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You might be looking for audio technica audio technica ath m50xbt2 black alternatives if you want a different fit or feature set. The ATH-M50XBT2 offers 50 hours of battery life and supports LDAC for high-resolution wireless audio. It weighs 10.9 ounces and uses on-ear drivers for studio-quality sound. However, you may prefer active noise cancellation or a lighter build for daily commutes. Some users might also want a different color option or a more compact design for travel.

The 6 options listed here share key specifications with the original model. Each alternative provides wireless connectivity and an on-ear fit, ensuring you maintain the core listening experience. We selected these products because their specs overlap with the ATH-M50XBT2 while offering distinct advantages. You can choose based on your priority, whether that is noise cancellation, extended battery life, or cross-platform compatibility. This list helps you compare practical details like weight and charging methods to find the best match for your needs.

How these alternatives compare

beyerdynamic AVENTHO 100 On-Ear ANC

The Beyerdynamic AVENTHO 100 includes active noise cancellation, which the ATH-M50XBT2 lacks. It is lighter at 7.8 ounces and uses USB-C charging. The battery life is long enough for travel, though specific hour counts are not listed. You get a compact, foldable design that fits easily in a bag. If you need to block out ambient noise during commutes, this model offers that feature. It sacrifices the LDAC codec support found in the Audio-Technica option. Choose this if noise isolation is more important to you than high-resolution wireless streaming. The on-ear fit remains similar, but the weight difference makes it more comfortable for extended wear.

Marshall Major IV On-Ear Bluetooth Headphones

The Marshall Major IV focuses on tactile controls and wired connectivity options. It weighs only 6.28 ounces, making it significantly lighter than the 10.9-ounce ATH-M50XBT2. Battery life is a key selling point, often exceeding 50 hours. You get a minimalist design with physical buttons rather than touch controls. It does not support LDAC or offer active noise cancellation. The sound signature is tuned for rock and pop rather than studio monitoring. If you prefer mechanical switches and a lighter build, this is a strong alternative. It fits listeners who want durability and simple operation without complex app adjustments. The on-ear design is similar, but the overall package is more portable.

Marshall Milton ANC On-Ear

The Marshall Milton ANC adds adaptive noise cancellation to the on-ear form factor. It weighs 8.16 ounces, which is lighter than the Audio-Technica model. The battery life is long, suitable for extended portable use. You get a durable, foldable design that prioritizes travel readiness. Unlike the ATH-M50XBT2, it does not mention LDAC support. The focus is on balanced performance with noise isolation. If you need to cancel out background noise while traveling, this model provides that capability. It trades the specific studio-grade driver clarity of the Audio-Technica for general-purpose noise reduction. The on-ear fit is similar, but the lighter weight may reduce clamping force over time.

Beats Solo 4 Wireless On-Ear Headphones

The Beats Solo 4 offers 50 hours of battery life and lossless audio options. It weighs 1.16 pounds, which is heavier than the 10.9-ounce ATH-M50XBT2. It supports dual platform compatibility for both Apple and Android devices. You get spatial audio features that the Audio-Technica model does not list. The design is sleek and modern, with a focus on cross-platform integration. It lacks LDAC support, relying instead on standard Bluetooth codecs. If you switch between devices often, the seamless pairing is a major advantage. The on-ear fit is similar, but the increased weight may be noticeable during long sessions. It is best for users who prioritize ecosystem integration over specific codec support.

Beats Solo 4 On-Ear

The Beats Solo 4 On-Ear provides 50 hours of playtime and cross-platform compatibility. It weighs 1.12 ounces, which appears to be a data error, but is listed as lighter than the ATH-M50XBT2. It supports Bluetooth and is optimized for smartphones. You get a matte black finish and a focus on portability. It does not include LDAC or active noise cancellation. The sound profile is tuned for consumer listening rather than studio reference. If you want a lightweight option with long battery life, this model fits that need. It sacrifices the high-resolution audio capabilities of the Audio-Technica for broader device compatibility. The on-ear design is similar, but the build feels more casual.

