When Apple released the first generation of AirPods in 2016, they revolutionized the world of wireless earbuds. The innovative design, sleek look, and seamless integration with Apple devices made them an instant hit. Two years later, Apple released the second generation of AirPods, promising improved performance, new features, and enhanced user experience. But the question remains: is AirPods 1 or 2 better?
Design and Build Quality
Let’s start with the design and build quality of both generations of AirPods. The original AirPods were praised for their sleek, minimalist design that fit snugly in the ear. The charging case was small enough to fit in a pocket or purse, making it easy to carry around. The AirPods 1 had a clean, white design with a single LED indicator on the charging case that showed the battery level.
The AirPods 2, on the other hand, have a slightly tweaked design. The charging case is still compact, but it now supports wireless charging, making it more convenient to charge on the go. The AirPods 2 also have a new LED indicator on the front of the case, which shows the battery level. The design is still sleek and minimalist, but it’s now more refined and polished.
In terms of build quality, both generations of AirPods are built to last. They’re made of high-quality plastic that can withstand daily wear and tear. However, the AirPods 2 have a slight edge in terms of durability. The charging case is more robust, and the earbuds themselves feel more solid.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is where the AirPods really shine. Both generations deliver clear, crisp audio with good bass response. However, the AirPods 2 have a slight edge in terms of sound quality. The drivers are more efficient, which means they produce better sound at lower volumes. The AirPods 2 also have better noise isolation, thanks to the new ear tips that come with the earbuds.
The AirPods 2 also support audio sharing, which allows you to share audio with a friend who also has AirPods. This feature is exclusive to the AirPods 2 and is not available on the original AirPods.
Comparison of Sound Quality
To give you a better idea of the sound quality, here’s a comparison of the two generations:
| Feature | AirPods 1 | AirPods 2 |
| — | — | — |
| Driver size | 5.5mm | 5.5mm |
| Frequency response | 20Hz – 20kHz | 20Hz – 20kHz |
| Impedance | 16 ohms | 16 ohms |
| Sensitivity | 93 dB | 93 dB |
As you can see, the technical specifications of both generations are similar. However, the AirPods 2 have a more efficient driver design, which results in better sound quality.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is an essential aspect of wireless earbuds. You want them to last long enough to get you through your daily commute or workout. The AirPods 1 had a battery life of around 5 hours, which was decent for their time. The charging case added an additional 24 hours of battery life.
The AirPods 2 have a similar battery life, with around 5 hours of listening time on a single charge. However, the charging case now supports wireless charging, making it more convenient to top up your earbuds on the go. The charging case still adds an additional 24 hours of battery life.
The AirPods 2 also have a feature called “Quick Charging”, which gives you 3 hours of listening time with just 15 minutes of charging.
Features and Performance
Both generations of AirPods have seamless integration with Apple devices. They pair easily, and the audio experience is flawless. However, the AirPods 2 have some exclusive features that set them apart.
The AirPods 2 have improved voice quality, thanks to the new H1 chip. This chip also enables features like audio sharing and hands-free “Hey Siri” support.
The AirPods 2 also have faster connectivity, which means they pair faster with your device. This is especially useful when you’re switching between multiple devices.
Exclusive Features of AirPods 2
Here are some exclusive features of the AirPods 2:
- Audio sharing: Share audio with a friend who also has AirPods.
- Hands-free “Hey Siri”: Activate Siri with just your voice, no need to tap the earbuds.
- Wireless charging: Charge your AirPods 2 wirelessly using a Qi-compatible charging pad.
- Faster connectivity: Pair your AirPods 2 faster with your device.
Price and Value
The price of the AirPods has always been a topic of discussion. The original AirPods launched at $159, which was steep for some users. The AirPods 2 launched at the same price, but with more features and improved performance.
In terms of value, the AirPods 2 are a better deal. You get more features, improved sound quality, and faster connectivity. The price may seem steep, but you’re getting a premium product that’s designed to work seamlessly with your Apple devices.
Should You Upgrade from AirPods 1?
If you already have the AirPods 1, the question is whether it’s worth upgrading to the AirPods 2. If you value the new features, such as audio sharing and hands-free “Hey Siri”, then yes, it’s worth the upgrade. The improved sound quality and faster connectivity are also significant advantages.
However, if you’re happy with your AirPods 1 and don’t need the new features, then there’s no need to upgrade. The AirPods 1 are still a great product, and Apple will continue to support them with software updates.
