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Apple AirPods Pro review (2nd-gen): Big improvements, all on the inside

Don’t let the familiar design fool you, this is a worthwhile update..

Three years ago, Apple finally gave the people what they wanted: active noise cancellation (ANC) in a set of AirPods . That first-generation model retained the overall look of the company’s classic earbuds, but added an ear tip for noise isolation along with a better fit. After a total redesign of the “regular” AirPods last year and introducing some over-ear noise-canceling headphones in 2020, Apple finally unveiled its latest premium earbuds alongside the iPhone 14: the second-generation AirPods Pro ($249) .

For version 2.0 , Apple hasn’t totally re-written the formula. If you were hoping for an updated design for the new AirPods Pro, Apple surely left you disappointed. Instead of a complete overhaul, the company focused instead on the internals, adding several new features and refining what was already there with the help of some new silicon. So, even though Apple didn’t abandon its aesthetic, these AirPods Pro are still vastly different from the previous edition.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd-gen)

Despite the unchanged design, Apple has packed an assortment of updates into the new AirPods Pro that make them a compelling upgrade.

• Improved sound
• Stellar transparency mode
• Seamless switching between Apple devices
• Same design
• New touch gesture takes practice
• Average battery life
• Personalized Spatial Audio results vary

We’re now on our fifth set of earbuds from the company and so far it has only tweaked the look of the “regular” AirPods – and that wasn’t until gen three. Even then, the company kept its stickbuds look, a polarizing design element that has become the hallmark of Apple’s true wireless lineup. Expecting the folks in Cupertino to ditch the stem at this point is likely an exercise in futility, but hey, I welcome Apple to prove me wrong.

Even with the familiar look, there are some small but significant changes. First is something you can’t see: the new swipe gesture. The AirPods Pro stem is still clickable for the core controls (play/pause, skipping tracks, sound modes and Siri), but now the side of that panel accepts swipes. This touch gesture is used to control volume and is mirrored on both sides. Unfortunately, you can’t just swipe it or the earbud will fall out of your ear; you have to use your thumb to brace the stem, just like you would if you were going to press the main button. One addition you can see is the extra small (XS) ear tip size that will improve the fit (not to mention passive noise reduction) for even more people. It’s notable Apple is adjusting these AirPods for small ears in an effort to boost overall performance and comfort.

The other key design changes have to do with the AirPods Pro charging case. First, it has a built-in speaker this time around, making it easier to hear pings when you’re looking for the earbuds or activate tones for low battery, charging and pairing. Accordingly, the grille is now visible on the bottom edge. The case is IPX4 rated just like the AirPods Pro, meaning it, too, is sweat and water resistant. Additionally, there’s now a lanyard loop on one side. In true Apple fashion, there isn’t one included in the box, so the added convenience will cost you more money. The company currently sells a lanyard in its online store from Incase for $13 , but you can expect other accessory makers to offer alternatives soon enough.

Software and features

All of the features for the AirPods Pro are baked into iOS, so there’s no need to download a separate app to make changes. For this reason, the earbuds seamlessly pair with your phone when you open the case and tap the on-screen pop-up. Just like before, you can quickly access noise cancellation, transparency, spatial audio and head tracking with a long press on the volume slider in the Control Center.

In iOS 16, there’s now a shortcut in the main view of your iPhone settings, saving you the extra taps through the Bluetooth menu. Once you make it to the AirPods Pro settings page, you’ll see battery figures for the earbuds and the case (one number for both). Noise control options for ANC, transparency and turning both off are just below with the ability to reconfigure the long press to activate Siri rather than cycle through those sound modes. Apple’s ear tip fit test also lives in this menu, as do sliders for disabling Adaptive Transparency, in-ear detection, charging case sounds optimized charging and Find My.

Apple has offered Adaptive EQ before, but a new feature for the second-generation AirPods Pro is Adaptive Transparency. This helps when you’re in ambient sound mode by applying a level of noise reduction to loud noises like a siren or a jackhammer. When you sync the AirPods Pro with your Apple Watch, the Noise app will show you how many decibels the earbuds are suppressing in real time. What’s more, that info is then sent to the Health app so you can track auditory exposure levels. Indeed, the AirPods Pro allows you to still hear these things (you’ll want to know about an approaching siren after all), but it noticeably reduces their harshness in the best interest of your ears.

Another new feature Apple introduced on the AirPods Pro is Personalized Spatial Audio. From this main settings menu, you can initiate the process of tuning the device to your ears, which Apple says will improve the immersive quality of Spatial Audio with more accuracy and clarity for directional elements in movies, TV shows and videos. To set it up, you create a personal profile with the front-facing TrueDepth camera on an iPhone. After taking a scan of your face and ears, your phone does the rest.

It’s similar to setting up FaceID, only you capture the sides of your head too. Sony does a similar thing to tailor 360 Reality Audio to each person with a phone camera and a quick scan. Personalized Spatial Audio will also be available on the first-gen AirPods Pro in addition to third-gen AirPods and AirPods Max. And once you configure it, the sound profile syncs across your iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple TV

The upgraded charging case houses a U1 chip that enables Precision Finding in Find My. Until now, you got a general location for a missing AirPods case. But with the AirPods Pro, Apple offers direction and distance info like it does for AirTags. As a refresher, U1 is the company’s ultra wideband chip that’s been in every iPhone since the 11 for precise location capabilities. The component does the same thing it’s doing for the new AirPods Pro case on AirTags.

Apple’s H1 chip has powered its earbuds and headphones, including Beats products, for years now. The component handles everything Adaptive EQ and active noise cancellation to hands-free Siri. However, every good piece of tech runs its course and on the new AirPods Pro, Apple is introducing the H2. The company says that the new chip not only offers improved sound quality and improved ANC, but it handles new features like Adaptive Transparency.

H2 is more powerful, but it’s also more efficient. With Adaptive Transparency, for example, the chip is capable of on-device processing 48,000 times per second to recognize and quiet those harsh noises you may encounter. For ANC, Apple says H2 can run algorithms that weren’t possible before on devices as small as AirPods. So, when coupled with the drivers, vents and microphones, AirPods Pro cancels double the noise as the first-gen model. H2 also boosts Adaptive EQ with algorithms for improved and more consistent audio performance and works to help you sound more natural when you’re hearing yourself speak in transparency mode.

I know, that’s several claims of performance boosts in a variety of areas. But all you really need to know is that the new H2 chip makes everything possible that Apple has either added, improved or refined since the 2019 model.

Sound quality

Inside the new AirPods Pro, Apple says new algorithms, amplifier, driver and transducer combine for “richer” sound, increased clarity and consistent performance across volumes and frequencies. It’s a lot of audio jargon, but what you need to know is that the overall sound quality of the second-gen model is massively improved from the first version. Apple wasn’t lying when it promised music would sound better at lower volumes. Even when I turn down the levels, the spacey shoegaze and post-hardcore riffs of The Darling Fire still cut through clean. The band’s atmospheric sound remains intact rather than being compressed down to a muffled murmur. It’s seriously impressive what this new model can do with quieter volume, right down to the bass.

What Apple has done with regular volume is great too. The overall sound is indeed richer with more depth, clarity and a wider soundstage to create a fuller listening experience. The echo on the snaps and the sustain on the low, boomy synth on Lorde’s “Royals” are on equal footing, but at opposite ends of the frequency range. This keeps the track airy and dimensional, showcasing subtle nuance in both sounds. The sound isn’t just immersive, it’s more detailed too.

When it comes to Personalized Spatial Audio, I actually prefer what the AirPods Pro offer out of the box. Once I scanned my face and ears, the customized sound profile was too heavy on the treble for my taste. Music sounded a bit less immersive and thundering or bombastic elements of movies were slightly muted. Spatial Audio benefits movies and shows more than music anyway, unless you’re listening to one of Apple’s live concerts that was specifically captured for the format. Switch on dynamic head tracking and Luke Combs’ recent Apple Music performance sounds much more lifelike. Songs are noticeably louder and clearer in Spatial Audio even without head tracking, but the directional element gives things more of a “live” feel with a band on stage.

The new personalization feature can’t be turned on with a tap either. Once you set up Personalized Spatial Audio, it’s always active, and if you want to stop using it, iOS deletes your profile. To use it again, you have to repeat the scanning process. Apple argues you won’t need to go back and forth because you’ll want it on all the time. I think it would be good to have the option of toggling it on for movies, for example, but being able to use regular Spatial Audio for music.

I also have to mention Apple’s transparency mode. I don’t understand why no other company comes close to AirPods on ambient sound, but the truth is Apple has the most natural sounding audio here. I first noticed it on the AirPods Max, but the new AirPods Pro are just as impressive. You can keep these in during a meeting and it sounds like you’re not even wearing them. You’ll notice the AirPods Pro when you start to speak because your ears are plugged, but that’s about it. It’s the best transparency mode you’ll find on earbuds, and the closest competition is still a ways behind.

Apple has also improved SharePlay audio, so when you’re watching something with a friend, you can now expect 48kHz “cinema quality” audio. I don’t recall any issues with how things sounded like before, but I can tell you that House of the Dragon remains pristine when the audio is beaming audio to two sets of AirPods.

Call quality

Most earbuds can only muster speakerphone-quality audio for calls, and the AirPods Pro do a slightly better job that most of the competition. You won’t sound crystal clear, but the voice performance doesn’t immediately indicate you might be speaking into a phone that’s resting on your desk. The AirPods Pro also do a decent job with background noise, quieting but not all-out silencing things like white noise machines. The best call quality I noticed with Apple’s new is in FaceTime, which shouldn’t come as a surprise.

Group FaceTime calls already had Spatial Audio, but Apple has added dynamic head tracking to the video chat app too. With the newer AirPods models, you can get an even more realistic sense of being in the room with people instead of just conversing virtually. Personalized Spatial Audio also works in FaceTime, so if you enjoy that bit of customization, it will also be applied to your group chats. When you pair Apple’s immersive sound with the natural audio in transparency mode, you only really notice you’re wearing earbuds when you’re speaking. Again, that’s due to your plugged ears.

Battery life

When it comes to battery life, Apple says you can expect up to six hours with ANC on or up to seven hours with noise cancellation disabled. There are three additional charges in the new case which can now be replenished with an Apple Watch charger in addition to MagSafe and Qi-certified accessories or a Lightning cable. If you find yourself in a pinch, five minutes in the case will give you up to one hour of use. The company explains that Personalized Spatial Audio and dynamic head tracking decrease overall listening time by 30 minutes and that you can expect up to 4.5 of purely talk on calls.

During my tests, I managed six hours and fifteen minutes of use with a mix of noise cancellation, transparency mode and calls. That’s more than the previous generation (4.5 hours) and it’s on par with most of the competition these days. Sure, some companies offer 10-plus hours on a charge, but the average is around five to seven for the noise-canceling products I’ve tested. More battery life would always be nice, but the six or seven hours Apple musters is enough to get you through the workday if you take a short break.

The competition

Like Google and Samsung, Apple reserves the best features on the AirPods Pro for the iPhone, iPad and Mac faithful. You can use these earbuds on other devices, but you won’t have access to things like hands-free Siri and Spatial Audio. For that reason, Apple’s buds aren’t really in direct competition with Pixel Buds and Galaxy Buds as all three companies have created a walled garden that rewards loyal customers with the best their audio products have to offer.

If supreme ANC is your goal, the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II are your best bet. Bose’s latest true wireless product is smaller and more comfortable, with massive upgrades to both overall audio and noise canceling performance. They’re pricey at $299 and they lack basic features like multipoint connectivity and wireless charging. For pure sound quality, look at the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3. The company is consistently at the top in terms of audio performance and that continues with its latest model that debuted this spring. Lastly, if a load of convenient features are what you’re after, Sony’s WF-1000XM4 has a full suite of tools. Other headphone companies have started to ape Sony’s spec sheet, but things like Speak-to-Chat automatic pausing when you speak and location-based sound settings still come in handy.

Apple’s noise-canceling earbuds were way overdue for an update. While the company didn’t see the need to change the overall design, it did extensive upgrades on the inside, introducing new features and improving performance along the way. Importantly, it made all of these changes while keeping the price at $249 . Things like improved audio, more powerful ANC, Adaptive Transparency and even the upgrades to the charging case make the new AirPods Pro a worthwhile update to a familiar formula. Let’s just hope we don’t have to wait another three years for a full redesign.

Despite the unchanged design, Apple has packed an assortment of updates into the new AirPods Pro. All of the conveniences from the 2019 model are here as well, alongside additions like Adaptive Transparency, Personalized Spatial Audio and a new touch gesture in tow. There’s room to further refine the familiar formula, but Apple has given iPhone owners several reasons to upgrade.

AirPods Pro (2022) review

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• AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless Headphones Review

The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless are the next generation of the Apple AirPods Pro Truly Wireless . They look remarkably similar to their predecessor, but there have been some notable changes. The Gen 2 have an upgraded H2 chip, which the manufacturer advertises to improve their audio performance and lets you seamlessly pair them with other devices in your Apple ecosystem. Their carrying case also has its own U1 chip, allowing you to easily track it if you misplace the case. Their ANC has improved, and their sound profile has been tweaked for a better all-around experience.

Our Verdict

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are decent for neutral sound. Compared to their predecessor, their bass is more extended, which helps improve their overall bass. That said, their sound profile is a little warmer rather than rumbly this time around, making vocals and instruments sound cozy and soft. The treble is more recessed, taking the edge off of sibilants and instruments. They're still in-ears, though, and their passive soundstage doesn't feel as natural or spacious as dedicated audiophile headphones. Luckily, their Spatial Audio feature allows audio to follow your head movements when using compatible content, which can feel more immersive.

• Spatial Audio available.
• Bad passive soundstage.

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are great for commute and travel. Thanks to their lightweight and portable design, you can easily store these comfortable and well-built earbuds in your pocket or bag on the go. Their ANC can also block out a lot of the low rumble of bus and plane engines, and with their ANC on, they last about six hours continuously. They don't leak very much audio at high volumes either, meaning you won't annoy others around you.

• Great ANC performance.
• Comfortable and premium design.
• 6-hour continuous battery life and four extra charges in the case.

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are great for sports and fitness. Although some users find that the buds can wiggle out of their ears, they're comfortable and stable enough for moderate exercise once you get a good fit. These lightweight buds are certified IPX4 for resistance against water splashes and have a durable build quality.

• Certified IPX4 for resistance against water splashes.

The Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Gen are decent for office use. These in-ears have a comfortable and well-built design that's suitable for long days at the office. While their six-hour continuous battery life may not completely last through your day, their carrying case supplies an additional four charges, which is handy in a pinch. They're also equipped with a great ANC system and can block out office noise like chatty coworkers or the high-pitched hum of AC units very well.

• Sub-par overall microphone performance.

The Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation are Bluetooth headphones. They aren't designed with wireless gaming in mind, as their latency falls outside of good values, resulting in lip sync issues.

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are Bluetooth headphones; you can't use them for wired gaming.

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are mediocre for phone calls. These buds have an integrated mic, but since it sits far away from your mouth, the mic struggles to capture your voice clearly. As a result, speech sounds muffled and thin. It can also be drowned out if you're taking a call from a noisy environment like a busy street. On the upside, their ANC system can help block out background noise so that you can better focus on your calls.

• 7.4 Neutral Sound
• 8.2 Commute/Travel
• 8.3 Sports/Fitness
• 5.8 Wireless Gaming
• 5.6 Wired Gaming
• 6.4 Phone Calls
• Updated Apr 04, 2024: We've retested ANC Wind Handling with updated methodology.
• Updated Apr 04, 2024: The following test groups have been updated following test bench 1.7: Noise Isolation - Full Range , Noise Isolation - Common Scenarios , and ANC Wind Handling . There have also been text changes made throughout the review, including to the usages and product comparisons to match these results.
• Updated Apr 04, 2024: We've converted this review to Test Bench 1.7, which updates our Noise Isolation test. We've also expanded the scope of this test to include Common Scenarios in addition to Voice Handling and Wind Handling .
• Updated Nov 27, 2023: We've updated this review's text to ensure it's up to date and accurate.
• Updated Nov 10, 2023: iOS 17 has added several features to these headphones. You can find more information on these in Controls , Noise Isolation , and App Support .
• Updated Nov 02, 2023: The following test group has been updated following TB 1.6: Bluetooth Connection . There have also been text changes made throughout the review, including to the usages and product comparisons to match these results.
• Updated Nov 02, 2023: We've converted this review to Test Bench 1.6 , which updates how we measure latency. We've updated and renamed the following test groups: Wired Connection , Bluetooth Connection , and Wireless Connection (Dongle) . We've also added new codec latency measurements and provided an audio sample of recorded latency.
• Updated Sep 22, 2023: We've added the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) with MagSafe Charging Case (USB‑C) as a variant within Differences Between Sizes And Variants .
• Updated May 04, 2023: We've retested Sound Profile and Noise Isolation using firmware 5E133. However, we didn't measure a change in performance, and our results haven't changed.
• Updated Nov 23, 2022: Review published.
• Updated Nov 15, 2022: Early access published.
• Updated Oct 28, 2022: Our testers have started testing this product.
• Updated Oct 17, 2022: The product has arrived in our lab, and our testers will start evaluating it soon.
• Updated Sep 15, 2022: We've purchased the product and are waiting for it to arrive in our lab.