Beats Studio Pro Noise Cancelling Headphones

The Beats Studio Pro includes active noise cancellation and lossless audio support. It weighs 1.12 ounces, which is listed as lighter than the ATH-M50XBT2. Battery life is 40 hours, which is less than the 50 hours in the Audio-Technica model. You get spatial audio and a focus on high-quality wireless streaming. It lacks LDAC support, using standard Bluetooth codecs instead. The on-ear design is similar, but the noise cancellation adds a layer of isolation. If you value noise reduction and spatial audio, this model offers those features. It trades some battery longevity for advanced audio processing capabilities. It is best for users who need to block out noise while maintaining high-fidelity sound.

#ProductBest forPrice
1Audio-Technica ATH-M50XBT2 On-Ear Best overallHigh-fidelity wireless listening with long battery life
2beyerdynamic AVENTHO 100 On-Ear ANC Best usb-ctravelers needing long battery life
3Marshall Major IV On-Ear Bluetooth Headphones Best budgetlisteners prioritizing battery life and tactile controls
4Marshall Milton ANC On-Ear Best premiumportable use with long battery life
5Beats Solo 4 Wireless On-Ear Headphones Best balancedLong battery life and dual platform compatibility
6Beats Solo 4 On-Ear Also greatLong battery life and cross-platform use
7Beats Studio Pro Noise Cancelling Headphones Also greatLossless audio and spatial audio users
1Best overall
Audio-Technica ATH-M50XBT2 On-Ear

Audio-Technica ATH-M50XBT2 On-Ear

Best for: High-fidelity wireless listening with long battery life

Battery Life
Up to 50 hours
Connectivity
Bluetooth, USB-C
Form Factor
Over-Ear, On-Ear
Connection
Wireless
Color
Black
Dimensions
9 × 10.5 × 5 inches

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50XBT2 offers studio-grade clarity in a wireless on-ear design. It features 45 mm large-aperture drivers and supports the high-bitrate LDAC codec for detailed audio. You get up to 50 hours of battery life, with a quick 10-minute charge providing three hours of playback. Dual microphones with beamforming technology improve call quality. This model suits listeners who prioritize sound fidelity and long battery performance in a portable form factor.

Pros
  • Up to 50 hours of continuous battery life
  • Supports Sony LDAC codec for high-resolution audio
  • Dual microphones with beamforming for clear calls
  • 45 mm large-aperture drivers for extended frequency range
  • Rapid charge: 3 hours playback from 10 minutes
Cons
  • On-ear fit may cause fatigue during long sessions compared to over-ear designs
  • Weighs 10.9 ounces, which is heavier than some on-ear competitors
  • Battery life is lower than the 50-hour claim of the Beats Solo 4
Good fit if
  • You want high-fidelity wireless audio with LDAC support
  • You need long battery life for travel or work
  • You prefer the compact size of on-ear headphones
Skip if
  • You require over-ear comfort for all-day wear
  • You need active noise cancellation
  • You want the lightest possible on-ear option

Verdict: Audio-Technica ATH-M50XBT2 On-Ear delivers professional sound quality and reliable battery life for listeners who value audio fidelity. It is a solid choice for users who prioritize clear calls and high-resolution wireless streaming over noise cancellation.

2Best usb-c
beyerdynamic AVENTHO 100 On-Ear ANC

beyerdynamic AVENTHO 100 On-Ear ANC

Best for: travelers needing long battery life

Noise Control
Active Noise Cancelling
Battery Life
Up to 60 hours
Connectivity
Bluetooth, USB-C
Form Factor
On-Ear
Connection
Wireless
Features
Active Noise Cancelling, Active Noise Cancellation, USB-C

The Beyerdynamic AVENTHO 100 are on-ear headphones with active noise cancellation. They offer up to 60 hours of battery life and recharge via USB-C. The foldable design makes them easy to pack. They pair with iOS, Android, and laptops. This model suits you if you want long playtime and a compact build for travel.

Pros
  • Up to 60 hours of battery life
  • Active Noise Cancellation for quieter listening
  • Recharges over USB-C
  • Foldable design for compact storage
Cons
  • On-ear fit may be less comfortable for long sessions than over-ear models
  • Weighs 7.8 ounces, which is heavier than some competitors
  • Battery life is lower than the 50-hour Beats Solo 4 when considering relative performance
Good fit if
  • You need up to 60 hours of playtime between charges
  • You prefer a foldable design for travel
  • You want USB-C charging convenience
Skip if
  • You require over-ear comfort for extended wear
  • You need a lighter build under 7 ounces
  • You want a model with more than 60 hours of battery

Verdict: Beyerdynamic AVENTHO 100 Wireless fits travelers who prioritize long battery life and a compact, foldable form factor. It is a solid choice for commuters who need noise cancellation and USB-C charging.

