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Beats headphones are highly sought-after but often counterfeited due to their popularity. Learn how to distinguish genuine ones from fakes to avoid being scammed.
Key Points to Remember
- Examine the packaging for clear fonts, authentic trademark logos, and intact plastic seals. Also, ensure consistency in padding between the case's crease and the rest of the interior.
- Verify the placement of the serial number. Authentic headphones have it on the right ear; if it's on the left, they're likely counterfeit.
- Attempt to register your headphones at https://www.beatsbydre.com/register. If the serial number is unrecognized, it could indicate counterfeit headphones.
Step-by-Step Guide
Evaluating Packaging

Examine the Font on the Box - Genuine Beats packaging boasts clear, crisp typography. If the letters appear blurred or poorly printed, it's likely a sign of counterfeit product. Be aware that each Beats model may have distinct packaging, complicating identification of fakes.
- Varying packaging styles across Beats models can make spotting counterfeit items challenging.

Look for Trademark Logos - Focus on locating the trademark logos 'Studio' or 'Solo' on the box's bottom right corner. These logos indicate authenticity, particularly for the higher-end Studio and Solo models. Note that some models, such as the EP lineup, may not bear these trademarks.
- The trademark logo typically consists of the letters 'TM' in a smaller font.
- In some cases, the trademark may be found in the manual accompanying the headphones.
- The EP lineup, being less expensive, is less frequently counterfeited.

Compare Box Images - Analyze the image of the headphones on the box, ensuring it matches the official product. Counterfeit packaging often features digitally altered images. Pay particular attention to the lighting highlights, which can reveal inconsistencies.
- On Studio and Solo boxes, lighting highlights should be visible at the top of each earpiece.

Inspect the Plastic Seal - Authentic Beats packaging is sealed tightly in plastic. Any signs of a broken or tampered seal indicate potential counterfeit goods. Avoid purchasing if the plastic covering appears missing, torn, or damaged.
- Counterfeiters typically lack the equipment needed to reseal packaging securely.

Inspect the seam on the carrying case for authenticity. Unzip the case, unfold it, and examine the crease where the halves meet. Genuine Beats will have consistent padding throughout, whereas fake ones may have shinier or thinner fabric.
Verify the Serial Number and Software

Locate the serial number to discern authenticity. Extend the headband and check inside the plastic near the ear cushions. If the serial number is on the left ear, the headphones are likely fake. Remember, Beats never prints the serial number on the left ear.

Validate the serial number online. Visit beatsbydre.com/register and input your serial number. If it shows as invalid, it could indicate counterfeit headphones. Note that used headphones may already be verified, so check with the seller.

Test your headphones by connecting them to a computer for updates. Visit the Beats update page and connect your headphones via USB. Fake headphones will trigger an error message during the update process. Visit your.beatsbydre.com/#/?locale=en-US for the update page.
Prioritize Authenticity When Making Purchases

Purchase from authorized retailers to avoid counterfeit products. Buying from reputable sellers like Amazon, Best Buy, Micro Center, Nike, or Target reduces the risk of buying fake headphones.

Be cautious of unusually low prices. Deals that seem too good to be true are likely selling fake or damaged headphones. Stick to authorized retailers or known promotions to ensure product legitimacy.

Exercise caution when buying used headphones. Ensure all necessary paperwork, especially warranty information, is included. Register the serial number to confirm authenticity before making the purchase.
Test Your Understanding
Locate the serial number on authentic Beats headphones.
Helpful Tips
Consider sound quality when choosing headphones. Beats is known for its bass-heavy sound, which may not suit everyone's preferences. Explore other brands for more accurate sound reproduction.