Don’t Update Your AirPods Pro
When the AirPods Pro were first released in 2019, it was a completely different world. With a sleek form factor, respectable noise cancellation, and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, they’ve become a favorite headphone for many of us. Fast forward to the end of 2022 and the world of wireless noise-cancelling headphones looks very different, meaning that the new second generation AirPods Pro announced by Apple at the Far Out event are under much more scrutiny than before.
What do you get with AirPods Pro 2nd generation?
Inflation be damned, the new AirPods Pro are selling for the same price of $249. AirPods Pro (2nd generation) are now equipped with the new H2 chipset, which improves battery life (six hours instead of five) and doubles the intensity of the noise cancellation system (something that was severely limited).
Most importantly, you can now control volume from your AirPods stems. You still press the sticks to switch between noise cancellation and transparency mode, but with a slight swipe you can turn the volume up or down, a first for Apple’s wireless earbuds.
Other than that, these are small updates. You can now use your Apple Watch charger to charge your AirPods Pro, and there’s also a new XS size ear tip in the box. The case now even has a speaker, making it easy to find with the Find My app.
Why You Shouldn’t Ditch Your Current AirPods Pro
What’s even more interesting is that Apple has decided not to update the AirPods Pro. From everything that was said at the event, it looks like there will be no major upgrade to the sound system itself. There is no great support for new codecs and a manual equalizer.
If you already own a pair of AirPods Pro, you’re not missing out on too much, even with the addition of volume controls. If improved noise cancellation isn’t a big deal for you, you can skip this generation of AirPods Pro and keep the $250.
That said, if you’re considering buying your first pair of AirPods, the AirPods Pro are the best Apple headphones you can buy. They still fit better than AirPods 2 or AirPods 3 and now have battery life to match.
And if you’re ready to shop, take a look at some alternatives as well. It’s not 2019 anymore and the market is flooded with amazing wireless headphones, many of which are cheaper than AirPods Pro.
If you are interested in sound quality, pay attention to Sony WF-1000XM4 . They’re a bit older now but sound amazing, complete with Sony basses and manual EQ. Even the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro offer great sound and a comfortable fit. Both Sony and Samsung do a great job with noise cancellation (Sony is at the forefront of this area).