Based on our overall comparison score, Beats Solo 4 rates higher at 58/100 versus 26/100 for Audio-Technica ATH-M40x — a 32-point lead. Beats Solo 4 is the stronger overall pick, though the right choice still depends on which specs matter most to you; the full spec table above breaks down every difference.
Beats Solo 4 vs Audio-Technica ATH-M40x
Updated Sep 2026 · Scored by the Let’s Compare Data Engine · How we score
For most buyers the Beats Solo 4 is the better pick — it scores 61/100 to the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x's 17, leading on Noise Cancelling and Wireless. Choose the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x instead if you want to spend less.
- Sound quality isn't scored yet (we have no measured audio data), so the score covers features, battery, noise cancelling and build.
Verdict
Our overall take, at a glance
Key takeaways
- Beats Solo 4 leads Audio-Technica ATH-M40x overall by 44 points (61 vs 17 out of 100).
- Beats Solo 4 stands out on Comfort & Build Weight: 217 g (10% less).
Beats Solo 4 leads overall
Beats Solo 4
61
Audio-Technica ATH-M40x
17
Why it stands out
- Comfort & Build Weight: 217 g (10% less)
Watch-outs
Compromises to know before you buy
Beats Solo 4
- No active noise cancelling.
- No multipoint — can't stay paired to two devices at once.
Audio-Technica ATH-M40x
- No microphone — you can't take calls.
In-depth analysisAI
AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Sep 2026.
Beats Solo 4
The Beats Solo 4 are lightweight, wireless on-ear headphones priced at $199, designed for casual listeners who prioritize portability and long playback times. They feature a compact frame with comfortable memory foam ear cushions and support both wireless playback and a traditional 3.5mm wired connection. However, they lack active noise cancellation and do not offer any sound customization options.
Best for all-day wear and extended listening without frequent rechargingBest for users who prefer a lightweight, on-ear physical design over bulky over-ear…
Pros
- Extremely long battery life, making them reliable for multi-day use.
- Lightweight and highly compact design with comfortable memory foam cups.
- Dual connectivity options with support for both wireless play and a 3.5mm physical jack.
- Crowd-pleasing sound signature featuring prominent low frequencies and clear stereo separation.
Cons
- No active noise cancellation (ANC), which allows ambient environment noise to bleed in.
- Very limited software customization, with an app that lacks any equalizer or audio tuning adjustments.
- Audio codec support is limited to basic AAC.
Audio-Technica ATH-M40x
The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x is an over-ear, dynamic closed-back headphone designed primarily for studio monitoring and audio production. Introduced as part of a remastered M-Series lineup in 2014, it features 40mm drivers with neodymium magnets and copper-clad aluminum voice coils. Operating with a 35-ohm impedance and a frequency response of 15 to 24,000 Hz, it is tuned to provide a flatter, more accurate sound profile with minimal coloration.
Best for audio mixing and studio monitoring requiring accurate, uncolored frequency…Best for content creation and tracking where a lightweight, closed-back design is…
Pros
- Equipped with two different detachable cables (a 1.2-meter straight and a 3-meter coiled cable) for physical flexibility
- Tuned for a relatively flat frequency response, helping to deliver accurate and uncolored audio reproduction
- Weighs 240 grams, presenting a relatively lightweight option for long listening sessions
- Includes a screw-on 6.5mm adapter to ensure compatibility with professional audio equipment
Cons
- Includes only a basic soft pouch for storage, offering limited physical protection compared to a hardshell case
Value for Money
Which is the better deal for the price
Pre-filled with launch prices where known — enter today's price for an up-to-date check. Use the same currency for both.
Beats Solo 4
Audio-Technica ATH-M40x
Physical Comparison
Weigh them up, then compare real dimensions in 3D
Beats Solo 4Audio-Technica ATH-M40x
Audio-Technica ATH-M40x is 23 g (11%) heavier than Beats Solo 4.
Review Videos
Hand-picked expert reviews for each product
Detailed Specifications
The full spec sheet, side by side
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Beats Solo 4 vs Audio-Technica ATH-M40x comparison
Beats Solo 4 and Audio-Technica ATH-M40x are compared side by side above across every spec in the headphones category — including performance, features and design — each scored 0–100 so you can see exactly where one leads the other. Our overall scores are 58/100 for Beats Solo 4 and 26/100 for Audio-Technica ATH-M40x.
At launch, Audio-Technica ATH-M40x was the more affordable option ($99) versus Beats Solo 4 ($200). Weigh that against the overall scores (58/100 vs 26/100) and the value-for-money meter above to judge whether the higher-rated model justifies its price for your needs. Current retail prices vary — check the retailer.
If you want the higher-rated headphones option overall, Beats Solo 4 (58/100) edges out Audio-Technica ATH-M40x (26/100). But if Audio-Technica ATH-M40x is cheaper or stronger on the specific specs you care about, it can still be the better buy — use the spec table and strengths profile above to decide.
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