When Apple released the AirPods Pro in 2019, they revolutionized the wireless earbuds market with their sleek design, impressive sound quality, and innovative features. Fast forward to 2022, Apple introduced the second-generation AirPods Pro, boasting significant upgrades and enhancements. But what are the differences between the 1st and 2nd gen AirPods Pro? Is it worth upgrading to the latest model, or are the original AirPods Pro still a great choice? In this article, we’ll delve into the details, comparing and contrasting the two generations to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Fit
At first glance, both generations of AirPods Pro seem identical, with their sleek, compact design and stylish looks. However, there are some subtle differences. The 2nd gen AirPods Pro have a slightly smaller stem, making them less noticeable when worn. This minor adjustment may not seem significant, but it contributes to a more comfortable fit and improved noise cancellation.
The 2nd gen AirPods Pro also introduce a new XS ear tip size, catering to users with smaller ears. This addition ensures a more secure fit and better noise isolation, making the listening experience more immersive.
| Feature | 1st Gen AirPods Pro | 2nd Gen AirPods Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Stem size | Larger | Smaller |
| Ear tip sizes | S, M, L | S, M, L, XS |
Sound Quality and Audio Features
The sound quality of the AirPods Pro is one of their standout features, with both generations delivering clear, balanced audio with deep bass. However, the 2nd gen AirPods Pro take it to the next level with some significant upgrades.
The 2nd gen AirPods Pro introduce a new audio driver, which provides better sound separation and more detailed sound reproduction. This results in a more immersive listening experience, making it easier to distinguish between different instruments and sounds.
Another notable feature of the 2nd gen AirPods Pro is the addition of Personalized Spatial Audio. This innovative technology uses the TrueDepth camera on your iPhone to create a personalized 3D audio profile, tailored to your unique ear shape and hearing. This results in a more realistic and engaging audio experience, especially when watching videos or playing games.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Transparency Mode
Both generations of AirPods Pro feature Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Transparency Mode, but the 2nd gen takes it up a notch. The new AirPods Pro have improved noise cancellation, with better noise reduction in loud environments. The Transparency Mode has also been enhanced, allowing more natural sound to pass through when you need to be aware of your surroundings.
Battery Life and Charging Case
When it comes to battery life, both generations of AirPods Pro offer similar performance, with up to 5 hours of listening time on a single charge. However, the 2nd gen AirPods Pro have a more efficient charging case, which provides an additional hour of battery life compared to the 1st gen model.
The 2nd gen AirPods Pro also introduce a new feature called “Conversation Boost”, which helps to amplify voices and improve communication when making phone calls or video conferencing. This feature is especially useful in noisy environments, ensuring that your voice is heard clearly.
Water and Sweat Resistance
Both generations of AirPods Pro have a rating of IPX4, which means they can withstand sweat and water splashes. However, the 2nd gen AirPods Pro have a more robust design, with improved seals and gaskets to prevent water and moisture from entering the earbuds.
Additional Features and Compatibility
Both generations of AirPods Pro offer seamless integration with Apple devices, including easy pairing, automatic switching between devices, and audio sharing. However, the 2nd gen AirPods Pro have some additional features, including:
- Find My support, which allows you to locate your AirPods Pro on a map and play a sound to help you find them
- Audio sharing with Apple TV, allowing you to share audio with friends and family
Conclusion
When deciding between the 1st and 2nd gen AirPods Pro, it ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you’re happy with the sound quality and features of the original AirPods Pro, there’s no need to upgrade. However, if you’re looking for improved sound quality, a more comfortable fit, and the latest features like Personalized Spatial Audio and Conversation Boost, the 2nd gen AirPods Pro are the better choice.
Ultimately, the 2nd gen AirPods Pro are a significant upgrade, offering a more refined and enhanced listening experience. While the 1st gen AirPods Pro are still a great option, the new generation provides a more immersive and engaging audio experience, making them the better value in the long run.
Whether you’re a music lover, a gamer, or simply someone who appreciates great sound quality, the AirPods Pro are an excellent choice. By understanding the differences between the 1st and 2nd gen models, you can make an informed decision and enjoy an unparalleled listening experience.
What are the main differences between the 1st Gen and 2nd Gen AirPods Pro?
The main differences between the 1st Gen and 2nd Gen AirPods Pro lie in their design, features, and performance. The 2nd Gen AirPods Pro boasts a new design with a more seamless and waterproof build, improved audio quality, and advanced features like Conversation Boost and Find My support. Additionally, the 2nd Gen AirPods Pro offers improved noise cancellation and a more efficient battery life.
