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#1: Apple AirPods Pro 2
The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are a significant upgrade from their predecessor, offering improved sound quality, noise cancellation, and battery life. The Apple AirPods Pro 2 can be used with both a PC and a laptop, and they do come with built-in microphones. These microphones are designed for clear voice pickup, making them suitable for calls and virtual meetings.
Here are some key points:
- Bluetooth Connection: The microphones work well when connected via Bluetooth 5.3 (typical indoor environments the range up to 30 feet / 10 meters in open space), allowing you to use them for calls and voice commands. Range of AirPods Pro 2, like most, is shorter than the theoretical maximum range of Bluetooth 5.3 due to several practical factors: Physical Barriers – Interference – Power Management – Environmental Factors
- Compatibility: While they are primarily designed for Apple devices, they can also connect to Windows PCs and laptops via Bluetooth. However, some users have reported connectivity issues with Windows 11.
*Bluetooth 5.3 offers an impressive range of up to 200 meters (656 feet) in open field conditions. However, in typical indoor environments, the range is generally around 40 meters (131 feet).
Approximate Cost: The Apple AirPods Pro 2 Earbuds are priced at approximately $249. Amazon, Target, and Walmart are offering them for around $170, positioning them in the premium segment of the market at a great price.
Here’s a detailed look at the pros and cons:
10 Reasons Why You Should Buy the Apple AirPods Pro 2:
- Enhanced Sound Quality: The new H2 chip provides better audio performance with richer bass and clearer highs.
- Improved Noise Cancellation: Advanced ANC effectively blocks out more ambient noise.
- Adaptive Transparency Mode: Allows you to hear important sounds while reducing loud background noise.
- Better Battery Life: Up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge, with a total of 30 hours using the charging case.
- Comfortable Fit: Comes with four ear tip sizes (XS-L) for a better fit.
- Water-Resistant: Both the earbuds and the case have an IPX4 rating, making them resistant to sweat and water.
- Spatial Audio: Provides an immersive listening experience with dynamic head tracking.
- Find My Integration: The case has a U1 chip and built-in speaker to help locate it using the Find My app.
- Intuitive Controls: Pressure-sensitive stems and new swipe volume controls make adjustments easy.
- Seamless Apple Ecosystem Integration: Works flawlessly with other Apple devices, offering features like automatic switching and audio sharing.
Compare Noise Cancelling Headphones to Find the Best for your Budget
6 Reasons Why You Might Want to Reconsider Buying the Apple AirPods Pro 2’s:
- No High-Resolution Audio Support: Lacks support for high-resolution audio codecs.
- Limited Customization: No built-in EQ customization without third-party apps.
- No XL Ear Tips: Only comes with four ear tip sizes, which might not fit everyone.
- Battery Life: While improved, still shorter than some competitors.
- No Multipoint Connectivity: Cannot connect to multiple devices simultaneously.
- Apple-Centric Features: Many features are exclusive to Apple devices.
Comparison with Competitors
- Apple AirPods Pro 2 vs. Sony WF-1000XM5:
- Noise Cancellation: Both models offer excellent noise cancellation, but the Sony WF-1000XM5 is often praised for its superior performance in a wider range of frequencies.
- Sound Quality: The AirPods Pro 2 provides a balanced and detailed sound profile, while the WF-1000XM5 is known for its rich bass and overall sound quality.
- Comfort: The AirPods Pro 2 features silicone ear tips for a secure fit, whereas the WF-1000XM5 is designed to be lightweight and comfortable for extended use.
- Apple AirPods Pro 2 vs. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds:
- Noise Cancellation: Both earbuds excel in noise cancellation, but the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are often considered slightly better at handling a wider range of ambient noises.
- Sound Quality: The AirPods Pro 2 offers a more balanced sound profile, while the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds provide a more immersive audio experience with a focus on clarity.
- Battery Life: The AirPods Pro 2 offers up to 6 hours of listening time with ANC on, while the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds can last up to 6 hours as well, with a slight edge in overall battery performance.
- Apple AirPods Pro 2 vs. Google Pixel Buds Pro 2:
- Noise Cancellation: Both models provide effective noise cancellation, but the AirPods Pro 2 is often praised for its seamless integration with Apple devices and superior noise-canceling capabilities.
- Sound Quality: The AirPods Pro 2 delivers a balanced and detailed sound, while the Pixel Buds Pro 2 are known for their strong bass and clear audio.
- Features: The AirPods Pro 2 includes features like Adaptive Transparency and Conversation Boost, while the Pixel Buds Pro 2 offers features like real-time translation and Google Assistant integration.
Summary
The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are an excellent choice for those deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem, offering seamless connectivity and advanced features. They provide significant improvements in sound quality, noise cancellation, and battery life over the first generation. However, they face stiff competition from the Sony WH-1000XM5, which offers superior noise cancellation and longer battery life. Your choice will depend on your specific needs and whether you prioritize integration with Apple devices or overall performance.
