Introduction
When choosing between AirPods Pro vs. AirPods Pro 2, the decision isn’t always straightforward. Apple’s second-generation AirPods Pro builds upon the groundbreaking features of the original model, offering enhancements in design, sound quality, noise cancellation, and battery life.
While the first-generation AirPods Pro revolutionized the wireless earbud market, the AirPods Pro 2 aims to refine and elevate that experience. This comprehensive comparison will explore whether the AirPods Pro 2 represents a substantial leap forward or a polished iteration of its predecessor.
From build quality to special features and real-world use cases, we’ll break down everything you need to know to make the right choice in the battle of AirPods Pro vs. AirPods Pro 2.
| Feature | AirPods Pro | AirPods Pro 2 | Winner |
| Design and Build Quality | Short stem, silicone tips (3 sizes), compact case, Lightning port, IPX4 rating | Similar design, added extra-small ear tip, the case with the speaker, lanyard loop, and USB-C port. | AirPods Pro 2 |
| Sound Quality | Adaptive EQ, Spatial Audio, clear mids and highs, decent bass | H2 chip, low-distortion drivers, deeper bass, Personalized Spatial Audio | AirPods Pro 2 |
| Active Noise Cancellation | Effective ANC, Transparency Mode | 2x better ANC, Adaptive Transparency Mode, enhanced noise suppression | AirPods Pro 2 |
| Battery Life | 4.5 hours with ANC (24 hours with case) | 6 hours with ANC (30 hours with case), faster USB-C charging | AirPods Pro 2 |
| Compatibility | Optimized for Apple devices; basic functionality for Android | Same as AirPods Pro; slightly better Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity | Tie |
| Price | Initially $249 (now discounted to ~$199) | $249, offering more features for the same price | AirPods Pro 2 |
Key Takeaway
Design and Build Quality
AirPods Pro
The first-generation AirPods Pro introduced a sleek, compact design that became iconic. The earbuds featured a short stem and silicone ear tips with three size options for a customizable fit. The lightweight build made them comfortable for extended use, while the IPX4 water resistance ensured durability against sweat and light rain.
The charging case was compact and pocket-friendly, with a Lightning port. It also supports wireless charging, making it convenient for users with compatible charging pads.
AirPods Pro 2
The second-generation AirPods Pro retained the same overall design as its predecessor, with minor tweaks. The earbuds still feature the short stem and silicone tips but now include an extra-small tip size for better-fit options. The charging case saw more noticeable upgrades:
- Built-in speaker: Helps locate the case using sound via the Find My app.
- Lanyard loop: Adds convenience for securing the case.
- USB-C port (2023 update): Replaces the Lightning port, aligning with Apple’s ecosystem shift.
While visually similar, these subtle changes enhance usability and make the AirPods Pro 2 more practical for everyday use.
Winner: AirPods Pro 2
The design improvements of the AirPods Pro 2, particularly the enhanced case functionality, give it an edge.
Sound Quality
AirPods Pro
The original AirPods Pro set a high standard for wireless earbuds with their adaptive EQ and spatial audio capabilities. They offered clear mids and highs with decent bass response. Spatial Audio provided an immersive listening experience for Dolby Atmos-enabled tracks on Apple Music.
AirPods Pro 2
The AirPods Pro 2 takes sound quality to another level, thanks to the new H2 chip and redesigned audio components:
- Low-distortion drivers and custom amplifier: Deliver deeper bass, crisper mids, and more detailed highs.
- Personalized Spatial Audio: Uses your iPhone’s TrueDepth camera to tailor sound to your ear shape for a more immersive experience.
- Improved clarity and dynamic range make vocals stand out while maintaining balance across frequencies.
While both models excel in sound quality, the AirPods Pro 2 offer a richer and more refined audio experience, especially noticeable in complex musical arrangements.
Winner: AirPods Pro 2
The enhanced drivers and H2 chip deliver superior sound performance.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Transparency Mode
AirPods Pro
The first-generation AirPods Pro introduced ANC to Apple’s lineup, effectively reducing ambient noise like chatter or engine hum. Transparency Mode allows users to hear their surroundings without removing the earbuds—ideal for conversations or outdoor use.
AirPods Pro 2
Apple claims that ANC on the AirPods Pro 2 is twice as effective as its predecessor. This improvement is evident in its ability to block higher frequencies and more intrusive sounds like construction noise or airplane engines. Additionally:
- Adaptive Transparency Mode: Dynamically reduces loud environmental sounds (e.g., sirens or machinery) while preserving natural audio clarity.
