android USB recognition and Google Fast Pair both described favorably.

Android support is unusually complete for an Apple-owned product, with Fast Pair, Find Hub, Audio Switch and app-based controls repeatedly praised.

Sensors were praised in one review as a cool wear-detection feature, though other wear-detection attributes show reliability caveats.

Cushion-recognition sensors automatically retune the headphones for Knit or UltraPlush pads, a clever feature that helps preserve tuning across different seals.

The case was usually praised for protection, storage and fit, but several reviewers still noted its larger or chunkier footprint.

The soft magnetic pouch is light, breathable and convenient for gym bags, but travelers wanting impact protection may prefer a hard-shell case.

Ear cup padding was widely praised as soft, plush, well-cushioned or snug without suffocating the ears.

Both cushion styles are well received: Performance Knit is breathable and workout-friendly, while UltraPlush is softer and often preferred for long listening. Knit can feel slightly rougher to some users.

Portability was a limitation, with reviewers noting the P100 does not fold small and is not among the sleekest or most compact over-ears.

Portability is only average: the cups swivel flat, but the frame does not collapse, so it takes more bag space than folding Sony or Bose rivals.

Ear cup swivel and rotation were generally useful, though PCMag felt the rotation would matter more if the case supported flat storage.

The earcups rotate flat for storage, a useful compromise even though the headphones do not collapse inward.

Discreet aesthetics were mostly positive, with praise for subtle branding and finishes, though one reviewer disliked the headband silhouette.

The slim profile is generally considered discreet and easy to wear in public, although one test found the cups stick out more than desired.

Overall recommendations were strongly positive, with most reviewers calling the P100 high-value, competitive or easy to recommend, despite some caveats.

The overall recommendation is strongly positive, especially for active users wanting one over-ear pair for gym and daily life. A notable dissent centers on the tuning, wired omissions and premium price.

Award recognition was strong because PCMag awarded the P100 an Editors’ Choice.

The 360 earned explicit Editors’ Choice recognition for its combination of modular design, water resistance and performance upgrades.

One reviewer praised high-volume clarity by noting zero distortion while highs remained retained clearly.

Even at high volume, distortion stays impressively low and clarity holds up well.

Smart listening features were praised in one review as part of a broad feature set intended to elevate the listening experience.

The custom Beats platform omits some smarter AirPods-style features such as Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness and Personalized Volume.

EQ customization was one of the clearest software strengths, with reviewers praising the seven-band EQ and how well the sound responds to tuning.

Manual EQ is one of the most repeated software complaints. Adaptive tuning is automatic, but users cannot freely shape bass, mids and treble to preference.

Smart Pause performance was weak to mixed, with reviewers reporting delayed, context-insensitive or inconsistent auto-pause behavior.

Smart Pause is effectively missing: taking the headphones off does not automatically stop playback.

Advanced software features were adequate rather than class-leading, with useful app functions but fewer modern extras than some rivals.

The feature set feels incomplete for the price because wear detection, wired playback and several H2-era AirPods conveniences are missing.

Voice prompts were a standout novelty, especially the Matt Berry/Southwark option that reviewers found unusually enjoyable.

The cushion-recognition chime provides helpful confirmation that a replacement earcup is seated and detected correctly.

Bluetooth performance was generally reliable, with reviewers citing stable pairing, good range, basement roaming and compatibility across devices.

Bluetooth connectivity proved trouble-free in the direct cross-phone test, including switching between Android and iPhone.

Bluetooth 5.3 was treated positively where evaluated, especially as newer, stronger and more reliable.

Bluetooth 5.3 is considered fully adequate here, with little practical benefit expected from moving to Bluetooth 6 for this use case.

Setup and software simplicity were generally strong, with reviewers calling setup child’s play, the interface simple, and controls straightforward.

Initial pairing and everyday setup are generally simple, though deeper software customization is more limited than some premium rivals.

The app was generally viewed as useful, simple or feature-rich, though some reviewers saw it mainly as a firmware and EQ utility.

The Beats app is useful and straightforward on Android, providing firmware, button and device controls that keep the experience close to iOS.

Voice assistant integration was rated adequate, with Tom’s Guide calling hands-free commands fine and speech capture accurate.

Voice-assistant access works well across platforms, with hands-free Siri on Apple devices and Android assistant access through the controls.

Call quality was mixed but mostly favorable, with strong speech intelligibility in some reviews and weaker, distant mic capture in PCMag.

Call quality is generally very strong, with clear speech in difficult environments, but some tests heard noticeable processing and stopped short of recommending it for important conferencing.

Physical button controls were mostly praised as simple, tactile and preferable to touch, despite Tom’s Guide finding the control layout imperfect.

Physical buttons are usually preferred for sweaty workouts and reliable control, though several users found the similarly shaped or flush buttons harder to identify by touch.

Codec support was praised as broad and high-end, centered on aptX Lossless and aptX Adaptive, though PCMag still preferred LDAC availability.

Codec support is a weak point: the 360 relies on standard Bluetooth codecs and lacks the higher-resolution options offered by several rivals.

Auto power-off was praised as useful for forgetful users and battery conservation.