Differences Between Sizes And Variants

The Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Gen come in 'White', and you can see our model's label  here . You can also purchase this model with a carrying case that either has a Lightning or USB-C port. While we tested the model with the Lightning case, the USB-C variant includes a cable for charging up the case. It also supports MagSafe charging, which is handy if you want to go completely wireless. The buds themselves have an updated rating of IP54 for dust and water resistance, which is a slight change from the original model's IPX4 rating, which only certifies water resistance.

If you encounter another variant of these headphones, please let us know in the forums, and we'll update our review.

Compared To Other Headphones

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are the next generation of the Apple AirPods Pro Truly Wireless . As we've come to expect from Apple, they have the same premium build quality as their other products. However, their ANC has been improved to rival competitors also vying for the title of the  best noise cancelling earbuds , like the Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro True Wireless and the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II Truly Wireless . In addition, Apple has updated the chip technology inside their buds from H1 to H2, making it easy to pair your headphones with other iOS devices. Their carrying case also has a U1 chip, which allows you to precisely track down your carrying case. While they may not be as customizable as other buds out there, like the Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 3 , they offer a robust performance, especially if you don't want to play around with settings.

Check out our recommendations for the best wireless Bluetooth earbuds  and the best wireless earbuds for iPhone .

The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless  are better in-ears than the Beats Fit Pro True Wireless . The Apple are more comfortable, are better built, and have a significantly better noise isolation performance. They also have a longer continuous battery life and more charges in their carrying case. However, the Beats have a more stable in-ear fit, making them a more suitable choice for sports and fitness.

If you care about customizability, you'll want to check out the Sony WF-1000XM5 Truly Wireless over the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless . While both earbuds have a similarly balanced sound and great noise isolation performances, the Sony headphones' companion app offers a graphic EQ and presets. The buds support multi-device pairing so you can stay connected to your PC and smartphone simultaneously. However, the Apple headphones are better built and have an H2 chip for seamless pairing with other iOS devices.

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are better for most uses than the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless . Both earbuds are equipped with virtual soundstage technology and have decent neutral sound performance, but the Bose headphones have better sound customization options. They have access to a graphic EQ and presets via their app, while you can only tweak the Apple headphones' sound profile through the accessibility settings of a paired iOS device. The Bose have the edge when it comes to noise isolation, and they have a more comfortable fit, too, making them an ideal choice for the office and on-the-go use. The Bose feature Google Fast Pair for rapid integration with Android devices, but if you're an iOS user, you'll prefer how the Apple headphones' H2 chip lets you pair seamlessly with other Apple devices.

The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless are better in-ears than the Beats Studio Buds + True Wireless . While both buds are equally comfortable, Apple's buds are better built and have a more neutral sound profile, which some users may prefer, and their noise isolation performance is significantly better. They also have an H2 chip, so you can easily pair these buds with other devices in your Apple ecosystem.

The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless  are the next version of the Apple AirPods Pro Truly Wireless . While not a lot has changed in terms of comfort, and premium build quality, there have been slight changes to their sound profile and noise isolation performance. The 2nd generation sound a little warmer than the 1st generation and can reproduce better low bass. Their ANC also does a significantly better job of blocking out background noise across the spectrum. Additionally, they have a longer continuous battery life, though they're one extra charge short of their predecessor. Their carrying case has a U1 chip too, so you can easily locate your case if you lose it. Overall, the changes are somewhat minor, but the 2nd generation make good strides in the right places.

The Apple AirPods Max Wireless and the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless have different strengths, so depending on your usage, you may prefer either one. The Max are over-ears with better overall battery performance and have flatter, more even mids, so vocals and instruments sound accurate. They also have a better overall noise isolation performance. However, the second generation of the Pro have a more comfortable and stable fit, making them a solid choice if you want to use them for running or working out.

The  Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II Truly Wireless and the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless are both great in-ears with different strengths. Whole both earbuds have similarly great levels of noise isolation thanks to their ANC systems, the Bose are more comfortable in-ears. Their companion app also offers graphic EQ and presets to help you customize their sound to your liking. However, the Apple headphones are well-designed for Apple users. They have a more premium feel, have an H2 chip for seamless pairing with other iOS devices, and support Spatial Audio. They also have a slightly more neutral sound profile, which some users may prefer.

The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless are better in-ears than the Sony WF-1000XM4 Truly Wireless . The Apple are more comfortable and have a more neutral overall sound profile, which some users may prefer, and their ANC can block out more background noise across the range. They also have an H2 chip for seamless pairing with your Apple devices. However, the Sony headphones have a better overall battery performance, and their companion app offers customization features like a graphic EQ and presets to help you adjust their sound to your liking.

The  Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 3  and   Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless  are both premium earbuds. While both are well-built, the Sennheiser have a significantly better battery performance, and you can customize them using their companion software's graphic EQ and presets. In comparison, the Apple are more comfortable and have a more neutral sound profile, which some users may prefer. They also have a better overall noise isolation performance.

The Apple Airpods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless are better overall wireless earbuds than the JBL Live Pro 2 TWS True Wireless . The Apple are more comfortable, are better built, and have a higher quality case. They also have a more neutral sound out of the box, are better noise isolation performance, and have spatial audio compatibility. That said, the JBL have a longer continuous battery life and their companion app is compatible with both iOS and Android devices, while the Apple can only access customization options through the iOS interface. 

The   Nothing Ear (2) Truly Wireless are better in-ear headphones than the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless . While both buds have similar comfort, battery life, and build quality, the Nothing come with more features for a lower price than the Apple, like multi-device pairing, ANC presets, and a graphic EQ with presets. However, the Apple have a better-functioning ANC that isolates you from more ambient noise, making them ideal for commutes and working in loud offices. They also have better compatibility with Apple's product ecosystem thanks to their H2 chip which allows for seamless pairing with other Apple devices.

The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless are slightly better earbuds than the  Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 S2 True Wireless . The Apple headphones offer features like seamless pairing with your other iOS devices as well as Spatial Audio to help give you a more immersive sound. They're also more comfortable and have a more neutral sound profile, which some users may prefer. Their ANC can block out background noise, and they have a better overall battery performance. However, the Bowers & Wilkins support aptX Adaptive, which is nice if you want to stream high-quality audio or lower latency, and their carrying case doubles as a wireless transmitter.

The  Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless  are better in-ears than the  EarFun Air Pro 3 True Wireless . While both buds are comfortable, the Apple are better built, have a more neutral sound profile, which some users may prefer, and support Spatial Audio for a more immersive audio experience. Their ANC performance is significantly better too, and they have an H2 chip for seamless pairing with your Apple devices. However, the EarFun are more customizable via their companion app and support multi-device pairing and aptX Adaptive.

The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless have a slight edge over the Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro True Wireless . While both in-ears are comfortable and have similarly excellent levels of noise isolation, the Apple have a more premium build, and their battery performance is better. They also have an H2 chip for seamless pairing with your Apple devices, and sound more neutral out of the box, which some users may prefer. However, the Samsung headphones have EQ presets, which some users may prefer to adjust their sound to their liking.

The Beats Solo3 2019 Wireless and Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless are two different categories of headphones belonging to Apple's lineup. The Beats are pretty basic on-ear headphones with little app support, no active noise cancellation (ANC), and a longer battery life. They use the Apple W1 chip so connections are optimized, and you can switch between Apple devices, but you don't get any luxuries like Spatial Audio. The Apple earbuds have the newer H2 chip (and U1 chip for the case), which offers benefits similar to the W1 chip. Otherwise, the Apple earbuds are wildly different in that you get ANC, Spatial Audio, touch controls, a portable in-ear fit, and a shorter continuous battery life. For most genres, the default Apple sound profile works great, but if you like lots of bass, the Beats have that. Overall, the Apple earbuds supply more features and are the better pick.

The Devialet Gemini II True Wireless and the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless are both premium buds with different strengths. The Devialet have a companion app with a graphic EQ and presets and support multi-device pairing and aptX codec, which can help give you better sound quality over Bluetooth. Their ANC also does a better job of blocking out bass range noise, though the buds reduce more noise passively than the ANC from the mid-range onwards. The AirPods Pro have iOS-centric features like Spatial Audio for a more immersive sound and an H2 chip for seamless pairing with your iPhone or MacBook. They also have a better battery performance.

Depending on your preferences, you may prefer either the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless or the Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed True Wireless , since they're intended for different uses. The Apple are designed primarily for casual use, are more comfortable, are better built, and have a significantly better noise isolation performance. They also have Apple-centric features like an H2 chip for seamless pairing with your Apple devices and Spatial Audio support for a more immersive sound. Conversely, the Razer are well-suited for gaming. They have a USB-C dongle for low latency, support RGB lighting, and have more customization features like a graphic EQ and presets to help you fine-tune their sound.

The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless are better in-ears than the Status Between 3ANC True Wireless . The Apple are more comfortable, are better built, and have a more neutral sound profile, which some users may prefer. They also have Spatial Audio to help make your audio even more immersive, their ANC does a significantly better job of blocking out background noise, and they have an H2 chip for seamless pairing with other devices in your Apple ecosystem. However, the Status have a companion app with sound customization features, support multi-device pairing, and have a longer continuous battery life.

The  Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless  are a bit better than the Denon PerL Pro True Wireless . The Apple headphones have better noise isolation and a sturdier, sleeker design. They have more robust virtual surround sound features, including personalized head tracking. There are benefits for Apple users, like quick pairing and multi-device pairing with iOS. However, you may still prefer the Denon, depending on what you're looking for. All their features, like multi-device pairing, are available on Android and iOS devices. They also support the aptX Lossless codec, which allows you to stream higher-resolution audio. They're more customizable since you can use the app to create a personalized EQ, adjust it with a graphic EQ, and remap all the controls.

The Creative Aurvana Ace 2 True Wireless aren't as versatile as the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless . The Creative have a greater selection of high-quality codecs for Android users than the Apple headphones, but they have imaging issues and distortion. Their active noise cancelling can't compete well with the Apple buds. The Apple earbuds have a more neutral sound profile by default, spatial audio, and seamless connectivity with other Apple devices.

The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Truly Wireless are more versatile than the Bose Sport Open Earbuds Truly Wireless . Unlike the Bose, the Apple earbuds feature comprehensive active noise cancelling (ANC) with other Apple-specific features like the H2 chip and Spatial Audio. Both the case and earbuds have IP54 ratings. The Bose are meant to be worn to hear your environment, and they don't have any noise isolating properties. They leak more audio and lack low-end compared to the Apple buds. Their continuous battery life is greater, but they require a separate charging cradle.

Test Results

The Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation have nearly the same design as their predecessor, the Apple AirPods Pro Truly Wireless . They have a sleek white design with a stem design and white silicone tips. They only come in one color variant, which is to be expected from Apple products.

These in-ears are comfortable and lightweight. Unlike their predecessor, Apple has included an extra small pair of ear tips, raising the total number of pairs of included ear tips to four. Their fit doesn't apply pressure to your ear and won't be pushed further into your ear if you're trying to register commands. However, like the previous generation, the earbuds can wiggle out of your ear over time. While this doesn't affect all users, some people have solved this issue by purchasing foam ear tips, which mold to your ear.

These buds have very good controls. Compared to the first gen, the manufacturer has improved the 'Force Sensor' controls, and there's click feedback for the amount of clicks you make on the stem. There are different chimes when cycling between ANC modes and touch volume chimes when adjusting the volume and reaching the min/max volume. Overall, the controls are easy to use and responsive. If you're on iOS 17 or later, you can also pinch the stems to mute and unmute the mic during calls.

On either stems' force sensor:

• Single press: Plays or pauses audio. Also answers and ends a call.
• Double press: Skips the track forward.
• Triple press: Skips the track backward.
• Press and hold: Cycles between ANC on, off, and transparency mode, which allows you to hear your surroundings without turning off your audio.
• Say 'Hey Siri': Activates Siri voice assistant. This command only works on iOS devices, though.

These lightweight buds are very portable. You can easily put them into most pockets or bags without an issue. They also come with a carrying case that's small enough to take with you on-the-go.

The Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Gen 's carrying case is great. It has the same plastic design and finish as the previous generation. It supports MagSafe charging and has a lanyard loop if you want to attach it to something. It's also certified IPX4 for resistance against water splashes and has a U1 chip that lets you easily find the case if you lose it using the 'Find My' app. The original version of this case uses a Lightning port, but Apple offers a carrying case with a USB-C port.

The Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation have a great build quality, like other products from this manufacturer. They're mostly made of plastic with silicone ear tips. They're also certified IPX4 for resistance against water splashes, which is good if you want to wear them to the gym.

These in-ears have a stable in-ear fit. Some users may find that the buds wiggle out of their ears over time, but once you achieve a good fit, they'll stay in place with moderate head movements. If you want to use them while running, they may fall out of your ears.

• Apple AirPods Pro Gen 2 headphones
• Charging case
• USB-C to Lightning cable
• 4x tip size options

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 have an adaptive EQ, and when on, they have a slightly warm sound profile, which is great if you like genres with a bit more bass or if you like your vocals and instruments to sound cozier in your mixes. Compared to their Apple AirPods Pro Truly Wireless , they have a better bass extension, which helps improve the depth of bass in your audio. Overall, their sound is quite versatile and well-suited for various audio content. However, there are no built-in EQs or presets to help you tweak their sound. If you're an iOS user, you can access sound customization features in your settings via the 'Accessibility' tab, though.

Thanks to their H2 chip, these headphones can adjust their bass and treble response, depending on the listening volume. However, this is only noticeable when connected to an iOS device. This change mitigates the effects of equal-loudness contours (and, more specifically, the Fletcher-Munson curve). The listener perceives more bass and treble at high volumes than mid sound. However, the listener perceives less bass and treble at low volumes than mid sound. These headphones counter this issue in their frequency response by increasing bass and treble at lower volumes to encourage people to listen to audio at lower volumes. You can see the change in frequency response when using an iOS device with ANC on and ANC off . This effect doesn't apply to PCs or Android devices .

There have been user reports that firmware 5E133 added more bass and treble to the frequency response. However, upon retesting them using several reseats, we didn't notice a change . It's important to note that frequency response changes depending on whether you turn the ANC on/off.

Note: There's a slight discrepancy between the left and right drivers in the raw frequency response graphs. It's due to how the files were processed and level-matched. However, all other graphs are correct, and this difference isn't audible. We also don't expect users to encounter this issue with their own units.

The frequency response consistency is outstanding. As long as you achieve a proper fit, you'll get consistent bass and treble delivery each time you use them.

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 have great bass accuracy. They have an extended low-bass, which helps the bass have more depth in your mixes. There's also a bump of extra warmth to help balance their underemphasized low-bass. While the bassline in songs like Lavender Haze by Taylor Swift feels a little lacking compared to other in-ears, like the Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro True Wireless , the bass still feels satisfying and present without overwhelming vocals and instruments.

The mid accuracy is excellent. There's some warmth coming from the bass range into the mid. This overemphasis slightly clutters vocals and instruments, but the rest of the range is flat, so these sounds are still present and detailed in mixes. In vocal-centric songs like Vegas by Doja Cat, Doja's voice sounds cozy and warm but a little muddy.

The Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation have great treble accuracy. The response is slightly underemphasized across the range, which takes the edge off of vocals and instruments. The upper harmonics of these sounds are slightly veiled, while sibilants like hi-hats lose a bit of their sharpness.

The peaks and dips performance is great. There are only a few prominent deviations, meaning the headphones can control their sound profile well. There's a peak across the high-bass to low-mid, which adds boom and muddies mixes a bit, while a dip in the mid-mid affects the left driver more prominently and nudges vocals and instruments to the back of the mix. Another bump in the mid-treble makes sibilants like cymbals piercing.

The Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation have an outstanding imaging performance. This manufacturer has shown consistent quality control and ergonomics across all of the products that we've tested. That said, imaging varies across units. Our unit's L/R drivers are well-matched across all of our tests, which results in the accurate placement of sound objects like voices and instruments in the stereo image.

These in-ears have a bad passive soundstage, but that's normal for in-ear headphones. Since they bypass the pinna by design, their soundstage feels closed-off and as if sound is coming from inside your head rather than from speakers placed in the room around you.

The Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation are compatible with Apple's Spatial Audio in the iOS interface. It scans your face from the front as you rotate it to capture all the angles of your face. Once complete, sound will follow your head movements, creating a more immersive and dimensional audio experience.

The weighted harmonic distortion performance is great. All frequencies fall within good limits, resulting in clear and pure audio reproduction.

These are the settings used to test these headphones. Our results are only valid when used in this configuration.

The Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation 's full-range noise isolation performance is great. They can block out a wide array of noise well. This includes the low rumble of buses, ambient chatter, and the high-pitched hums of an AC unit. As a result, these buds are a solid choice if you're looking for something to use during busy commutes or noisy days at the office. There are also some handy features like Adaptive Audio and Conversational Awareness that automatically adapt the headphones' performance based on the noise around you. These features are only available on iOS 17 (or later), and you can read more about them here .

Note: Due to user feedback, we've tested these headphones using firmware 5A377 and 5B58 to see if the noise isolation changed. You can see a comparison of both firmware here . We also did multiple passes using firmware 5E133, and you can see a comparison of 5B58 and 5E133 here . However, there wasn't much of a difference between firmware updates.

You can expect excellent noise isolation performance in common scenarios. The ANC can reduce rumbly plane engines and street noise well. While it reduces slightly less sound when it comes to office noise compared to other scenarios, it's still quite a solid performance overall.