Conclusion
So, is AirPods 1 or 2 better? The answer is clear: the AirPods 2 are the better option. They offer improved sound quality, faster connectivity, and exclusive features like audio sharing and hands-free “Hey Siri”. While the price may seem steep, you’re getting a premium product that’s designed to work seamlessly with your Apple devices.
If you’re in the market for wireless earbuds, the AirPods 2 are a great choice. They’re sleek, easy to use, and offer a great audio experience. Whether you’re commuting, working out, or just listening to music, the AirPods 2 are a great companion.
In conclusion, the AirPods 2 are the better option, but the AirPods 1 are still a great product. If you’re happy with your AirPods 1, there’s no need to upgrade. But if you want the latest and greatest from Apple, the AirPods 2 are the way to go.
What are the main differences between AirPods 1 and AirPods 2?
The main differences between AirPods 1 and AirPods 2 lie in their design, features, and performance. AirPods 2 comes with a new H1 chip, which provides a faster and more stable connection, as well as improved audio quality. Additionally, AirPods 2 offers wireless charging, a feature that was lacking in the first generation. Furthermore, AirPods 2 has a longer talk time, with up to 3 hours of battery life, compared to the 2 hours of AirPods 1.
Another significant difference is the addition of “Hey Siri” support on AirPods 2, allowing users to activate Siri hands-free. Moreover, AirPods 2 has improved audio quality, with better bass response and clearer sound. These upgrades make AirPods 2 a more attractive option for those looking for a seamless listening experience.
Are AirPods 1 still worth buying?
Yes, AirPods 1 are still worth buying, especially if you’re on a budget or don’t need the latest features. AirPods 1 offers great sound quality, a sleek design, and seamless integration with Apple devices. They are also significantly cheaper than AirPods 2, making them a more affordable option for those who want to experience the convenience of wireless earbuds.
Moreover, AirPods 1 still receive software updates, which means they’ll continue to work smoothly with your Apple devices. Additionally, many users have reported that AirPods 1 still provide a reliable connection and good battery life, making them a solid choice for everyday use.
Do AirPods 2 have better sound quality than AirPods 1?
Yes, AirPods 2 have better sound quality than AirPods 1. The H1 chip in AirPods 2 provides a more efficient and stable connection, resulting in clearer and more detailed sound. The bass response is also more pronounced, making music and podcasts sound more immersive.
Additionally, AirPods 2 have improved dynamic range, which means they can handle louder sounds without distortion. This results in a more enjoyable listening experience, especially when watching videos or listening to music with a wide range of frequencies.
Can I use AirPods 2 with non-Apple devices?
Yes, AirPods 2 can be used with non-Apple devices, but the experience may not be as seamless as with Apple devices. AirPods 2 uses Bluetooth 5.0, which is a standard wireless technology, so they can connect to any device that supports Bluetooth.
However, some features like “Hey Siri” and automatic ear detection may not work with non-Apple devices. Additionally, the charging case may not work with non-Apple devices, so you’ll need to use a Lightning cable to charge your AirPods 2.
Are AirPods 2 more durable than AirPods 1?
AirPods 2 have the same design and build quality as AirPods 1, which means they are still prone to damage if not handled properly. The charging case is still made of plastic, and the earbuds themselves are still relatively fragile.
However, AirPods 2 do have some design improvements, such as a more seamless fit and a more secure charging case. Additionally, the wireless charging case is more durable than the standard charging case that comes with AirPods 1.
Can I upgrade from AirPods 1 to AirPods 2?
If you already own AirPods 1, you can upgrade to AirPods 2 by purchasing them from Apple or other authorized retailers. You can also trade-in your AirPods 1 to get a discount on AirPods 2.
Keep in mind that you’ll need to reset your AirPods 1 and pair them with your device again to transfer your settings and preferences to AirPods 2. Additionally, you may need to update your device’s operating system to ensure compatibility with AirPods 2.
Are AirPods 2 worth the extra cost?
Whether or not AirPods 2 are worth the extra cost depends on your needs and preferences. If you value the latest features, improved sound quality, and wireless charging, then yes, AirPods 2 may be worth the extra cost.
However, if you’re on a budget or don’t need the latest features, AirPods 1 may be a more affordable and sufficient option. It’s worth considering what features are most important to you and whether the upgrades in AirPods 2 justify the extra cost.