The first version of Apple’s in-ear wireless headphones debuted on the market in autumn 2019. Compared to AirPods released three years earlier, the more expensive model offered much more. Noise reduction mode , water and sweat resistance, and highly enhanced sound distinguished the new accessory from the older and cheaper version.
AirPods and AirPods Pro allowed the Cupertino company to even dominate the wireless headphones market. Probably no one expected such success, but it must be admitted that the strategy of conquering this segment was perfectly planned and consistently implemented. In the meantime, the manufacturer’s offer was supplemented by the flagship AirPods Max headphones, which are distinguished by their sensational sound, and AirPods 3, which is the successor of the first headphones sold under the Apple brand, without a cable.
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AirPods Pro 2, i.e. missed predictions
The company managed by Tim Cook releases the next generations of headphones every few years and is in no hurry to introduce changes. However, several years have passed and the AirPods Pro also have the next generation. There was a lot of speculation. Online media competed in presenting the anticipated appearance of the new version and new features. At the beginning of September, with the premiere of the iPhone 14, we saw the long-awaited accessory. At first glance, not much has changed. The appearance remained unchanged, and most of the rumors did not come true.
The second-generation AirPods Pro have the same design as their predecessor, but have received improvements to several features, such as active noise reduction, and the length of work on a single battery charge. At the same time, new functions were introduced, such as adaptive contact mode and touch control for volume control . The refreshed MagSafe charging case features Exact Find , a built-in speaker, and a lanyard holder.
AirPods Pro vs AirPods Pro 2 – which Apple headphones should you choose?
The first generation AirPods Pro has been discontinued from the Apple Online Store , but is still available from other retailers. Until recently, the price on the manufacturer’s website was USD $249, but you could easily buy headphones in other stores for USD $180 (now they have slightly increased to around USD 60 ). In this regard, some may be wondering whether to buy the discounted price of the 1st Gen AirPods Pro or the 2nd Gen version?
The two generations of wireless headphones have largely the same capabilities. Should you consider buying a second version, or should you stick with the first generation AirPods Pro? See what are the differences between headphones.
AirPods Pro vs AirPods Pro 2 – differences
AirPods Pro (1st generation):
- Active noise reduction;
- Contact mode;
- Special Apple transducer with high vibration amplitude;
- H1 system;
- Bluetooth 5.0;
- Optical infrared sensors for detection in the ear;
- Touch controls;
- Up to 4.5 hours of listening with active noise cancellation on;
- 24 hours of total listening time with active noise canceling when using the MagSafe charging case;
- Active noise reduction;
- Contact mode;
- Special Apple transducer with high vibration amplitude;
- H1 system;
- Bluetooth 5.0;
- Optical infrared sensors for detection in the ear;
- Touch controls;
- Up to 4.5 hours of listening with active noise cancellation on;
- 24 hours of total listening time with active noise canceling when using the MagSafe charging case;
- Magsafe charging case with “Find” function, compatible with MagSafe charger, Qi wireless charging mats and Lightning
- Three silicone ear tips (S, M, L).
AirPods Pro (second generation):
- Active noise reduction (twice as effective);
- Adaptive contact mode;
- New low distortion audio transducer and amplifier for better sound
- H2 system;
- Bluetooth 5.3;
- Skin contact sensor;
- Improved touch controls with new functions (volume control);
- Up to 6 hours of listening with active noise cancellation on;
- 30 hours of total listening time with active noise canceling when using the MagSafe charging case;
- MagSafe charging case with built-in speaker for “Find” function, precise tracking and lanyard holder
- MagSafe charging case compatible with Apple Watch charger, MagSafe charger, Qi wireless charging mats, and Lightning;
- Four silicone ear tips (XS, S, M, L).
Which Apple Headphone Model Should You Choose?
Overall, the second generation AirPods Pro offer slight improvements over the previous generation, but have some nice new features. Users who use their headphones intensively will find an excuse to replace the generation with a newer one, but it may be different for most of them.
Options such as adaptive contact mode, touch control with volume control or compatibility with the Apple Watch charger are inviting. Users who bought headphones at the end of 2019 may find another reason – probably the battery after several years of use, in the current headphones is not as good as at the beginning. If you are considering any headphones, this is a good time to buy the first version. Remember, however, that AirPods Pro are one of the most discounted products of the Cupertino company.
Source: MacRumors