Here's how the new model compares to the first generation. The upgraded product includes a new H2 chip that powers more intelligent noise cancellation and three-dimensional sound. In addition, active Noise Cancellation now cancels twice as much unwanted noise, so nothing interrupts listening.
Although the second-generation AirPods Pro feature the same design as their predecessor, they improve on features like Active Noise Cancellation, in-ear detection, and battery life, while introducing new functionality like Adaptive Transparency, volume adjustment touch controls, and precision finding.
Verdict. The second-generation AirPods Pro are Apple's best earbuds yet. They sound better, have more effective noise cancelling, last longer on a charge and keep what is good about their predecessors. The onboard volume control is very welcome, as is the adaptive transparency feature.
The AirPods Pro are the more premium version of Apple's standard AirPods. They feature two audio modes for filtering outside sounds, changeable ear tips, and the H1 or H2 processor. Gyroscopes in the earpieces enable users to move their head 'around' within an audio space using a feature called Spatial Audio.
There are a few differences between the third-generation AirPods and the first-generation AirPods Pro that might help in choosing between the two. AirPods Pro provide ANC, including full noise cancellation and “transparency” mode. If choosing earbuds with ANC is a priority, the AirPods Pro are probably a better bet.
You should only buy the AirPods Pro if you specifically prefer the fit and improved sound that in-ear silicone tips can provide, or need Active Noise Cancellation. It is also worth buying AirPods Pro if you could make good use of Apple's Conversation Boost accessibility feature.
Yes, the AirPods 3 are cheaper on paper but remember the Pro 2 do bring active noise-cancellation (ANC) and a different design and chipset to the party.
AirPods Pro and AirPods Max Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode. AirPods Pro and AirPods Max have three noise-control modes: Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency mode, and Off. You can switch between them, depending on how much of your surroundings you want to hear.
Not only are the AirPods Pro's ear tips likely to be more comfortable and stable for most ears thanks to their multiple size options, but they also allow for a better seal for improved audio performance, while still providing a semi-open feel.
While the Apple AirPods Pro 2 are not completely waterproof, they do come with an IPX4 water resistance rating. This means that the earbuds should be able to withstand damage from sweat and the occasional splash of water with relative ease.
AirPods Pro and AirPods (3rd generation) aren't designed for use in water sports like swimming, or for showering.
AirPods Pro take the listening experience to a new level of individuality. Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking works with all your devices to immerse you deeper in all-around-you sound. And Adaptive EQ accounts for the fit of AirPods Pro, so you hear every frequency just as it was intended.
Wearing AirPods in the ear for an extended period (that includes while sleeping) will accumulate wax and moisture in the ear canal. This build-up of earwax will cause discomfort and increases the risk of developing ear infections. If left untreated, then it ends up with hearing problems.
Overall the choice between these Apple headphones leans firmly in favor of the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation). It has an expanded feature set, including ANC for commuters, and improved hardware with the H2 chip managing Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity.
With no meaningful isolation (due to a poor seal over the ear canal) and zero noise cancellation, you will hear basically everything around you on the AirPods (2nd generation). The AirPods Pro is a vast improvement in both including ANC and simply better isolation than the AirPods (2nd generation).
AirPods typically last about 2-3 years before most users feel the need to replace them. This short lifespan is because of their lithium-ion batteries. AirPods have proven tough in several durability tests and have shown that they can withstand pressure.
The standard AirPods fit some people's ears perfectly (some people have no trouble running with them), but plenty of people can't get a secure fit. If you're in the latter group, I highly recommend you spend the extra money on the AirPods Pro. The AirPods Pro design simply fits more ears than the original AirPods.
Based on our white noise measurements for the first test, Apple AirPods Max are the loudest AirPods, reaching 108.3dB at 100%. That means that listening to anything at 100% volume for more than 2 minutes can result in hearing damage. Moreover, the first test also shows that AirPods Max appear louder than AirPods 3.
The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless are the best iPhone-compatible earbuds for small ears we've tested.
If you need to save for a bit longer, trust me – it'll be worth it. In fact, the second generation AirPods Pro are so good, that there's only one thing I want from the next version – and, yes, it's USB-C charging, please!
The main reason that AirPods cost so much is that they're a high-quality, well-made product. Apple is known for its designs, build quality, and high retail price, and the AirPods are no different.
The buildup of earwax, sweat, dirt, and other grimy substances can not only harm the performance and life span of your AirPods, she says, but it can also cause irritation or an infection in your ear canal. The problem: AirPods have a lot of tough-to-reach spots, and cleaning them the wrong way could damage them.
There's no reason why you can't use AirPods Pro without ear tips. The sound will come across perfectly, and you may find they fit more comfortably in your ears. However, you will lose some premium features, like Active Noise Canceling, and they may fall out easily.