When Apple released the AirPods in 2016, they revolutionized the wireless earbuds market. The sleek design, seamless connectivity, and impressive sound quality made them an instant hit. Fast forward to 2019, and Apple took it to the next level with the introduction of AirPods Pro. The Pro version promised even better sound, improved design, and new features that would take the listening experience to new heights. But what exactly are the differences between AirPods and AirPods Pro? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of AirPods and explore the distinguishing features that set these two models apart.
Design and Fit
The first thing you’ll notice when comparing AirPods and AirPods Pro is the design. While both models share a similar shape and size, the Pro version has some noticeable tweaks.
The AirPods Pro has a new, sleeker design that’s more ergonomic and comfortable to wear. The earbuds themselves are slightly smaller and more rounded, making them less noticeable in your ears. The stem is also shorter, giving them a more streamlined look. The ear tips, which come in three sizes, are designed to fit snugly in your ear canal, providing a more secure fit and better sound isolation.
In contrast, the standard AirPods have a more rectangular shape and a longer stem. While they’re still comfortable to wear, they might not fit as snugly in smaller ears.
Water and Sweat Resistance
Another key difference between AirPods and AirPods Pro is their water and sweat resistance. The AirPods Pro have a rating of IPX4, which means they can withstand sweat and water splashes, making them perfect for workouts and outdoor activities. The standard AirPods, on the other hand, don’t have any official water resistance rating, so it’s best to keep them away from moisture.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is where the AirPods Pro truly shine. Apple has made significant improvements to the drivers, amplifiers, and audio processing algorithms to deliver a more immersive and engaging listening experience.
AirPods Pro boast active noise cancellation, which uses advanced algorithms and microphones to detect and cancel out background noise. This feature is particularly useful in noisy environments, like public transportation or busy offices, where you want to focus on your music or podcasts.
In addition to active noise cancellation, the AirPods Pro also have a new feature called Transparency mode. This mode allows you to hear your surroundings while still listening to music, making it perfect for times when you need to be aware of your environment.
The standard AirPods, on the other hand, don’t have active noise cancellation or Transparency mode. However, they still provide excellent sound quality, with clear and balanced audio.
Audio codecs
Both AirPods and AirPods Pro support the AAC audio codec, which provides high-quality audio compression. However, the AirPods Pro also support the Apple Lossless Audio Codec (ALAC), which offers even better sound quality and lower latency.
Features and Functionality
The AirPods Pro come with several new features that enhance the overall listening experience.
Wireless Charging
The AirPods Pro support wireless charging, making it easy to top up your battery without having to deal with cables. The standard AirPods, on the other hand, require a Lightning cable for charging.
Audio Sharing
The AirPods Pro allow you to share audio with a friend or family member, making it a great feature for couples or friends who want to listen to the same music or watch the same video together.
Ear Tip Fit Test
The AirPods Pro come with an Ear Tip Fit Test, which helps you determine the best ear tip size for your ears. This feature ensures a snug and comfortable fit, as well as optimal sound quality.
Battery Life
Both AirPods and AirPods Pro have similar battery life, with up to 5 hours of listening time on a single charge. However, the AirPods Pro have a more efficient charging system, which provides an additional hour of listening time after just 5 minutes of charging.
Pricing
The biggest difference between AirPods and AirPods Pro is the price. The standard AirPods start at $159, while the AirPods Pro start at $249. While the Pro version is more expensive, it offers several premium features that might be worth the extra cost.
| Feature | AirPods | AirPods Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Rectangular shape, longer stem | Ergonomic design, shorter stem |
| Water Resistance | No official rating | IPX4 rating |
| Sound Quality | Excellent sound quality | Active noise cancellation, Transparency mode, ALAC support |
| Features | Standard features | Wireless charging, audio sharing, Ear Tip Fit Test |
| Battery Life | Up to 5 hours | Up to 5 hours, with more efficient charging |
| Price | $159 | $249 |
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both AirPods and AirPods Pro are excellent wireless earbuds, they cater to different needs and preferences. The standard AirPods are perfect for anyone who wants a reliable, easy-to-use, and affordable pair of earbuds. The AirPods Pro, on the other hand, are designed for those who want a more premium listening experience, with advanced features like active noise cancellation and wireless charging.
