Beta zeolites synthesized by different methods are compared in their structure peculiarities and acidic properties by nitrogen physisorption, IR-KBr. pyridine sorption-desorption and thermoprogrammed desorption of ammonia. It is found that mesopores could be obtained in beta zeolites with the change of the activation procedure. Methanol conversion to dimethyl ether and hydrocarbons is used as a test reaction for understanding of the acid center function. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.