When Apple dropped a casual $3 billion on Beats (aka Beats by Dr. Dre) back in 2014, a lot of people scratched their heads. Why would Apple—on the verge of launching its own wireless earbud empire with AirPods—bother acquiring another audio brand? Turns out, Apple had a plan: let AirPods cater to the minimalist, tech-forward crowd, while Beats kept its grip on the bass-loving, fashion-conscious masses. Different vibes, same ecosystem—and now, even more dongles.
Beats’ product lineup already includes headphones, earbuds, and the popular Pill Bluetooth speakers—but now, they’re branching out into a new territory: cables. Yes, the brand known for booming bass is now getting into the wire game.
The new lineup includes USB-C to USB-C, USB-A to USB-C, and USB-C to Lightning cables—because apparently, you can never have too many. Just don’t expect a power adapter in the box, because of course that’s sold separately.
Compatibility & Features
The USB-C to USB-C cables are compatible with both Apple and Android devices and support charging, syncing, audio, CarPlay, and data transfer. They can charge USB-C-compatible Beats headphones and speakers while streaming audio—including lossless formats. These cables also support fast charging up to 60 watts and data transfer at USB 2.0 speeds. For optimal performance, pair them with a USB-C power adapter to fast-charge your devices directly from a wall outlet.
The USB-A to USB-C cables are designed for charging, syncing, CarPlay, and transferring data. Fast charging reaches up to 15 watts on select iPhone and iPad models, and data is transferred at USB 2.0 rates.
The USB-C to Lightning cables are compatible with iOS and iPadOS devices that have Lightning ports and support charging, syncing, and CarPlay. The cables also support fast charging for select iPhone and iPad models.
Beats Cables feature a tangle-free woven design for added durability and resistance to fraying. They’re available in two lengths: a standard 1.5 meters and a compact 20 centimeters (about 8 inches) for on-the-go convenience.
Colors
Depending on the cable type and length, Beats Cables come in a selection of bold colors, including Rapid Red, Nitro Navy, Bolt Black, and Surge Stone.
Beats Cable Model Rapid Red Nitro Navy Bolt Black Surge Stone USB-C to USB-C (1.5 m) Yes Yes Yes Yes USB-A to USB-C (1.5 m) Yes – Yes Yes USB-C to Lightning (1.5 m) Yes – Yes Yes USB-C to USB-C (2-pack, 1.5 m) – – Yes – USB-A to USB-C (2-pack, 1.5 m) – – Yes – USB-A to USB-C (20 cm) – – Yes – USB-C to Lightning (20 cm) – – Yes –
“Pill People” Campaign
To launch Beats into this new category, the iconic “Pill People” return for a comedic spot highlighting the cables’ features and uses. Voiced by comedians Ben Marshall, Desi Banks, and Megan Stalter, the campaign is available now across Beats’ social media channels.
From Chris Thorne, Beats CMO: “From bold colors and packaging to bringing product features to life with the Pill People campaign, we’re energizing this category in true Beats fashion.
The Bottom Line
Everyone with a smartphone or laptop needs one of these cables, so why not stand out with some colorful options? Apple could have released them under their own brand, but seem content with white accessories which have become a fashion statement of their own. On the other hand, the Beats branding and color choices does seem to make these cables a little more fun. Plus they could be easier to locate when you actually need to find one.
Pricing & Availability
Beats cables are available for $18.99 (1.5 meters and 20 centimeters) and $34.99 (1.5 meters, two-pack, USB-C to USB-C and USB-A to USB-C) from Amazon, Beats by Dr Dre and Apple.com in the US.
Tip: Beats cable packaging is made from 100% plant-based material sourced from recycled fiber and sustainable forests.
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