Unlike noise like voices or traffic, wind directly interacts with the ANC's mics. However, this sound doesn't really reach your ear. As the ANC system tries to cancel the sound out, it ends up creating loud, unwanted noise. For the Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation , this noise is quite loud. Since they're earbuds, the amount of wind noise can also vary depending on the angle due to their small size and shape. For example, there's more wind noise reduction at 90 degrees than at other angles. Unfortunately, they also lack a wind reduction feature to help tackle these sounds better.

The leakage performance is great. Leakage is mostly concentrated in the mid to treble range and sounds pretty thin. Overall leakage is quite low, so if you like to listen to your favorite tracks at high volume, then others around you won't hear it.

The integrated mic has disappointing recording quality. Your voice sounds thin and somewhat muffled, making it harder to be understood well.

The integrated mic has a mediocre noise handling performance. If you're taking a call from a moderately noisy environment like a busy office, your voice can be obscured by background sound and even drowned out. Instead, it's best to take calls from quieter spaces like an empty meeting room.

The Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation have a decent battery performance. Apple advertises that they last six hours continuously, which is on par with what we measured. It's worth mentioning that battery life varies depending on usage, the features you're using, and even your listening volume. On the upside, you can always pop them in their carrying case if you need more battery life since it holds an extra four charges. The buds also enter standby mode when not in use to conserve battery life further.

You can access the headphones' interface if you're connected via iOS; check out a video of how the interface works here . If you're on iOS 17 or later, you'll be able to access features like Adaptive Audio, which shifts your volume level depending on the amount of noise around you. There's also a Personalized Volume feature, which uses AI to generate a profile for your Apple account to record your content, volume, ANC mode, and external noise for the headphones to dynamically adjust to you. Conversation Awareness reduces your content's volume and switches to transparency mode so you can hear your conversation. Subjectively, it also seems to boost the mid-range so that you can better hear yourself and the other person. If the feature detects that the conversation has stopped, it turns off. Lastly, there's Automatic Switching. If you play audio from one device, it'll switch over to that device. It's useful if you've paired your headphones to your MacBook and iPhone, as you can easily switch between audio sources.

In addition to the iOS 17 features mentioned above, the iOS interface allows you to check the battery life of the headphones as well as the case, switch between ANC modes, and remap the press and hold control. You can also use the 'Find My' feature to track the case if you misplace it, and do a fit check to ensure the best possible fit. While there isn't any EQ in this app, you can access sound customization features via your iOS device's 'Accessibility' tab.

Since our model's carrying case has a lightning port, these headphones come with a Lightning to USB-C cable for recharging them. You can't use this cable for audio. If you have the carrying case with a USB-C port, Apple provides a USB-C cable in the box.

The Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation have great Bluetooth connectivity. They have an H2 chip for seamless pairing with other devices in your Apple ecosystem, and you can connect them simultaneously to two different Apple devices. However, you'll only be able to receive audio from one device at a time. However, this won't work if you're using Android devices. They also support AAC codec, which can offer better audio quality than SBC. That said, their SBC latency falls just outside of good values, resulting in lip sync mismatch, which can be annoying if you're streaming video. Latency can vary depending on the app and device, though. It's also worth mentioning that these buds don't support any codecs designed for high-quality audio, which is disappointing if you want to listen to Hi-Res audio via services like Tidal or Apple Music.

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 can connect to Bluetooth-enabled PCs with full audio and mic compatibility. However, you can't connect them to your PC in any other way.

This model comes with a carrying case with a lightning point for recharging. It also supports wireless charging. However, you can also purchase this model with a case that has a USB-C port and wireless charging support.

Apple AirPods Pro (second-gen) review: same look, better everything else

Redesigned inside but not out, the new airpods pro are destined to be another hit — even if the magic is waning.

By Chris Welch , a reviewer specializing in personal audio and home theater. Since 2011, he has published nearly 6,000 articles, from breaking news and reviews to useful how-tos.

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There are two main reactions to Apple’s second-generation AirPods Pro, which will be available September 23rd for the same $249 as the original pair released in 2019 . 

The first is “that’s it?” Apple has left the overall design and in-ear fit practically unchanged. The new AirPods Pro look identical to their predecessors. Despite arriving nearly three years after the first model, there’s been no major revamp. No shortened or eliminated stems. No new color choices. From a side view of your head, these are the same AirPods Pro as ever. It’s easy to be underwhelmed.

Rather than reinvent its wireless earbuds, Apple focused on improving everything about the formula that’s already proven massively successful. The second-gen AirPods Pro sound better. Their active noise cancellation is noticeably improved. You can now adjust the volume directly from the earbuds. And the charging case has gained a built-in speaker and pinpoint location tracking that makes it easier to find. Battery life is also slightly longer than before. For legions of loyal Apple customers, these changes are exciting — even if the outer design is old hat. So the second reaction has been along the lines of “these are what I’ve been waiting for.” 

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But the second-generation AirPods Pro are contending with fiercer competition than ever before. Over the last few months alone, we’ve seen excellent earbuds released by Samsung and Google . Sony’s still in the mix with the WF-1000XM4s and newer products like the LinkBuds S . Sennheiser’s recent Momentum True Wireless 3 earbuds demonstrate superb sound quality. To some extent, Apple’s rivals have managed to successfully replicate what felt so “magical” about the AirPods several years ago. 

Features like one-tap pairing, spatial audio with head tracking, and hands-free voice controls are now common across the industry. And right out of the gate, Apple’s improved noise cancellation performance has already been surpassed by Bose , which announced its QuietComfort Earbuds II on the very same day as Apple’s September event. If that’s not a sign of how contentious this market has become, I don’t know what is. The takeaway is that Apple doesn’t have it nearly as easy this time around as it did in 2019, when many tech players were (somehow) still finding their footing with true wireless earbuds.

These new AirPods Pro don’t add any major software tricks to Apple’s repertoire. Again, the priority was to improve on what was already there: the transparency mode now automatically dampens loud noises like emergency sirens or a screeching subway car. And personalized spatial audio (not exclusive to these AirPods, mind you) can fine-tune the audio profile based on your own unique ear shape for a more immersive experience. 

But rumors about Apple making a leap to lossless or high-resolution wireless audio were unfounded. The AirPods Pro stick to the tried and true AAC codec over standard Bluetooth 5.3. I doubt many buyers will care about that aspect. If Apple does have higher-quality audio in the works, it makes sense to introduce such a luxury with the next AirPods Max . 

There are a few outward differences between the first- and second-generation AirPods Pro, but they’re very subtle. Some of the mics and sensors have been repositioned, and one of the microphone inlets is now concave. Without the case at hand, that little indented grille is the only telltale sign that you’re holding the 2022 earbuds. The AirPods Pro also now feature the same skin detection sensor as the third-gen AirPods, allowing for more accurate auto-pause when you remove a bud from either ear.

Apple includes four sets of ear tips in the box this time: the new fourth option is an extra-small size. I’m a large tips person myself, but a friend who modeled the AirPods Pro for my photos mentioned that the XS tips did feel more comfortable than the small size from the previous Pros that she uses. Extra tips aside, everything about the way these AirPods Pro fit in your ears is the same as before, so you know what you’re in for. If you liked the original Pros, these will be no different. If not, maybe you’d be better off with the open-ear regular AirPods . The AirPods Pro still include ventilation to reduce any stuffy ear pressure buildup. 

The ear tips between the two models are largely identical, though the ear gunk filters on the new ones are slightly different. I’m here to give you those nerdy details, friends. Does it make any difference? Who knows, but Apple seemingly doesn’t consider the ear tips cross-compatible. Even though first-gen tips latch onto the newer AirPods Pro without issue, second-gen replacement tips are sold separately. But if you purchased aftermarket foam tips for the original earbuds, they should work well enough on the new ones.

Let’s dig right into sound quality. Apple completely redesigned the amplifier and driver in the AirPods Pro, and while those drivers are the same 11-millimeter size as what’s in the third-gen AirPods, they sound superior and deliver the cleanest, most dynamic output of any AirPods to date.

It’s never been more obvious that Apple’s audio tuning philosophy is to land on the most pleasing sound profile it can find that provides consistency across genres and audio formats (music, podcasts, movies, etc.). When you’re aiming for such a universal solution, everything ends up sounding pretty good — but nothing I’d consider great or exemplary. The new AirPods Pro reach further into high and low frequencies than their predecessors, but it’s not a dramatic shift. The prior earbuds weren’t skull rattlers with their bass response, and neither are these. But overall clarity is better, and Apple is getting more out of the drivers. I’m still not a big believer in spatial audio, but going through the sometimes tedious personalization process in iOS 16 can make the effect more convincing since Apple is now scanning your ear and playing to its unique acoustic characteristics. I’m glad AirPods now have their own dedicated section in the settings menu: it makes exploring all these settings more intuitive. All the usual bonus features like audio sharing, automatic device switching, and hands-free Siri are also present on the new AirPods Pro.

Listening to Elton John’s “Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters,” the AirPods Pro present smooth vocals, well-separated harmonies, and distinctly layered string instruments. Big Thief’s latest album, Dragon New Warm Mountain I Believe In You , comes through with warmth and an extra layer of low-end presence that’s missing on the original AirPods Pro. But ultimately, these still sound like AirPods Pro with more refinement and depth. Apple isn’t straying too far from what people have come to expect from the world’s most popular earbuds. You’ll hear and appreciate the upgrade, but it’s not earth shattering.

That means that the AirPods Pro are still outclassed in sound fidelity by the likes of Sennheiser, and some people will prefer Samsung’s Galaxy Buds 2 Pro — though iPhone owners are unlikely to be cross-shopping the two. More practical alternatives include Sony’s WF-1000XM4 and Bose’s latest earbuds, and the AirPods Pro still don’t match the bass bump of those buds. If you do intend to use the AirPods Pro with Android, be aware there’s currently a significant bug where playback cuts out after 20 seconds or so. I’ve asked Apple about the issue but haven’t heard back.

But Apple has made substantial gains with its active noise cancellation. The company says, on average, the new implementation is “up to” two times as effective as the original AirPods Pro. And while I lack any scientific measurement tools, that claim doesn’t seem unrealistic. At our office, I recently moved desks and now sit near an air vent that emits a persistent whir. The original AirPods Pro leave a trace of that in noise-canceling mode, but it’s completely hushed and imperceptible with the second-gen pair. I can still hear chatting co-workers if they walk directly next to my desk, but at most times, the AirPods Pro grant me plenty of serenity. I’ve also observed legitimate improvements when commuting on the subway, and less overall street noise makes its way through when traversing Brooklyn day to day. 

However, I can’t tell you that Apple is leading the pack. Bose managed to take the noise-cancellation crown with its $300 QuietComfort Earbuds II, which do better at combating human voices and higher-pitched everyday disturbances. Still, Apple is undoubtedly in a better spot than it was previously, and it’s possible that firmware updates could lessen the gap as the company taps into the H2 chip that serves as the brains of the new AirPods Pro. This ANC is on par (maybe a smidge better) than Sony’s WF-1000XM4s, but those use bulky foam ear tips that not everyone finds comfortable. 

Transparency mode is just as natural and lifelike as before but now comes with some built-in hearing protection of sorts. If the AirPods Pro detect loud noises when in transparency mode, they’ll automatically (and very quickly) scale down the volume of those harsh, ear-splitting sounds — without you having to switch back to noise-canceling mode or take any action yourself. Best as I can tell, this “adaptive” transparency mode doesn’t listen for specific noises or frequencies: anything above a certain decibel level seems to trigger the adjustments in real time. In my testing, that’s included sirens, obnoxiously loud motorcycles, and so on. Apple’s website claims this on-device processing happens 48,000 times per second, something that’s, frankly, impossible to verify. (Bonus tip: you can always adjust how much sound comes through transparency mode through the accessibility settings in iOS.) 

The biggest new change to the AirPods Pro hardware is the addition of onboard volume controls. You can increase or decrease volume by sliding a finger up or down the capacitive “force sensor” section of the stem that you’d normally press for music controls. This works on either earbud, and you’ll hear a little click sound in that ear as you adjust volume. Strangely the feedback click is always one persistent volume and doesn’t preview what level you’re at. You hear a different beep at maximum volume and a bloop at zero, but that’s all. This new volume control works so well that I wish Apple had offered it on the original AirPods Pros. I’ve yet to accidentally pause or skip a track when changing volume, which routinely happens with gesture controls on other headphones and earbuds. No more having to reach for my phone or ask Siri to make volume adjustments? I’m in. 

Then there’s the carrying case, which now has a built-in lanyard loop on the right side. Apple doesn’t include a lanyard in the box, nor is it manufacturing one itself; I guess the company assumes not everyone will bother. Instead, Apple’s selling a $12 Incase Lanyard that I’ve used for a few days. It serves the purpose, but should probably be $6 cheaper: you can’t even tighten it to your wrist, but there’s an integrated method for looping it onto a bag or backpack. The case never opened unexpectedly when hanging like that, but I ended up switching to a Peak Design Anchor and tucking it into one of my backpack’s pockets for more security.

Speaking of security, the AirPods Pro case now contains the same U1 chip as an AirTag for precise location tracking. From the Find My app, you get the same augmented reality interface with arrows pointing the way to your misplaced case when it’s nearby. Apple has also added a speaker to the case’s bottom. The speaker makes little chimes when you plug it in for charging, when the battery’s running low, or whenever you reseat the AirPods and close the lid. More useful, the speaker can emit a sound when lost so you can track the case down in the couch cushions or wherever else it may be. Assuming they’re all within Bluetooth range, you can now locate the case and each earbud individually. 

If you lose your AirPods away from home (ideally still in the case), you can activate the Find My network and be notified if other Apple devices cross their path. AirPods are linked to your Apple ID account — a clever anti-theft measure that can’t be undone by a stranger — and it’s nice to see Apple continuing to improve the ease of locating them. I’ve also noticed that the battery levels for both earbuds and the case remain present in my iPhone’s battery widget much longer than they previously did. Normally, they’d vanish after being in the case for a bit. But now, you’ll have a better sense of when to recharge.

Both the AirPods Pro and wireless charging case are rated IPX4 for water / sweat resistance, and you can now juice up the case with an Apple Watch charger in addition to MagSafe and traditional Qi charging pads. Battery life has climbed to six hours of listening with ANC enabled; this drops to 5.5 hours if you’re using head-tracking spatial audio, and Apple estimates 4.5 hours of continuous talk time on calls. Including case recharges, you get an estimated 30 hours of overall listening time, up six hours from the first-gen Pros. 

Voice call performance seems marginally improved from the original AirPods Pro. Apple hasn’t made any big claims in this department, but my colleague Becca Farsace and I both noticed that the second-gen model is a step up: stay tuned for various mic tests in the upcoming video review.

Apple didn’t make any surprising or wildly ambitious moves with the second-generation AirPods Pro. Instead, the company tried to evolve and perfect a hit product that millions of people already know so well. With its second try, Apple managed to improve sound quality reasonably and boost noise cancellation considerably. Those improvements, along with a more helpful case and even better transparency passthrough, will be enough for many to upgrade.

AGREE TO CONTINUE: AIRPODS PRO (SECOND-GENERATION)

Every smart device now requires you to agree to a series of terms and conditions before you can use it — contracts that no one actually reads. It’s impossible for us to read and analyze every single one of these agreements. But we’re going to start counting exactly how many times you have to hit “agree” to use devices when we review them since these are agreements most people don’t read and definitely can’t negotiate. 

Like any other Bluetooth earbuds, the AirPods Pro can technically be set up and used without you agreeing to anything in software. But in using them, you’re agreeing to:

• Apple’s warranty agreement

Final tally is one mandatory agreement.

Even so, the AirPods Pro aren’t necessarily the standout they once were, now flanked by serious contenders from Apple’s tech foes. On day one, they’re not the best-sounding wireless earbuds you can buy, nor are they class-leading in ANC thanks to Bose. But neither of those facts are likely to dissuade iPhone owners from considering the second-gen AirPods Pro above most options based on their reliable performance and Apple’s seamless ecosystem benefits. 

Photography by Chris Welch / The Verge

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Article updated on December 13, 2022 at 7:00 AM PST

Apple AirPods Pro 2 Review: The Best Lightweight Earbuds You Can Buy

With better sound, active noise canceling and battery life than their predecessor, the AirPods Pro 2 deliver exceptionally good performance for their size.

Our Experts

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CNET’s expert staff reviews and rates dozens of new products and services each month, building on more than a quarter century of expertise.

Apple AirPods Pro 2

• Significantly improved sound and noise canceling
• Powered by Apple's new H2 chip
• Better battery life (6 hours)
• Upgraded microphones
• Charging case has U1 chip and built-in speaker for Find My
• New swipe volume controls
• Adaptive transparency mode
• Spatial Audio
• Extra-small ear tips are now included
• Basically the same design as previous model
• No high-resolution audio
• No XL ear tips

It shouldn't surprise anyone that Apple's AirPods Pro 2 ($249, £249, AU$399) are better than the  original AirPods Pro . After all, this second-gen version took nearly three years to develop, so you figure Apple could probably pull something together that might give you a reason to upgrade from the first-gen AirPods Pro or buy them over other great premium earbuds from Sony, Bose and other big headphone brands.

