I can still recount the days when the Apple iPod was popular among users. Then came iTunes and Apple Music, and iPods were soon declared devices of the past. However, despite having a significant impact on the audio segment, Apple also has its presence in producing audio hardware. And, the Apple Airpods is one of them. But simply knowing the name won’t do any good. Apple has now got four Airpods models- the AirPods(1st Gen), the AirPods (2nd Gen), the AirPods Pro, and now the AirPods Max as well. When it comes to purchasing one, selecting the best can become a heck of a task.
If you have been looking to get one between the AirPods 2 and the AirPods Pro, this article is what probably will help you narrow down your choice.
The Specs- Compared
| Specs | AirPods 2 | AirPods Pro |
| Chip | H1 chip | H1 chip |
| Battery Life | 5 Hrs (24Hrs with a Charging case) | 4.5 Hrs (24Hrs with a Charging case)
|
| Water Resistance | Unrated | IPX4-rated sweat and water resistance |
| Dimensions | 2.11*1.74*0.84 inches | 2.39*1.78*0.85 inches |
| Weight | 1.41Oz | 1.61Oz |
| Wireless Charging Case | Not included (Can get for extra $40) | Included |
| Features | Audio Sharing, Siri Announced Messages | Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency Mode, Adaptive EQ, Customizable Fit, Audio Sharing, Siri Announced Messages |
| Price | $159 | $249 |
The Difference
Design
The first difference becomes evident in terms of the design. The AirPods Pro has a slightly different design as compared to AirPods 2. The AirPods 2 has a straight shaft where the shaft on the end of the AirPods Pro is a tangent to the ear module. Also, the shape of the ear module is a little more ovular in AirPods Pro.
The Pro Model comes with IPX4-rated sweat and water resistance, which is not available in the AirPods 2. The vent system and the force sensor on the AirPods Pro model works well for pressure equalization and increased control. Moreover, the AirPods Pro has two microphones for active noise cancellation to come to life.
Controls
When it comes to controlling, the Pro model has slightly more advanced on-device controls. One tap on the shaft allows you to play and pause music, answer phone calls, whereas, double-tap and three-tap action will allow for music to skip forward and backward respectively. Likewise, press and hold will allow users to switch between Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode.
Device controls in AirPods 2 are in the form of a double-tap. The left and the right AirPod can be set to function in a specific manner.
Sound
Another difference can be observed in terms of the sound experience that both the AirPods deliver. And perhaps the only thing that matters when selecting the best earphones for yourself. The AirPods Pro provides a more immersive sound experience than the AirPods 2. They have the adaptive EQ which balances between the low and mid-frequency tones to deliver high-definition audio. Using an HDR-amplifier, the sound is optimized to cancel the background noise. With Active Noise Cancellation, two separate microphones on either tips, and advanced software, the AirPods Pro promises an improved listening experience. Whereas, AirPods 2 doesn’t have all these features.
Wireless Charging Case
The Apple AirPods Pro has a wireless charging case as standard, whereas the AirPods 2 doesn’t. One can opt for a wireless charging case for AirPods 2 though, however, they’ll need to shell out an extra $40. You can also opt for protective cases for your AirPods Pro and the AirPods 2 from ESR.
Battery Life
Another important thing that needs to be considered while selecting a wireless earphone, is battery life. Where the AirPods Pro delivers 4.5 Hrs of uptime, the AirPods 2 delivers 5 Hrs of battery life at normal usage. That’s pretty less actually for something being tagged at hundreds of dollars. The charging case holds up to 24 hours of charge in both cases.
What’s Similar?
Just like other Apple devices, the AirPods 2 and the AirPods Pro are easy to set up. With just a tap of a button, the devices can be set up to function with your iPhone, Apple Watch or your iPad. Once set up, just select the respective AirPods from the device and you’re good to go.
Also, sensors, the same as AirPods 1st Gen have been inducted into the AirPods 2 and the AirPods Pro, which can be used to control the audio experience. As soon as you plug the AirPods in your ears, the sound will begin to play and stop as you take them out. Another similarity is brought to light in terms of the processor they have at heart. Run by the H1 chip, these wireless earphones offer two times faster connection than the 1st Gen AirPods, 50% more talk time, 1.5X faster connection for answering calls and up to 30% decreased gaming latency.
The Siri voice control has become common for both earphones due to the H1 chip that allows users to play music, change volume levels, answer and make phone calls, and ask for directions as well.
The final verdict
While the AirPods Pro is for people who want premium features, the AirPods 2 can be for those who only care about good sound. If you are on the lookout for features as discussed in the article above, the AirPods Pro will be a better option.
Also, if you like to have extra talk-time, a faster and more stable connection, and a significantly improved listening experience with advanced controls and a comfortable fit to the ears, the AirPods Pro is likely to attract you. Though they are a bit on the pricey side, they’ll prove truly useful in the long-term.
With the comparison made above, AirPods Pro likely pulls more weight on its side. Therefore, if you are looking to buy one between the AirPods Pro and the AirPods 2, the AirPods Pro is our verdict. Happy Shopping!
