When it comes to wireless earbuds, Apple’s AirPods Pro have long been the gold standard. With their sleek design, seamless connectivity, and impressive sound quality, it’s no wonder they’ve become a staple in many people’s daily lives. But with multiple generations of AirPods Pro available, the question remains: which one is the best?
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the features, improvements, and differences between each generation of AirPods Pro, helping you make an informed decision on which pair is right for you.
The Original AirPods Pro: A Game-Changer in Wireless Audio
Released in 2019, the original AirPods Pro marked a significant departure from the standard AirPods. With the addition of active noise cancellation, water resistance, and a new design, they quickly became a hit among audiophiles and casual listeners alike.
The original AirPods Pro were a major upgrade over the standard AirPods, offering:
- Active noise cancellation, using two microphones to detect and block out background noise
- Water and sweat resistance, with an IPX4 rating
- A new design, featuring ear tips and a more ergonomic shape for a better fit
- Better sound quality, with improved bass and treble response
- Wireless charging, making it easier to keep your AirPods Pro powered up
While the original AirPods Pro were a significant upgrade, they did have some limitations. The battery life, for example, was relatively short, with around 4.5 hours of listening time on a single charge. Additionally, the charging case was somewhat bulky, making it less portable than some users would have liked.
The AirPods Pro 2: Refining the Formula
In 2022, Apple released the AirPods Pro 2, building upon the success of the original. With several key improvements and new features, the AirPods Pro 2 aimed to address the limitations of their predecessors.
The AirPods Pro 2 introduced several significant upgrades, including:
- Improved active noise cancellation, using advanced algorithms and more sensitive microphones
- Longer battery life, with up to 5.5 hours of listening time on a single charge
- A more compact charging case, making it easier to slip into a pocket or purse
- Support for MagSafe wireless charging, allowing for faster and more convenient charging
- A new “Conversation Boost” feature, which amplifies voices and helps with hearing in noisy environments
- A “Find My” feature, which allows users to locate their AirPods Pro 2 on a map and receive notifications if they’re left behind
While the AirPods Pro 2 addressed some of the limitations of the original, they didn’t revolutionize the product line. Instead, they refined the formula, making an already great product even better.
The AirPods Pro 3: The Latest and Greatest
In 2023, Apple released the AirPods Pro 3, marking the latest iteration of their popular wireless earbuds. With even more advanced features and improvements, the AirPods Pro 3 aim to solidify Apple’s position at the top of the wireless audio market.
The AirPods Pro 3 boast several key upgrades, including:
- Improved audio quality, with advanced drivers and a more efficient amplifier
- A new “Personalized Spatial Audio” feature, which uses the TrueDepth camera on your iPhone to create a customized audio profile
- Enhanced active noise cancellation, using advanced machine learning algorithms to detect and block out background noise
- Longer battery life, with up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge
- A more durable design, with IPX5 water resistance and improved scratch resistance
- Support for Bluetooth 5.3, allowing for faster and more reliable connectivity
The AirPods Pro 3 represent a significant leap forward in wireless audio technology, offering a more immersive and personalized listening experience.
Comparison of AirPods Pro Generations
So, how do the different generations of AirPods Pro stack up against each other? Here’s a comparison of their key features:
| Feature | AirPods Pro (1st gen) | AirPods Pro 2 | AirPods Pro 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancellation | Yes | Improved | Enhanced with machine learning |
| Battery Life | Up to 4.5 hours | Up to 5.5 hours | Up to 6 hours |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IPX4 | IPX5 |
| Charging Case | Bulky | Compact | Compact |
| Audio Quality | Good | Better | Best |
Which Generation is Right for You?
So, which generation of AirPods Pro is the best? The answer ultimately depends on your needs and preferences.
If you’re looking for the most affordable option and don’t mind slightly older technology, the original AirPods Pro might be the way to go. They still offer great sound quality, active noise cancellation, and a comfortable fit.
If you want the latest and greatest, with advanced features like Personalized Spatial Audio and enhanced active noise cancellation, the AirPods Pro 3 are the clear choice.
If you’re somewhere in between, the AirPods Pro 2 might be the perfect compromise. They offer significant upgrades over the original, including longer battery life and a more compact charging case, without breaking the bank.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, each generation of AirPods Pro has its strengths and weaknesses. While the original AirPods Pro set the bar high, the AirPods Pro 2 refined the formula, and the AirPods Pro 3 pushed the boundaries of wireless audio technology.
Ultimately, the best generation of AirPods Pro is the one that meets your needs and fits your budget. Whether you’re an audiophile, a casual listener, or somewhere in between, there’s an AirPods Pro out there for you.
What are the main differences between AirPods Pro generations?
