Beats, the brand best known for its stylish headphones, is expanding its accessory lineup with the launch of its very first collection of charging cables. Available now at Apple Stores and online, these new cables promise durability, vibrant color options, and broad compatibility across Apple and Beats devices. But do they offer enough to stand out in a crowded market—and are they worth the price? Here’s everything you need to know.
Design and Color Options
Beats’ new cables immediately catch the eye with their woven, tangle-resistant design. The braided exterior not only looks sharp but also helps prevent fraying and tangling—two of the most common issues with everyday cables. Each cable is reinforced at key stress points, and the Beats logo is subtly integrated for a premium feel.
The cables come in four vibrant colors:
- Bolt Black
- Surge Stone
- Nitro Navy (exclusive to the 1.5-meter USB-C to USB-C cable)
- Rapid Red (available later this summer for some models)
While the 1.5-meter (5-foot) cables offer the full range of colors (with some exceptions), the shorter 20-centimeter (8-inch) cables and 2-pack bundles are currently only available in Bolt Black.
Lengths and Connector Types
Beats offers two cable lengths:
- 1.5 meters (5 feet) — ideal for desk or bedside charging
- 20 centimeters (8 inches) — perfect for portable use, car setups, or battery packs
Connector options cover all the essentials:
- USB-C to USB-C
- USB-A to USB-C (Apple’s first own-branded USB-C to USB-A cable, great for CarPlay users)
- USB-C to Lightning
Charging Speeds and Data Transfer
- Charging Power:
- USB-C to USB-C cables support up to 60W charging, suitable for iPhones, iPads, and even MacBooks.
- USB-A to USB-C cables support up to 15W, enough for phones, accessories, and in-car charging.
- USB-C to Lightning cables support fast charging for compatible iPhones and iPads, though exact wattage isn’t specified.
- Data Transfer Speed:
All Beats cables support USB 2.0 speeds (up to 480 Mbps). This is sufficient for syncing music, photos, and light data transfers but falls short for large file transfers or high-speed backups.
Pricing Breakdown
| Cable Type & Length | Colors Available | Price (Single) | Price (2-Pack) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5m (5ft) USB-C to USB-C | Bolt Black, Surge Stone, Nitro Navy, Rapid Red* | $18.99 | $34.99 |
| 1.5m (5ft) USB-A to USB-C | Bolt Black, Surge Stone, Rapid Red* | $18.99 | $34.99 |
| 1.5m (5ft) USB-C to Lightning | Bolt Black, Surge Stone, Rapid Red* | $18.99 | N/A |
| 20cm (8in) All Types | Bolt Black only | $18.99 | N/A |
*Rapid Red for USB-A to USB-C and USB-C to Lightning will be available in summer 2025.
How Beats Cables Compare to Other Charging Cables
| Feature | Beats Cables | Apple’s Official Cables | Common Third-Party Cables |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colors | 4 vibrant options | White only | Varies (often black/white) |
| Lengths | 1.5m, 20cm | 1m, 2m | Varies (0.3m to 3m+) |
| Build | Braided, tangle-resistant | Plain plastic | Braided/plastic |
| Charging Speed | Up to 60W (USB-C), 15W (USB-A) | Up to 60W (USB-C) | Up to 100W (USB-C, some brands) |
| Data Speed | USB 2.0 (480 Mbps) | USB 2.0 or 3.0 (varies) | USB 2.0, 3.0, or higher |
| Price (US) | $18.99 (single), $34.99 (2-pack) | $19+ | $7–$25 |
Beats cables stand out for their stylish colors and durable braided design, but they don’t push the envelope on data transfer speeds or charging wattage compared to some high-end third-party cables.
Everyday Performance and Durability
In everyday use, Beats cables do exactly what they should: reliable charging, no tangles, and a sturdy feel. The braided exterior holds up well to daily wear and tear, whether tossed in a bag or plugged in repeatedly. Fast charging works smoothly on compatible devices, and the shorter cable is a convenient travel companion.
While they don’t offer groundbreaking features, the cables’ combination of style, build quality, and Apple Store availability makes them appealing for users who want a dependable, attractive accessory.
Who Should Buy Beats Cables?
- Apple and Beats fans who want their accessories to match their devices in both style and quality.
- Users seeking a durable, tangle-resistant cable for everyday charging and light data syncing.
- CarPlay users who need a reliable USB-C to USB-A cable from a trusted brand.
If you’re looking for the cheapest cable or need ultra-fast data transfer, there are other options. But if style, reliability, and Apple Store support matter to you, Beats cables are a smart choice.
MacReview Verdict
Beats’ charging cables don’t reinvent the wheel, but they make a solid case for adding a bit of personality and durability to an often-overlooked accessory. Priced at $18.99 for a single cable and $34.99 for a two-pack, they’re reasonably affordable, especially compared to Apple’s own cables. If you value aesthetics and build quality, these cables are worth considering.