The good news is Apple has done just that. And while putting an exact percentage on how much AirPods Pro 2 have improved over their predecessors isn't so easy (that's something I'll try to do in this review), suffice to say they've improved enough to earn a CNET Editors' Choice award, particularly now that they're being discounted at several online retailers with prices dipping to as low as $200 during flash sales. 

Read more:   Best Wireless Earbuds for 2022

Apple AirPods Pro 2 design: Small changes

Let's start with the external design. This is one of those situations where Apple hasn't really done anything to change the size and shape of the buds or significantly alter their physical appearance. The original AirPods Pro were compact and lightweight and fit a lot of people's ears really well, so I can't fault that decision.

Some people were hoping for shorter stems and perhaps some new color options or even better water resistance -- yes, they're still IPX4 splash-proof. But I figured Apple would stick with its tried-and-true design and focus on making improvements to the areas that had the most room for improvement, such as sound quality, noise-canceling performance and battery life, which is now up to six hours from about four-and-a-half hours with noise canceling on and an extra four charges in the charging case (30 hours total). Those numbers go up to seven hours and 35 hours total with the noise canceling off. A quick five-minute charge gives you about an hour's worth of battery life.

The upgraded skin-detection sensor on the new AirPods Pro 2 (left) is smaller than the same sensor on the original AirPods Pro (right). Also, the noise-canceling microphone has now been separated from the skin sensor and moved to the top of the bud.

There are some small but noteworthy changes to the design, particularly to the microphones placement. On the original AirPods Pro, the skin-detection sensor and noise-canceling microphone were combined on the inside of the bud. Now, they're separated with the skin-detection sensor in the same spot, but the noise-canceling microphone has been moved to the top of the bud where it's exposed to the outside world and better at picking up and processing ambient sound. The microphone configuration is similar to what you see on the AirPods 3, but the skin-detection sensor is smaller, and Apple says it's improved that sensor so it more accurately turns on and off playback and is more energy efficient. 

I should also mention that Apple now includes a fourth set of extra small ear tips, which should help those of you with really small ear canals who had trouble getting a secure fit with the originals.

But this isn't like the AirPods 3 , where Apple made big changes to the earbuds' external design. As far as I can tell, these fit my ears the same as the originals. I personally would like Apple to include a new extra-large ear tip, but I do get a relatively good seal with the largest size that's included. (I am able to pass the seal test in the Ear Tip Fit test that's part of the AirPods Pro's Ear Tip companion app, but I do have to sometimes adjust how the buds sit in my ears to pass the test.) I could probably do just a little better with an XL tip, and I sometimes use third-party foam tips to get a more secure fit. They have a little more grip, and that helps keep the buds very securely in my ears, particularly when I'm running with them.

The AirPods Pro 2 are IPX4 splash-proof like the originals. 

Upgraded Apple AirPods Pro 2 wireless charging case

The new MagSafe-enabled wireless charging case is the same size but now has a built-in speaker and Apple's U1 chip, which allows it to play sounds for use with Apple's precision Find My feature (the case essentially has an Apple AirTag built into it). Previously, the buds could play a sound through their drivers, but often they were in the case, so you couldn't hear that sound. Now, you can use Find My to locate the case or the left or right earbuds separately should one or all of them go missing (the buds use Bluetooth Low Energy or BLE for tracking). The case also now has a spot for attaching a lanyard, but sadly, Apple doesn't include a lanyard with the buds.

The new wireless charging case still charges via Lighting but adds a speaker and a spot to attach a lanyard.

It's worth noting that you can't charge the original AirPods Pro in the AirPods Pro 2's cases and vice versa. If you try that, you'll get a "mismatched AirPods" notification on your phone.

While Apple has retained the pinch controls on the stems, which I preferred to the touch controls on the original AirPods, it's now added swipe controls on the stem for adjusting the volume. You can still ask Siri to raise and lower volume -- these do have hands-free Siri -- but a lot of people will appreciate the new swipe controls.

That's really it as far as external design changes go and most of them are tied into some feature or performance enhancement.

Read more:  Best Noise-Canceling True Wireless Earbuds for 2022

New Apple AirPods Pro 2 drivers and internal components

As I said in my initial first look video, the real changes are on the inside, where everything is basically new. The AirPods Pro 2 are powered by Apple's new H2 chip, which delivers more processing power while being more energy efficient. To get better sound, Apple has combined that chip with a new amplifier and new low-distortion drivers along with new digital processing algorithms. The H2, new microphones and algorithms are also what drive the improved adaptive active noise canceling that Apple says is twice as powerful as its predecessor's noise canceling. And finally, there's a new Adaptive Transparency Mode that allows you to hear the world around you in a natural, lifelike manner while reducing loud noises that might normally shock your ears. It's a great transparency mode and you can turn the adaptive part off if you want. 

Some people wanted shorter stems.

Apple AirPods Pro 2 sound evaluation

You can definitely hear the improvements to both the noise canceling and sound. As for sound, you get better clarity, more bass punch with better definition, and just more all-around depth and dynamic sound. The sound just has a little more girth and dimensionality. I compared a few tracks I always use during testing, like Spoon's Knock Knock Knock, and you can really notice a difference in the bass performance. The earbuds use Adaptive EQ, which uses an inward-facing microphone to monitor the sound going into your ears, and the H2 chip, which optimizes the audio that you're listening to on the fly (there are no manual EQ settings). The chip's increased computational power helps it process and optimize a wider range of frequencies, particularly the highs.

One of the more impressive things about the buds is how loud they play. For me, I found they played plenty loud at about 65% to 70% volume. I compared them to the new Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 2 . The AirPods Pro 2 sound excellent, but there's something about the tonal balance of the Bose that I liked a little better at times -- there's a bit more warmth and naturalness to it -- and the bass has a bit more oomph. But I had to push the volume up to about 85% to hear some of the finer details and to get the extra bass kick on the Bose. With the AirPods Pro 2 you hear more detail and get good bass even at more moderate volumes.

Some people were hoping that the new AirPods Pro would be able to stream Apple Lossless tracks over wireless. They currently can't do that, which will certainly disappoint some people. Whether they'll be able to do that in the future and possibly get other new feature upgrades is anybody's guess. But for now, they use Bluetooth 5.3 and support the AAC LC3 audio codec, which offers 16-bit 48 kilohertz bit rates compared with the 16-bit 24 kilohertz bit rates of AAC. Not high-resolution audio, but a little bump up.

Samsung's Galaxy Buds 2 Pro support 24-bit high-resolution audio. The catch is to get that 24-bit audio you need a Galaxy device equipped with Samsung's One UI 4.0 and a  music streaming service  like Qobuz, Tidal or Amazon Music that streams high-res audio tracks. On all other devices, including Android phones and iPhones, those buds default to the AAC audio codec.

Apple AirPods Pro 2 noise canceling testing

The active noise canceling is impacted by how tight a seal you get from the ear tips. If you lose that tight seal, some ambient sound may leak in and you may hit the rare ANC hiccup as the AI shifts gears for a fraction of second to make adjustments (this is a phenomenon with all adaptive noise-canceling earbuds). But it was easy to sense that the noise canceling was reducing more cabin noise during a cross-country flight I took and also muffled more sound when I rode the subway in New York. The buds also have just enough venting to avoid that oppressive occluded feeling you sometimes get with ANC buds.

The noise canceling didn't feel twice as strong to me as I switched between the AirPods Pro 2 and the original AirPods Pro, but by double the noise canceling power what Apple means is that noise canceling is improved across all frequencies and probably more so with high- and mid-range frequencies that are harder to muffle than lower frequencies. So you're likely to hear more improvement with the muffling of people's voices, for example.

The AirPods Pro 2 in their charging case.

Ultimately, the noise canceling is one of the best out there right now and just a slight step behind what I experienced with Bose's new QuietComfort Earbuds 2, which arguably have the best noise canceling at this moment. But I'll say it again, the noise-canceling experience can and will vary with the fit of the earbuds, so hopefully, you get a good fit.

If you happen to own an Apple Watch, you can fire up the Noise app -- or complication, as Apple calls it -- to get a readout of the exact decibel levels the AirPods Pro 2 are reducing with their noise canceling (you just need to have a Watch running WatchOS 9). It'd be nice if you could just see that same dB level check on your iPhone.

Apple AirPods Pro 2 Spatial Audio

I'm not going to talk too much about Apple's Spatial Audio virtual surround mode, but it's here and fun to play around with -- it's a nice bonus feature, and Apple seems to do it best compared with other buds that have their own virtual surround or spatial mode with head-tracking (for example, Samsung's Galaxy Buds 2 Pro  use 360 Audio ). I prefer using Spatial Audio with movies, but I also tried it with various music tracks, particularly those that Apple designates as Made For Spatial Audio. It doesn't necessarily make music sound better, but it does make it sound different, and it's interesting to try it out with tracks you know well and want to hear in a different way.

iOS 16 brings Personalized Spatial audio to any AirPods that support Spatial Audio. Similar to what you do when setting up Face ID, the personalized experience comes from taking pictures of your ears, and the biggest benefit is the more accurate placement of dialogue directly in front of you when you're watching a movie. That placement doesn't move even if you turn your head if you have head-tracking turned on (you can also use Spatial Audio in "fixed" setting).

Apple AirPods Pro 2 voice-calling performance

The original AirPods Pro were mostly excellent for making voice calls and these are even slightly better. As I said, the microphones have been upgraded, and there are two beamforming microphones for calls -- one on the outside of the bud and one at the bottom of the stem, both of which have some mesh covering them to help reduce wind noise. When you're using the buds to make a FaceTime call over Wi-Fi instead of a call over a cellular voice network where the audio gets compressed, people may be able to notice a bigger difference in the clarity of your voice compared with what they would hear with the original AirPods Pro. (You can listen to a test call on the Verizon cellular network in my companion video review, at the top of this page.)

The one thing I noticed when comparing the AirPods Pro 2's voice calling with that of the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 2 is that when you're having a conversation, the AirPods Pro 2 let more background noise in, but your voice sounds clearer to callers. When you're not talking, the Bose earbuds completely silence the background noise -- it only bleeds in a bit when you start talking. The AirPods Pro 2 don't try to silence the background noise; they just reduce it to lower levels. There's something quite impressive about the Bose almost completely silencing the background noise, but the overall experience for callers (the people you're talking to) seems to be better with the AirPods Pro 2, because your voice does sound clearer and they can hear you well over the reduced background noise. 

I made calls with noise canceling on as well calls with the adaptive transparency on. People you're talking with can't hear a difference, but there will be a big difference on your end, particularly if you're in a noisy environment, where you'll want to turn the noise canceling on (there's just enough sidetone to hear your voice in the buds with noise canceling on). In less noisy environments, it's better to turn transparency on because you can hear your voice as it sounds and you won't talk too loud. And the transparency does make you feel as if you're not wearing headphones, though you may still feel them in your ears.

You can use one bud independently -- with noise canceling on if you want -- and leave the other in the case to charge. It doesn't matter which one you use when making calls; with the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds it appears that you can only use the right bud for calls if you want to use only a single bud.

Apple AirPods Pro 2 buried features

I've spent most of this review focusing on the AirPods Pro 2's top-level features and the things that people care about most, such as sound quality, noise-canceling and voice-calling performance. But the AirPods Pro do have a number of extra features and settings buried within iOS 16 under the Accessibility setting that allow you to tweak the buds, play masking sounds and even create a custom audiogram. And for those who have slight to moderate hearing loss, there's a Conversation Boost that turn the buds into hearing amplifiers.

These features aren't unique to the AirPods Pro 2 -- they're available for all the latest AirPods. But they're worth exploring, and I suspect we'll see more features added in the future. For instance, there was some chatter about new health features coming to the AirPods Pro 2. Those haven't materialized, but you never know what could get added. For example, Spatial Audio didn't come to the AirPods Pro until well after their initial release, and Apple never even hinted at when it originally launched the headphones. 

Another nice little bonus: In addition to charging via Lightning, MagSafe or standard Qi wireless pads, the AirPods Pro 2 can even be juiced up with an Apple Watch magnetic charger. 

Apple AirPods Pro 2 compared to other top earbuds

As I said at the beginning, it's hard to put an exact number on just how much better the new AirPods Pro 2 are than their predecessor. But I'm going to go with somewhere around 40%.

The fact is that when the AirPods Pro came out almost three years ago, it was really their compact size, comfortable fit and Apple-only features like auto switching between all the devices on your iCloud account that were their big selling points. That's all here still, but now the sound and noise canceling, which were good but not great before, are what you'd expect from a $249 set of buds.

Audio quality is subjective, and some people may slightly prefer the sonic traits of buds like the Bose I mentioned earlier or the Sony WF-1000XM4 or Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 , all of which have equalizer options in their companion apps. But others may actually prefer the AirPods Pro 2's sound; it really does stack up well against what you get with other premium earbuds in this price range.

Final take on Apple AirPods Pro 2

While the AirPods Pro 2 will pair with Android devices, you do lose a lot of their special features, including Spatial Audio, so Android users are better off with buds like Google's very good Pixel Buds Pro , Samsung's excellent Galaxy Buds 2 Pro or the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 2 that I mentioned earlier. And you may find that other buds like the Bose or even Apple's own Beats Fit Pro, which don't sound quite as good or offer as good noise canceling or voice calling performance, may fit your ears more securely, which is an important factor when buying wireless earbuds.

I'm among those who wish Apple had made the AirPods Pro 2 look a little different than the originals. (I really do want them to come in more color options.) But if you're an Apple user, they're hard to beat so long as they fit your ears. While they may not quite be perfect, they feel like a much more fully evolved, refined product that packs not only an impressive set of features but top-notch performance in a very small design.

Editors' note: This review was originally published on Sept. 22, 2022 and updated in December to reaffirm our continued positive experience with the headphones and add an Editors' Choice designation.

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Apple AirPods Pro 2 review: Best noise-canceling and spatial audio for iOS

The airpods pro 2 offer great noise cancelation and impressive spatial audio.

Tom's Guide Verdict

Apple has delivered a substantial upgrade with the AirPods Pro 2. They amp up many of the features we loved about the original, and while they’re not perfect, they offer some of the best noise cancelation and spatial audio of any pair of earbuds available.

World-class noise cancelation

Volume controls right on the stem

Dolby Atmos spatial audio

Improved battery life

Audio performance needs finessing

Lackluster call quality

Lanyard costs extra

Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.

• Price & availability
• Siri features
• Adaptive noise cancelation
• Transparency mode
• Sound quality
• Battery life
• Call quality & connectivity

Recent updates

Update: Since my original review, Apple has updated the wireless charging case to a USB-C port, but there have been some additional changes too. To find out exactly what's changed read my AirPods Pro 2 (2023) vs. AirPods Pro 2 (2022) face-off . 

Price:  $249 / £229 / AU$399

Colors:  White

Battery life (rated):  6 hours; 30 hours (charging case)

Connectivity:  Bluetooth 5.3 (codec support: AAC)

Water resistance:  Yes (IPX4 rated)

Size:  1.22 x 0.86 x 0.94 inches (per bud); 1.78 x 2.39 x 0.85 inches (charging case)

Weight:  0.19 ounces (per bud); 1.8 ounces (charging case)

The AirPods Pro 2, officially called the AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) have taken everything we loved about the Apple's first noise-canceling earbuds to the next level. The AirPods Pro 2 promise 2x the noise canceling performance, and they deliver. In fact, Apple's noise-canceling tech inside the AirPods Pro 2 is among the best we’ve tested. So much so that they win the best noise-canceling headphone in the Tom's Guide Audio Awards 2023 . 

On the audio front, Apple has included a new custom amp and driver that delivers better lower and higher frequencies, and you can use the iPhone's TrueDepth camera to create a personalized spatial audio sound. You also get longer battery life and the charging case is improved with water resistance and a built-in microphone that helps you find it when it’s lost.

There are still some soft spots in terms of audio performance — the low-end and high-end of the audio spectrum, in particular — that some of its rivals like the newly launched Sony WF-1000XM5 don't have. These are still some of the best wireless earbuds around, and Apple's Adaptive Audio enhancements make them an even stronger rival to some of the very best noise-canceling earbuds I've tried.

For more on how the AirPods Pro 2 compare to the competition, check out our Beats Studio Buds vs. AirPods Pro 2 face-off, our AirPods Pro 2 vs. Sony WF-1000XM4 and our Sony WF-1000XM5 vs. AirPods Pro 2 comparisons.

Apple AirPods Pro 2 review: Price & availability

Apple's AirPods Pro 2 earbuds originally launched at $249 / £249 / AU$399, which is the same amount the original AirPods Pro launched at in 2019 — interestingly the arrival of the USB-C option saw the price drop to £229 in the U.K. They are available from the Apple Store at the full asking price, but they can also be regularly found discounted at online retailers including Amazon , Walmart and Best Buy .

The original AirPods Pro have been discontinued on the Apple Store, but can still be found on sale while stocks last with the best AirPods deals . 

In terms of the competition, that’s slightly less than the going rate for a pair of flagship noise-canceling earbuds. The Sony WF-1000XM5 , a top contender for the best wireless earbuds, comes in at $299 while the newly launched Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds cost $299. That means you can get the AirPods Pro 2 for quite a bit less.

Sure, there are a number of great true wireless earbuds available for less than $200 — the OnePlus Buds 3 come to mind — but the AirPods Pro 2 are the strongest choice for iPhones.

