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Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE Review | 93 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£220
  • Avg. price in US: ~$250
  • Form factor: over-ear
  • Connectivity: wireless
  • Battery life: 24 hours
  • Active noise cancellation (ANC): yes

Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

7.3

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the headphones' quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best headphones on the market.

Score components:

80.0%

7.0

Technical Score

20.0%

8.6

User score

Very good
7.0

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the headphones' technical performance, covering key areas such as sound quality, noise cancelling, microphone performance, battery life, comfort, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

52.0%

7.7

Sound

20.0%

5.9

Features

10.0%

6.4

Design

8.0%

6.5

Connectivity

6.0%

4.3

Battery

4.0%

8.7

Calls & Controls

Very good
8.6

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.

Score components:

70.0%

8.4

User reviews

30.0%

9.1

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.2
(511)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.2
(511)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

Excellent
  • 9.2
    Gaming

    Score components:

    35.0%

    9.0

    Audio latency

    25.0%

    10

    Low-latency game mode

    20.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

    12.0%

    10

    Noise-canceling microphone

    8.0%

    3.8

    Battery life

  • 7.3
    Travel

    Score components:

    28.0%

    10

    Active noise cancellation (ANC)

    24.0%

    3.8

    Battery life

    18.0%

    3.5

    Weight

    16.0%

    10

    Multipoint support

    14.0%

    10

    Ambient sound mode

  • 9.0
    Calls

    Score components:

    28.0%

    10

    Noise-canceling microphone

    24.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

    18.0%

    10

    Multipoint support

    16.0%

    3.8

    Battery life

    14.0%

    10

    Companion app

  • 4.8
    Workout

    Score components:

    28.0%

    3.5

    Weight

    24.0%

    1.0

    Water resistance

    20.0%

    9.0

    IP rating

    16.0%

    3.8

    Battery life

    12.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 SE is a feature-rich, over-ear wireless headset featuring 40mm drivers, active noise cancellation (ANC), and a remarkable 24-hour battery life with a 330-foot Class 1 Bluetooth range. Distinguishing itself from the standard version, the Special Edition adds NFC pairing and a rigid travel case while maintaining signature smart sensors that automatically pause music when the headphones are removed. Main pros include its exceptional wireless range, multi-point connectivity for two devices, and high-quality dual microphones for clear calls. However, notable cons include ANC performance that is less effective than top-tier competitors, a bulky non-folding design, and a sound profile that some users find overly bass-heavy or muddy in the mids.

Technical Specifications of Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the headphones' technical performance, covering key areas such as sound quality, noise cancelling, microphone performance, battery life, comfort, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

52.0%

7.7

Sound

20.0%

5.9

Features

10.0%

6.4

Design

8.0%

6.5

Connectivity

6.0%

4.3

Battery

4.0%

8.7

Calls & Controls

7.0
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a technical score of 6.96 points, which is higher than that of 82.8% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.

Score components:

70.0%

8.4

User reviews

30.0%

9.1

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.2
(511)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.2
(511)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

8.6
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a user score of 8.61 points, which is higher than that of 74.8% of products in this category.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.
When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.
9.1
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a popularity of 9.1 points, which is higher than 69.4% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the headphones' overall rating with their cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for headphones that offer a strong balance of performance, features, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

7.3

Overall score

40.0%

9.4

Price

7.9
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a quality-to-price ratio of 7.9 points, which is higher than 83.2% of products in this category.
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology
When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE supports active noise cancellation. 72.6% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
Driver type
What it is: Type of speaker driver technology used
When it matters: When the underlying sound character and driver technology matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

dynamic
Driver size
What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit
When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

Importance: MEDIUM

40 mm
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE uses a driver size of 40 mm, larger driver size than 28.2% of headphones and equal to 53.6% of headphones.
Number of drivers
What it is: Total number of speaker drivers per earcup
When it matters: When multi-driver designs are part of your buying criteria.

Importance: LOW

1
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE uses 1 drivers, equal to 96% of headphones.
Lowest frequency
What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=10 Hz

20 Hz
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE reaches a lowest frequency of 20 Hz, higher lowest frequency than 50.6% of headphones and equal to 47.5% of headphones.
Show more
Noise-canceling microphone
What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls
When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE supports a noise-canceling microphone. 54.5% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
Can be used as a headset
What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.
When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE is headset-ready, 84.7% is not. 15.3% of headphones can be used as headsets.
Number of microphones
What it is: Total number of built-in microphones
When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

2
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has 2 microphones, more microphones than 78.2% of headphones and equal to 8.8% of headphones.
Boom microphone
What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity
When it matters: When you need stronger voice clarity for gaming, streaming, or work calls.