The main differences between AirPods Pro generations lie in their design, features, and performance. For instance, the AirPods Pro 2nd generation offers improved sound quality, longer battery life, and enhanced noise cancellation compared to the 1st generation. Additionally, the 2nd generation has a new Conversation Boost feature, which allows users to hear conversations more clearly. The 3rd generation, on the other hand, boasts even better sound quality, improved active noise cancellation, and a sleek new design.
In terms of design, the 3rd generation has a more compact and lightweight design, making them more comfortable to wear. The charging case for the 3rd generation is also smaller and more portable. When it comes to performance, the 3rd generation has faster pairing, improved water resistance, and supports spatial audio with dynamic head tracking. Overall, each generation has its unique features, and the right choice depends on individual preferences and needs.
Are AirPods Pro 1st generation still worth buying?
While the 1st generation AirPods Pro may not have all the latest features, they are still a great option for those on a budget or who want a reliable and high-quality wireless earbuds experience. The 1st generation AirPods Pro still offer excellent sound quality, decent battery life, and effective noise cancellation. Additionally, they are now often available at a lower price point than the newer generations, making them a more affordable option.
That being said, if you’re looking for the latest and greatest features, you may want to consider the 2nd or 3rd generation. The newer generations offer significant improvements in sound quality, battery life, and noise cancellation, making them a better choice for those who want the best performance. However, if you’re on a tight budget or want a reliable and high-quality wireless earbuds experience, the 1st generation AirPods Pro are still worth considering.
What is the best AirPods Pro generation for noise cancellation?
The 3rd generation AirPods Pro is the best option for noise cancellation. They offer advanced active noise cancellation, which blocks out background noise more effectively than the previous generations. The 3rd generation also features a new “Extra Small” ear tip, which provides a better fit and helps to block out more noise. Additionally, the 3rd generation has improved noise cancellation in windy environments, making them ideal for outdoor activities.
In comparison, the 2nd generation AirPods Pro also offer excellent noise cancellation, but it’s not quite as effective as the 3rd generation. The 1st generation AirPods Pro have decent noise cancellation, but it’s not as advanced as the newer generations. If noise cancellation is a top priority, the 3rd generation AirPods Pro are the best choice.
Can I use AirPods Pro with non-Apple devices?
Yes, you can use AirPods Pro with non-Apple devices, but the experience may vary. AirPods Pro are designed to work seamlessly with Apple devices, such as iPhones and iPads, but they can also be paired with non-Apple devices like Android phones and tablets. However, some features, such as seamless pairing and automatic switching between devices, may not be available on non-Apple devices.
Additionally, some features, such as spatial audio and dynamic head tracking, may not be supported on non-Apple devices. You may also need to use the Bluetooth settings on your non-Apple device to pair the AirPods Pro, rather than the seamless pairing experience available on Apple devices. Nevertheless, AirPods Pro can still provide excellent sound quality and noise cancellation on non-Apple devices.
How long do AirPods Pro batteries last?
The battery life of AirPods Pro varies depending on the generation. The 1st generation AirPods Pro offer up to 4.5 hours of listening time on a single charge, while the 2nd generation offers up to 5.5 hours. The 3rd generation AirPods Pro, on the other hand, offer up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge.
It’s also worth noting that the charging case provides additional battery life. The 1st generation charging case provides up to 24 hours of additional battery life, while the 2nd and 3rd generation charging cases provide up to 30 hours. Overall, AirPods Pro offer excellent battery life, making them suitable for long flights, workouts, or daily commutes.
Are AirPods Pro water-resistant?
Yes, AirPods Pro are water-resistant, but the level of water resistance varies depending on the generation. The 1st generation AirPods Pro have a rating of IPX4, which means they can withstand splashes of water but are not designed for immersion. The 2nd generation AirPods Pro have a rating of IPX4 as well, but they are more resistant to sweat and water.
The 3rd generation AirPods Pro, on the other hand, have a rating of IPX4 and are more resistant to water and sweat. They can withstand being submerged in water up to 4 meters for up to 30 minutes. However, it’s still important to avoid exposing your AirPods Pro to excessive water or submerging them in water for extended periods.
Can I customize my AirPods Pro ear tips?
Yes, you can customize your AirPods Pro ear tips to fit your ears better. Apple provides three sizes of ear tips with the AirPods Pro – small, medium, and large. You can try out different sizes to find the one that fits your ear best. Additionally, you can use the Ear Tip Fit Test on your Apple device to ensure you’re using the right size.
If you still find that the ear tips don’t fit comfortably, you can consider using third-party ear tips designed specifically for AirPods Pro. These ear tips come in a variety of sizes and materials, such as silicone or foam, and can provide a more comfortable fit. However, make sure to choose a reputable brand that is compatible with your AirPods Pro generation.