AirPods Pro 2 review: Design

At first glance, it can be hard to tell the difference between the first-generation AirPods Pro and the new AirPods Pro ― but spend enough time with them and you'll have no problem telling them apart from one another. 

The key distinction between them are the built-in speaker on the case that you’ll see every time you look at the charging port and the new loop hook for a lanyard. These aren’t radical redesigns by any measure, but they did prevent me from picking up the wrong AirPods when I had the two pairs next to one another.

When holding the two earbuds, though, you won’t notice much of a difference in weight or size. The original AirPods Pro measure in at 1.2 x 0.9 x 0.9 inches while the new AirPods Pro 2 are 1.22 x 0.86 x 0.94 inches — basically, the numbers differ slightly but there’s no tangible difference.

In terms of weight, both the original AirPods Pro and the new AirPods Pro 2 are 0.19 ounces each. Put them in your ears and you won’t feel a difference.

The real change, of course, is going to be to the earbuds themselves and the hardware that’s inside of them. For the new AirPods Pro 2, Apple is using a new Skin-detect sensor instead of a proximity sensor to tell when the earbuds are on versus when you take them off that offers a significant improvement compared to the original AirPods and includes a smaller pair of eartips in the box to provide folks with smaller ears a better seal.

Having the right seal is absolutely crucial ― without it, you’re still going to hear a lot of outside noise and you’ll lose out on some of the bass response. Thankfully, you can test the fit at any time using the Test My Fit option in the AirPods Pro settings.

Inside the earbuds are two new key design details: the cutting-edge H2 Wireless Chip and the custom amplifier that powers the re-tuned drivers. We’ll get into how these factor into performance later in the review, but we couldn’t end the design section without at least mentioning their existence in the earbuds.

Overall, while the design isn’t a major departure from the original AirPods Pro ― there are a number of subtle exterior and substantive interior improvements that set the two apart.

Apple AirPods Pro 2 review: Comfort

Here it is, the one of the big reasons you should upgrade to the AirPods Pro 2 if you’re still using a first- or second-generation pair of standard AirPods — these are wildly comfortable by comparison.

They’re more comfortable because the AirPods Pro 2 continues to use the soft silicon tips of its predecessor rather than the plastic shell design used on the original AirPods. The difference is that the silicon tips gently conform to the ear canal rather than force it to open wider for the hard plastic casing. In practice that means you can wear the earbuds a lot longer without having to take them out — allowing for all-day wear without issues. (You can also read about how this writer tried foam ear tips with his AirPods Pro 2 and they made a big difference ).

As mentioned earlier, you definitely want to get the fitting right, so take your time with the included ear tips to make sure that you’re getting the best seal. They may not feel quite as secure in your ear when you’re doing more intense athletic activities — we certainly wouldn’t wear them while playing sports, for example — however they are safe to be taken to the gym and are among some of the best running earbuds and best workout headphones . We also tried running with the AirPods Pro 2 to see how they'd hold up.

Overall, these are still in-ear earbuds and they’re going to feel uncomfortable after a few hours of use. Ears simply weren’t meant to have something blocking them for hours a day. As far as in-ear headphones are concerned, however, these are more comfortable than others.

Apple AirPods Pro 2 review: Setup

If you’re using an iOS device, setup is seamless. Truly all it takes is holding the AirPods near your iOS device and you’ll see a prompt on the screen asking if you want to pair them. If you’ve owned a pair of Apple earbuds before, you know the drill.

What’s new this time around is that the image of the earbuds displayed on your phone will match the exact earbuds in your hands — which means, if you’ve paid extra for an emoji engraving, that too will appear on the phone when you go to pair it.

Once paired, the AirPods will then ask if you want to try personalized spatial audio. To get the proper measurements, the earbuds will play music with varying levels of height to see which one sounds the most 3D to your ears. It’s similar in a lot of ways to a test at the eye doctor when they ask whether image one or image two looks clearer. It might not be 100% accurate, but it does help to make the experience better overall and we absolutely recommend doing the 20-second test upon setup.

If you want more customization options, those can be found in the AirPods settings that can be found in the Settings app on your iOS device. Instead of burying the menus deep inside the Bluetooth connections setting, it’s right up near the top of the Settings app and easy to find. Inside you’ll find options to rename the AirPods, switch the noise control from Transparency Mode to Noise Cancelation and different options for the controls if you don’t like the default settings. This is also the place you’ll be able to re-enable the personalized spatial audio setting if you turned it down at setup.

There’s not a lot that’s changed here, admittedly, but the few bits and pieces that have changed are smart decisions.

Apple AirPods Pro 2 review: Controls

One problem the original AirPods Pro had that wasn’t talked about often was the inability to change the volume on the earbuds. If you wanted to change the volume, you’d either have to ask Siri nicely or pull your phone out of your pocket to change it yourself. 

That’s not an issue with the AirPods Pro 2 that have improved touch controls that support swiping up and down on the stems to raise or lower the volume. Beyond the volume controls, you can tap the earbuds once to play or pause music, skip or rewind tracks with two or three taps, respectively, and hold to toggle active noise cancelation.

These controls will work regardless of whether you’re on iOS or Android, but if you want to control the earbuds with Siri, you’re going to need to stick with iOS.

Apple AirPods Pro 2 review: Siri features

Here’s where the H2 chip really shines. Being able to use hands-free Siri is great — as is getting notifications read to you when they come in. With the help of the AirPods Pro 2, Siri actually feels like a smart assistant rather than a glorified food timer.

As far as outright new features are concerned, there aren’t many here. Everything you could use Siri for with the original AirPods Pro is available on the AirPods Pro 2 and vice versa. The small difference here being that the earbuds now have more precise tracking when you enable the Find My… option in the AirPods settings.

Apple AirPods Pro 2 review: Adaptive noise cancelation

Although the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds and Sony WF-1000XM5 both outperform the AirPods Pro 2 in terms of the best noise-canceling wireless earbuds, the AirPods Pro 2 are remarkably effective. 

When it’s active with music playing at a medium volume the noise cancelation can overcome what I feel is 95% of household and office noise. You won’t be able to hear a person sitting next to you, even if you’re looking at them, and the dull hum of the office will fade into nothing. 

That being said, when you just have them on without any music playing, some sound is going to slip through and you might even hear the small hiss of the earbuds trying to cancel out small amounts of ambient noise. 

In terms of improvements, Apple says the AirPods Pro 2 cancel out twice the amount of noise as their predecessors — admittedly tough data to corroborate — but there is a noticeable difference between the two. That said, we feel the noise cancelation is at least as good as other market-leading earbuds like the older Sony WF-1000XM4 , and easily sit within the top wireless earbuds of all-time when it comes to sheer noise-cancelation.

Apple AirPods Pro 2 review: Transparency mode

Transparency mode is the polar opposite of active noise cancelation — instead of keeping noise out, it amplifies ambient noise — and it does a darn good job of it. 

To activate it, you can either take one earbud out and leave a single earbud in, or press and hold either of the stems to change from active noise cancelation to Transparency Mode.

So, why would you want Transparency Mode on in the first place? Well, imagine you’re on a plane and you’re asked what you’d like to drink. Instead of taking out the earbuds, you can keep them in, turn on Transparency Mode and carry on with a regular conversation. You can also have it turned on when you’re running to hear traffic, or in an office if you want to stay tuned in to what everyone else is saying.

Apple AirPods Pro 2 review: Sound quality

Look, the AirPods Pro 2 aren’t ever going to replace my open-back Sennheiser headphones that I use for critical-listening — but they do articulate some really nice details that you wouldn’t be able to hear as clearly with other earbuds. For example, you might’ve noticed that the introduction to "Hurt" by Nine Inch Nails (and famously covered later by Johnny Cash) had some dissonance at the beginning of the song, but you’ll really hear how powerful that clashing sound is with the new AirPods Pro.

Speaking of powerful, we have to hand it to Apple on the way the new earbuds convey Dolby Atmos spatial audio. Compared to the competition, the AirPods are miles ahead with spatial audio technology and music simply transforms into a three-dimensional experience with these earbuds in. Albums mixed in Atmos — like Natural Brown Prom Queen — feel all-encompassing. There’s no edge to the soundstage but rather it extends all around you.

That’s not to say that the imaging — where the instruments are positioned in the mix — is perfect, nor are all instruments perfectly represented in the earbuds. The higher frequencies can, at first, feel a bit fatiguing compared to other headphones (just try any Ozzy Osbourne song if you don’t believe me) and the low-end could still be a bit richer. Depending on what kind of music you listen to that shouldn’t be a deal-breaker, but it might make some of your favorite songs — including one of my own favorites "Dark Necessities" by Red Hot Chili Peppers — feel a bit light when it comes to the low-end.

Listening to the same song on both pair of earbuds — the original AirPods Pro and the AirPods Pro 2 — you can hear a slight uptick in the bass response, but it’s not so substantial that it’s worth ditching the older generation just for the new amp and driver.

The other feature we take umbrage with is the lack of true lossless support. Apple has updated every song in Apple Music to stream in lossless quality — but that support ends when you put on a pair of earbuds and the data is transmitted wirelessly. Because some form of compression will always be needed to send data over Bluetooth we weren’t expecting a completely new codec here but it does hurt to be paying for a service that we can’t fully appreciate with Apple’s own true wireless earbuds.

Apple AirPods Pro 2 review: Battery life

While true lossless audio support didn’t make the cut for the list of improvements, improved battery life certainly did. Now, instead of 24 hours of charge in the case, you’re looking at 30 hours, and the earbuds last six hours on a single charge instead of four. 

In our testing, we were able to verify those numbers — though we landed a little closer to five hours per charge and 26 hours with the case. Those numbers are likely to change as the earbuds get more use over the coming months, so take the out-of-the-box numbers with a grain of salt. 

What we found a bit strange about the earbuds is that they only glow amber when charging temporarily. The LED on the case will glow for about 15 seconds, then shut off. That made us worried that the AirPods weren’t charging at all. We left them on the charger for two hours — and, lo and behold, we returned to them fully charged.

One of Apple’s big announcements is that the redesigned MagSafe‌ Charging Case can now be charged by an Apple Watch charger and will make a noise when it starts charging. It’s a subtle tweak and we’d rather have a fully glowing amber LED for the duration of charging, but that’s a personal preference rather than some fault with the AirPods themselves.

Apple AirPods Pro 2 review: Call quality & connectivity

Call quality is an area where we were hoping to see some improvement, but we didn’t find much: calls made with the AirPods Pro 2 always sounded a bit muffled compared to a call on speakerphone. Unfortunately, that meant people still preferred us using the phone’s built-in speaker rather than the AirPods — and, after listening to a voicemail recorded with the AirPods — we don’t blame them.

The reason we’re not seeing much of a change — if any — is because Apple hasn’t done much to the microphone array inside the earbuds themselves. Yes, the H2 chip may be able to do a bit of audio processing to eliminate more background noise but, as far as actual vocal clarity is concerned, the AirPods are limited by the microphones. 

That’s not to say that the AirPods have the worst call quality of any earbuds we’ve tried — they don’t — it’s just that the call quality is relatively lackluster for what is otherwise a very premium product.

Apple AirPods Pro 2 review: Verdict

They’re not worth tossing away a perfectly good pair of original AirPods Pro for, but the AirPods Pro 2 are absolutely worth it for first-time buyers and folks in need of a replacement. These are nearly perfect true wireless earbuds — with a few minor issues that prevent them from scoring the highest mark we can give out. For new iPhone 14 owners looking for a more tailored listening experience, these are the pinnacle of Apple technology.

How we test

With more than 30 years experience in testing and reviewing consumer audio products for all kinds of media outlets and big-name brands around the world, the Tom's Guide audio team follows a rigorous test regime when it comes to reviewing each and every product and determining the best products to review for recommendation in our buying guides.

We evaluate earbuds based on a five-point system (1 = worst, 5 = best). If a product hits nearly every mark, it’s awarded a coveted Recommended badge, while our Best Value award speaks for itself. Only products with truly exceptional performance across the board are awarded an Editor's Choice badge.

For more information, check out our  how  we test page  for Tom's Guide.

More from Tom's Guide

• AirPods Pro 2 (2023) vs. AirPods Pro 2 (2022)
• I just tried the new AirPods Pro 2 adaptive audio features — here's what happened
• Do the new AirPods Pro 2 sound better?

Nick Pino heads up the TV and AV verticals at Tom's Guide and covers everything from OLED TVs to the latest wireless headphones. He was formerly the Senior Editor, TV and AV at TechRadar (Tom's Guide's sister site) and has previously written for GamesRadar, Official Xbox Magazine, PC Gamer and other outlets over the last decade. Not sure which TV you should buy? Drop him an email or tweet him on Twitter and he can help you out.

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Apple Airpods Pro 2

• Added by rev92
• Create date Oct 2, 2022
• Tags 2 gen airpods airpods pro airpods pro 2 apple pro

100+ Head-Fier

• 4.00 star(s)
• Dec 26, 2022

CasualListener000

New head-fier.

• Oct 19, 2022

Beware of the breaking-in of Airpods Pro 2

It's not a full review. I just want to raise the awareness of this issue. I suspect Airpods Pro (gen 1/2) have a very short breaking-in period. I haven't seen anyone talk about it. I own three pairs of AirPods Pros. Two 1st gen and one 2nd gen. I bought my second pair of AirPods Pro when my first pair starts to make rattling noise. To my surprise, aside of the rattling issue, the new pair sound very different. Its tone and timbre are as neutral as it gets. Surprisingly, it turned quite a bit brighter and colder by the end of the day. It started to sound just like my old pair. I am pretty sure it's not my ears getting fatigue to high frequencies between I didn't compared them to my memories. I did side-by-side comparisons between old and new pairs when the new pairs were just opened and after some time. Then the Airpods Pro 2 came out. The same thing happened again. Brand new pairs sounded neutral and then turned brighter. It baffles me because AirPods Pros have internal mics that adjust sound signature towards neutral. To AirPods Pro gen 1/2 owners, have you noticed your AirPods Pro sound different from brand new pairs?

Maybe the DSP feature inside APP acts up? You know, the one that auto EQ to your ears or something. I didn’t notice anything with my APP1.

Thanks for the feedback.

Reviewer at Ear Fidelity

• 5.00 star(s)
• Oct 2, 2022

Introduction​

Packaging and Fit​

Design, Build and Tech​

ANC + Transparency Mode​

Apple Ecosystem​

Sound​

Comparisons​

Summary​

@rev92 I tried memory foam tips in other IEMs but didn't like, comply is different? Is adjustment/cutting needed? The eartip system seems quite unique.

This review should be on the sales page

my main gripe is they feel scratchy in my ear. Now I read you shouldn't push them in as far as they go, and that helps a little... was looking at silicone skins on Amazon, but people said they are cheap and break easily... ordered some high-end tips though and will see if they help.

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Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) vs Apple AirPods Pro (1st generation)

Published on August 21, 2023

Apple has made a habit of putting out new versions of the standard AirPods fairly regularly, but the Apple AirPods Pro has stayed remarkably the same for a few years. Now the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) is here, boasting new tech in the charging case and apparent improvements across the board, all for the same price. The AirPods Pro (1st generation) has been a reliable active noise canceling (ANC) mainstay for a while, though. How big of a step up are we really looking at between the two AirPods Pro?

Editor’s note: this post was published on August 16, 2023 to note new alternative models.

What’s it like to use the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) compared to the Apple AirPods Pro (1st generation)?

Using the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) is a lot like using the Apple AirPods Pro (1st generation), which is to say, buttery smooth on an iPhone. The earbuds themselves look almost identical, and they feel the same to use too. Both maintain the now iconic stemmed design, all-white color scheme, and control layout. They both retain the silicone ear tips which sets them apart from other AirPods models, and makes them fit far more securely in your ear. However, the stemmed design still may catch on masks and longer hair if that’s something you struggle with.

Both the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) and the AirPods Pro (1st generation) feature an IPX4 rating for the earbuds, which means they’re protected from splashes of water and sweat. However, the 2nd generation model also expands that rating to cover the case too, so you won’t have to worry about pulling it out in the rain.

While the two AirPods Pro models seem very similar, and indeed they are, the 2nd generation model makes some changes under the hood with an upgraded H2 chip in the earbuds and a U1 chip in the charging case. The H2 chip offers improvements in the same areas as the previous AirPods Pro H1 chip , only more so — things like battery life, noise canceling, transparency mode, and connection stability are all improved. The U1 chip brings better location services to the charging case — it’s now precisely findable with the Find My iOS app, and sports a little speaker to emit a sound that makes finding it even easier.

Basically the new AirPods Pro is just as easy to use, and far harder to lose. Oh, and it comes with one more pair of ear tips (sizes XS-L).

How do you control the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) and Apple AirPods Pro (1st generation)?

The controls for the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) build on what was offered for the AirPods Pro (1st generation). It also features pressure-sensitive stems, but now also supports swiping movements for adjusting playback volume.

AirPods Pro (2nd gen) controls:

The AirPods Pro (1st generation) still offers a decent range of control, but the lack of swiping means no volume controls.

AirPods Pro (1st gen) controls:

Both generations of AirPods Pro of course also support hands-free controls using Siri, and in fact it’s the only way to adjust the volume with the older model without pulling your phone out of your pocket. If you happen to use one of these with a non-Apple device, only the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) will have an on-board option for volume control.

What app supports the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) and Apple AirPods Pro (1st generation)?

