Apple’s AirPods have become synonymous with wireless earbuds, delivering a combination of high-quality sound, seamless connectivity, and sleek design. The AirPods Pro 2 (second generation) is the latest iteration, refining the original AirPods Pro formula with a range of new features and improvements. But with their premium price tag, the question on many potential buyers’ minds is: Are the AirPods Pro 2 worth the upgrade?
In this review, we’ll break down the key features, upgrades, and performance of the AirPods Pro 2 to help you decide if they are the right choice for you.
1. Design: A Familiar Yet Refined Look
Same Classic Design, But with Improvements
The AirPods Pro 2 largely retains the iconic design of the original AirPods Pro. The sleek in-ear fit with silicone tips provides a comfortable and secure seal, ensuring a snug fit in your ears. The stems are shorter than those on the regular AirPods, with a pressure-sensitive force sensor for controlling music and calls.
However, the second-generation AirPods Pro have received some slight tweaks in design. Most notably, the charging case has been slightly upgraded with a built-in speaker for locating it using the Find My app, a feature that was previously absent. Apple also added a lanyard loop to the case, allowing you to attach it to keychains or bags for added convenience.
- In-ear design with silicone tips for comfort and sound isolation.
- Shorter stem with the force sensor for ease of control.
- Charging case improvements with built-in speaker and lanyard loop.
Winner: Slight Improvement
The design is very familiar, but the AirPods Pro 2 do offer a few enhancements, particularly with the charging case.
2. Sound Quality: A Clear Upgrade
Enhanced Audio Performance
One of the standout features of the AirPods Pro 2 is the improved sound quality. Apple has upgraded the driver and amplifier, resulting in richer sound, more detail, and better bass performance compared to the original AirPods Pro. The H2 chip, which powers the AirPods Pro 2, also contributes to a more efficient sound processing system, offering a smoother listening experience with less distortion.
- More detailed sound with improved bass response.
- H2 chip enhances audio processing for a more refined soundstage.
- Adaptive Transparency mode allows for a more natural listening experience while staying aware of your environment.
Winner: AirPods Pro 2
The sound quality is undoubtedly the biggest improvement over the previous generation, making the AirPods Pro 2 a great choice for audiophiles and casual listeners alike.
3. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Even Better Isolation
Superior Noise Cancellation
The AirPods Pro 2 take noise cancellation to the next level. Apple has improved the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology, which blocks out external noise even more effectively than the original model. The enhanced ANC is powered by the new H2 chip and the improved internal hardware, making the AirPods Pro 2 ideal for traveling, working in noisy environments, or simply enjoying music without distractions.
The Adaptive Transparency feature, which was introduced in the first-generation AirPods Pro, has also been improved, allowing external sounds to pass through more naturally while maintaining a high level of noise reduction.
- Better ANC for more effective isolation from external noise.
- Adaptive Transparency mode for a more natural listening experience while remaining aware of surroundings.
Winner: AirPods Pro 2
With improved ANC and Adaptive Transparency, the AirPods Pro 2 offers superior noise cancellation compared to the original model, providing an enhanced listening experience.
4. Battery Life: Longer Playback Times
Longer Battery Life
The AirPods Pro 2 come with longer battery life than the first generation, a welcome improvement for users who want to enjoy more music without constantly reaching for their charging case. Apple claims up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge with ANC enabled, compared to 4.5 hours on the original model.
Additionally, the charging case provides an extra 30 hours of battery life, so even with heavy usage, you’ll be able to rely on the AirPods Pro 2 for longer listening sessions before needing to recharge.
- 6 hours of listening time with ANC on.
- 30 hours of total battery life with the charging case.
Winner: AirPods Pro 2
With the improved battery life for both the earbuds and the case, the AirPods Pro 2 outshine the original model, making them more suitable for long-haul listening sessions.
5. Connectivity: Seamless Apple Ecosystem Integration
Enhanced Connectivity and Features
As expected, the AirPods Pro 2 offer seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, allowing for instant pairing and smooth transitions between devices like the iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch. The H2 chip provides better Bluetooth connectivity, reducing latency and ensuring more stable connections, particularly during calls or gaming.
One new feature is the Personalized Spatial Audio, which is available with the AirPods Pro 2, providing a more immersive surround-sound experience when watching movies or listening to music. This feature works in conjunction with dynamic head tracking, adjusting the sound based on the movement of your head for a more immersive experience.
- H2 chip for better connectivity and Bluetooth performance.
- Personalized Spatial Audio for a more immersive listening experience.
- Instant pairing and switching between Apple devices.
Winner: AirPods Pro 2
With better connectivity and Personalized Spatial Audio, the AirPods Pro 2 take full advantage of Apple’s ecosystem, delivering a seamless experience for iOS users.
6. Price: Is It Worth the Cost?
Premium Price Tag
The AirPods Pro 2 comes with a premium price, retailing at around $249. While they are packed with high-end features, it’s important to consider whether the upgrades justify the cost, especially if you already own the original AirPods Pro or another pair of premium earbuds.
If you’re considering upgrading from the first-generation AirPods Pro, the improved sound, better ANC, and longer battery life could be enough to justify the higher price. However, if you’re new to the AirPods ecosystem, the AirPods Pro 2 offers great value for its price, especially when you factor in the seamless integration with Apple devices.
- Price: Around $249.
- Worth It? Depends on whether you value the improvements over the previous generation.
Winner: It Depends
If you’re upgrading from the original AirPods Pro, the AirPods Pro 2 could be worth the price due to the performance enhancements. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option, there are other AirPods models or premium earbuds that may suit your needs for less.
Conclusion: Are the AirPods Pro 2 Worth the Upgrade?
The AirPods Pro 2 bring substantial improvements over the first-generation model, particularly in sound quality, noise cancellation, and battery life. The H2 chip powers all of these improvements, making the AirPods Pro 2 a better choice for anyone looking for premium wireless earbuds that offer an immersive listening experience. Additionally, the new charging case with speaker and lanyard loop adds practicality and convenience.
If you’re currently using the original AirPods Pro, the AirPods Pro 2 are undoubtedly worth the upgrade, especially if you value better ANC, longer battery life, and superior sound quality. However, if you’re content with the original model or don’t need the latest features, the previous version still holds up well.
For newcomers to the Apple AirPods ecosystem, the AirPods Pro 2 offer a fantastic all-around experience with seamless integration, high-end features, and top-tier performance, making them worth the premium price for those who want the best Apple has to offer.