3Best budget
Marshall Major IV On-Ear Bluetooth Headphones

Marshall Major IV On-Ear Bluetooth Headphones

Best for: listeners prioritizing battery life and tactile controls

Battery Life
80+ hours
Connectivity
Bluetooth, 3.5 mm
Form Factor
On-Ear
Connection
Wireless
Color
Black
Dimensions
6.3 × 6.3 × 3.4 inches

The Marshall Major IV offers on-ear comfort with a focus on endurance. You get over 80 hours of wireless playtime and quick-charge support that yields 15 hours of listening from just 15 minutes of charging. Custom-tuned dynamic drivers provide 32 Ω impedance and a 20-20,000 Hz frequency range. The design includes a multi-directional control knob and a 3.5 mm auxiliary socket for wired use. This model suits listeners who prioritize long battery life and tactile controls.

Pros
  • Over 80 hours of wireless battery life
  • Quick-charge feature provides 15 hours of playback in 15 minutes
  • Multi-directional control knob for media and call management
  • 3.5 mm audio socket for wired connection
  • Custom-tuned dynamic drivers with 32 Ω impedance
Cons
  • Heavier build at 6.28 ounces compared to lighter competitors
  • On-ear fit may be less isolating than over-ear designs
  • No active noise cancellation listed in specifications
Good fit if
  • You want a headphone with exceptional battery endurance for long trips
  • You prefer physical knobs over touch controls for media management
  • You need a wired option via the 3.5 mm jack
Skip if
  • You require active noise cancellation for noisy environments
  • You prefer lightweight headphones under 6 ounces
  • You want over-ear cushions for maximum comfort

Verdict: Marshall Major IV On-Ear Bluetooth delivers standout battery life and tactile controls for users who value endurance. It fits listeners who prioritize long playtime and wired connectivity over noise isolation.

4Best premium
Marshall Milton ANC On-Ear

Marshall Milton ANC On-Ear

Best for: portable use with long battery life

Noise Control
Adaptive ANC, Transparency Mode
Battery Life
80 hours (50 hours with ANC)
Form Factor
On-Ear
Spatial Audio
Soundstage Spatial Audio
Connection
Wireless
Features
Active Noise Cancelling, Microphone, Active Noise Cancellation, Long Playtime

The Marshall Milton ANC Black is a wireless on-ear headphone with active noise cancellation. It offers 50 hours of playtime with ANC on, or 80 hours without. The design is foldable and durable. It includes adaptive loudness for clear sound at any volume. This model suits listeners who want long battery life and a compact form factor for daily use.

Pros
  • 50 hours of playtime with ANC enabled
  • 80 hours of playtime without ANC
  • Adaptive noise cancellation and transparency mode
  • Foldable and durable design
  • Spatial audio soundstage
Cons
  • On-ear fit may be less comfortable for some users compared to over-ear models
  • Heavier build at 8.16 ounces than some competitors
Good fit if
  • You need long battery life for travel
  • You prefer a foldable design for storage
  • You want active noise cancellation in an on-ear form
Skip if
  • You require over-ear comfort for long sessions
  • You prioritize a lighter weight under 8 ounces
  • You need wired connectivity options

Verdict: Marshall Milton ANC Black delivers solid battery performance and adaptive noise cancellation in a durable, foldable package. It fits listeners who value portability and extended playtime in an on-ear design.

5Best balanced
Beats Solo 4 Wireless On-Ear Headphones

Beats Solo 4 Wireless On-Ear Headphones

Best for: Long battery life and dual platform compatibility

Battery Life
Up to 50 hours
Connectivity
Class 1 Bluetooth, USB-C, 3.5 mm
Form Factor
On-Ear
Spatial Audio
Personalized Spatial Audio
Connection
Wireless
Use
Smartphones

The Beats Solo 4 offers on-ear comfort with an ultralight design and a 50-hour battery life. It supports dual compatibility for iOS and Android, featuring personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking. High-resolution lossless audio is available via USB-C or a 3.5 mm cable. This model suits users seeking long playback time and versatile device pairing.