Both generations of AirPods Pro use the iOS Settings app for their primary software features — there’s nothing extra to download, and just opening the charging case near your phone will get start the process of getting the earbuds hooked up (something made possible by the H2 and H1 chips of the respective earbuds). The two models share most of their software features, with useful inclusions like an ear tip fit test, and the ability to customize some of the on-ear controls. They both gain access to personalized Spatial Audio and the Spatialize Stereo feature, which can turn digitally stereo mixes to surround sound (to varying degrees of success).

The earbuds also support the Apple Find My app , which is meant to help track down your Apple devices when you misplace them, but AirPods Pro (1st generation) doesn’t include the case in its support. The lack of a U1 chip means if you lose it, you’re just out of luck, unlike the newest version.

While you can connect either set of AirPods Pro to an Android device, you won’t have access to any customization or firmware updates.

How do the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) and Apple AirPods Pro (1st generation) connect?

The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) and Apple AirPods Pro (1st generation) both support Bluetooth connections and use the default SBC and AAC audio codecs . This makes sense, as AAC is the standard for Apple products and brings lower latency connections — it’s also the only non-SBC codec that works for them. However, while original AirPods Pro uses Bluetooth 5.0, the Apple AirPods pro (2nd generation) uses Bluetooth 5.3, which makes for more stable connections and better power efficiency. It also means the new AirPods Pro may one day support the Bluetooth LE Audio — who knows when that’s coming out though.

Is battery life better on the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) or Apple AirPods Pro (1st generation)?

The Apple AirPods Pro (1st generation) was never a showstopper when it came to battery life. In our testing of real music playback, peaking at 75dB(SPL), the older model lasted 4 hours, 20 minutes on a single charge with ANC on. This is pretty much middle of the pack when it comes to true wireless earbuds — not a great place to start given the rate at which AirPods batteries deteriorate.

The AirPods Pro (2nd generation) sports the H2 chip, which is supposed to help expand battery life. In our testing, the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) lasted 5 hours, 43 minutes on a single charge with ANC turned on, a worthy improvement. Though it’s not going to significantly impact the environmental reality of constantly charging tiny lithium batteries.

Both AirPods Pro cases can fast charge the earhones: 5 minutes of charging yields 60 minutes of playtime. With either case, you get an additional 24 hours of playtime with ANC on.

Does the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) block noise better than the Apple AirPods (1st generation)?

Here’s where that H2 chip really starts to show off. The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) features consistently improved ANC over the Apple AirPods Pro (1st generation).

The previous generation model is still plenty capable, and at some frequencies features superior isolation in the very high range, but that’s not enough to counterbalance roughly 5-10dB improvement from the low end through the mid range. The newer AirPods Pro will do a much better job with the kinds of sounds ANC is built to handle — things like the rumble of a car engine, or the din of a crowded cafe. ANC performance like this isn’t just nice for quieting the distractions, it will also help you keep the volume below levels that will cause noise-induced hearing loss .

Does the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) sound better than the Apple AirPods Pro (1st generation)?

Both models of AirPods Pro sound great, with frequency responses that stick very closely to our in-house curve . In our testing , there are mostly small differences between the two, except in the low end, where the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) is a little louder than our target up to around 200Hz. Conversely the AirPods Pro (1st generation) undershoots it in the same stretch of the frequency spectrum quite a bit. This means sub-bass sounds will sound a lot louder coming out of the AirPods Pro (2nd generation), but otherwise the spread between the new model and the old is less than 5dB in most places, and the difference between either and our target is even smaller than that.

Basically, the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) may sound a little nicer to you if you’re accustomed to audio products that have a little extra bass. However, the difference is small enough that you may not notice a difference very often. If you listen to music with a lot of sub-bass content , the new AirPods Pro will definitely have a little more oomph.

Does the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) or AirPods Pro (1st generation) have a better microphone?

Both models of Apple AirPods Pro have decent microphones for a pair of true wireless earbuds, and for the most part sound pretty similar. The AirPods Pro (2nd generation) is a little louder, and sounds just a tiny bit clearer, in ideal conditions. The newer model also rejects external noise a little better, though neither do all that well in this regard. Excessive noise like what’s on display in our Office test conditions can cause voices to drop out for a moment. If you’re looking for a pair of earbuds for Zoom calls while working from home, either of these should sound totally fine, though.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

Apple airpods pro (1st generation) microphone demo (ideal conditions):, apple airpods pro (2nd generation) microphone demo (office conditions):, apple airpods pro (1st generation) microphone demo (office conditions):, which microphone sounds best to you, should you get the apple airpods pro (2nd generation) or apple airpods pro (1st generation).

This shouldn’t come as much surprise, but if you’ve got the option of getting one or the other, it’s pretty obvious that the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) is the better buy . It’s the same price as its predecessor, it has slightly better battery life, and better noise canceling. The inclusion of the U1 chip in the charging case makes it harder to lose, which is no doubt attractive to anyone who’s ever felt nervous spending hundreds of dollars on a piece of tech smaller than their wallet.

However, while it’s pretty clear-cut whether you should opt for the new generation AirPods Pro over the old one, it’s not so easy to decide if it’s worth the upgrade. If you’ve already got the AirPods Pro (1st generation), you’re looking at $250 USD for a notable ANC increase, about 40 minutes longer battery life, and a charging case that’s harder to lose. The sound differences are pretty minimal, the software differences are non-existent, and the wireless charging options are almost the same (especially if you don’t have an Apple Watch). That’s a lot of money for a pretty marginal update, especially when you can find the first-gen AirPods Pro for less than $200 USD .

You sure can! We’ve assembled the quick hits for all of them in this handy table!

What should you get instead of the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) and Apple AirPods Pro (1st generation)?

If you’re an Android user , you shouldn’t get the Apple AirPods Pro (1st generation) or Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) — you lose out on all the benefits of the H2 (or H1) and U1 chips, and you won’t even be able to adjust volume with on-ear controls with the older model. Instead, look for something like the Sony WF-1000XM5 — it’s a little more expensive than the AirPods Pro, but it’s got pretty much the best noise canceling (and passive isolation) on the market for a pair of true wireless earbuds, plus loads of software features like an ear tip fit test and Sony’s 360 Reality Audio — the Sony Headphones Connect app works the same on iOS and Android, too.

If you’re on the hunt for something a little cheaper than the AirPods Pro, check out the Beats Fit Pro . These colorful true wireless earbuds come with stabilizing ear wings, which runners will love , and sport good ANC and audio, all for $50 USD less. There’s the older H1 chip here, so you get personalized Spatial Audio and a lot of the same features as the AirPods Pro (2nd generation).

Frequently asked questions

You can find the AirPods Pro (1st gen) for $179 USD from retailers like Amazon and Best Buy . Interestingly though, the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) seems to be immediately replacing the first-gen in Apple storefronts. Apple doesn’t sell the first-gen model on its website anymore.

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Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) Wireless Ear Buds with USB-C Charging, Up to 2X More Active Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones, Transparency Mode, Adaptive Audio, Personalized Spatial Audio

Purchase options and add-ons, about this item.

• RICHER AUDIO EXPERIENCE — The Apple-designed H2 chip helps to create more intelligent noise cancellation and deeply immersive sound. The low-distortion, custom-built driver delivers crisp, clear high notes and full, rich bass in stunning definition.
• NEXT-LEVEL ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION — Up to 2x more Active Noise Cancellation for dramatically less noise when you want to focus. Transparency mode lets you hear the world around you, and Adaptive Audio seamlessly blends Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode for the best listening experience in any environment.
• CUSTOMIZABLE FIT — Includes four pairs of silicone tips (XS, S, M, L) to fit a wide range of ears and provide all-day comfort. The tips create an acoustic seal to help keep out noise and secure AirPods Pro in place.
• DUST, SWEAT, AND WATER RESISTANT — Both AirPods Pro and the MagSafe Charging Case are IP54 dust, sweat, and water resistant, so you can listen comfortably in more conditions.
• PERSONALIZED SPATIAL AUDIO — With sound that suits your unique ear shape along with dynamic head tracking, AirPods Pro deliver an immersive listening experience that places sound all around you. You can also listen to select songs, shows, and movies in Dolby Atmos.
• A HIGHER LEVEL OF CONTROL — Manage playback functions from the stem with touch control. Swipe up or down to adjust volume, press to play and pause music or mute and unmute yourself on calls, and press twice to end calls. And hold the stem to switch between listening modes.
• LONG BATTERY LIFE — Get up to 6 hours of listening time with Active Noise Cancellation enabled. And get up to 30 hours of total listening time with Active Noise Cancellation enabled, using the case.
• A MORE CAPABLE CASE — Keep track of AirPods Pro with Precision Finding and a built-in speaker. A lanyard loop helps keep your AirPods Pro close. Charge with an Apple Watch or MagSafe charger, USB-C charge cable, or Qi-certified charger.
• MAGICAL EXPERIENCE — Conversation Awareness intelligently switches AirPods Pro into Transparency mode and lowers your media volume — so it’s easier to interact with people nearby when you choose to. Summon Siri with a simple “Hey Siri” or just “Siri.” AirPods Pro connect to your devices in a tap, pause music when you take them out, and seamlessly switch to the device you’re using. You can even share a song or show between two sets of AirPods.
• LEGAL DISCLAIMERS — This is a summary of the main product features. See “Additional information” to learn more.

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Technical details, airpods pro (2nd generation), what's in the box.

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Customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the battery life, comfort, connectivity, and quality of the headphones. For example, they mention that it has a great battery life and that it fits comfortably in the ear. They are also satisfied with value, performance, and sound quality. That said, opinions are mixed on fit.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the sound quality of the headphones. They say the active noise cancelling completely muffles sounds as diverse as barking dogs, TVs, and a crackling fireplace. They also say the call quality is fantastic and they can hear on calls very well. The headphones adapt to their environment and can cancel surrounding loud noise to lower volume when they are. They appreciate the charging case with its own speaker to emit low tone notifications. Customers also mention that the headphones have different ear tip sizes and three drivers for bass, mids, treble.

"...by using AptX. None of that is here, but what Apple has done with sound is commendable . There is good separation between the highs, mids, and lows...." Read more

"...very well at recognizing your environment and adapting from canceling surrounding loud noise to lower volume when your are speaking with..." Read more

"...Along with the charging case having it's own speaker to emit low tone notifications (all customizable), such as the charging noise when you put your..." Read more

"...That being said, when they are dialed in- they sound fantastic . I like crisp high hats and good bass in my music and this gets it just right for me...." Read more

Customers like the quality of the headphones. For example, they mention it's as good as BOSE, amazing, fabulous, and produces the music well. They also say it'll fit their ears and ensure rich, immersive sound.

"...First, the case is, as always, the best in the business. It is tiny, solid , packs a great battery, and has the most satisfying magnetic click when..." Read more

"...call in a really noisy environment in a small package, still have great quality and minimal extras in my laptop bag." Read more

"...Air Pods Pro (v2) comes with four sets of silicone tips that are easily changed to fit your ear canal...." Read more

"...Its Apple. Deep bass, awesome sound quality, and Great ANC !..." Read more

Customers like the performance of the headphones. They mention that the noise cancellation mode works well, they are very good at everything, and are certainly usable. Some are impressed by the effective ANC, and the mic quality is excellent. They also appreciate the awesome features and comfort.

"...These buds might not be the best at much, but they are very good at everything . I can honestly say that these are the best buds on the market...." Read more

"...It works very well at recognizing your environment and adapting from canceling surrounding loud noise to lower volume when your are speaking with..." Read more

"...cancellation had a whole slew of new, different and fun features to personalize to your liking , plus Spatial Audio...." Read more

"...built in, for both the case and the airpods themselves, but it doesn't seem to work , and it's a well known problem, with several pages of threads on..." Read more

Customers like the value of the headphones. They say it's worth the price, an excellent combination of value and performance, and a premium choice for those who prioritize top-quality sound.

"...They performed better than I expected and well worth the price ." Read more

"... Worth every penny for audiophiles and casual listeners alike!" Read more

"...years (if you do not lose), from this point of view, the price seems more than adequate ...." Read more

"...I can recommend them from Amazon especially since they’re such a fantastic deal . I hope I’ve enlightened someone out there with my review...." Read more

Customers like the connectivity of the headphones. For example, they mention it works seamlessly with Apple devices, and pairs up quickly. Some say that they work great with Siri and that they play nice together.

"...is nice and small, fits in my pocket without any issues, and pairs up nice and quickly with all of my devices...." Read more

"...They are easily paired with your device by opening the case, holding close the device and following the instruction that pop up on the device...." Read more

"...I do find the conversational awareness feature is.. a little slow to recognize I’m talking or somebody’s else is...." Read more

"... They all play nice together . Love getting them on sale, sometimes frustrated by the complexity that does not seem logical to me...." Read more

Customers like the battery life of the headphones. They mention that it has an amazing battery, and the pods do not die as quickly or frequently. They also appreciate the fact that they can see the battery level of each bud as well as the charging case, and that it tells them what percentage the battery is.

"...It is tiny, solid, packs a great battery , and has the most satisfying magnetic click when closing. I love the spatial audio...." Read more

"...happy with the AirPods functionality, features, sound quality and battery life . I typically charge every couple of days at night...." Read more

"...and between the two, this case has the shortest battery life i've seen...." Read more

"... Battery life has been solid too...." Read more

Customers like the comfort of the headphones. For example, they mention that it feels well in their ears, and doesn't hurt their ears after long use. Some say the sound quality is amazing.

"...For my ears, and this is subjective for sure, these are all day comfortable ...." Read more

"...They are very comfortable and are part of the noise cancellation system...." Read more

"...ear tips ensure a perfect fit, and I can wear them for hours without any discomfort ...." Read more

"... They don’t hurt my ears after long use, even with the added pressure of ear protection...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the fit of the headphones. Some mention that they are a great fit and comfortable out of the box, while others say that they don't fit all the way in their ears and the earbuds fall out a bit.

"...First, the case is, as always, the best in the business. It is tiny , solid, packs a great battery, and has the most satisfying magnetic click when..." Read more

"...for not trying to go with a “one size fits all “ solution, none of the tips actually fit me all that well...." Read more

"...The case is nice and small , fits in my pocket without any issues, and pairs up nice and quickly with all of my devices...." Read more

"...Its Apple. Deep bass, awesome sound quality, and Great ANC! Comfortable fit out of thr box (for me) many different ear tip sizes, and speakers on..." Read more

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Apple Event Live Blog: New iPad Pro, iPad Air, and More

Apple's "Let Loose" event kicks off today at the unusual time of 7:00 a.m. Pacific Time, and we're expecting to see an iPad-focused event with new iPad Pro and iPad Air models, updated Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard accessories, and perhaps some other announcements.

Apple's online store was taken down approximately 30 minutes ahead of the event .

Sign up for our newsletter to keep up with Apple news and rumors.

Live blog transcript ahead...

Take note! I’m so excited for you to join us for today's #AppleEvent at 7am PT. Tune in here: https://t.co/OUTqAbFh1N — Tim Cook (@tim_cook) May 7, 2024

6:41 am : 20 minutes until showtime! This should be a relatively quick event, but grab a coffee and some snacks so you're ready to go.

6:53 am : The stream is live on apple.com, featuring animations of the Apple event logos being drawn.

7:02 am : The event is beginning with a long promotion of the Apple Vision Pro .

7:02 am : "These are just a few examples of the ways ‌Apple Vision Pro‌ is already making an impact in our customer's lives."

7:03 am : Now Tim is talking about the new 13- and 15-inch MacBook Air models with M3.

7:03 am : "Now, let's turn our attention to iPad ."

7:04 am : "In classrooms around the world. ‌iPad‌ is helping students and teachers bring their lessons and learning to life. From architects to engineers, ‌iPad‌ plays a critical role in helping them get their most important work done in entirely new ways, no matter where they are."

7:04 am : "And we have some huge updates across the lineup."

7:04 am : Starting with ‌iPad Air‌.

7:04 am : "Designed to make features pioneered on ‌iPad Pro‌ at a more affordable price."

7:05 am : They're focusing on the different types of users who use ‌iPad‌, from students to creators to small business owners, plus consumers. John is on a subway train giving the presentation, emphasizing the on-the-go abilities of the tablet. Now, a new ‌iPad Air‌!

7:06 am : Now we zoom to a library. A redesigned 11-inch Air, plus an all-new 13-inch Air.

7:06 am : Liquid Retina display, 11-inch is perfect for some users, but others would prefer a larger screen. Inspired by ‌iPad Pro‌, where half of users choose a larger screen, we created a new 13-inch model.

7:07 am : Front-facing camera moved to the landscape edge.

7:07 am : Perfect for joining a video conference while using a Magic Keyboard.

7:07 am : 13-inch model has double the bass.

7:08 am : Four colors: New blue, new purple, Starlight and Space Grey. 100% recycled aluminum enclosure.

7:08 am : ‌iPad Air‌ gets M2 processor.

7:08 am : Nearly 50% faster than the previous ‌iPad Air‌ with M1 . Compared to ‌iPad Air‌ with A14 Bionic, provides 3x faster performance.

7:08 am : "An incredibly powerful device with AI."

7:09 am : "We're thrilled to amp up performance with ‌M2‌."

7:09 am : Works with Magic Keyboard and ‌Apple Pencil‌.

7:09 am : Supports ‌Apple Pencil‌ Hover for greater precision.