While the 1st Gen AirPods Pro were revolutionary when they were first released, the 2nd Gen has taken it to the next level. The differences may seem minor at first, but they make a significant impact on the overall user experience. If you’re considering upgrading or buying a new pair, it’s essential to understand these differences to make an informed decision.
Do the 2nd Gen AirPods Pro have better sound quality than the 1st Gen?
Yes, the 2nd Gen AirPods Pro have better sound quality than the 1st Gen. Apple has made significant improvements to the audio technology, providing a more immersive and engaging listening experience. The 2nd Gen AirPods Pro feature a new driver that produces clearer and more detailed sound, with deeper bass and a more natural tone.
The improved sound quality is most noticeable in the mid-range frequencies, where vocals and instruments are more pronounced and defined. Additionally, the 2nd Gen AirPods Pro have a more precise and accurate soundstage, making it feel like you’re right in the middle of the action. Overall, the sound quality of the 2nd Gen AirPods Pro is a significant upgrade over the 1st Gen, making them an excellent choice for music lovers.
Are the 2nd Gen AirPods Pro more comfortable to wear than the 1st Gen?
The 2nd Gen AirPods Pro are designed to be more comfortable to wear than the 1st Gen, with a new contoured design that fits snugly in the ear. The earbuds themselves are slightly smaller and more rounded, making them less noticeable and more comfortable to wear for extended periods.
Additionally, the 2nd Gen AirPods Pro come with four different sizes of ear tips, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit for a wider range of ear shapes and sizes. The ear tips are also designed to provide a better seal, which helps with noise cancellation and overall sound quality. Overall, the 2nd Gen AirPods Pro are a significant improvement in terms of comfort and fit over the 1st Gen.
Do the 2nd Gen AirPods Pro have longer battery life than the 1st Gen?
Yes, the 2nd Gen AirPods Pro have longer battery life than the 1st Gen. Apple has made significant improvements to the battery technology, providing up to 30 hours of total listening time with the charging case. The earbuds themselves can last up to 5.5 hours on a single charge, and the charging case can provide an additional 24 hours of listening time.
Additionally, the 2nd Gen AirPods Pro feature a new ” Conversation Boost” mode that allows you to conserve battery life by only using noise cancellation when you need it. This feature can help extend the battery life even further, making the 2nd Gen AirPods Pro an excellent choice for those who are always on the go.
Can I use the 2nd Gen AirPods Pro with my old iPhone?
The 2nd Gen AirPods Pro are compatible with iPhone 8 or later, running iOS 15.1 or later. If you have an older iPhone, you may not be able to take full advantage of all the features of the 2nd Gen AirPods Pro. However, you can still use them as a standard Bluetooth headphone, but you won’t be able to access features like Conversation Boost, Find My, and seamless pairing.
It’s worth noting that even if you can’t use all the features of the 2nd Gen AirPods Pro with an older iPhone, they will still provide excellent sound quality and a comfortable listening experience. If you’re due for an upgrade, it might be worth considering getting a new iPhone to take full advantage of the 2nd Gen AirPods Pro.
Can I share my 2nd Gen AirPods Pro with multiple devices?
Yes, the 2nd Gen AirPods Pro allow for seamless pairing and switching between multiple devices. This means you can easily switch between your iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, or Mac without having to manually pair and unpair your AirPods Pro.
To share your 2nd Gen AirPods Pro with multiple devices, simply make sure they’re all signed in with the same Apple ID and are running the latest software. Then, go to the Bluetooth settings on each device and select the AirPods Pro from the list of available devices. The AirPods Pro will automatically connect to the device you’re using, making it easy to share them with family members or switch between devices on the go.
Should I upgrade to the 2nd Gen AirPods Pro or stick with my 1st Gen?
If you’re currently using the 1st Gen AirPods Pro and are happy with their performance, there may not be a compelling reason to upgrade to the 2nd Gen. However, if you want to take advantage of the latest features, improved sound quality, and increased comfort, the 2nd Gen AirPods Pro might be worth considering.
Ultimately, the decision to upgrade depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you value the latest and greatest technology, the 2nd Gen AirPods Pro are an excellent choice. But if you’re on a budget or don’t need the latest features, sticking with your 1st Gen AirPods Pro might be the way to go. It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons and make an informed decision based on your individual needs.