Automatic power management is weak because the headphones do not reliably sleep when removed, creating avoidable battery-drain risk if left on.

Multipoint was a consistent strength, with reviewers reporting smooth dual-device pairing, hitch-free operation or fast switching.

Automatic switching can work well inside supported ecosystems, but there is no true simultaneous Android-and-iPhone multipoint connection.

Value for money was one of the strongest themes, with reviewers repeatedly saying the P100 competes above its price.

Value is generally considered good for a $350 premium workout-focused headphone, especially against AirPods Max, but full-price cushion kits and rival discounts can weaken the equation.

Head-tracked 3D audio was a weak area because Stereo Guide recommended Sony, Apple or Bose for that feature set.

Dolby Atmos with head tracking can create a convincing theater-like presentation, especially for compatible movies and spatial mixes.

Weight comfort was mixed: some reviewers felt the weight was distributed well, while others called the headphones heavy, bulky or heavier than rivals.

Despite weighing around 294–295 g, the 360 usually feels lighter than the number suggests because its weight is distributed into the earcups and cushions.

Long-use comfort was mixed: many found the P100 comfortable for hours, but Tom’s Guide and PCMag reported discomfort, weight or pressure points.

Long-session comfort is one of the strongest themes, helped by soft cushions, good weight distribution and a lighter-feeling headband. Larger heads may still notice clamp pressure.

What Hi-Fi praised the smoothly rotating hinges as part of the headphones’ assured style and construction.

Dropping the traditional folding hinge simplifies a common wear point and is viewed as a durability advantage over older Beats designs.

Sustainable materials were praised, especially recycled content, plastic-free packaging and an eco-conscious design approach.

The use of 80% recycled plastic across key components is a meaningful sustainability benefit for the construction.

Design was generally praised as attractive, stylish and well put together, though a few reviewers found the headband shape or bulk less flattering.

The redesign is widely praised as modern, sleek and distinctly customizable, with swappable colors giving the 360 more personality than most premium ANC headphones.

Durability evidence was very positive, with reviewers noting no creaks, groans or visible wear after handling and travel.

The simpler structure and replaceable wear surfaces give the 360 unusually good long-term ownership potential, with cushions easy to refresh as they age.

Build quality was consistently strong, with reviewers calling the headphones premium, robust, top-notch or substantial.

Build quality is consistently viewed as solid and more premium than older Beats models, with sturdy sliders and little sense of flimsy plastic.

Clamping force was divisive, with some calling it well judged or Goldilocks-approved and others finding the fit tight or pressure-inducing.

Clamp force is a tradeoff rather than a universal win. It helps keep the headphones secure for exercise, but head size can determine whether that feels reassuring or uncomfortable.

Battery life was the strongest consensus feature, repeatedly described as epic, class-leading, insane, benchmark-setting or outstanding.

Battery life is a strong point at around 32 hours with ANC, and real-world tests often supported that claim. One unit showed unusually high standby drain, and Transparency can shorten endurance.

Fast charging was praised across reviews, with five-minute top-ups repeatedly described as useful, powerful or impressive.

Fast Fuel charging is consistently useful, providing about an hour of playback from a five-minute charge.

Live Translation is missing because the 360 does not use the newer H2 feature stack.

Cable quality was praised in Tom’s Guide, which described the bundled audio cables as durable woven fabric.

Because the 360 has no wired playback path, there is no detachable audio-cable convenience to fall back on.

Detail retrieval is a consistent strength, with small textures and layered elements remaining easy to pick out despite the consumer-friendly tuning.

Find My and Find Hub add useful tracking, though one test linked always-on Find My behavior to noticeable standby drain.

Firmware support was viewed positively where discussed, with the app framed as a path to future features and tweaks.

Glasses compatibility is mixed: the softer clamp can avoid painful temple pressure, but thick arms may break the seal and reduce ANC.

Stereo imaging is precise, placing instruments and effects in distinct positions across the wide soundstage.

Overall satisfaction is high across most hands-on testing, driven by the combination of workout versatility, comfort, ANC, sound and modularity.

Preset EQ reactions were mixed: some liked Flat or broader presets, while PCMag said presets did not restore enough energy.

Sidetone was praised by one reviewer who liked hearing some of their own voice during calls.

The soft-touch silicone finish looks good but can attract hair and small particles, requiring occasional wiping.

Touch controls were not implemented, and Tom’s Guide treated that absence as a missed opportunity for the earcup design.

Using Beats’ own chip instead of Apple’s H2 preserves cross-platform flexibility but leaves out several newer AirPods software features.

Dynamic performance is strong, with wide swings and energetic playback holding together well; UltraPlush can improve perceived punch further.

Gaming flexibility is limited by Bluetooth-only audio, which rules out straightforward wired use with many consoles.

A faint idle whoosh has been reported in quiet ANC use, so the electronics are not completely silent for every listener.

Sound leakage was praised by one reviewer, who found the closed-back design useful for recording because it did not leak externally.

Performance Knit can noticeably reduce sweat and heat versus leather-style pads, but over-ear coverage still gets warm during longer workouts and listening sessions.