Pros
  • Up to 50 hours of battery life
  • Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking
  • High-resolution lossless audio via USB-C
  • Dual compatibility for iOS and Android
Cons
  • On-ear fit may be less isolating than over-ear designs
  • Weight is 1.16 pounds, which is heavier than some competitors
Good fit if
  • You need a battery that lasts up to 50 hours
  • You use both iOS and Android devices
  • You prefer high-resolution lossless audio connections
Skip if
  • You require active noise cancellation
  • You want an over-ear fit for better isolation
  • You prioritize the lightest possible weight under 1 pound

Verdict: Beats Solo 4 On-Ear Headphones provide a 50-hour battery and lossless audio options for users who switch between Apple and Android devices. It is a solid choice for those prioritizing battery longevity and spatial audio features.

6Also great
Beats Solo 4 On-Ear

Beats Solo 4 On-Ear

Best for: Long battery life and cross-platform use

Battery Life
Up to 50 hours
Connectivity
Bluetooth
Form Factor
On-Ear
Connection
Wireless
Use
Smartphones
Operating System
Android

The Beats Solo 4 offers wireless on-ear comfort with up to 50 hours of battery life. It uses Bluetooth for connection and works with both Apple and Android devices. The matte black design weighs 1.12 ounces. Custom acoustic architecture drives the sound. You get a versatile option for daily listening that balances portability with long playtime.

Pros
  • Up to 50 hours of battery life
  • Bluetooth wireless connectivity
  • Compatible with Android and Apple devices
  • Lightweight at 1.12 ounces
Cons
  • On-ear fit may be less isolating than over-ear designs
  • No active noise cancellation listed in specifications
  • Single size option available
Good fit if
  • You want long battery life for travel
  • You use both Android and Apple phones
  • You prefer lightweight on-ear headphones
Skip if
  • You need active noise cancellation
  • You prefer over-ear comfort for long sessions
  • You want multiple size adjustments

Verdict: Beats Solo 4 On-Ear Wireless Headphones deliver 50 hours of playtime and cross-platform compatibility. They suit listeners who prioritize battery life and portability over noise isolation.

7Also great
Beats Studio Pro Noise Cancelling Headphones

Beats Studio Pro Noise Cancelling Headphones

Best for: Lossless audio and spatial audio users

Noise Control
Active Noise Cancelling, Transparency
Battery Life
Up to 40 hours
Connectivity
Bluetooth, USB-C, 3.5 mm
Spatial Audio
Personalized Spatial Audio
Connection
Wireless
Features
Bluetooth, Active Noise Cancelling

The Beats Studio Pro offers wireless Bluetooth connectivity with active noise cancelling. It provides up to 40 hours of battery life and supports lossless audio via USB-C. Personalized spatial audio with dynamic head tracking adds immersion. You get two listening modes: fully-adaptive ANC and Transparency mode. These specs make it a solid option for mobile listening.

Pros
  • Up to 40 hours total battery life
  • Active Noise Cancelling and Transparency mode
  • Lossless audio via USB-C connection
  • Personalized spatial audio with dynamic head tracking
  • Fast Fuel charge provides 4 hours of playback
Cons
  • 40-hour battery life is lower than the 50 hours found on Beats Solo 4
  • On-ear design may offer less isolation than over-ear models like the ATH-M50XBT2
Good fit if
  • You want lossless audio quality through a wired USB-C connection
  • You need spatial audio with dynamic head tracking
  • You prefer on-ear headphones for portability
Skip if
  • You require more than 40 hours of battery life
  • You prefer over-ear headphones for better noise isolation
  • You want a device with a longer battery life than the Beats Solo 4

Verdict: Beats Studio Pro Wireless ANC delivers lossless audio and 40 hours of battery life. It fits users who value spatial audio and on-ear portability over the extended battery life of competitors.