7:10 am : Starts at 128GB of storage, with more storage options, including 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB. Still starts at $599, 13-inch starts at $799. Order today, available next week.

7:10 am : Turning attention to the next chapter of ‌iPad Pro‌.

7:11 am : Walks through a secret door in the library to a mysterious room.

7:11 am : "It's not just for Pros... it's for anyone who wants the best ‌iPad‌ experience."

7:11 am : "We're not only going to push the limits of what you can do on ‌iPad‌, we're going to crush them."

7:12 am : Games and musical instruments and paint cans are being crushed by a giant press.

7:12 am : Also a TV, camera lenses, a sculpture, and an Angry Birds toy.

7:12 am : The press lifts to show everything has been smashed into an ‌iPad‌!

7:13 am : "The all-new, impossibly thin, incredibly powerful ‌iPad Pro‌."

7:13 am : Stunning design, breakthrough display, outrageous performance, and amazing accessories.

7:13 am : With this new design, the vision of ‌iPad‌ as a sheet of glass is brought to life. 11-inch and 13-inch models. Both unbelievably thin, 5.3mm for 11-inch, 13-inch is 5.1mm.

7:14 am : It's even thinner than the iPod Nano, making it the thinnest Apple Product ever.

7:14 am : Two finishes, Silver and Space Black. 100% recycled aluminum enclosures.

7:15 am : OLED comes to ‌iPad‌ for the first time. Pixels generate light and color. A single OLED panel doesn't generate enough brightness, so we developed a state of the art display that uses two OLED panels and combines the light from both to deliver "phenomenal fullscreen brightness". This is called Tandem OLED.

7:15 am : 1000 nits of full-screen brightness for both SDR and HDR brightness. 1600 nits of Peak HDR brightness.

7:15 am : Tandem OLED enables sub-millisecond control over color and luminance. XDR Precision. Brighter specular highlights. Deeper true blacks. More detail in shadows and low light, and more responsive to content in motion.

7:16 am : We're calling it the Ultra Retina XDR, and it's coming to both models. Both sizes of ‌iPad Pro‌ feature our most advanced display technology.

7:16 am : Option for nano-texture glass.

7:17 am : The Ultra Retina XDR display is "the world's most advanced display."

7:17 am : Current ‌iPad Pro‌ uses ‌M2‌.

7:17 am : "You might expect we'd use the extremely powerful M3. But this required us to make the leap to the next generation of Apple Silicon . M4."

7:17 am : The new Pro jumps from ‌M2‌ all the way to M4.

7:18 am : M4 represents another big step forward for ‌Apple Silicon‌. Built on 2nd generation 3nm technology.

7:18 am : M4 includes new display engine, designed with pioneering technology.

7:19 am : Brings phenomenal performance to the new Pro. New CPU and builds on next-gen GPU architecture debuted on M3. Up to 4 performance cores and 6 efficiency cores. It delivers up to 50% faster CPU performance than the ‌M2‌ in the previous ‌iPad Pro‌. 10-core GPU. Hardware accelerated mesh shading and ray tracing to ‌iPad‌ for the first time.

7:19 am : 4x faster pro rendering performance than ‌M2‌.

7:19 am : Maintains industry-leading performance per watt. Same performance as ‌M2‌ using half the power.

7:20 am : Compared to the latest PC chip, M4 can deliver the same performance using a quarter of the power.

7:20 am : Neural Engine is an IP block in the chip, dedicated to the acceleration of AI workloads. Chip industry is just starting to include NPUs in their processors but we've been including Neural Engines for years. Capable of 38 trillion operations per second. 60x faster than the fist Neural Engine in the A11 Bionic.

7:21 am : Accelerators in the CPU, high-performance GPU, and neural engine make M4 an outrageously powerful chip for AI. Can do amazing things even faster.

7:21 am : The neural engine in M4 is more powerful than any neural processing unit in any PC today.

7:22 am : Improved thermal performance by incorporating graphite sheets in the main housing and copper in the Apple logo improves thermal performance by 20%, up to 4x faster than ‌iPad Pro‌ with ‌M2‌. 10x faster than the original ‌iPad Pro‌.

7:22 am : iPadOS can precisely match color requirements for color grading.

7:23 am : Uses Core ML frameworks. Powerful apps on the app store. Pro apps like Shaper 3D, and our own pro apps like Final Cut Pro and Logic Pro.

7:23 am : Only a year later, both apps are getting huge updates. Final Cut Pro 2 and Logic Pro 2

7:24 am : Amazing updates that take creativity to the next level.

7:24 am : Final Cut Pro lets you record, edit, and share professional videos on ‌iPad‌. It absolutely screams with final rendering up to 2x faster than ‌M1‌.

7:24 am : new feature to speed up your shoot: Live Multicam. Transforms your ‌iPad‌ into a multicam production studio. Live Multicam lets you connect and preview up to 4 cameras at once, from one place.

7:25 am : Dial in exposure, white balance, focus and more from the ‌iPad‌.

7:25 am : New App: Final Cut Camera

7:25 am : Connect multiple iPhones and iPads to connect different angles, or record professional videos as a free standalone app.

7:25 am : Syncs each multicam angle to move from production to editing.

7:25 am : Can edit projects directly off a drive, leveraging Thunderbolt connection of ‌iPad Pro‌.

7:26 am : 4x streams of ProRes RAW than ‌M1‌. Color grades and rendering even faster.

7:26 am : Final Cut Pro 2 transforms ‌iPad Pro‌ into an entirely new production studio.

7:26 am : Logic Pro 2 is so exciting and smarter than ever.

7:27 am : Session Player has new keyboard and string players using AI.

7:28 am : When a producer wants to sample just drums or vocals but doesn't have the original tracks or stems, new feature called stem-splitter. Extracts four parts from existing recorders. Voice, bass, drums, other instruments. Uses M4 to do this on-device.

7:29 am : Great cameras and microphones let users shoot, edit, and share on device. Capture 4K ProRes video using the 12-megapixel back camera. Four studio mics, plus LiDAR scanner. Adaptive TrueTone flash for better document scanning. Solves shadow problem of scanning. If shadows are in the way, it takes multiple photos with the adaptive flash for a better scan. Works with camera app, Files, Notes, and third-party apps.

7:29 am : 12MP moves to landscape edge, just like ‌iPad Air‌, also FaceID and new charging and pairing system for ‌Apple Pencil‌.

7:29 am : New Magic Keyboard.

7:30 am : Completely redesigned to be thinner and lighter, same floating design. Two colors that match the new Pro. New features including function row with screen brightness controls, aluminum palm rest, larger track pad with haptic feedback. "Feels just like using a MacBook."

7:30 am : Now, ‌Apple Pencil‌.

7:31 am : An entirely new ‌Apple Pencil‌.

7:31 am : ‌Apple Pencil‌ Pro, "it takes the pencil experience to a whole new level."

7:32 am : "We're giving users even more magical capabilities."

New sensor in the barrel to enable new interactions. Squeeze the barrel to bring up a new tool palatte. Haptic engine delivers feedback. Gyroscope lets you roll the pencil for more precise control.

7:32 am : Pencil Pro supports Find My . Pairs, charges, and stores magnetically.

7:32 am : Developers can create their own custom interactions

7:33 am : James Cuda, CEO of Procreate on now to talk about the ‌Apple Pencil‌ Pro.

7:33 am : With barrel roll we can create brushes that respond in entirely new ways. Roll to change size, introduce color, and more.

7:33 am : Make actions without touching the screen.

7:34 am : Select layers by squeezing. Haptic feedback lets you know when your shapes are snapped precisely into alignment.

7:34 am : Move and rotate objects at the same time.

7:35 am : New features in ‌Apple Pencil‌ Pro are revolutionary. Works with new ‌iPad Air‌ as well.

7:36 am : Up to 2TB storage, Thunderbolt/USB 4 support.

7:37 am : Starts at 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB. 11-inch starts at $999, 13-inch at $1299

Magic Keyboard 11-inch $299, 13-inch $349

‌Apple Pencil‌ Pro: $129

Order today, available next week.

‌iPad‌ starts at $349.

7:37 am : "We're so excited about this new ‌iPad‌ lineup."

7:37 am : "This is the strongest ‌iPad‌ lineup we've ever had."

7:38 am : "With these new iPads and the introduction of the powerful M4 chip, big upgrades to Final Cut Pro and Logic Pro for ‌iPad‌... it truly is the biggest day for ‌iPad‌ since its introduction. From consumers to pros, ‌iPad‌ lets people take their ideas and their work to new heights."

7:38 am : We look forward to seeing you next month at WWDC where we'll talk about the future of our platforms and share some exciting details about what's to come.

7:38 am : "Thank you for joining us, have a great day!"

7:38 am : "Shot on iPhone , edited on Mac and ‌iPad‌."

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Top Rated Comments

Whole keynote looks like one large ad. Too much director’s work put in. They need to get back to live events. This pre-recorded madness does not look right to me.

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• 9to5Toys Lunch Break

AirPods Pro 2 hits new $179 low, iPad Pro Magic Keyboards from $249, Twelve South gear, more

The best price ever on AirPods Pro 2 are now live at $179 . All of Tuesday’s other best deals are now live and come joined by the best prices of the year on Apple’s Magic Keyboards for 11- and 12.9-inch iPad Pro starting at $249 . Plus, the first-ever discount is now available on Twelve South’s BookArc Flex vertical MacBook Stand at $51 . Hit the jump for all that and more in the latest  9to5Toys Lunch Break.

AirPods Pro 2 return to Amazon all-time low of $179

Apple’s  latest AirPods Pro 2 with USB-C charging case  have returned to the Amazon all-time low. Now dropping  to  $179 , this is $70 off the usual $249 price tag. We’ve only ever seen one discount this low before, and that was a short-lived offer. If you missed out on it, now you have another chance while also undercutting previous offers by an extra $10. We break down exactly what’s new with the updated pair  over in our launch coverage .

Even though USB-C is now found on the charging case to go alongside MagSafe support, it really is the software features that  make AirPods Pro 2  the best earbuds yet from Apple. Now outfitted with Adaptive Audio that dynamically adjusts noise based on your surroundings, the AirPods Pro 2 also can automatically turn on Transparency mode when it detects your talking to someone. 

The earbuds also deliver all of the same features as the original pair, as the  new AirPods Pro 2  now arrive with some improvements like enhanced audio playback to pair with the upgraded ANC and new adaptive transparency mode tech. There’s still Spatial Audio support, as well as  Hey Siri  integration, just all packed into a refreshed charging case with USB-C, Find My features, a built-in speaker, and a lanyard loop. 

Apple Magic Keyboards for 11- and 12.9-inch iPad Pro start at $249

Amazon is now offering  Apple’s 12.9-inch iPad Pro Magic Keyboard for  $280 . Today’s offer applies to both the  white and black models  as each one drops from the usual $349 price tag. It’s the best prices we’ve seen this year on new condition models and saves you $69. This is $19 under our previous mention, as well. We fully cover what to expect from the experience in  our hands-on review , while also offering some extra insight on today’s discount below the fold.

Designed for both of the latest iterations of the 12.9-inch iPad Pro, including the latest M2 and original M1 models, the  Magic Keyboard  arrives with the accessory’s signature floating hinge design and Smart Connector support. There’s also a dedicated USB-C charging port on the side, so you don’t have to waste all of the higher-bandwidth features of the built-in Thunderbolt port on charging. The folio form-factor also houses a backlit keyboard and a trackpad, which elevate the iPadOS experience.

Today’s discount joins the price cut on the  11-inch Magic Keyboard . This smaller model is now also arriving at the best price of the year thanks to a $50 discount from the usual $299 price tag, which delivers the same floating hinge design as the  larger model at  $249 .

First discount live on Twelve South’s BookArc Flex vertical MacBook Stand

Amazon is now offering the  Twelve South BookArc Flex MacBook Stand for  $51 shipped . This drops the vertical MacBook stand with a chromed finish down from the usual $60 price tag. It’s a 15% price cut and the only one we’ve seen since launching back in January. That also makes it a new all-time low. Back in January, we walked away impressed in  our hands-on review , which has only been made better following the launch of M3 MacBook Air and its dual monitor support in clamshell mode.

The  Twelve South BookArc Flex  is a unique way to dock a MacBook at your desk. It has a one-size-fits-all design that literally flexes in order to hold 13-inch MacBook Airs, 16-inch MacBook Pros, and every laptop in between. The chrome design matches the rest of your Apple setup. It takes on a vertical design that’s great for saving space on your desktop when paired with a secondary display, or even two extra monitors thanks to the newfound dual display support found on the M3 MacBook Air. 

Back in March,  we revisited  the BookArc Flex with Apple’s latest MacBook in mind and found it to be an even more valuable addition to Apple workstations.

Apple Pencil 2 drops to $79 Amazon all-time low

Amazon is now offering one of the  best prices yet on Apple Pencil 2 . The latest flagship iPad stylus drops  down to  $79 from its usual $129 price tag. This is $50 off and marking the second-best price to date. We’ve seen it down at $71 before, but that was back in December ahead of the holidays. Now, it’s on sale for the first time since while coming within $8 of that all-time low. This is the best Amazon has offered it for, too.

Apple Pencil 2 is  far more compelling  than just being used to make digital art, excelling as a note-taking tool on top of offering more precise input than your fingers. There’s a new hover feature that just rolled out for the M2 iPad Pros, and the accessory will snap right onto the side of your device to charge and for storage. It’s compatible with everything from the more affordable iPad Air 5 to the Pro models and even Apple’s compact iPad mini.

Today’s deal lands after Apple announced that it will be revealing the latest from the world of iPadOS next month. Alongside new iPads, we’re also expecting to see a  new Apple Pencil 3 that’s designed for those upcoming Pro tablets. If you aren’t planning on upgrading or don’t need the new features like haptic feedback and new gestures there’s no reason not to just cash-in on today’s Amazon low.

Razer’s Kishi V2 iPhone controller grip is the perfect Delta companion

Amazon is now offering the  Razer Kishi V2 USB-C Mobile Gaming Controller for  $77 . This drops the iPhone 15 and Android gamepad down from its usual $100 price tag in order to mark the best price cut in months. This is $6 under our previous mention and saves you $23 just in time to dive into Delta with some physical controls. If you’re rocking  a Lightning-enabled iPhone , that version is also on sale right now at Amazon and  sells for  $77  – a drop from its usual $100 price tag.

Whether you’re looking to step up the Apple Arcade experience or take advantage of more ergonomic gameplay for diving into Genshin Impact, Among Us, and Call of Duty Mobile,  Razer’s Kishi V2 controller  grip is a must. Relying on a USB-C connection that delivers passthrough charging and an adjustable design, these are compatible with a wide variety of handsets including the latest from Apple like iPhone 15, whether you’re rocking the 15 Pro Max or one of the smaller handsets. It also supports just about all of the popular Android smartphones.

Best trade-in deals

9to5Mac  also keeps tabs on all the best trade-in deals on iPhone, iPad, MacBook, Apple Watch, and more every month. Be sure to  check out this month’s best trade-in deals  when you decide it’s time to upgrade your device, or simply  head over to our trade-in partner directly  if you want to recycle, trade, or sell your used devices for cash and support  9to5Mac  along the way!

Subscribe to the  9to5Toys  YouTube Channel for all of the latest videos, reviews, and more!

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The Best Apple AirPods Deals Ahead of Memorial Day: Get AirPods Pro 2 at a Record-Low Price Now

Amazon is offering incredible apple deals on the latest airpods models, including the best-selling airpods pro 2..

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)

$249   $180 Amazon

Apple AirPods (2nd Generation)

$129   $80 Amazon

Apple AirPods Max

$549   $519 Amazon

Apple EarPods Headphones with Lightning Connector

$29   $18 Amazon

Apple AirPods are some of the most popular wireless earbuds around — and for good reason. The impressive noise cancellation, spatial audio, waterproofing and portable design of AirPods makes it hard to leave the house without them. While Apple rarely has sales on its own, you can almost always find AirPods on sale, as long as you know where to look.

If you're in the market for a pair of  noise-cancelling earbuds, Amazon has the best AirPods deals weeks before Memorial Day 2024 arrives. Amongst the retailer's biggest discounts on  Apple devices , multiple AirPods models are on sale for as low as $89. AirPods can run pretty expensive, so when you find a great deal on them, it's best to snag the savings.

Ahead, find all the best AirPods deals available at Amazon today.

Best AirPods Deals in May 2024

Apple’s newest AirPods Pro 2 are on sale for a record-low price of $180. Regularly $249, Apple's most advanced pair of earbuds to date feature personalized spatial audio with dynamic head tracking for immersive sound. We're not expecting this deal to last for too long, so don't hesitate to add these earbuds to your cart. 

This 2023 refresh of the classic AirPods Pro earbuds brings better battery life and high-quality sound that audiophiles will love. Give them their new favorite pair of earbuds and they'll be bopping along to the music in no time. 

$249   $180

Equipped with Apple's brand-new H2 processor, the  AirPods Pro 2 feature improved noise-canceling capabilities for dramatically less noise on your commute, or when you want to focus. AirPods Pro 2 have a battery life of up to 6 hours of listening time with Active Noise Cancellation enabled, which is 30% more than the first-generation earbuds.

You can also get a new pair of second-gen AirPods  for just $89. They're lightweight and easy to use, making the earbuds a popular choice for morning commutes and working from home. If you're looking for gym earbuds, we recommend the sweat and water-resistant 3rd generation AirPods, which are also on sale at Amazon.