Importance: LOW

no
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE does not include a boom microphone. 15.6% of headphones have a boom microphone.
Microphone SNR
What it is: Signal-to-noise ratio of the microphone
When it matters: When call clarity matters and you want your voice picked up more cleanly instead of buried in background hiss.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >80 dB

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Connectivity
What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)
When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

Importance: HIGH

wireless
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE supports wireless connectivity, more flexible connectivity than 52.6% of headphones and equal to 47.4% of headphones.
supports both wireless and wired connectivity.
Bluetooth version
What it is: Version of Bluetooth technology supported
When it matters: When wireless stability, efficiency, and feature support matter more than treating Bluetooth as a box-check spec.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5.0

4.0
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE uses Bluetooth version 4.0, newer Bluetooth version than 57.4% of headphones and equal to 4.8% of headphones.
Maximum Bluetooth range
What it is: Maximum wireless operating distance from source device
When it matters: When you move around rooms and want fewer dropouts from your source device.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

100 m
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE offers a Bluetooth range of 100 m, higher Bluetooth range than 97.9% of headphones and equal to 2.1% of headphones.
Audio latency
What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode
When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <60 ms

?
Multipoint support
What it is: Supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices
When it matters: When you switch often between a phone and a laptop during the day.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE supports multipoint. 35% of headphones support multipoint.
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Ambient sound mode
What it is: Allows external sounds to pass through for awareness
When it matters: When you need to stay aware of traffic, voices, or announcements.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE supports ambient sound mode. 23.2% of headphones support ambient sound mode.
EQ support
What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer
When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE does not support EQ customization. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
Companion app
What it is: Dedicated mobile app for customization and updates
When it matters: When software customization, updates, and extra controls matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE works with a companion app. 55.7% of headphones support companion apps.
Adjustable ANC levels
What it is: Allows adjustment of noise cancellation intensity levels
When it matters: When you move between quiet rooms, offices, streets, and public transport and do not want one ANC setting for every situation.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=4

N/A
Voice assistant support
What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant
When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

Importance: LOW

yes
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE supports voice assistants. 39.2% of headphones support voice assistants.
Show more
Battery life
What it is: Playback time on a single charge
When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >45 hours

24 hours
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE offers battery life of 24 hours, lower battery life than 59.1% of headphones and equal to 3.4% of headphones.
Battery life with ANC
What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled
When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >40 hours

24 hours
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE offers battery life with ANC of 24 hours, lower battery life with ANC than 65.7% of headphones and equal to 3.6% of headphones.
Charging time
What it is: Time required for a full battery charge
When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=2 hours

3 hours
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE needs 3 hours to charge, higher charging time than 66% of headphones and equal to 21.3% of headphones.
Quick charge
What it is: Provides quick playback time with short charging period
When it matters: When a short top-up needs to deliver useful playback before you leave.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE does not support quick charging. 69.1% of headphones support quick charge.
Battery capacity
What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery
When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=720 mAh

680 mAh
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a battery capacity of 680 mAh, higher battery capacity than 63.4% of headphones and equal to 1.3% of headphones.
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Brand name
What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.
When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Plantronics
Form factor
What it is: Overall design type of the headphones (over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, etc.)
When it matters: When comfort, portability, and isolation depend on the overall headphone style.

Importance: HIGH

over-ear
Weight
What it is: Total weight of the headphones
When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <150 g

289 g
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE weighs 289 g, heavier than 77.3% of headphones and equal to 0.3% of headphones.
Acoustic design
What it is: Type of acoustic design (open-back, closed-back, semi-open)
When it matters: When you need the right balance of isolation, leakage, and soundstage.

Importance: HIGH

closed-back
Clamp force
What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head
When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

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Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE vs the average headphone

  • Active noise cancellation
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
    What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology
    When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

    Importance: HIGH

    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
  • More flexible connectivity
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
    supports both wireless and wired connectivity.
    What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)
    When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

    Importance: HIGH

    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.wireless vs wired
  • Clear call microphone
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
    What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls
    When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
  • On-device controls
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
    What it is: Physical controls available directly on headphones
    When it matters: When you need playback, volume, or call controls to be easy to reach without pulling out your phone.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
  • 90 m longer Bluetooth range
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a higher Bluetooth range than the average headphone (100 m vs 10 m). The average headphones offer a Bluetooth range of 10 m.
    What it is: Maximum wireless operating distance from source device
    When it matters: When you move around rooms and want fewer dropouts from your source device.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=10 m

    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a higher Bluetooth range than the average headphone (100 m vs 10 m). The average headphones offer a Bluetooth range of 10 m.100 m vs 10 m
  • Wind noise reduction
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
    What it is: Reduces wind interference for clearer outdoor calls
    When it matters: When you take calls outdoors while walking, cycling, or commuting.

