Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 Review | 93 Data compared

The Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 is a highly capable wireless nomad headphone that improves significantly on its predecessor's bulkiness by adopting a more compact, lightweight (290g), and physiological oval ear cup design. The audio performance is excellent and balanced, delivering a precise and highly dynamic soundstage with powerful, punchy bass—especially when features are active—and well-detailed treble. The user experience is highly praised for its robust build quality, seamless dual-device Bluetooth connectivity, and an exceptionally comprehensive control system. Furthermore, its battery life is a massive standout, lasting an impressive 25 hours with active features enabled and extending beyond 40 hours in passive mode. However, the headphone does come with a few notable drawbacks, most significantly its weak and largely anecdotal active noise cancellation (ANC) that only offers a maximum of 10 dB of low-frequency attenuation. While it remains generally comfortable, the shallower depth of the redesigned ear cups can cause slight physical discomfort and pressure on the upper part of the ear during long listening sessions. Additionally, its "Smart Sensors"—which automatically pause and play music when the headset is removed or...

The Labo Fnac review awards the Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2Go a 3 out of 5-star rating, concluding that while it is an ergonomic improvement over its bulky predecessor, it still requires fine-tuning to compete with market leaders. On the positive side, the review highly praises its slimmer, lighter 292-gram design and comfortable circum-aural form factor. Its standout features include an outstanding 24-hour battery life with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) turned on (which doubles in passive mode) and an immaculate "perturbation" score of 10/10, meaning the ear cups prevent music from leaking out to neighbours. The controls are also noted as highly functional, featuring smart-sensors, an easy-to-use volume ring, and an "Open Mic" ambient mode.

The Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 is a highly recommended Bluetooth headphone that features a completely overhauled, futuristic design that is 30% more compact than its bulky predecessor. It stands out for its exceptional 24 to 25-hour battery life and an impressive Bluetooth signal range that allows users to move between rooms without any audio loss. Mechanically operated controls located on the left ear cup are easily accessible, and the headphone delivers a well-balanced, high-quality audio experience with punchy bass, round mid-tones, and clear highs across various music genres, further enhanced by aptX audio format support. However, the redesign compromises the effectiveness of its active noise cancellation (ANC). Because the ear cups were reshaped from round to a more slender form, the physical noise isolation is heavily reduced, allowing ambient sounds—like train noises—to bleed through. Additionally, the smart sensor designed to automatically pause music when the headset is removed proved unreliable during testing by repeatedly blocking certain functions, though this feature can fortunately be deactivated. Despite these few flaws, it remains a top-tier option in the €250 price range due to...

The French audio review site ON-mag.fr highlights the Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2Go as a highly dependable over-ear headphone option that delivers reliable performance at a reasonable official price of 250 €. A major pro of this updated generation is the massive progress made regarding its design, as the manufacturers successfully slimmed down the heavy and massive aesthetic that plagued the original model. Weighing in at a more manageable 294 g, these closed-back circum-aural headphones offer both wireless Bluetooth and wired connection capabilities, effectively blending great features with strong value. However, the review points out that while it remains a safe bet, its active noise cancellation (ANC) system serves as a mixed bag compared to top-tier competitors, working well for its price bracket but not entirely blocking out the environment. Despite its physical refinements, the over-ear form factor is still relatively bulky compared to ultra-portable sets. Ultimately, ON-mag.fr praises it as an excellent choice for budget-conscious audiophiles looking for a robust balance of modern features, active noise isolation, and a more streamlined fit than its predecessor.

The Darty review of the Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2Go highlights the wireless headphones for their luxurious finish and high-end aesthetic at an accessible price point. Key advantages include effective active noise cancellation, smart sensors that automatically pause audio, and the inclusion of a protective, functional carrying case. Conversely, the review notes the headphones are quite bulky and imposing, limiting portability. The significant size means they are not easily suited for compact storage or small bags.