- Enhanced microphone placement ensures better noise detection and suppression.
These advancements make the AirPods Pro 2 one of the best noise-canceling earbuds on the market.
Controls
AirPods Pro
The original model relied on force sensors for playback controls (single/double/triple press) and long presses to toggle between ANC and Transparency Mode. Voice commands via “Hey Siri” were also supported but lacked volume adjustment directly on the earbuds.
AirPods Pro 2
The second generation introduces touch-sensitive volume controls on the stems—swipe up or down to adjust volume without reaching for your device. This small but impactful addition enhances convenience during workouts or commutes.
Winner: AirPods Pro 2
Touch volume controls make it easier to manage playback without interruptions.
Battery Life
AirPods Pro
The first-generation model offered up to:
- 4.5 hours of listening time with ANC enabled.
- A total of 24 hours with additional charges from the case.
AirPods Pro 2
Battery life sees a modest improvement:
- Up to 6 hours of listening time with ANC enabled.
- A total of 30 hours with additional charges from the upgraded case.
- Faster charging via USB-C adds convenience for users on the go.
While not groundbreaking, these enhancements provide longer usage between charges—a welcome upgrade for frequent travelers or heavy users.
Special Features
AirPods Pro
The original model introduced several key features:
- Adaptive EQ
- Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking
- Automatic device switching within Apple’s ecosystem
These features laid the foundation for Apple’s premium earbud experience but lacked personalization options.
AirPods Pro 2
The second-generation AirPods Pro builds on their predecessor with the H2 chip for improved sound, ANC, Adaptive Transparency, a U1 chip for precision finding, Personalized Spatial Audio, and Bluetooth 5.3 for better connectivity. These upgrades enhance functionality and the user experience within Apple’s ecosystem.
Winner: AirPods Pro 2
New features like Personalized Spatial Audio and Adaptive Transparency elevate its appeal.
Compatibility
Both models are optimized for Apple devices but offer limited functionality with Android:
- Features like Spatial Audio, automatic switching, and Find My integration are exclusive to iOS/macOS users.
- Android users can still use basic playback functions but miss out on advanced features.
If you’re an Apple user, either model will integrate seamlessly into your ecosystem. However, Android users may find better value in alternatives from Sony or Bose.
Price
At launch, the original AirPods Pro were priced at $249 but are now available at discounted rates, typically around $199. The AirPods Pro 2 also debuted at $249; however, they offer significantly more value at the same price point due to their upgraded features.
With notable improvements and no increase in cost over their predecessor, the AirPods Pro 2 delivers better overall value for your money.
Should You Upgrade?
Upgrade if:
- You value improved sound quality with richer bass and clearer highs.
- Enhanced ANC is important for your environment (e.g., noisy commutes or flights).
- You want longer battery life and touch volume controls.
- Personalized Spatial Audio appeals to you as an audiophile or movie enthusiast.
- You frequently misplace your earbuds or case—the U1 chip makes finding them easier.
Stick with AirPods Pro if:
- You already own them and are satisfied with their performance.
- You don’t need advanced features like Adaptive Transparency or touch volume controls.
- Budget constraints make upgrading less feasible—especially if you can find discounted first-gen models.
Conclusion
The AirPods Pro 2 represents a significant step forward in Apple’s true wireless earbud lineup. While they retain much of what made their predecessor great—like excellent sound quality and seamless integration—they build upon these foundations with meaningful upgrades in ANC performance, sound clarity, battery life, and usability features like touch volume control.
For first-time buyers or those seeking top-tier wireless earbuds within Apple’s ecosystem, the AirPods Pro 2 is an easy recommendation. For existing AirPods Pro owners, upgrading depends on how much you value these new features.
If you’re an audiophile or frequent traveler looking for cutting-edge performance, they’re worth every penny; otherwise, sticking with your current pair might suffice until future iterations bring even greater innovations.
Apart from that if you want to know about “Best MacBook Air Alternatives for 2021: Stylish, Portable, High-Performing, and Affordable Laptops” then please visit our “Technology” Category.
FAQs
The AirPods Pro 2 features an upgraded H2 chip for improved Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), Adaptive Transparency, and better sound quality. They also include touch volume controls, a longer battery life, a U1 chip for precision finding, and a speaker in the case for alerts.
Yes, the AirPods Pro 2 offer up to twice the noise cancellation of the original AirPods Pro, making them more effective at blocking out high-frequency and environmental sounds
Yes, both support Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking. However, the AirPods Pro 2 introduces Personalized Spatial Audio, which customizes the experience based on your ear shape.