    Importance: LOW

    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
  • Foldable design
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
    What it is: Earcups or headband can fold for compact storage
    When it matters: When you travel often and want easier storage in a bag.

    Importance: LOW

    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
  • 1 more microphones
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has more microphones than the average headphone (2 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
    What it is: Total number of built-in microphones
    When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=2

    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has more microphones than the average headphone (2 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.2 vs 1
  • Foldable design
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
  • Active noise cancellation
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
  • Rechargeable battery
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a rechargeable battery, the average headphone does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
  • Play while charging
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE can play while charging, the average headphone cannot. 55.9% of headphones support play while charging.
  • More flexible connectivity
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
  • 90 m longer Bluetooth range
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a higher Bluetooth range than the average headphone (100 m vs 10 m). The average headphones offer a Bluetooth range of 10 m.
  • Clear call microphone
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
  • On-device controls
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
  • Wind noise reduction
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
  • 1 more microphones
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has more microphones than the average headphone (2 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
  • Sidetone support
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE supports sidetone, the average headphone does not. 29.7% of headphones support sidetone.
  • Quick mic mute
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.

Total
Overall
Design
Sound
Battery
Connectivity
Calls & Controls
  • 32.6% higher weight
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE is heavier than the average headphone (289 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
  • 6 mm tighter earcup width
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (37 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.
  • 3 mm tighter earcup height
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has tighter earcup height than the average headphone (57 mm vs 60 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup height of 60 mm.
  • 9 dB/mW lower sensitivity
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (93 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
  • 2 Hz weaker bass extension
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
  • 17 dB lower max SPL
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a lower max SPL than the average headphone (93 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
  • 10 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (93 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
  • 1 hours longer charging time
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a higher charging time than the average headphone (3 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.
  • 6 hours shorter ANC battery life
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a lower battery life with ANC than the average headphone (24 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life with ANC of 30 hours.
  • 6 hours shorter battery life
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a lower battery life than the average headphone (24 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.
  • 1 hours longer charging time
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a higher charging time than the average headphone (3 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.
    What it is: Time required for a full battery charge
    When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <=2 hours

    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a higher charging time than the average headphone (3 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.3 hours vs 2 hours
  • 32.6% higher weight
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE is heavier than the average headphone (289 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
    What it is: Total weight of the headphones
    When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <150 g

    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE is heavier than the average headphone (289 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.289 g vs 218 g
  • 9 dB/mW lower sensitivity
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (93 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
    What it is: Sound pressure output level per unit of input power
    When it matters: When you plan to use weaker sources like phones, handhelds, or entry-level dongles and still want enough volume.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=106 dB/mW

    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (93 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.93 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
  • 2 Hz weaker bass extension
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
    What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
    When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <=10 Hz

    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.20 Hz vs 18 Hz
  • 6 mm tighter earcup width
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (37 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.
    What it is: Internal width of the earcup cavity
    When it matters: When earcup fit affects comfort and pressure around your ears.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (37 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.37 mm vs 43 mm
  • 6 hours shorter ANC battery life
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a lower battery life with ANC than the average headphone (24 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life with ANC of 30 hours.
    What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled
    When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >40 hours

    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a lower battery life with ANC than the average headphone (24 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life with ANC of 30 hours.24 hours vs 30 hours
  • 2.44x more expensive
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE is more expensive than the average headphone (£220 vs £90).
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE is more expensive than the average headphone (£220 vs £90).£220 vs £90
  • 6 hours shorter battery life
    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a lower battery life than the average headphone (24 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.
    What it is: Playback time on a single charge
    When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >45 hours

    Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE has a lower battery life than the average headphone (24 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.24 hours vs 30 hours
Total
Overall
Design
Sound
Battery

Graphic comparison of Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE and

Attribute category
Attribute
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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.2
511 Reviews
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.2
511 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE?

  • Excellent value for money compared to premium competitors like Bose and Sony
  • Impressive 24-hour battery life with reliable wireless range
  • Smart sensor technology that automatically pauses/plays music when headphones are removed or put on
  • Warm, powerful sound profile with punchy bass suitable for most listeners
  • Multipoint Bluetooth allows simultaneous connection to two devices
  • Special Edition (SE) features a more premium design, NFC pairing, and a hard shell carry case

What customers dislike about Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 SE?

  • Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is decent but not as effective as class-leaders from Bose or Sony
  • Slightly bulky and heavy (approx. 290g), which may cause fatigue during long sessions
  • The ear cups do not fold for compact storage, only swivel flat
  • Sound can occasionally be a bit muddy in the lower-mid range due to boosted bass
  • The included 3.5mm backup cable lacks an in-line remote or microphone
  • Ear cups can get warm/sweaty after prolonged use due to the leatherette material

Expert reviews

T
techradar.com
26/10/2018
Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 review - TechRadar (Includes specific SE variant evaluation)

The Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 is a feature-rich, high-value pair of wireless travel headphones that successfully refines its bulkier predecessor into a smaller, lighter 290-gram chassis. Retailing at an affordable $200, the headphones offer a fun, bass-heavy sound signature tailored for long commutes, which can be tamed into a more neutral profile by switching to the included 3.5mm...Read more

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cnet.com
29/10/2016
Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 review: The value alternative to Bose (Includes SE testing notes)

The Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 is presented as a high-value, budget-friendly alternative to premium noise-cancelling headphones from brands like Bose and Sony. Priced significantly lower at around $200, it offers a rich feature set including smart sensors that automatically pause music when the headphones are removed and an open-microphone mode for hearing surroundings. The review...Read more

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musicphotolife.com
18/12/2016
Music Photo Life - Plantronics BackBeat PRO 2 and SE Review: Wireless ANC Headphones for the Masses

The Plantronics BackBeat PRO 2 wireless ANC headphones feature a significant design overhaul from their predecessor, offering a more compact, oval-cushioned, and 15% lighter build that fits comfortably around the neck when folded inwards. Catering to casual listeners, they deliver an exciting audio profile highlighted by unusually deep sub-bass response and transparent highs. Key...Read more

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geardiary.com
09/02/2017
Plantronics BackBeat PRO 2 SE Headphones - Gear Diary

The Plantronics BackBeat PRO 2 Special Edition (SE) is a premium wireless headset featuring a rich, sub-bass-heavy sound profile, a 24-hour battery life, and a 100-foot Bluetooth range, with added conveniences like a hard case, NFC pairing, and auto-pause sensors. Other pros include intuitive physical controls and an "Open Mic" mode, offering a highly versatile listening experience....Read more

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tomsguide.com
22/11/2018
Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 SE Review - Tom's Guide

The Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 SE ($249) features a revised oval ear cup design utilizing faux-wood panels, gray leatherette memory foam, and a sweat-wicking headband. This model incorporates a dense collection of physical and smart controls, including a dedicated OpenMic button for ambient noise adjustment, touch-based audio navigation, and automatic ear-detection smart sensors...Read more

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hardwareinside.de
19/10/2018
Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 SE review - Hardware-Inside

The Hardware-Inside review of the Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 SE wireless headphones highlights them as an excellent mid-range option, awarding them a high rating of 8.9 out of 10 points with a clear purchase recommendation. The reviewer praises the premium unboxing experience and first-class build quality, noting that the included hard-shell travel case with a soft velour lining...Read more

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kopfhoerer.de
30/07/2017
Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 review by kopfhoerer.de (covers SE differences)

The Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2Go review by kopfhoerer.de highlights the headphones as a highly successful, feature-packed update that transitions from its predecessor's dated look into a sleek, elegant design featuring brown imitation leather. It is praised for its immense functionality, including intuitive earcup playback controls, a volume jog-wheel, a dedicated smartphone call...Read more

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delamar.de
01/07/2026
Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 Review ⋆ delamar.de - Headphones

The Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 is a versatile, over-ear wireless headphone designed primarily for frequent travelers and casual listeners who prefer contemporary music genres like Hip Hop, Electro, and EDM. The reviewer praises the device for its exceptional 24-hour battery life, intuitive onboard button layout, and highly reliable Bluetooth connection range of up to 100 meters....Read more

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netzwelt.de
01/11/2016
Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 Review: Bluetooth Headset with ANC

The Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 is a versatile, over-ear Bluetooth headphone that delivers a solid all-around performance for its €250 price point, offering unique features like automatic music pausing when taken off and smart call-answering when put on. Its active noise cancelling (ANC) effectively filters out low-frequency background noises like train hums or plane engines. It also...Read more

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macwelt.de
14/11/2016
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 Practical Test - Macwelt Hardware-Inside

In his review for Macwelt, Peter Müller concludes that the Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 is an excellent, well-balanced wireless over-ear headphone tailored for business travellers and music enthusiasts alike. Retailing at €250, the device stands out for its exceptional 24-hour battery life (with up to 6 months of standby time), a massive 680 mAh capacity, and a highly practical...Read more