Specifications side by side

SpecAudio-Technica ATH-M50XBT2 On-Earbeyerdynamic AVENTHO 100 On-Ear ANCMarshall Major IV On-Ear Bluetooth HeadphonesMarshall Milton ANC On-EarBeats Solo 4 Wireless On-Ear HeadphonesBeats Solo 4 On-EarBeats Studio Pro Noise Cancelling Headphones
Noise Control–Active Noise Cancelling–Adaptive ANC, Transparency Mode––Active Noise Cancelling, Transparency
Battery LifeUp to 50 hoursUp to 60 hours80+ hours80 hours (50 hours with ANC)Up to 50 hoursUp to 50 hoursUp to 40 hours
ConnectivityBluetooth, USB-CBluetooth, USB-CBluetooth, 3.5 mm–Class 1 Bluetooth, USB-C, 3.5 mmBluetoothBluetooth, USB-C, 3.5 mm
Form FactorOver-Ear, On-EarOn-EarOn-EarOn-EarOn-EarOn-Ear–
Spatial Audio–––Soundstage Spatial AudioPersonalized Spatial Audio–Personalized Spatial Audio
ConnectionWirelessWirelessWirelessWirelessWirelessWirelessWireless
FitOn-EarOn-EarOn-EarOn-EarOn-EarOn-Ear–
Features–Active Noise Cancelling, Active Noise Cancellation, USB-CBluetoothActive Noise Cancelling, Microphone, Active Noise Cancellation, Long PlaytimeBluetoothBluetoothBluetooth, Active Noise Cancelling
Use––––SmartphonesSmartphones–
ColorBlackBlackBlackBlackCloud PinkMatte BlackBlack
Output––––Balanced––
Operating System––––AndroidAndroid–
Dimensions9 × 10.5 × 5 inches78.7 × 9.45 × 2.36 inches6.3 × 6.3 × 3.4 inches6.3 × 6.3 × 3.35 inches8.23 × 5.2 × 3.7 inches8.23 × 5.2 × 3.7 inches3.07 × 7.13 × 7.01 inches
Weight10.9 ounces7.8 ounces6.28 ounces8.16 ounces1.16 pounds1.12 ounces1.12 ounces
ModelATH-M50XBT2100161310057731008039MUW33DN/AMUW23LL/A657768614125
Size––Standard–One SizeOne SizeOne Size

Frequently asked questions

Which alternative offers the longest battery life?

The Beats Solo 4 provides up to 50 hours of playtime. This matches the ATH-M50XBT2’s endurance. It also supports lossless audio and works with both Apple and Android devices. You get reliable performance for daily commutes or long trips without needing frequent charges.

Do any alternatives include active noise cancellation?

Yes, the Beyerdynamic AVENTHO 100 and Marshall Milton ANC feature active noise cancellation. The ATH-M50XBT2 does not include this feature. If you need to block out ambient noise during travel or in busy offices, these two models are better suited for your needs.

Are there wireless options with USB-C charging?

The Beyerdynamic AVENTHO 100 uses USB-C charging. This offers a convenient power source for travelers who already carry USB-C cables. Most other alternatives use proprietary or standard charging methods, so check the specific port type if you want to keep your cable kit simple.

Which model is the lightest to wear?

The Marshall Major IV is the lightest at 6.28 ounces. The Beyerdynamic AVENTHO 100 is also lightweight at 7.8 ounces. In comparison, the ATH-M50XBT2 weighs 10.9 ounces. If you prefer minimal pressure on your head during extended listening sessions, the lighter models are more comfortable.

Can I use these headphones with both iPhone and Android?

The Beats Solo 4 is explicitly designed for dual platform compatibility. It works with both Apple and Android operating systems. Other wireless models also support standard Bluetooth connections, but the Beats Solo 4 ensures seamless switching between devices without compatibility issues or pairing delays.

Is there a premium option with adaptive noise cancellation?

The Marshall Milton ANC offers adaptive noise cancellation in a durable, foldable design. It is categorized as the best premium choice. This feature adjusts to your environment automatically. You get enhanced audio isolation and a portable form factor that fits well in bags or backpacks.

Which alternative supports lossless audio streaming?

The Beats Solo 4 and Beats Studio Pro support lossless audio options. The ATH-M50XBT2 uses LDAC for high-resolution wireless audio. If you prioritize uncompressed sound quality over Bluetooth compression, the Beats models provide a clear advantage for listeners who want studio-grade audio fidelity on the go.

Do any alternatives have tactile physical controls?

The Marshall Major IV features tactile controls for easy operation. This allows you to adjust volume or skip tracks without using your phone. Other models may rely more on touch interfaces or app-based controls. If you prefer physical buttons for reliability, the Marshall Major IV is a strong choice.