The Apple AirPods look similar but are also very different. If you don’t know which one to choose, check out this article that compares their key features, strengths, and drawbacks to help you pick the perfect pair.
First, the similarities. All of them have good battery life and come with a charging case that provides multiple charges. They connect easily with Apple devices, and the 3rd gen and Pro use the latest Bluetooth 5.3 for a strong connection. They also work with Siri for voice commands like music playback or making calls.
2nd Generation: The Budget Option
These are the classic ones with long stems. They’re lightweight, comfortable for short listening sessions, and easy to take them on and off. They have basic touch controls like double-tapping to play or skip music. While they lack some of the bells and whistles of their newer siblings, they deliver a classic experience at an attractive price point.
Cons: They don’t have any noise cancellation features, and the sound quality is decent but not amazing. Also, the fit is not really ideal for workouts.
3rd Generation: The Well-Rounded Upgrade
These buds have shorter stems and a contoured fit. They have improved sound quality with better bass compared to the 2nd generation, and they include spatial audio, which creates an immersive listening experience. They also have sweat and water resistance, longer battery life, and a more secure fit than the 2nd generation, making them a good option for workouts or active lifestyles.
Cons: They still don’t have noise cancellation, and they’re more expensive than the 2nd generation one.
Pro 2nd Generation: The Premium Powerhouse
They are the premium option and offer the most features. They have active noise cancellation (ANC) to block out ambient noise and a transparency mode that lets you hear your surroundings. They also have the best sound quality of the three options, with customizable EQ and spatial audio. Also, this one takes spatial audio a step further with dynamic head tracking. This means that as you move your head, the sound adjusts accordingly, keeping you right in the center of the sonic experience.
They come with silicone ear tips in different sizes for a comfortable, secure fit. So, if you prioritize noise cancellation and superior sound quality, these are the ones to go for. They’re also a great choice for calls, thanks to their improved microphone array.
Cons: They’re the most expensive option, and they are bulkier than the other two. Also, the in-ear design might not be comfortable for everyone for extended listening sessions.
Customizing Your Apple Earbud Controls
2nd and 3rd Generation Earbuds
Double-Tap: These earbuds allow you to choose what happens when you double-tap either the left or right earbud. Options usually include:
- Play/Pause audio
- Skip to next track
- Go back to previous track
- Activate Siri
Pro 2nd Generation Earbuds
Press and Hold (Force Sensor): These earbuds have a force sensor on the stem that responds to different pressures. You can customize actions for:
- Switching between Noise Cancellation modes (Noise Cancellation, Transparency, Off)
- Activating Siri
How to Customize
- Connect your earbuds to your Apple device.
- Open the Settings app.
- Go to Bluetooth.
- Tap the “i” icon next to your earbuds’ name.
- Under “Press and Hold AirPods” or “Double-Tap on AirPod,” select Left or Right to customize each earbud independently.
- Choose the actions you prefer for each earbud.
Additional Tips
- You can set different actions for each earbud, allowing for more control.
- Remember that customization options may vary slightly depending on the model and iOS version.
By customizing your earbud controls, you can tailor them to your preferred actions, so they can be even more convenient and enjoyable to use.
So, which one is right for you?
If you just need a basic pair of everyday earbuds for calls and music, the 2nd generation is a solid choice. If you want better sound quality, a secure fit, and some water resistance, the 3rd generation is a good step up. And if you want the best noise cancellation and audio experience, the Pro is the way to go.
If none of the AirPods models seem like the perfect fit, don’t worry! There’s a whole world of wireless earbuds to discover. Our guide on ‘Best Wireless Earbuds 2024: Noise Cancelling, Budget, Calls & More‘ can help you find the ideal pair to match your needs and budget.
FAQs
Which AirPods offer the best noise cancellation?
The AirPods Pro (2nd generation) undoubtedly has the most effective noise-cancellation technology among the three models.
Do any of the AirPods models have spatial audio?
Yes, both the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) and AirPods (3rd generation) support spatial audio, providing a more immersive listening experience.
Are the AirPods waterproof?
The AirPods Pro (2nd generation) and AirPods (3rd generation) are sweat and water-resistant, making them suitable for workouts and light rain. However, they are not fully waterproof and should not be submerged in water.
Which AirPods should I choose if I’m on a budget?
The AirPods (2nd generation) are the most budget-friendly option, offering a classic AirPods experience at a lower price point.
Do all AirPods models come with a wireless charging case?
The standard AirPods (2nd generation) case does not support wireless charging. Both the AirPods (3rd generation) and AirPods Pro (2nd generation) come with wireless charging cases included. They work with standard Qi-certified wireless chargers. However, the AirPods Pro case (2nd generation) has the added benefit of working with both Qi chargers and Apple’s MagSafe chargers.
Photo credit: apple.com