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clubic.com
25/06/2019
Plantronics BackBeat PRO 2 SE Review: A Sound Expert, But Not a Noise Cancelling Pro

The Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 SE is an over-ear Bluetooth 4.0 headphone that prioritises musicality over active noise cancellation (ANC). Weighing 289g, it features a scratch-resistant mouse-grey finish, a robust metal headband, and rotating earcups that fit into an included rigid travel case. A major highlight is its seamless NFC pairing, alongside an impressive 24-hour battery...Read more

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audiocasque.fr
11/12/2016
Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2: Complete and affordable

The Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2Go is a highly versatile and budget-friendly wireless circum-aural headphone that delivers great value at its €250 price point. According to the AudioCasque review, this second-generation model is 35% more compact and 15% lighter than its predecessor, offering a much more mature aesthetic with strong build quality and an ergonomic design featuring...Read more

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on-mag.fr
24/11/2016
Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones Review: Still Top Performance in a Sleeker Design

The Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 is a wireless, active noise-cancelling (ANC) over-ear headphone that greatly improves upon the design of its bulky predecessor, trading the old massive aesthetic for a sleek, rounded look with chic wood-imitation earcups. It is technically highly optimized, boasting an impressive 24-hour battery life, 40mm dynamic drivers, and an exceptionally stable...Read more

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stuffi.fr
11/12/2016
Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2: review, price, and features of the headphones

This review highlights the Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2Go as an unbeatable, value-packed alternative to premium wireless headphones like the Bose QuietComfort 35Go and Sony MDR-1000xGo. Built by a brand famous for equipping Neil Armstrong, this upgraded model is celebrated for its excellent, well-balanced sound quality that features punchy, impactful bass without muddying the overall...Read more

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gameit.es
23/05/2017
Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2: Review and unboxing

The Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 is a premium, versatile headset designed primarily for multimedia use, but its wide connectivity options make it equally suitable for casual gaming on PC, Mac, consoles, and portable devices. It features Bluetooth 4.0 with multipoint technology, allowing it to connect to two devices simultaneously, and an impressive wireless range of up to 100 meters....Read more

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tomsguide.com
22/11/2018
Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 SE Review - Tom's Guide

The Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 SE ($249) headphones deliver warm, loud audio with punches of bass alongside reliable active noise-cancelling (ANC) technology. While the sound profile can feel crowded or slightly muddy during complex tracks with aggressive strings, it excels at pumping out deep lows for vocal tracks. The design leans into a premium, fashion-friendly aesthetic,...Read more

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geardiary.com
09/02/2017
Plantronics BackBeat PRO 2 SE Headphones - Gear Diary

The Gear Diary review highlights the Plantronics BackBeat PRO 2 SE as a premium yet cost-effective alternative to high-end active noise-canceling headphones, offering excellent Class 1 Bluetooth range, 24-hour battery life, and smart sensors. The special edition stands out with its upgraded cosmetic, NFC, and a hard travel case, providing a comfortable, feature-rich audio...Read more

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andreagaleazzi.com
12/12/2017
10 HEADPHONES TESTED: GAMING, SPORTS and EARBUDS. Plantronics Special", "10 HEADPHONES REVIEWED: GAMING, SPORTS and EARPHONES. Plantronics Special

The reviewed text outlines a comprehensive test of ten different Plantronics audio products categorized into mono earpieces, gaming headsets, and sports headphones. In the mono category, the Voyager 3240 stands out for its impeccable audio quality, stable Bluetooth connection, and smartphone app customization, though it comes with a high price tag. The ML15 offers an affordable...Read more

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afdigitale.it
03/08/2017
Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2: bass needs work, but everything else is there

The Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 over-ear Bluetooth headphones offer an impressive, feature-rich experience for their price point, providing functional similarities to premium competitors like the Bose QuietComfort 35 but at a significantly lower retail cost. On the positive side, these comfortable headphones feature an expansive and pleasing soundstage with detailed mids and highs...Read more

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gadgetgear.nl
16/12/2016
Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 Special Edition Review

The GadgetGear review highlights the Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 Special Edition as a feature-packed, comfortable wireless headset with a well-balanced sound profile, excellent active noise cancellation, and impressive 24-hour battery life. The Special Edition features a premium design with unique aesthetic touches, including wood grain accents and smart features like auto-pause,...Read more

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techpulse.be
24/08/2018
Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 SE Review: A great travel companion, even when you are at home

The Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 SE is highlighted as an excellent travel companion that offers a premium experience through its solid build quality and high level of comfort. The review notes that while the design features a unique grey finish and a faux wood pattern that may be polarizing, the construction is robust, utilizing a mix of plastic and aluminium to ensure durability...Read more

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