Apple AirPods review

 

Engadget Review

Apple totally overhauled AirPods for the third-generation version with the biggest changes coming in the design and audio quality. The company also expanded the availability of key features like spatial audio and Adaptive EQ to a more affordable set of earbuds while keeping all of the convenience of AirPods intact.


Pros

  • More comfortable design
  • Massively improved audio
  • Hands-free Siri
  • Longer battery life

Cons

  • Look and fit still isn’t for everyone
  • No ANC
  • No on-board volume controls

The most popular AirPods are still worth considering

Specifications

Weight: 4g (38g with case)

Drivers: Dynamic

Battery life: 24 hours

Reasons to buy

+Faster pairing+Wireless charging

Reasons to avoid

-Wireless charging case costs extra-Audio hasn't improved since originals

The second generation Apple AirPods may have been usurped by the AirPods 3, but they still sport some cool features that may make them worth buying if you're an iPhone user in particular. 

They've also been given a permanent price cut, making them the cheapest AirPods you can buy.

A lively soundstage and the inclusion of Apple's H1 headphone chip means that the AirPods 2 work really well as a pair of earbuds for casual music listening or making phone calls - just don't expect audiophile sound. 

The AirPods (2019) also come with an optional wireless charging case means you can use a Qi-compatible charging mat to power the case, rather than sticking a cable into the Lightning charging port in the bottom of the case. 

AirPods (2021) 

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