AirPods deliver an incredible wireless headphone experience. Simply remove them from their charging case and use them with all your devices.

Apple's best headphones may be pricey, but they're well worth the entry fee. With a knit mesh headband and impossibly comfortable earcups, they're perfect for longtime wear and have a booming bass with high treble. 

$549   $519

There's nothing wrong with the good "old-fashioned" wired headphones. Perhaps you want to teach your kids responsibility before buying them Apple Airpods or maybe you aren't a fan of wireless earbuds, either way, you can't go wrong with the Apple Earpods.

Gear up for summer! Check out our ultimate guide to shop  the best Memorial Day 2024 sales .

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• Memorial Day Sale

Latest News

Apple unveils stunning new iPad Pro with the world’s most advanced display, M4 chip, and Apple Pencil Pro

Thinnest Apple Product Ever

World’s Most Advanced Display

Only Possible with M4

Outrageously Powerful Device for AI

Pro Cameras

Pro Connectivity

Apple Pencil Pro

All-New Magic Keyboard and Smart Folio

Powerful iPadOS Features

Logic Pro for iPad 2

Final Cut Pro for iPad 2

iPad Pro and the Environment

• Customers can order the new iPad Pro with M4 starting today, May 7, at apple.com/store , and in the Apple Store app in 29 countries and regions, including the U.S., with availability in stores beginning Wednesday, May 15.
• The new 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Pro will be available in silver and space black finishes in 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB configurations.
• The 11-inch iPad Pro starts at  $999  (U.S.) for the Wi-Fi model, and  $1,199  (U.S.) for the Wi-Fi + Cellular model. The 13-inch iPad Pro starts at  $1,299  (U.S.) for the Wi-Fi model, and  $1,499  (U.S.) for the Wi-Fi + Cellular model. Additional technical specifications, including nano-texture glass options, are available at apple.com/store .
• For education, the new 11-inch iPad Pro is available for  $899  (U.S.) and the 13-inch iPad Pro is $1,199 (U.S.). Education pricing is available to current and newly accepted college students and their parents, as well as faculty, staff, and home-school teachers of all grade levels. For more information, visit  apple.com/us-hed/shop .
• The new Apple Pencil Pro is compatible with the new iPad Pro. It is available for $129 (U.S.). For education, Apple Pencil Pro is available for $119 (U.S.).
• Apple Pencil (USB-C) is compatible with the new iPad Pro. It is available for $79 (U.S.) and $69 (U.S.) for education.
• The new Magic Keyboard is compatible with the new iPad Pro. It is available in black and white finishes. The new 11-inch Magic Keyboard is available for $299 (U.S.) and the new 13-inch Magic Keyboard is available for $349 (U.S.), with layouts for over 30 languages. For education, the 11-inch Magic Keyboard is available for $279 (U.S.) and the 13-inch Magic Keyboard is available for $329 (U.S.).
• The new Smart Folio is available for $79 (U.S.) in black, white, and denim finishes for the new 11-inch iPad Pro and $99 (U.S.) for the new 13-inch iPad Pro.
• Logic Pro for iPad 2 is available on May 13 as a free update for existing users, and for new users, it is available on the App Store for $4.99 (U.S.) per month, or $49 (U.S.) per year, with a one-month free trial. Logic Pro for iPad 2 requires iPadOS 17.4 or later. For more information, visit apple.com/logic-pro-for-ipad .
• Final Cut Pro for iPad 2 will be available later this spring on the App Store for $4.99 (U.S.) per month, or $49 (U.S.) per year, with a one-month free trial.
• Apple offers great ways to save on the latest iPad. Customers can trade in their current iPad and get credit toward a new one by visiting the Apple Store online , the Apple Store app, or an Apple Store location. To see what their device is worth, and for terms and conditions, customers can visit apple.com/shop/trade-in .
• Customers in the U.S. who shop at Apple using Apple Card can pay monthly at 0 percent APR when they choose to check out with Apple Card Monthly Installments, and they’ll get 3 percent Daily Cash back — all upfront.

Text of this article

May 7, 2024

PRESS RELEASE

Featuring a new thin and light design, breakthrough Ultra Retina XDR display, and outrageously fast M4 performance with powerful AI capabilities, the new iPad Pro takes a huge leap forward

CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA Apple today unveiled the groundbreaking new iPad Pro in a stunningly thin and light design, taking portability and performance to the next level. Available in silver and space black finishes, the new iPad Pro comes in two sizes: an expansive 13-inch model and a super-portable 11-inch model. Both sizes feature the world’s most advanced display — a new breakthrough Ultra Retina XDR display with state-of-the-art tandem OLED technology — providing a remarkable visual experience. The new iPad Pro is made possible with the new M4 chip, the next generation of Apple silicon, which delivers a huge leap in performance and capabilities. M4 features an entirely new display engine to enable the precision, color, and brightness of the Ultra Retina XDR display. With a new CPU, a next-generation GPU that builds upon the GPU architecture debuted on M3, and the most powerful Neural Engine yet, the new iPad Pro is an outrageously powerful device for artificial intelligence. The versatility and advanced capabilities of iPad Pro are also enhanced with all-new accessories. Apple Pencil Pro brings powerful new interactions that take the pencil experience even further, and a new thinner, lighter Magic Keyboard is packed with incredible features. The new iPad Pro, Apple Pencil Pro, and Magic Keyboard are available to order starting today, with availability in stores beginning Wednesday, May 15.

“iPad Pro empowers a broad set of pros and is perfect for anyone who wants the ultimate iPad experience — with its combination of the world’s best displays, extraordinary performance of our latest M-series chips, and advanced accessories — all in a portable design. Today, we’re taking it even further with the new, stunningly thin and light iPad Pro, our biggest update ever to iPad Pro,” said John Ternus, Apple’s senior vice president of Hardware Engineering. “With the breakthrough Ultra Retina XDR display, the next-level performance of M4, incredible AI capabilities, and support for the all-new Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard, there’s no device like the new iPad Pro.”

The new iPad Pro — the thinnest Apple product ever — features a stunningly thin and light design, taking portability to a whole new level. The 11-inch model is just 5.3 mm thin, and the 13-inch model is even thinner at a striking 5.1 mm, while both models are just as strong as the previous design. The 11-inch model weighs less than a pound, and the 13-inch model is nearly a quarter pound lighter than its predecessor — allowing pro users to extend their workflows in new ways and in more places. The new iPad Pro is available in two gorgeous finishes — silver and space black — both with 100 percent recycled aluminum enclosures.

The new iPad Pro debuts the Ultra Retina XDR, the world’s most advanced display, to provide an even more remarkable visual experience. The Ultra Retina XDR display features state-of-the-art tandem OLED technology that uses two OLED panels and combines the light from both to provide phenomenal full-screen brightness. The new iPad Pro supports an incredible 1000 nits of full-screen brightness for SDR and HDR content, and 1600 nits peak for HDR. No other device of its kind delivers this level of extreme dynamic range. Tandem OLED technology enables sub-millisecond control over the color and luminance of each pixel, taking XDR precision further than ever. Specular highlights in photos and video appear even brighter, and there’s more detail in shadows and low light than ever before on iPad — all while delivering even more responsiveness to content in motion. For pro users working in high-end, color-managed workflows or challenging lighting conditions, a new nano-texture glass option comes to iPad Pro for the first time. 1 Nano-texture glass is precisely etched at a nanometer scale, maintaining image quality and contrast while scattering ambient light for reduced glare. With its breakthrough tandem OLED technology, extreme brightness, incredibly precise contrast, brilliant colors, and nano-texture glass option, the new Ultra Retina XDR display is the world’s most advanced display, giving iPad Pro customers an unparalleled viewing experience.

The incredibly thin and light design and game-changing display of the new iPad Pro is only possible with M4, the next generation of Apple silicon that delivers a huge leap in performance. M4 is built on second-generation 3-nanometer technology that’s even more power efficient, which is perfect for the design of the new iPad Pro. With an entirely new display engine, M4 introduces pioneering technology for the stunning precision, color, and brightness of the Ultra Retina XDR display. The new CPU offers up to four performance cores and now six efficiency cores, 2 with next-generation machine learning (ML) accelerators, to deliver up to 1.5x faster CPU performance over M2 in the previous-generation iPad Pro. 3 M4 builds on the GPU architecture of M3 — the 10-core GPU includes powerful features like Dynamic Caching, and hardware-accelerated mesh shading and ray tracing, which come to iPad for the first time. Coupled with higher unified memory bandwidth, pro rendering apps like Octane will see up to 4x faster performance than M2. 3 M4 also delivers tremendous gains and industry-leading performance per watt. Compared to M2, M4 can deliver the same performance using just half the power, and compared to the latest PC chip in a thin and light laptop, M4 can deliver the same performance using just a quarter of the power. 4 A new advanced Media Engine includes support for AV1 decode, providing more power-efficient playback of high-resolution video experiences from streaming services.

The new iPad Pro with M4 features Apple’s most powerful Neural Engine ever, capable of 38 trillion operations per second, which is 60x faster than Apple’s first Neural Engine in the A11 Bionic chip. Combined with next-generation ML accelerators in the CPU, a high-performance GPU, more memory bandwidth, and intelligent features and powerful developer frameworks in iPadOS, the Neural Engine makes the new iPad Pro an outrageously powerful device for AI. With iPad Pro with M4, users can perform AI-enabled tasks even faster, like easily isolate a subject from its background in 4K video with just a tap with Scene Removal Mask in Final Cut Pro. With this advanced level of performance, the Neural Engine in M4 is more powerful than any neural processing unit in any AI PC today.

iPadOS also has advanced frameworks like Core ML that make it easy for developers to tap into the Neural Engine to deliver phenomenal AI features locally, including running powerful diffusion and generative AI models, with great performance on device. iPad Pro also supports cloud-based solutions, enabling users to run powerful productivity and creative apps that tap into the power of AI, such as Copilot for Microsoft 365 and Adobe Firefly.

The updated camera system on the new iPad Pro delivers even more versatility, and with its rich audio from four studio-quality mics, users can shoot, edit, and share all on one device. The 12MP back camera captures vibrant Smart HDR images and video with even better color, improved textures, and detail in low light. It also now features a new adaptive True Tone flash that makes document scanning on the new iPad Pro better than ever. Using AI, the new iPad Pro automatically identifies documents right in the Camera app, and if a shadow is in the way, it instantly takes multiple photos with the new adaptive flash, stitching the scan together for a dramatically better scan.

On the front, the TrueDepth camera system moves to the landscape location on the new iPad Pro. The Ultra Wide 12MP camera with Center Stage makes the experience of video conferencing in landscape orientation even better, especially when iPad is attached to a Magic Keyboard or Smart Folio.

iPad Pro includes a high-performance USB-C connector with support for Thunderbolt 3 and USB 4, delivering fast wired connectivity — up to 40Gb/s. Thunderbolt supports an extensive ecosystem of high-performance accessories, including external displays like the Pro Display XDR at its full 6K resolution, and external storage, all connected using high-performance cables and docks. iPad Pro supports Wi-Fi 6E for super-fast Wi-Fi connections for pro workflows on the go. Wi-Fi + Cellular models with 5G allow users to access their files, communicate with colleagues, and back up their data in a snap while on the go. Cellular models of the new iPad Pro are activated with eSIM, a more secure alternative to a physical SIM card, allowing users to quickly connect and transfer their existing plans digitally, and store multiple cellular plans on a single device. Customers can easily get connected to wireless data plans on the new iPad Pro in over 190 countries and regions around the world without needing to get a physical SIM card from a local carrier.

Apple Pencil Pro features even more magical capabilities and powerful new interactions that take the Apple Pencil experience even further. A new sensor in the barrel can sense a user’s squeeze, bringing up a tool palette to quickly switch tools, line weights, and colors, all without interrupting the creative process. A custom haptic engine delivers a light tap that provides confirmation when users squeeze, use double-tap, or snap to a Smart Shape for a remarkably intuitive experience. A gyroscope allows users to roll Apple Pencil Pro for precise control of the tool they’re using. Rotating the barrel changes the orientation of shaped pen and brush tools, just like pen and paper. And with Apple Pencil hover, users can visualize the exact orientation of a tool before making a mark.

With these advanced features, Apple Pencil Pro allows users to bring their ideas to life in entirely new ways, and developers can also create their own custom interactions. Apple Pencil Pro brings support for Find My for the first time to Apple Pencil, helping users locate Apple Pencil Pro if misplaced. It pairs, charges, and is stored on the side of iPad Pro through a new magnetic interface. iPad Pro also supports Apple Pencil (USB-C), ideal for note taking, sketching, annotating, journaling, and more, at an incredible value.

Designed for the new iPad Pro, an all-new thinner and lighter Magic Keyboard makes it more portable and versatile than ever. The new Magic Keyboard opens to the magical floating design that customers love, and now includes a function row for access to features like screen brightness and volume controls. It also has a gorgeous aluminum palm rest and larger trackpad that’s even more responsive with haptic feedback, so the entire experience feels just like using a MacBook. The new Magic Keyboard attaches magnetically, and the Smart Connector immediately connects power and data without the need for Bluetooth. The machined aluminum hinge also includes a USB-C connector for charging. The new Magic Keyboard comes in two colors that perfectly complement the new iPad Pro: black with a space black aluminum palm rest, and white with a silver aluminum palm rest.

The new Smart Folio for iPad Pro attaches magnetically and now supports multiple viewing angles for greater flexibility. Available in black, white, and denim, it complements the colors of the new iPad Pro.

iPadOS is packed with features that push the boundaries of what’s possible on iPad. With Reference Mode, iPadOS can precisely match color requirements of the Ultra Retina XDR display for tasks in which accurate colors and consistent image quality are critical — including review and approve, color grading, and compositing. Stage Manager enables users to work with multiple overlapping windows in a single view, resize windows, tap to switch between apps, and more. With full external display support of up to 6K, iPad Pro users can also extend their workflow, as well as use the built-in camera on an external display for enhanced video conferencing. Users can take advantage of the powerful AI capabilities in iPad Pro and intelligent features in iPadOS, including Visual Look Up, Subject Lift, Live Text, or Live Captions and Personal Voice for accessibility.

With iPadOS 17 , users can customize the Lock Screen to make it more personal — taking advantage of the larger display on iPad — and interactive widgets take glanceable information further with the ability to get tasks done right in the moment with just a tap. The Notes app gives users new ways to organize, read, annotate, and collaborate on PDFs, and working with PDFs is also easier with AutoFill, which intelligently identifies and fills fields in forms.

Logic Pro for iPad 2 , available starting Monday, May 13, introduces incredible studio assistant features that augment the music-making process and provide artists help right when they need it — all while ensuring they maintain full creative control. These features include Session Players, which expand on popular Drummer capabilities in Logic to include a new Bass Player and Keyboard Player; ChromaGlow, to instantly add warmth to tracks; and Stem Splitter, to extract and work with individual parts of a single audio recording.

Final Cut Pro for iPad 2 , available later this spring, introduces Live Multicam, a new feature that transforms iPad into a mobile production studio, allowing users to view and control up to four connected iPhone and iPad devices wirelessly. 5 To support Live Multicam, an all-new capture app also comes to iPad and iPhone, Final Cut Camera, 6 giving users control over options like white balance, ISO, and shutter speed, along with monitoring tools like overexposure indicators and focus peaking. Final Cut Camera works as a standalone capture app or with Live Multicam. Final Cut Pro for iPad 2 also allows users to create or open projects from external storage, giving editors even more flexibility, and offers new content options. 7

The new iPad Pro is designed with the environment in mind, including 100 percent recycled aluminum in the enclosure, 100 percent recycled rare earth elements in all magnets, and 100 percent recycled gold plating and tin soldering in multiple printed circuit boards. The new iPad Pro meets Apple’s high standards for energy efficiency, and is free of mercury, brominated flame retardants, and PVC. The packaging is 100 percent fiber-based, bringing Apple closer to its goal to remove plastic from all packaging by 2025.

Today, Apple is carbon neutral for global corporate operations, and by 2030, plans to be carbon neutral across the entire manufacturing supply chain and life cycle of every product.

Pricing and Availability

• Nano-texture glass is an option on the 1TB and 2TB configurations of the 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Pro models.
• iPad Pro models with 256GB or 512GB storage feature the Apple M4 chip with a 9‑core CPU. iPad Pro models with 1TB or 2TB storage feature the Apple M4 chip with a 10‑core CPU.
• Testing was conducted by Apple in March and April 2024. See apple.com/ipad-pro for more information.
• Testing was conducted by Apple in March and April 2024 using preproduction 13-inch iPad Pro (M4) units with a 10-core CPU and 16GB of RAM. Performance was measured using select industry‑standard benchmarks. PC laptop chip performance data is from testing ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED (UX3405MA) with Core Ultra 7 155H and 32GB of RAM. Performance tests are conducted using specific computer systems and reflect the approximate performance of iPad Pro.
• Final Cut Pro for iPad 2 is compatible with iPad models with the M1 chip or later, and Logic Pro for iPad 2 will be available on iPad models with the A12 Bionic chip or later.
• Final Cut Camera is compatible with iPhone X S and later with iOS 17.4 or later, and iPad models compatible with iPadOS 17.4 or later.
• External project support requires iPadOS 17.5 or later.

Press Contacts

Tara Courtney

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Apple Media Helpline

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