Ultimately, the choice between AirPods and AirPods Pro depends on your budget, listening habits, and personal preferences. If you’re willing to pay a premium for advanced features and better sound quality, the AirPods Pro are an excellent choice. If you’re looking for a more affordable option with still-great sound quality, the standard AirPods are an excellent option.
Either way, you can’t go wrong with Apple’s iconic earbuds!
What is the main difference between AirPods and AirPods Pro?
The main difference between AirPods and AirPods Pro lies in their design, features, and functionality. AirPods Pro are designed to provide a more premium listening experience with advanced features like active noise cancellation, water resistance, and customizable fit. On the other hand, standard AirPods are more affordable and compact, with a focus on convenience and ease of use.
While both models offer high-quality audio and seamless integration with Apple devices, the Pro version is geared towards those who want more advanced features and a more immersive listening experience. If you’re looking for a more affordable, entry-level option, standard AirPods might be the way to go.
Do AirPods Pro have better sound quality than AirPods?
AirPods Pro do have some tweaks that enhance sound quality compared to standard AirPods. For one, they feature a more advanced driver design that produces richer, more detailed sound. Additionally, the active noise cancellation on AirPods Pro helps to block out background noise, allowing you to better focus on the music or podcast you’re listening to.
That being said, the difference in sound quality isn’t dramatic, and standard AirPods still offer great audio performance. If sound quality is your top priority, you might want to consider other earbuds or headphones that specialize in audio fidelity. However, for most users, both AirPods and AirPods Pro will provide more than satisfactory sound quality.
Are AirPods Pro worth the extra cost?
Whether or not AirPods Pro are worth the extra cost depends on your needs and preferences. If you’re looking for advanced features like active noise cancellation, water resistance, and customizable fit, the Pro version might be worth the investment. Additionally, if you plan to use your AirPods frequently, the extra durability and peace of mind that comes with water resistance might make the extra cost worthwhile.
On the other hand, if you’re on a budget or just want a simple, easy-to-use listening experience, standard AirPods might be the better value. It’s also worth considering that you can often find deals or discounts on standard AirPods, which can make them an even more attractive option.
Can I use AirPods Pro for exercise or water sports?
AirPods Pro are designed to be more durable and resistant to water and sweat than standard AirPods. They have a rating of IPX4, which means they can withstand splashes and sweat, making them a good option for exercise or water sports. However, it’s still important to be gentle with them and avoid submerging them in water.
It’s also worth noting that while AirPods Pro are more resistant to water, they’re not fully waterproof. If you plan to engage in activities that involve submerging your ears in water, you might want to consider a different option specifically designed for that purpose.
Do AirPods Pro have longer battery life than AirPods?
Battery life is another area where AirPods Pro have an edge over standard AirPods. According to Apple, AirPods Pro offer up to 5 hours of listening time on a single charge, compared to up to 4.5 hours for standard AirPods. Additionally, the charging case for AirPods Pro provides up to 24 hours of additional battery life, compared to up to 20 hours for standard AirPods.
It’s worth noting that battery life can vary depending on a number of factors, including volume levels, the type of content you’re listening to, and your overall usage patterns. However, in general, AirPods Pro offer slightly longer battery life than standard AirPods.
Can I upgrade from AirPods to AirPods Pro?
If you already own AirPods, you might be wondering if you can upgrade to AirPods Pro. While Apple doesn’t offer a direct upgrade path, you can sell or trade in your old AirPods to help offset the cost of purchasing AirPods Pro.
Additionally, Apple sometimes offers promotions or discounts for customers who trade in their old AirPods when purchasing new ones. It’s always a good idea to check Apple’s website or visit an Apple Store to see if any deals are available.
Are AirPods Pro compatible with non-Apple devices?
AirPods Pro are designed to work seamlessly with Apple devices like iPhones, iPads, and Macs. However, they can also be paired with non-Apple devices like Android phones or Windows laptops. To pair AirPods Pro with a non-Apple device, you’ll need to put them in pairing mode and follow the prompts on your device.
Keep in mind that some features, like seamless pairing and automatic switching between devices, might not work as seamlessly with non-Apple devices. However, you’ll still be able to enjoy great audio quality and many of the core features of AirPods Pro.